Things to Do in Virginia Beach in November

November Weather in Virginia Beach

61°C (143°F) High Temp

44°C (111°F) Low Temp

2.5 mm (0.1 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Comfortable ocean temperatures at 16-18°C (61-64°F) - perfect for extended swimming and water sports without wetsuits
Shoulder season pricing saves 30-40% on accommodations compared to summer peak rates, with luxury oceanfront hotels dropping to $150-200/night
Minimal crowds at major attractions - Boardwalk and beach access points see 60% fewer visitors than summer months
Ideal weather for outdoor activities - 10+ hours of daylight with comfortable temperatures for biking the 48 km (30-mile) Virginia Beach trail system

Considerations

Limited beach services - many boardwalk concessions close early October, leaving fewer dining and rental options
Unpredictable weather swings can shift from 18°C (64°F) to 4°C (39°F) within 48 hours due to Atlantic storm systems
Most outdoor concerts and festivals end by early October, leaving fewer evening entertainment options than peak season

Best Activities in November

First Landing State Park Nature Trails

November's cooler temperatures make the park's 32 km (20 miles) of trails comfortable for extended hiking. Fall foliage peaks mid-November, and you'll avoid summer's oppressive humidity and mosquitoes. The 2.4 km (1.5-mile) Bald Cypress Trail showcases 600-year-old trees in their autumn colors.

Booking Tip: Park entry costs $5-7 per vehicle. No advance booking needed for trails, but reserve camping spots 2-3 weeks ahead if staying overnight. Guided nature programs run weekends only in November.

Virginia Beach Boardwalk Cycling

The 4.8 km (3-mile) boardwalk becomes cyclist paradise in November with minimal pedestrian traffic. Connect to the 48 km (30-mile) Virginia Capital Trail system. Morning temperatures around 10°C (50°F) are perfect for longer rides without overheating.

Booking Tip: Bike rentals typically cost $25-35/day from oceanfront shops. Many close by Thanksgiving, so confirm availability. Book 3-4 days ahead for weekend rentals during comfortable November weather.

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge Kayaking

November marks peak waterfowl migration season with over 10,000 birds passing through. Calmer winds and cooler water reduce summer's intense sun reflection. The 3.7 km (2.3-mile) water trail offers unobstructed wildlife viewing.

Booking Tip: Launch permits cost $5-10. Kayak rentals range $40-60/day from nearby outfitters. Book 1 week ahead for weekend trips. Water temperature around 13°C (55°F) requires light wetsuit or dry clothing.

Military Aviation Museum Tours

November's clear, stable weather creates optimal flying conditions for the museum's vintage aircraft demonstrations. Indoor hangars provide comfortable viewing when temperatures drop, and you'll have personal access to exhibits without summer crowds.

Booking Tip: General admission $18-22, flight experiences $150-400. Flying demonstrations weather-dependent, with November offering 70% success rate vs summer's 45%. Book flight experiences 2-3 weeks ahead.

Virginia Aquarium Behind-the-Scenes Experiences

November's shoulder season means smaller tour groups (8-10 people vs summer's 15-20) for hands-on marine biology programs. Indoor climate control makes this perfect for unpredictable November weather days.

Booking Tip: Standard admission $25-30, behind-scenes tours add $15-25. Advanced programs requiring wetsuit work benefit from November's moderate water temperatures. Book specialty experiences 10-14 days ahead.

Cape Henry Lighthouse Historical Tours

Climbing the 191-step lighthouse becomes manageable in November's cool weather - summer heat makes the narrow stairwell unbearable. Clear November skies offer exceptional views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge 27 km (17 miles) north.

Booking Tip: Admission $8-12, includes both old and new lighthouse access. Open daylight hours only. November's shorter days mean plan visits before 5pm. No advance booking required except for large groups.

November Events & Festivals

Early to Mid November

Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel Fall Fishing Tournament

November's cooling waters concentrate striped bass and tautog near the bridge pilings. Charter boat participation allows non-fishing visitors to experience the engineering marvel while potentially seeing marine wildlife.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layering system essential - temperatures swing 14°C (25°F) daily, pack base layers plus fleece and wind shell

Waterproof jacket with hood - November storms bring brief but intense rainfall, often with 40+ km/h (25+ mph) winds

Closed-toe water shoes - beach walking comfortable but ocean entry requires foot protection from cooler sand

SPF 50+ sunscreen - November sun reflects intensely off water and sand, UV index reaches 8 on clear days

Lightweight binoculars - peak bird migration season offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities

Thermal base layer for early morning activities - sunrise beach walks and fishing start around 4°C (39°F)

Packable down jacket - evening temperatures drop quickly after sunset around 5:30pm

Moisture-wicking socks - November humidity at 70% combined with temperature changes causes foot dampness

Waterproof phone case - beach photography in variable weather requires protection from salt spray and rain

Comfortable walking shoes with ankle support - longer trail hikes become feasible in cooler weather

Insider Knowledge

Most locals schedule outdoor activities between 10am-3pm when November temperatures peak - avoid early morning and late afternoon temperature drops

Book oceanfront accommodations with eastern exposure - November sunrises over the Atlantic are spectacular, and eastern rooms get natural warming

Restaurant reservations become available again after October crowds leave - November is when locals reclaim their favorite waterfront dining spots

Virginia Beach city parking meters are free November through March, saving $15-25/day compared to summer beach access costs

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating weather variability - packing only for mild temperatures without preparing for sudden cold fronts that drop temperatures 10°C (18°F) overnight

Assuming all boardwalk attractions operate - many concessions, bike rental shops, and outdoor dining close between Halloween and Memorial Day

Planning beach days without checking wind conditions - November Atlantic storms create dangerous surf and uncomfortable beach conditions with little warning