
Virginia Beach Boardwalk
A vibrant, three-mile paved promenade offering ocean views, dining, shopping, and iconic landmarks like the Neptune statue.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Virginia Beach Boardwalk
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant, three-mile paved promenade offering ocean views, dining, shopping, and iconic landmarks like the Neptune statue.
"This is one of my favorite beaches in the USA. It's beautiful, clean, pet friendly and a very free, kind and non-judgemental atmosphere."

🚶♀️ Comfortable Shoes are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking! Pack comfy shoes for exploring the miles of boardwalk. :athletic_shoe:
🚲 Bike Rentals Available
Rent a bike to cover more ground and enjoy the separate bike lane. Fun for all ages! :bike:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Neptune Statue
Mid-town section of the Boardwalk
A colossal bronze statue of King Neptune, a must-see landmark and popular photo spot.

Miles of Paved Promenade
Entire length of the Boardwalk
A beautifully paved walkway perfect for strolling, biking, or people-watching with ocean views.

Oceanfront Dining & Shops
Along Atlantic Avenue
Explore a variety of restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops right on the boardwalk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Boardwalk Visit
Navigating the Boardwalk
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Comfortable Shoes are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking! Pack comfy shoes for exploring the miles of boardwalk. :athletic_shoe:
🚲 Bike Rentals Available
Rent a bike to cover more ground and enjoy the separate bike lane. Fun for all ages! :bike:
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
The sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for your beach day. :sunwithface:
🍽️ Budget-Friendly Eats
Look for casual spots and food stalls for affordable and tasty meals near the boardwalk. :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Comfortable Shoes are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking! Pack comfy shoes for exploring the miles of boardwalk. :athletic_shoe:
🚲 Bike Rentals Available
Rent a bike to cover more ground and enjoy the separate bike lane. Fun for all ages! :bike:
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
The sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for your beach day. :sunwithface:
🍽️ Budget-Friendly Eats
Look for casual spots and food stalls for affordable and tasty meals near the boardwalk. :moneywithwings:
📸 Neptune Statue Photo Op
Don't miss the iconic King Neptune statue for a classic Virginia Beach photo. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Virginia Beach Boardwalk for its beautiful ocean views, clean and well-maintained paved path, and vibrant atmosphere. The abundance of dining and shopping options, along with family-friendly attractions like the Neptune statue, make it a popular destination. Some find parking challenging during peak season, and occasional overcrowding can detract from the experience.
"I love love this Boardwalk/ Beach , the entire area is beautiful, great people I met here during my vacation, they have great restaurants and gift shops"
Karen
"This is one of my favorite beaches in the USA. It's beautiful, clean, pet friendly and a very free, kind and non-judgemental atmosphere. They even have workout equipment on the beach."
Rebecca Knox Captain Save A Home (Captain Save A Home)
"Virginia Beach Boardwalk is one of the best going around. It is completely paved and runs for a couple of miles. There is a separate lane on the boardwalk for bicycles and carts. People in the beach condos overlooking the ocean can hit the boardwalk and go biking or walking. The Neptune statue is a huge attraction"
Gautham Viswanathan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is easily accessible by car, with several parking garages and street parking options along Atlantic Avenue. Public transportation and ride-sharing services are also viable options. Many visitors find it convenient to park and then walk or bike the boardwalk.
Parking garages are available at 2nd, 4th, and 17th Streets, offering convenient access to the boardwalk. Street parking is also available, but can be competitive during peak season. Consider parking further away and enjoying a longer stroll.
Yes, the Virginia Beach Trolley operates seasonally and stops at various points along the boardwalk, making it easy to hop on and off. Local bus routes also serve the area.
Many hotels are located directly on or very close to the boardwalk, especially along Atlantic Avenue. If your hotel isn't directly adjacent, it's usually a short walk.
The boardwalk is paved and generally accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, offering a smooth surface for easy navigation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk is a public space and does not require tickets for entry. You can access it freely at any time.
The boardwalk is open 24/7, allowing for early morning walks or late-night strolls. However, shops and restaurants along the boardwalk have their own operating hours.
Access to the boardwalk itself is free. Fees may apply for parking, bike rentals, and attractions or dining establishments located along the boardwalk.
