The Ultimate VB Boardwalk Guide — Food, Fun & First-Timer Tips
If it’s your first time in Virginia Beach, welcome! And even if it’s your fiftieth, chances are the boardwalk is still at the top of your must-visit list.
This 3-mile oceanfront promenade is packed with energy, great food, live entertainment, and unbeatable views — but knowing where to go (and what to skip) can make a huge difference.
Here’s your insider’s guide to the VB Boardwalk: what to eat, where to walk, and how to make the most of every sun-soaked step.
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk stretches from 2nd Street to 40th Street and is a wide, paved oceanfront path for walkers, joggers, bikers, and beach cruisers. One lane for people, another for wheels — and plenty of stops along the way.
🍔Best Boardwalk Bites (Quick & Casual)
Waterman’s Surfside Grille (5th St)
Famous for its Orange Crush cocktails and seafood with a view. It’s not just a tourist trap — locals love it too.
Chix on the Beach (7th St)
Casual, beachy vibes with great burgers, shrimp tacos, and frozen drinks.
Dough Boy’s Pizza (17th & 33rd St)
Quick slices, perfect for grabbing on the go between stops.
The Belvedere Coffee Shop (36th St)
A hidden gem for retro diner breakfasts with oceanfront charm.
🎡 Must-Do Attractions
Neptune’s Park (31st St)
Live music almost every night in summer, with lawn seating under the stars and the iconic King Neptune statue towering nearby.
Virginia Beach Fishing Pier (15th St)
No license needed to fish here — or just walk out and watch the waves roll in.
Bike Rentals & Surrey Carts
Available all up and down the boardwalk. A must for families and couples who want to cruise in style.
Atlantic Fun Park (15th St)
Classic beachside carnival rides like a Ferris wheel and go-karts. Great for kids and nostalgic adults alike.
Virginia Beach is more than just surf and sand — it’s packed with safe, fun, and family-friendly spots where little ones can play, explore, and burn off some beach energy.
JT's Grommet Island Park and Playground (2nd Street)
Located at the southern end of the boardwalk, this award-winning spot is America’s first fully accessible beach playground, created so children of all abilities can play side by side. This adjacent playground adds even more space for kids to run, climb, and play. It’s part of a broader family area that includes shaded benches, picnic spots, and easy beach access.
It’s perfect for toddlers, kids, and anyone with mobility needs — plus, it’s right on the beach with a beautiful ocean view.
Mount Trashmore Park (Short drive from the boardwalk)
Not directly on the boardwalk but worth the quick trip, Mount Trashmore is a VB classic. It offers:
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Multiple age-specific playgrounds
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A huge skate park
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Walking trails and a giant hill to roll down (or up!)
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Picnic shelters and seasonal concessions
If you’re in town for a few days, this is a great off-beach spot to explore.
🛍️ Souvenirs, Shops & Pop-Ups
Skip the chain stores and head for small, local boutiques in the ViBe Creative District just off the boardwalk (16th–18th Streets) for handmade gifts, local art, and surf culture finds.
🌅 Best Times to Go
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Morning: Fewer crowds, cooler temps — perfect for a bike ride or beach run.
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Late Afternoon: Grab an early dinner and watch the sun sink behind the hotels.
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Evening: Enjoy live music, street performers, and that salty ocean breeze.
💡 First-Timer Tips
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Bring sunscreen and comfortable shoes — it’s a lot of walking.
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Most spots are kid-friendly, but nightlife ramps up after 9 PM.
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Free live entertainment is common at 17th, 24th, and 31st Street stages all summer.
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Public restrooms and showers are located along the path — super handy after beach time.
Our oceanfront and ocean-adjacent properties at Coastal Accommodations are right where the action is — but private enough to escape the noise when you’re ready to relax.
Whether it’s your first visit or your family’s annual trip, we’ll help you feel like a local in no time.
👉 Explore our boardwalk vacation rentals and book your stay with Coastal Accommodations today.
