If you’re planning a coastal getaway, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk is more than just a place to stroll—it’s the center of some of the best outdoor experiences in the city. From sunrise bike rides along the ocean to kayaking through quiet cypress swamps at First Landing State Park, Virginia Beach blends beach-town energy with easy outdoor adventure.
Here’s a more detailed guide to the best outdoor things to do near the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.
Walk, Bike, and Explore the Virginia Beach Boardwalk
Stretching from 2nd Street to 40th Street, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk runs directly along the Atlantic Ocean and is one of the most active areas in the city during summer.
Along the boardwalk, you’ll find:
- Dedicated bike lanes and walking paths
- Oceanfront parks and seating areas
- Live music stages during summer evenings
- Public art installations and sculptures
- Easy beach access every few blocks
One of the most photographed spots is the King Neptune Statue at 31st Street, a massive bronze sculpture towering over the boardwalk. Around this area, you’ll also find nightly entertainment during the summer season, including street performers and outdoor concerts.
For biking, rentals are easy to find near 24th Street and throughout the oceanfront area. Early mornings are especially popular for cycling before the crowds and heat build later in the day.
Relax at the Oceanfront Beaches
The beaches directly along the boardwalk are ideal for classic beach days, with lifeguards, volleyball courts, and plenty of space for swimming and sunbathing.
For different beach experiences:
- Near 1st–10th Streets: livelier atmosphere close to restaurants and nightlife
- Near 31st–40th Streets: quieter and more relaxed
- Sandbridge Beach: less crowded and more residential
Many visitors spend the morning at the beach before heading indoors during peak afternoon heat and returning for sunset walks later in the evening.
Hike and Paddle at First Landing State Park
Just 15–20 minutes from the oceanfront, First Landing State Park feels completely different from the busy boardwalk scene. The park preserves the shoreline where English colonists first landed in 1607 and includes:
- Over 19 miles of trails
- Maritime forest and cypress swamp landscapes
- Quiet kayak launch areas
- Protected beaches along the Chesapeake Bay
The Cape Henry Trail is one of the park’s most popular biking and hiking routes, while the Bald Cypress Trail takes visitors through swampy wetlands and shaded forest.
Kayak and paddleboard rentals nearby allow visitors to explore calm waterways filled with herons, turtles, and osprey.
Get Out on the Water at Rudee Inlet
For a more active afternoon, head to Rudee Inlet, located near the southern end of the boardwalk. This area is one of the top spots in Virginia Beach for:
- Dolphin-watching cruises
- Jet ski rentals
- Parasailing
- Kayaking and paddleboarding
The calmer inlet waters are especially beginner-friendly for paddleboarding.
Where to Eat Near the Virginia Beach Boardwalk
After a full day outdoors, the oceanfront has plenty of standout restaurants within walking distance.
Some local favorites include:
- Waterman’s Surfside Grille at Rudee Inlet for seafood and Orange Crush cocktails
- Doc Taylor’s near 23rd Street for breakfast before hitting the trails or beach
- Tautog’s Restaurant in a restored beach cottage known for crab cakes and seafood specials
- Catch 31 near the Hilton Oceanfront for rooftop views and oysters
Many spots offer outdoor seating overlooking the beach or boardwalk, especially during summer evenings.
Stay at Sundial Inn
Now that you know all about Virginia Beach, get some much-deserved rest and make Sundial Inn your home base for exploring the rest of the area. Located within walking distance to the beach and the boardwalk, Sundial Inn offers accommodations, an outdoor pool (open seasonally), free onsite parking, and affordable rates. Book your accommodations today and start planning your getaway to Virginia Beach today!
