Planning a family vacation to Virginia Beach? While the famous oceanfront and boardwalk are must-visits, savvy parents know that Virginia Beach offers so much more for families beyond the typical tourist attractions. This comprehensive guide reveals the local secrets, budget-friendly activities, and kid-approved experiences that will make your family trip truly memorable.
Why Virginia Beach Is Perfect for Family Travel
Virginia Beach consistently ranks among America’s top family-friendly beach destinations, offering clean shores, gentle waves, and activities for all ages. The city’s commitment to family hospitality is evident through its numerous kid-focused amenities and attractions designed with parents in mind.
Best Neighborhoods for Families in Virginia Beach
1. Sandbridge: “The Outer Banks of Virginia Beach”
This quieter alternative to the main oceanfront provides a more relaxed beach experience perfect for families with younger children.
Family-friendly highlights:
- Calmer waves ideal for little swimmers
- Little Island Park with playground equipment and picnic areas
- Spacious vacation rentals with kitchens and multiple bedrooms
- Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for nature exploration
2. Chic’s Beach/Shore Drive
Local families favor this Chesapeake Bay beach area for its shallow, warm waters and neighborhood feel.
Family-friendly highlights:
- Gentle bay waters with minimal waves
- First Landing State Park with stroller-friendly trails
- Proximity to the Virginia Aquarium
- Local ice cream shops and casual dining
3. Town Center & Pembroke Area
Not staying on the beach? This central location offers excellent value and easy access to attractions.
Family-friendly highlights:
- Sky Zone for indoor trampoline fun
- Mount Trashmore Park with extensive playgrounds
- Shopping and dining within walking distance
- Quick drive to both oceanfront and bay beaches
Hidden Gem Activities for Kids in Virginia Beach
1. Hunt Club Farm Petting Zoo
This working farm offers hands-on animal encounters that kids love, without the crowds of larger attractions.
What makes it special:
- Feed-and-pet experiences with farm animals
- Tree walk Adventure
- Pony rides for younger children
- Birdwalk Aviary
Location: 2388 London Bridge Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23456
2. Ocean Breeze Waterpark’s Kiddie Area
While the waterpark itself is popular, many visitors don’t realize how extensive and toddler-friendly the “Buccaneer Bay” section is.
What makes it special:
- kid-sized water slides
- Splash zones with minimal depth
- Pirate-themed play structures
- Lazy river built just for kids
Location: 849 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
3. First Landing State Park
This giant park in Virginia Beach offers plenty of hiking and biking trails along with a campground with RV, tent sites and various cabins.
What makes it special:
- Self-guided activity booklets available at the visitor center
- Downloadable PDF’s for kids “track your trail” found on their website to enjoy a kid friendly hike
- Crabbing and Fishing
- Beach access points less crowded than the main oceanfront
Location: 2500 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Rainy Day Solutions for Family Fun
Virginia Beach weather can be unpredictable. These indoor options save family vacations during unexpected showers:
1. Children’s Museum of Virginia (Nearby in Portsmouth)
Worth the short drive for its interactive exhibits and play spaces.
Best for: Ages 2-10 Location: 221 High Street, Portsmouth, VA 23704
2. Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
Beyond the main tanks, look for the hands-on discovery centers, up close and personal encounters and the “science on the go” pop up stations. Traveling with a toddler? Special toddler programs are offered at select times Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Insider tip: Visit during feeding times for the best experience Location: 717 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
3. Flipper McCoys Arcade
This classic boardwalk arcade offers a nostalgic experience for parents and excitement for kids. Enjoy a game of laser tag in their arena modeled after the armed forces.
Best for: Ages 7+ Location: 1914 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Budget-Friendly Family Dining Options
Feeding the family can get expensive on vacation. These local spots offer great value:
1. Commune
This farm-to-table restaurant offers a surprisingly good kids’ menu with healthy options.
Must try: Build-your-own breakfast bowls Location: 501 Virginia Beach Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
2.Planet Pizza
This alien themed pizza place is sure to keep your kids entertained with its fun atmosphere. Not to mention the pizza is delicious.
Beyond pizza, they offer subs, salads and a kids menu complete with mac n cheese and chicken tenders.
Location: 812 Atlantic Ave STE 190, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
3. Taste Unlimited
Perfect for picnic supplies and beach lunches. The kids bento boxes are great for littles that don’t enjoy sandwiches.
Location: Several locations including Hilltop and Shore Drive
Local Transportation Tips with Kids
Getting around with children requires extra planning:
1. VB Wave Trolley
Runs along the oceanfront and eliminates parking hassles.
Family perk: Kids ride free Season: Memorial Day through Labor Day
2. Bike and Surrey Rentals
Four person or more surreys let the whole family pedal together along the boardwalk.
Recommended rental: Cherie’s Bike & Blade Rentals Best time: Weekday mornings before crowds
Week-Long Itinerary for Families
Day 1: Arrival and Beach Orientation
- Morning: Check-in and beach time at your accommodation
- Afternoon: Boardwalk exploration and playground at 31st Street
- Evening: Dinner at Planet Pizza
Day 2: Nature and Wildlife
- Morning: First Landing State Park trails
- Afternoon: Virginia Aquarium
- Evening: Dolphin watching sunset cruise
Day 3: Water Fun
- Full day: Ocean Breeze Waterpark with packed lunch
Day 4: Rainy Day Backup Plan
- Morning: Children’s Museum of Virginia
- Afternoon: Cinema Cafe (movies and kid-friendly dining)
- Evening: Shopping at Lynnhaven Mall
Day 5: Agricultural Adventures
- Morning: Hunt Club Farm
- Afternoon: Pick-your-own produce at Cullipher Farm (seasonal)
- Evening: Cooking dinner with your farm-fresh finds
Day 6: Beach and Board Sports
- Morning: Surf lessons for older kids
- Afternoon: Beach games and sandcastle building
- Evening: Grommet Island Park (accessible playground on the beach)
Day 7: Farewell Fun
- Morning: Last beach visit
- Afternoon: Souvenir shopping at Beach Nut gift shops
- Evening: Ice cream at Lolly’s Creamery
Packing Essentials for Virginia Beach Family Trips
Beyond the obvious beach gear, experienced parents recommend:
- Pop-up beach tent for shade (crucial for babies and toddlers)
- Rash guards with UV protection (reduces sunscreen battles)
- Water shoes (for rocky areas and hot sand)
- Beach cart or wagon for transporting gear
- Insulated water bottles that stay cold all day
Final Thoughts: Making Memories in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach offers the perfect blend of structured activities and free-play opportunities that child development experts recommend for family vacations. By mixing classic beach time with unique local experiences, you’ll create lasting family memories while avoiding the tourist traps that can strain both patience and budgets.
Remember to build downtime into your schedule – some of the best vacation moments happen during unplanned beach strolls or impromptu ice cream runs. Virginia Beach’s laid-back atmosphere encourages this balance of adventure and relaxation that makes for truly successful family travel.
Have you discovered any hidden gems in Virginia Beach with your family? Share your experiences in the comments below!
Looking for more family beach vacation ideas? Check out this post and find some of the best family friendly beach vacations.