Neptune Statue
Iconic bronze sculpture of King Neptune, a majestic symbol of Virginia Beach's oceanfront.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Dramatic lighting for photos
Neptune Statue
Best Time
Dramatic lighting for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic bronze sculpture of King Neptune, a majestic symbol of Virginia Beach's oceanfront.
"The Neptune Statue on the Virginia Beach boardwalk is iconic and world renowned."
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking photos with the best light on the bronze.
🚶♀️ Boardwalk Stroll
Combine your visit with a walk along the vibrant Virginia Beach Boardwalk.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Neptune Statue
Virginia Beach Boardwalk
Iconic bronze sculpture of Neptune, god of the sea, a must-see landmark on the boardwalk.
Oceanfront Views
Adjacent to the statue
Stunning ocean vistas provide a dramatic backdrop for the statue, perfect for memorable photos.
Intricate Details
Close-up of the statue
Marvel at the impeccable craftsmanship and intricate details of this large, awe-inspiring bronze sculpture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Photos
Boardwalk Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking photos with the best light on the bronze.
🚶♀️ Boardwalk Stroll
Combine your visit with a walk along the vibrant Virginia Beach Boardwalk.
🧐 Admire the Detail
Take time to appreciate the intricate craftsmanship up close; placards offer interesting info.
🌊 Oceanfront Backdrop
The ocean in the background creates an amazing, iconic scene for your pictures.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking photos with the best light on the bronze.
🚶♀️ Boardwalk Stroll
Combine your visit with a walk along the vibrant Virginia Beach Boardwalk.
🧐 Admire the Detail
Take time to appreciate the intricate craftsmanship up close; placards offer interesting info.
🌊 Oceanfront Backdrop
The ocean in the background creates an amazing, iconic scene for your pictures.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Neptune Statue as an iconic and impressive landmark on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk. Its intricate details, grand scale, and stunning oceanfront setting are frequently highlighted as major draws, making it a must-visit for most tourists. While generally a positive experience, some may find it crowded during peak times.
"The Neptune Statue on the Virginia Beach boardwalk is iconic and world renowned. It’s easily one of the most recognizable landmarks in Virginia Beach. Probably the most photographed point as well on the boardwalk. With the ocean in the background, it’s an amazing scene. It’s very close to the 31 Ocean mall and restaurants. Must visit when you are down in the area"
Gautham Viswanathan
"This is a really cool statue to check out. The detail is impeccable. The park area where it's located has great atmosphere and right on the beach and boardwalk."
Matt
"Absolutely stunning!
The statue is absolutely beautiful and very intricate. Lots of placards with various info, as well as lots of detail to look at up close.
The statue is surprisingly large, and depending on the time of day the lighting can accent the details perfectly to make it even more awe inspiring.
Overall, would recommend if you are walking the strip at VA beach."
Jay OB
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Neptune Statue is prominently located on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, easily accessible by car, public transport, or by walking if you're staying nearby. Parking is available in garages and lots along the boardwalk.
Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options available along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, though they can fill up quickly during peak season.
Virginia Beach has a public bus system that services the oceanfront area, making it a viable option to reach the Neptune Statue.
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is generally wheelchair accessible, and the Neptune Statue is situated in an area that allows for easy viewing and access for those with mobility challenges.
Most visitors approach the Neptune Statue by walking along the boardwalk, which offers the most scenic and direct route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Neptune Statue is a public art installation on the boardwalk and is free to view and photograph.
The Neptune Statue is accessible 24/7 as it is located on the public boardwalk. However, the surrounding area and shops may have specific operating hours.
There is no admission fee to see or photograph the Neptune Statue.
While generally encouraged to admire from a respectful distance, touching the statue is usually permitted, but it's always best to be mindful of its preservation.
The Neptune Statue is a focal point for various events and festivals held on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk throughout the year, especially during Neptune Festival.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most dramatic lighting for photographing the bronze statue and its ocean backdrop.
Experiment with angles from the boardwalk, the beach, and even from slightly elevated positions for unique perspectives of the statue and its surroundings.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public areas like boardwalks and beaches. Check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
For daytime shots, use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the bronze. For golden hour, a wider aperture can create a nice bokeh effect with the ocean.
Absolutely! The entire boardwalk, the beach, and nearby piers offer numerous photo opportunities with the statue as a central element.
🎫 🌊 Onsite Experience
You can stroll the boardwalk, enjoy the beach, visit nearby shops and restaurants, and take photos. The 31 Ocean mall is also close by.
Yes, the Neptune Statue is a great spot for families. Kids often enjoy the beach and the impressive scale of the statue.
Most visitors spend 15-30 minutes admiring the statue and taking photos, but you can easily spend longer if you explore the surrounding boardwalk and beach.
Public restrooms are available along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, typically a short walk from the statue.
The statue commemorates King Neptune and is a central figure in the annual Neptune Festival, celebrating the city's maritime heritage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the statue itself, the boardwalk offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of space to run around, street performers, and nearby ice cream shops. Consider visiting during the day for safe beach access or in the early evening for a less crowded experience. The accessibility of the boardwalk also makes it easy for families with strollers or young children to navigate.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't forget to explore different angles; the boardwalk, the beach, and even the surrounding buildings can offer unique perspectives. Consider the time of day for the best light and fewer crowds. The statue is also a key element during the annual Neptune Festival, providing opportunities for vibrant event photography.
🚶♀️ Boardwalk Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Neptune Statue
The statue's placement right on the boardwalk, with the vast Atlantic Ocean as its backdrop, creates a truly awe-inspiring scene. Many visitors remark on the impeccable craftsmanship and the way the lighting, especially during the golden hours, accentuates the statue's features, making it even more magnificent. It's a testament to the artistry involved in creating such a significant public monument.
Beyond its visual appeal, the Neptune Statue is deeply intertwined with the identity of Virginia Beach, particularly through the annual Neptune Festival. This event celebrates the city's connection to the sea and features the statue as a central figure, further cementing its status as an iconic attraction. It's a place where history, art, and the spirit of the ocean converge.
Photography Tips for the Neptune Statue
Don't be afraid to experiment with different perspectives. While a straight-on shot is classic, try getting lower on the boardwalk or even venturing onto the beach (if accessible and safe) for a more dramatic view looking up at Neptune. Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass both the statue and the expansive ocean, or a telephoto lens to focus on specific details of the sculpture. A polarizing filter can be incredibly useful during the day to cut down on glare from the bronze and enhance the blue of the sky and sea.
Remember that the Neptune Statue is part of a lively boardwalk environment. Incorporating elements like the ocean waves, the boardwalk itself, or even silhouettes of other beachgoers can add depth and context to your photographs. The 31 Ocean mall and surrounding shops also offer unique vantage points. Ultimately, the best photos often come from taking your time, observing the light, and finding a composition that speaks to you.
The Neptune Statue and Its Surroundings
Just steps away from the statue lies the Atlantic Ocean, providing a stunning natural backdrop. The beach offers opportunities for relaxation, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the sound of the waves. This proximity to both urban amenities and natural beauty makes the Neptune Statue a versatile destination for a wide range of visitors.
Many reviews highlight the 'great atmosphere' surrounding the statue, a testament to the lively energy of the boardwalk. Whether you're visiting for a quick photo opportunity or planning a longer day of exploration, the area around the Neptune Statue offers plenty to see and do, making it a quintessential Virginia Beach experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit