10 Hidden Gems in Virginia Beach That You Need to Visit

Virginia Beach is known for its beautiful beaches, bustling boardwalk, and exciting attractions, but there are also hidden gems tucked away throughout the city waiting to be discovered. From secluded parks to unique shops, here are 10 hidden gems in Virginia Beach that you need to visit.

10 Hidden Gems in Virginia Beach That You Need to Visit

1. First Landing State Park
   Located at the northern end of Virginia Beach, First Landing State Park is a hidden gem that offers visitors a chance to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The park boasts miles of hiking and biking trails, a quiet beach, and a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and deer.

2. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
   Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Currituck Sound, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden gem that is home to a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds, sea turtles, and otters. Visitors can explore the refuge by hiking, biking, or kayaking through the marshes and dunes.

3. Red Wing Park
   Tucked away in a residential area of Virginia Beach, Red Wing Park is a hidden gem that is perfect for picnicking, playing tennis, or strolling through the gardens. The park features a Japanese garden, a rose garden, and a playground.

4. Beach Movie Bistro
   Located in the Hilltop area of Virginia Beach, Beach Movie Bistro is a hidden gem that combines dinner and a movie in one unique experience. Visitors can enjoy a meal while watching a movie in a comfortable recliner.

5. The Edgar Cayce Association for Research and Enlightenment (A.R.E.)
   The Edgar Cayce A.R.E. is a hidden gem that offers visitors a chance to learn about the life and teachings of Edgar Cayce, a famous psychic and healer who lived in Virginia Beach. The center features a library, a meditation garden, and a variety of workshops and classes.

6. The Old Coast Guard Station Museum
   Located on the boardwalk, the Old Coast Guard Station Museum is a hidden gem that showcases the history of the U.S. Life-Saving Service and the Coast Guard. Visitors can explore exhibits and artifacts from the 1800s to the present day.

7. The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Marsh Pavilion
   The Marsh Pavilion at the Virginia Aquarium is a hidden gem that offers visitors a chance to learn about the animals and plants that live in the marshes and wetlands of Virginia Beach. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits and see live animals, including river otters and horseshoe crabs.

8. Esoteric
   Esoteric is a hidden gem that offers visitors a chance to enjoy a meal or a drink in a cozy, eclectic atmosphere. The restaurant features a rotating menu of locally sourced ingredients and a variety of craft beers and cocktails.

9. Military Aviation Museum
   Located just outside of Virginia Beach, the Military Aviation Museum is a hidden gem that showcases a collection of World War I and II aircraft. Visitors can see planes from around the world and watch them fly during air shows.

10. The Old Beach Farmers Market
    The Old Beach Farmers Market is a hidden gem that offers visitors a chance to sample local produce, baked goods, and other goods. The market is open on Saturdays from May to October and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

In conclusion, Virginia Beach has many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you are interested in nature, history, or food, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city.

What’s the best way to get to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge?

The best way to get to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge depends on your starting location and mode of transportation. Here are a few options:

1. By car: If you have access to a car, the easiest way to get to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is to drive. From Virginia Beach, take Sandbridge Road south until you reach the refuge entrance. The drive takes about 20-25 minutes from the resort area of Virginia Beach.

2. By bike: Another option for getting to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is to bike. The refuge is accessible via the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge Trail, which begins at the intersection of Sandbridge Road and New Bridge Road. The trail is approximately 5.5 miles long and is paved, making it a great option for cyclists of all skill levels.

3. By bus: If you don’t have access to a car or bike, you can take the VB Wave, which is Virginia Beach’s public transportation system. Route 30 of the VB Wave runs from the oceanfront to Sandbridge, with a stop at the entrance to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. However, please note that the VB Wave is a seasonal service and is not available year-round.

4. By tour: Finally, if you prefer a guided experience, there are several tour companies in Virginia Beach that offer guided tours of Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. These tours typically include transportation to and from the refuge as well as a guided nature walk or kayak tour. This is a great option if you want to learn more about the refuge’s wildlife and ecosystem.

Is there a fee to enter the refuge?

Yes, there is a fee to enter Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. As of my knowledge cutoff date of September 2021, the entrance fee was $5 per vehicle or $2 per pedestrian or cyclist. The fee can be paid at the entrance station using cash or credit card. However, please note that fees are subject to change, so it’s always best to check the current fee schedule on the refuge’s website or by calling ahead before your visit. Additionally, some passes may be accepted in lieu of the entrance fee, such as the America the Beautiful Pass, which provides access to federal recreation sites across the country.

What are some popular activities to do at the refuge?

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers a variety of activities for nature enthusiasts, bird watchers, hikers, photographers, and other visitors to enjoy. Here are some popular activities at the refuge:

1. Wildlife viewing: Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds, sea turtles, otters, and deer. Visitors can see the wildlife throughout the refuge, including on the hiking trails, in the marshes, and along the beach.

2. Beachcombing: The refuge has miles of undeveloped beach, which is a great place for beachcombing and shell collecting. Visitors can find a variety of shells, including whelks, scallops, and sand dollars.

3. Hiking: The refuge has several hiking trails, ranging from easy to moderately difficult. The trails offer visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area, including the marshes, dunes, and maritime forest.

4. Photography: Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a popular spot for photographers, who come to capture the natural beauty of the area. Visitors can take photos of the wildlife, the landscape, and the sunrise and sunset over the water.

5. Canoeing and kayaking: Visitors can explore the refuge’s waterways by canoe or kayak. The refuge offers several launch sites for non-motorized boats, and visitors can paddle through the marshes and along the coastline.

6. Fishing: Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers visitors a chance to fish in both freshwater and saltwater locations. Visitors can fish in Back Bay, which is teeming with largemouth bass and other fish, or in the ocean from the beach.

7. Environmental education: The refuge offers a variety of educational programs for visitors of all ages, including guided nature walks, bird watching tours, and interpretive talks. These programs provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the refuge’s wildlife and ecosystem.

Overall, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the natural beauty of Virginia Beach.

What is the best time of year to visit?

The best time of year to visit Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge depends on what activities you are interested in and what kind of weather you prefer. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect during each season:

1. Spring (March-May): Spring is a great time to visit Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for bird watching, as many migratory birds pass through the area during this time. Temperatures are mild, with average highs in the 60s and 70s, and the weather is generally sunny and dry.

2. Summer (June-August): Summer is the busiest time of year at the refuge, as many visitors come to enjoy the beach and water activities. Temperatures are warm, with average highs in the 80s and occasional thunderstorms.

3. Fall (September-November): Fall is another great time to visit Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, as the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller than in the summer. Temperatures are pleasant, with average highs in the 70s and 60s, and the fall foliage can be quite beautiful.

4. Winter (December-February): Winter is the quietest time of year at the refuge, but it can still be a great time to visit for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography. Temperatures are cool, with average highs in the 50s and 40s, and occasional snow or rain.

Overall, the best time to visit the refuge depends on your interests and what kind of weather you prefer. However, keep in mind that the refuge is a beautiful and rewarding destination year-round, with something to offer visitors in every season.