Virginia Beach Boardwalk
A vibrant 3-mile oceanfront promenade with shops, dining, and entertainment, perfect for strolls, biking, and soaking in the Atlantic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Virginia Beach Boardwalk
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant 3-mile oceanfront promenade with shops, dining, and entertainment, perfect for strolls, biking, and soaking in the Atlantic views.
"One of the best oceanfront boardwalks on the east coast, a must visit for adults and kids."
🚶♀️ Stroll & Explore
Enjoy the 3-mile paved path, with separate lanes for bikes and skateboards. Great for all ages!
📸 Neptune's Grandeur
Don't miss the iconic King Neptune statue near 31st Street for a memorable photo op.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Neptune Statue
Near 31st Street
An iconic, larger-than-life statue of King Neptune, a must-see landmark and popular photo spot.
Boardwalk Stroll
Entire 3-mile stretch
Enjoy a leisurely walk, jog, or bike ride along the paved path with stunning ocean views and sea breezes.
Virginia MOCA Boardwalk Art Show
Along the Boardwalk
Experience a vibrant display of fine art and craft from over 160 artists during this annual event.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Navigating the Boardwalk
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll & Explore
Enjoy the 3-mile paved path, with separate lanes for bikes and skateboards. Great for all ages! 
📸 Neptune's Grandeur
Don't miss the iconic King Neptune statue near 31st Street for a memorable photo op.
🚲 Bike or Skate
Rent a bike or skateboard to cover more ground and enjoy the dedicated lanes.
🍽️ Dining Delights
Explore numerous restaurants along the boardwalk for fresh seafood and local flavors. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll & Explore
Enjoy the 3-mile paved path, with separate lanes for bikes and skateboards. Great for all ages!
📸 Neptune's Grandeur
Don't miss the iconic King Neptune statue near 31st Street for a memorable photo op.
🚲 Bike or Skate
Rent a bike or skateboard to cover more ground and enjoy the dedicated lanes.
🍽️ Dining Delights
Explore numerous restaurants along the boardwalk for fresh seafood and local flavors. +1
🛍️ Shop 'til You Drop
Browse unique shops and boutiques for souvenirs and beachwear.
☀️ Sunrise Serenity
Catch a breathtaking sunrise over the Atlantic for a peaceful start to your day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Virginia Beach Boardwalk for its beautiful, well-maintained paved path, vibrant atmosphere, and iconic Neptune Statue. It's considered a top East Coast boardwalk, offering a great mix of dining, shopping, and oceanfront views. Some visitors noted issues with finding public showers and the cleanliness of bathrooms due to sand, and the waves can be quite large.
"One of the best oceanfront boardwalks on the east coast. There is a separate path for people with bicycles and skateboards. Lots of restaurants and hotels line the boardwalk. The guests have a great view of the Atlantic. Beautifully paved and well maintained at all times. The Neptune Statue close to 31st street is a major attraction. All in all, a must visit for adults and kids. Just walk around and enjoy the awesome atmosphere"
Gautham Viswanathan
"Wow, I'm at a loss for words. This beach is beautiful, well-kept, and well done to the Governor and mayor here. The Governor and the mayor of Atlantic City need to take note. The beach and benches were cleaned and quiet before 12 PM. No one was sleeping on the benches or on the walkway, just quiet. The workers were working overnight to have it ready for the next day. Job well done, and a special thanks to all the employees who clean at night and keep the beach and sidewalks clean. Thank you."
Kesha Kesha
"It was not as I expected (I came on mid August 2025). No public showers found or at least no clear direction about where to find them. Because of this the bathrooms are dirty with sand because people change in these even though the bathrooms have a sign that it is not allowed to change there. About the beach: the waves are big and they break just by the shoreline so they come with lot of sand, also it can be deep depending on how the waves is. I dit not enjoy it. However, the view is nice, the family atmosphere, and there lots of children which were tossed abruptly back and forth by the waves. I was surprised how some of them were bold to stand such waves. I enjoyed being buried on wet sand tho. Although, the waves will reach far in the shoreline. Parking is okay. Just $20 for a day parking which is better than in other places. There was a lifeguard in the area who was very good at their job. People may enjoy the airplanes passing by with huge advertising banners, or people jumping on their “parachutes” over the water. Just being by the water has a special effect on humans so it was still refreshing and felt good."
Joanna LP
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is easily accessible by car, with several parking lots and garages nearby. Public transportation options are also available. Many visitors find ride-sharing services convenient for reaching the boardwalk.
There are numerous parking options, including paid lots and garages along Atlantic Avenue. Day parking is typically around $20, which is considered reasonable compared to other destinations. Arriving early, especially during peak season, is recommended.
