Nestled where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Chesapeake Bay—and boasting the world’s longest pleasure beach—Virginia Beach beckons with sunshine, scenery, and unforgettable experiences.
With an abundance of welcoming coastal charm, Virginia Beach offers groups an ideal combination of relaxation and adventure for all groups. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, corporate retreat, student travel, or a friends’ getaway, this vibrant city delivers group-friendly amenities alongside timeless appeal, where visitors with interests of all kinds can create a perfect itinerary for a memorable group travel experience.
Sun, surf, and serenity
At the heart of its outdoor offerings is the iconic Virginia Beach Boardwalk, a three-mile promenade that stretches along the oceanfront. It’s a lively hub where groups can stroll, rent bikes, or rollerblade while enjoying ocean views, outdoor dining, and live performances. You can’t miss the 34-foot-tall bronze statue of King Neptune, the perfect backdrop for an iconic group photo.
Beyond the beach, a treasure trove of parks provides peaceful escapes for groups seeking natural immersion. First Landing State Park, the most visited state park in Virginia, blends historical significance with outdoor recreation, while False Cape State Park offers pristine, undeveloped coastline ideal for hiking and bird-watching. Nearby, the 8,000-acre Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge teems with freshwater marshes, dunes, and wildlife, making it a memorable stop for nature-loving gatherings.
For those craving additional adrenaline, the Adventure Park features aerial treetop obstacle courses designed for team bonding and thrill-seeking alike. On the water, participants can take surf lessons, paddleboard on calm inlets, or experience the excitement of the brand-new Atlantic Park Surf, which features North America’s first Wavegarden surf lagoon, allowing for year-round surfing in a controlled environment.
Deep dives into coastal culture
Virginia Beach also shines for groups eager to connect with history and science. On the Boardwalk at 24th Street, the Surf & Rescue Museum preserves the city’s maritime legacy within a former U.S. Life-Saving Station dating back to 1903. The museum tells dramatic stories of surfmen rescuing shipwreck victims, complete with fascinating artifacts like line-throwing cannons.
The Cape Henry Lighthouse stands as one of the nation’s most significant historic landmarks. Originally commissioned by George Washington in 1792, it was the first federally funded public works project in the United States. Today, visitors can climb the steps of the original brick lighthouse for sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay.
Marine enthusiasts will also love the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, which houses sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and jellyfish, along with interactive exhibits and educational programs. History buffs can be drawn to the Military Aviation Museum for a rare, immersive look at aviation history. It’s home to one of the world’s largest collections of World War I and II aircraft, many of which still fly during special events and flight opportunities.
Creativity from sea to shore
Artistry and innovation thrive throughout Virginia Beach for those seeking a unique escape. In the ViBe Creative District, colorful murals and artisan shops make for lively exploration, and street art tours and interactive workshops provide hands-on experiences. The Artery District expands on that creative vibe by blending food and art in unique ways. Known for inventive menus, eclectic restaurants, and chef-driven concepts, it’s an ideal spot for foodies to sample bold flavors while soaking in the neighborhood’s artistic character.
For performance lovers, the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts offers a diverse lineup ranging from ballet to comedy and community events, all staged in a modern 1,300-seat venue in Town Center. The Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater and The Dome further expands the entertainment offerings, hosting headline concerts and festivals that bring national talent to the beach.
Group travel planning tips
Virginia Beach makes group travel planning seamless, with a wide range of accommodations and dining options. Oceanfront hotels on the Boardwalk offer room blocks and event spaces, while large vacation rentals provide flexible accommodations for family reunions or team retreats. For groups that prefer the great outdoors, camping and cabins offer further options.
Dining as a group is equally flexible. Fresh seafood restaurants provide casual yet memorable meals with water views, while trendy cafés serve up creative, locally inspired fare. A year-round calendar of events ensures there’s something happening no matter the season, and diverse itineraries offer a blend of beach time, museum visits, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences that keeps groups engaged and excited.
Virginia Beach CVB
Contact: Jim Coggin
Photos: Virginia Beach CVB
Top photo: Pleasure House Brewing
