Virginia Beach Oceanfront is one of the East Coast's most iconic beach destinations, stretching for 35 miles along the Atlantic coastline in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The beach features fine, light-tan sand with gentle-to-moderate surf, making it suitable for a range of activities from casual wading to bodysurfing. Water clarity is typically moderate, with a characteristic blue-green Atlantic hue that deepens offshore. The main resort stretch runs alongside the famous 3.5-mile concrete boardwalk, one of the longest in the world, flanked by hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops, and entertainment venues.
The beach is wide and gently sloping, with an open Atlantic exposure that invites sea breezes and occasional wave action. Lifeguards are stationed along the beach from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and beach access points are plentiful along Atlantic Avenue. Amenities are extensive: public restrooms and showers are spaced at regular intervals along the boardwalk, and beach equipment rentals including chairs, umbrellas, and body boards are available from concession stands. Bike rentals and the Virginia Beach Trolley operate along the strip during peak season.
The vibe skews toward energetic family vacation, with a high concentration of resort hotels directly backing the sand and a lively Atlantic Avenue strip running parallel to the waterfront. During summer weekends, the beach draws large crowds, particularly around the central resort area between 17th and 31st Streets. Those seeking quieter stretches can venture toward the northern end near Croatan Beach or south toward the city limits. Surf fishing from the sand is popular in the off-season. Public parking is available in metered lots and garages along Atlantic Avenue, with rates averaging $6-10 per day in summer. The HRT bus connects downtown Virginia Beach to the oceanfront, and rideshare services are widely available throughout the city.
Amenities
- Lifeguards (Memorial Day–Labor Day)
- Boardwalk
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Bike Rentals
- Beach Volleyball
Good to know
- Best for
- families, swimmers, sunbathers, couples, beachcombers
Location
Atlantic Ave & 1st St, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
36.8508, -75.9779 View on map
Highlights
- 3.5-mile oceanfront boardwalk lined with restaurants, shops, and family entertainment
- Wide Atlantic beach with lifeguard coverage from Memorial Day through Labor Day
- Beach volleyball courts, rental equipment, and water sports concessions at multiple stands
- King Neptune statue, an iconic 34-foot bronze landmark at 31st Street
- Summer concert series and festivals held along the beachfront strip
Tips for visiting
- Arrive before 9am on summer weekends to secure free parking on side streets near 1st–10th Streets before the garages fill
- The stretch north of 42nd Street is noticeably quieter and less crowded than the central resort zone
- Atlantic Avenue parking garages fill by mid-morning in July and August; use the park-and-ride system from 19th Street if arriving late
- Jellyfish are common in late July and August; check for flag advisories posted at lifeguard stands before entering the water
- Morning cycling along the boardwalk before beach crowds arrive is a popular activity; bike rental shops open early along the strip
When to visit
Summer (June–August) offers the warmest water temperatures and full amenities including lifeguards and all concessions, though crowds peak during these months. Late May and September provide calmer conditions, fewer visitors, and pleasant temperatures ideal for swimming.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an entry fee for Virginia Beach Oceanfront?
The beach itself is free to access. Parking in city lots and garages costs $6-10 per day in summer season, and street metered parking is also available along Atlantic Avenue.
When are lifeguards on duty at Virginia Beach Oceanfront?
Lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, typically from 9:30am to 6pm, subject to weather conditions. Exact hours are posted at each lifeguard stand.
Can dogs be brought to Virginia Beach Oceanfront?
Dogs are not permitted on the main oceanfront strip between Memorial Day and Labor Day during peak hours. Outside those hours and in the off-season, leashed dogs are permitted on most beach sections.
Are restrooms and changing facilities available?
Yes, public restrooms and outdoor shower stations are located at multiple access points along the boardwalk at regular intervals from 2nd Street to 40th Street.
Is alcohol allowed on the beach?
Open containers of alcohol are prohibited on the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. Designated alcohol-free enforcement zones are in place along the boardwalk strip throughout the season.