Yes, dogs are allowed on the boardwalk but must be on a leash at all times. They are also permitted on the beach during specific hours, typically outside of peak season.
The beach itself is free to access. There are no entrance fees for the public beach areas.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the iconic King Neptune statue, numerous public art installations, workout stations, and a vibrant atmosphere with live music and events during summer.
You'll find a variety of souvenir shops, surf shops, clothing boutiques, and art galleries along the boardwalk, offering everything from beachwear to local crafts.
Yes, numerous bike rental shops are located along Atlantic Avenue, adjacent to the boardwalk, offering a range of bicycles for all ages and abilities.
Families can enjoy walking, biking, playing on the beach, visiting the numerous arcades and amusement spots, and attending free summer concerts and events.
During the summer months, the boardwalk often features live music, street performers, and various events, adding to the lively atmosphere. Check local listings for schedules.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The boardwalk and adjacent Atlantic Avenue boast a wide array of dining options, from casual seafood shacks and pizza joints to more upscale restaurants offering ocean views.
Yes, you can find more affordable options like food trucks, casual cafes, and pizza places that cater to budget-conscious travelers. Look for specials and happy hour deals.
Absolutely! Virginia Beach is known for its fresh seafood, and you'll find many restaurants serving local catches, oysters, and classic seafood dishes right along the boardwalk.
Numerous ice cream parlors, snack bars, and casual eateries are scattered along the boardwalk, perfect for a quick treat or refreshment.
You'll find a diverse range of cuisines, including American, seafood, Italian, Mexican, and more, to satisfy various tastes.
📸 📸 Photography
The King Neptune statue is a prime photo opportunity. Other great spots include the piers, the oceanfront itself, and any of the colorful public art installations.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour lighting for stunning ocean and boardwalk shots. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant atmosphere.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, be mindful of private property and respect the privacy of other visitors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive boardwalk and ocean views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant shots. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant skies.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas due to proximity to the airport and local regulations. Always check current FAA guidelines and local ordinances before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During the summer, keep an eye out for free family-friendly events and concerts often held along the boardwalk. The Neptune Park area often hosts activities suitable for all ages. For a more active adventure, consider renting a surrey or a family-sized bicycle to explore the boardwalk together.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during the off-season or weekdays when hotel rates are often lower. Many hotels are located directly on or near the boardwalk, offering convenient access. Pack your own snacks and drinks to save money, and take advantage of the free workout stations along the boardwalk for some exercise.
couples
Consider renting bikes for a leisurely ride together, or find a quiet spot on the beach to watch the stars. Many hotels on Atlantic Avenue offer oceanfront rooms with balconies, providing a private and picturesque setting for couples.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk Experience
One of the most iconic features is the King Neptune statue, a colossal bronze sculpture that serves as a popular meeting point and photo opportunity. Throughout the summer, the boardwalk comes alive with free concerts, festivals, and street performers, creating a lively and festive environment. Visitors can also find public art installations and workout stations along the way, encouraging an active and engaging experience. The separate bike lane is a significant plus, allowing for safe and efficient travel along the coast.
Beyond the visual appeal, the boardwalk offers a sensory experience. The sound of the waves, the smell of salt in the air, and the lively chatter of people create a unique ambiance. Whether you're looking for a peaceful morning walk, a fun-filled family outing, or a lively evening stroll, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk delivers a quintessential beach town experience. It's a place that truly embodies the spirit of Virginia Beach.
Dining and Shopping Delights
For those on a budget, the area also provides numerous food trucks, pizza joints, and casual cafes that offer delicious and affordable meals. This makes it easier for groups with varied budgets, like college students, to find satisfying options without breaking the bank. Beyond food, the boardwalk is dotted with a variety of shops and boutiques. You can pick up souvenirs, beachwear, surf gear, local art, and unique gifts. Exploring these stores is part of the boardwalk experience, offering a chance to find mementos of your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit