Virginia Beach is a beautiful and diverse coastal city, and the rise in visitors by 6.2 % in only a year, reflects how popular it has become. It is in the Guinness Book of Records for having the longest pleasure beach in the world. In fact it was used for filming the '90s movie Navy Seals starring Charlie Sheen. Virginia Beach is now the go-to destination for road trips, attracting tourists from along the East Coast, who are drawn to the area for the beach, the attractions, the weather and the delicious food. There is nothing better at the end of a long drive, than sitting on the oceanfront eating some amazing seafood, as the sunsets. Here are three of the amazing sights you can see on your travels.

Virginia Aquarium 

You can swim in the sea, but for sheer diversity of sea life, the Virginia Aquarium (717 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451) is an amazing place to visit whilst on your road trip, particularly if you are travelling with kids. Load up the family car and take them on an adventure to see some sea life they will never forget. You can watch the magnificent beauty of the sharks and stingrays safely, without needing to get your toes wet. There are well over a million gallons of seawater in the tanks, which are also host to a over 300 species of fish and crustaceans, from sea turtles, to barracudas. Hector the harbour seal and Homer the otter are particular favorites with the children. There is a real focus on conservation at the aquarium, particularly how to protect sea creatures for the generations to come.

Virginia Beach Boardwalk 

Virginia Beach Boardwalk is over three miles long and a spectacle to behold, especially during the summer months when it draws in a variety of musical and entertainment acts. There are four stages placed along the boardwalk, that draw amazing crowds - you can hear great music for your ears whilst you are having an evening stroll. If you are feeling energetic, you can hire a bike, or even roller blades, instead of walking. Look out for King Neptune whilst you are visiting, at 24 feet tall, he’s mightily impressive!

Cape Henry Lighthouse 

Cape Henry Lighthouse is an important historic part of Virginia Beach (583 Atlantic Ave, Fort Story, Virginia Beach, VA 23451-8048). It was the first federally funded lighthouse in the country, erected in the landing place where English settlers arrived in 1607. The lighthouse was completed in 1792, overseen by Alexander Hamilton. Along with a 30 minute self-guided tour, you can also go along to a Dune talk about the ecology and preservation of Virginia Beach.

On your East Coast trip, there are some wonderful sights to see at Virginia Beach. Between the wonderful atmosphere and the beautiful coastline, you won’t want to leave.

by Jennifer Dawson 
writing.jennifer.dawson@gmail.com