Oceanfront and North End

With the longest beachfront access in the world, according the Guinness Book of World Records, you should be able to find plenty to do when you visit Virginia Beach oceanfront boardwalks and parks. The beach is so long that you can choose to be a part of one of the world class sporting events--and may even find yourself on television!--or spend a quite day virtually alone in peace with the waves.

Virginia Beach oceanfront is an entire resort complete with newly built amphitheater, night clubs, golf courses, the aquarium, and of course, an amusement park. Along with the regular attractions for travelers to this famous spot, there are special events through the summer months and into late fall as well. The Virginia Beach Neptune festival takes place the last weekend of September right on the boardwalk between 1st and 30th streets, and is home to the famous sandcastle contest and surfing exposition.

Speaking of surfing, Virginia Beach oceanfront is also home to the annual East Coast Surfing Championship, where surfers from all over the world, including the diehard rock solid Australian surfers, come to match their skills in serious competition.

Holiday Lights at the Beach is another event which draws travelers from all over. 250 light trimmed nautical parade floats, surfing Santa's, and the ability to drive right on the boardwalk contribute to this tourist attraction which happens in early December. Get there early, as thousands of people come to watch the display.

Like to people watch? Atlantic Avenue is the area where the largest tourist beach meets the boardwalk, and the crowds can get huge. For a more private stay at the oceanfront, try Fort Story--the public beach is open on weekends, the parking is free, and the sand and surf are great. North end is a residential neighborhood where you are less likely to find the throngs of tourists that visit the beach each day. From 42nd street to 88th, the quiet makes up for the limited parking, but plan to get there early and don't illegally park--they will tow you!

If you're a surfer, try Croatan Beach, Croatan Road. (Off General Booth Blvd, south of Rudee Inlet.) There is a designated surf area and free parking. For a family day at the beach without the crowds, go to Little Island Park and Sandbridge Beach. Its located far south of the tourist beach at the boardwalk, and has basketball courts, fishing, a picnic area, concessions, and playground equipment as well as swimming and surfing.