Yes, local bus routes serve the Virginia Beach Oceanfront area, providing access to the boardwalk. Check the local transit authority's website for specific routes and schedules.
Many hotels are located directly on or very close to the boardwalk, making it easily walkable. If your hotel isn't directly on the boardwalk, it's usually just a short stroll away. +1
Absolutely! The boardwalk is paved and well-maintained, making it very accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. There are also gardens and seating areas along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk itself is free to access and enjoy. There are no tickets required to walk, bike, or simply relax by the ocean.
The boardwalk is open 24/7, allowing visitors to enjoy it at any time of day or night. However, shops and restaurants along the boardwalk have their own operating hours.
Yes, the boardwalk hosts numerous events throughout the year, including concerts, art shows like the MOCA Boardwalk Art Show, and car shows. Check local event listings for schedules.
While the boardwalk is free, individual attractions like arcades, amusement rides, or specific venues may require tickets or admission fees.
Generally, you can bring beach gear, coolers, and personal items. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific event restrictions or local ordinances.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the iconic King Neptune Statue, the Virginia MOCA Boardwalk Art Show, numerous shops and restaurants, and the general vibrant atmosphere of the oceanfront.
Yes, several rental shops are available along or near the boardwalk where you can rent bicycles, surrey bikes, and skateboards.
You'll find a variety of shops, from souvenir stores selling beachwear and trinkets to boutiques and surf shops.
Public restrooms and foot wash/shower stations are available at regular intervals along the boardwalk.
The atmosphere is generally lively and energetic, especially during peak season, with a mix of families, couples, and friends enjoying the beach and entertainment.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a wide range of dining, from casual seafood spots like Mahi's to bars with great vibes like Lunasea.
Many restaurants offer oceanfront patio seating.
Yes, look for places offering cheap eats like shaved ice, pepperoni bread, or specialty doughnuts.
Absolutely! Virginia Beach is known for its seafood, and many restaurants along the boardwalk offer fresh catches, crab cakes, and oysters.
Yes, many restaurants cater to families, offering diverse menus and a welcoming atmosphere.
Becca, located near the Cavalier Hotel, is a highly recommended brunch spot known for its delicious food.
📸 📸 Photography
The King Neptune Statue is a prime photo location. Sunrises over the ocean, the piers, and the general oceanfront scenery offer many picturesque opportunities.
The boardwalk is generally well-lit and safe at night, offering a different ambiance for photography. However, always be aware of your surroundings.
Generally, personal photography and videography are allowed. However, commercial use or filming without permission might have restrictions.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is useful for capturing both wide ocean views and details of attractions. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations and airspace restrictions. It's advisable to check with local authorities before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for attractions like arcades and mini-golf for added entertainment. Consider visiting during the day to take advantage of the beach and calmer waters for younger children. While the waves can be big, many kids enjoy the excitement.
💰 Budget Travelers
You can enjoy the scenery, people-watch, and soak up the atmosphere without spending a dime. couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Virginia Beach Boardwalk
Along the boardwalk, you'll find a variety of attractions, including the iconic King Neptune Statue near 31st Street, which serves as a popular photo opportunity. The Virginia MOCA Boardwalk Art Show is an annual event that transforms the boardwalk into an open-air gallery, showcasing the work of numerous talented artists.
Beyond these landmarks, the boardwalk is lined with numerous restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, offering something for everyone. For those seeking active pursuits, renting bikes, surrey bikes, or skateboards is a popular way to explore the entire length of the boardwalk. The presence of gardens, flowerbeds, and seating areas adds to the pleasant ambiance, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing evening.
Dining and Shopping on the Boardwalk
The shopping scene on the boardwalk complements the dining experience. You'll find a variety of shops and boutiques offering everything from beachwear and souvenirs to unique local crafts.
Whether you're looking for a memento of your trip or simply want to browse, the boardwalk's retail offerings cater to diverse tastes. The Old Beach Farmers Market, mentioned in one itinerary, also provides a chance to discover local finds. Many establishments offer outdoor seating, allowing diners to soak in the oceanfront atmosphere while enjoying their meals. The proximity of these establishments to the beach makes it easy to transition from a day of sunbathing to a delightful dining experience.
Events and Activities
Car enthusiasts can look forward to events like the COVA Exotics II Supercar Show, featuring a stunning display of high-performance vehicles. Beyond organized events, the boardwalk offers spontaneous entertainment. Visitors might encounter live music performances or street performers, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
+1Seasonal events and festivals contribute to the boardwalk's dynamic appeal. Whether it's a summer concert series or a holiday-themed gathering, there's often something happening to enhance the visitor experience. Checking local event calendars is recommended to catch any special happenings during your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit