5 day itinerary for Virginia Beach

Itinerary

Virginia Beach is a fantastic destination for families, and there’s so much to do that won’t break the bank. Here’s a fun-filled, child-friendly, and budget-conscious 5-day itinerary for you:

## Day 1: Beach Day & Boardwalk Fun

Morning:

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner. Check out The Breakfast House for some delicious pancakes or omelets.
• Head to the beach! Virginia Beach has a beautiful stretch of sand perfect for building sandcastles, splashing in the waves, and soaking up the sun.

Afternoon:

• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the beach. Bring sandwiches, fruit, and snacks to keep costs down.
• After lunch, stroll along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk. There are often free events and entertainment, especially during the summer months. Keep an eye out for street performers!

Evening:

• Grab some ice cream at Dairy Queen or a local shop.
• If the kids still have energy, let them play at the Oceanfront Park playground, which is right by the boardwalk.

## Day 2: Nature & Exploration

Morning:

• After breakfast, head to First Landing State Park. It’s a great spot for hiking and exploring nature. The trails are easy and suitable for kids. Don’t forget to bring some water and snacks!

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a packed lunch at one of the picnic areas in the park.
• After lunch, visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. While there is an admission fee, it’s often worth it for the educational experience. Look for any discounts or family passes!

Evening:

• Head back to the beach for a sunset picnic dinner. Bring along some sandwiches or snacks and enjoy the beautiful view as the sun sets over the ocean.

## Day 3: History & Culture

Morning:

• Start with breakfast at home or a local café.
• Visit the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum. It’s small but very informative and often has free admission.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at a budget-friendly spot like Chick-fil-A or a local sandwich shop.
• Spend the afternoon at Mount Trashmore Park. This park has a large hill for rolling down, playgrounds, and a lake for fishing or picnicking. It’s a great place for kids to run around!

Evening:

• For dinner, consider a family-friendly restaurant like Mellow Mushroom for some delicious pizza.
• If you’re up for it, take a stroll along the beach after dinner to enjoy the evening breeze.

## Day 4: Adventure & Fun

Morning:

• Breakfast at home or a local bakery.
• Head to Ocean Breeze Waterpark. Look for discount tickets online or consider going on a weekday for lower prices. The water park has plenty of attractions for kids of all ages.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy lunch at the water park (pack snacks to save money) or find a nearby fast-food place.
• After a fun-filled day at the water park, head back to your base to relax and recharge.

Evening:

• Have a casual dinner at The Green Cat Café, which offers a variety of healthy options.
• If the kids are up for it, check out any local events or festivals happening in the area. Sometimes there are free concerts or movie nights on the beach!

## Day 5: Local Attractions & Relaxation

Morning:

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at home or a local café.
• Visit Cape Henry Lighthouse. It’s a small fee to climb the lighthouse, but the views are worth it!

Afternoon:

• Pack a lunch and head to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. It’s a beautiful area for hiking and wildlife watching. Kids will love spotting birds and maybe even some turtles!

Evening:

• For your final dinner, consider a family-friendly seafood restaurant like Waterman’s Surfside Grille.
• End your trip with a relaxing evening on the beach, perhaps with some beach games or a bonfire if allowed.

Tips for Saving Money:

• Bring your own snacks and drinks to avoid high prices at attractions.
• Look for free events happening in the area during your stay.
• Consider using public transportation or walking to save on parking fees.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic time in Virginia Beach! Enjoy the sun, sand, and all the fun activities with your family! 🌊🏖️