Places to Visit Near Vacation Home Rentals Virginia Beach

Home Places to Visit Near Vacation Home Rentals Virginia Beach

Places to Visit Near Vacation Home Rentals Virginia Beach

17 Dec 2025    Places to visit

Virginia Beach is a destination that works at your pace. You can spend your mornings hiking quiet trails, afternoons splashing at water parks, and evenings strolling the boardwalk - all without long drives. Staying in vacation home rentals virginia beach gives you flexibility, comfort, and the freedom to build your days around experiences, not schedules.

Below are the top places to visit near your vacation rental, with tips on what makes each stop worthwhile.

1. Atlantic Park Surf

Atlantic Park Surf is one of the city’s newest attractions and a major draw for adventure lovers. Perfect for travelers staying in nearby virginia beach short term rentals who want something active and different from a standard beach day.

Why visit:

  • Surf-friendly waves for beginners and advanced riders
  • Live music venue, restaurants, and retail
  • A lively atmosphere without heading to the beach

2. Motor World

Motor World is all about high-energy fun, especially for families with kids or teens. It’s an easy half-day outing and a great break from beach routines near holiday rentals home in Virginia Beach.

What you’ll find:

  • Multiple go-kart tracks
  • Mini golf courses
  • Rides and arcade games

3. Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art

For a quieter, cultural pause, the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) offers rotating exhibitions and creative installations. It’s a favorite for couples and adult travelers staying in home away from home rentals in Virginia Beach who enjoy mixing culture into their trips.

Highlights include:

  • Thought-provoking modern art
  • Seasonal exhibitions
  • Art workshops and events

4. Ocean Breeze Waterpark

Ocean Breeze Waterpark is a summer essential for families. This attraction pairs well with rentals that offer space to relax afterward, especially helpful if your group includes multiple families.

Why kids love it:

  • Water slides and wave pools
  • Lazy rivers
  • Shaded seating areas

5. Cape Henry Lighthouse

History meets scenery at Cape Henry Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in the country, and close to vrbo vacation rentals in Virginia Beach. It’s a calm, scenic outing that fits perfectly into a relaxed travel day.

What makes it special:

  • Panoramic ocean and bay views
  • A short climb with a big payoff
  • Close to First Landing State Park

6. Neptune’s Park

Neptune’s Park, lying along the boardwalk, is a place everyone comes to see and gather. In the evening, when the boardwalk is buzzing, it is the most sought-after place.

You Should Not Miss:

  • The famous King Neptune statue
  • Summer live music events
  • Photographs taken in the beachfront location

7. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Nature's lovers' paradise, Back Bay refuge offers a tranquil retreat amidst the city's busy holiday rentals home in Virginia Beach. The refuge is perfect for those who love a late-morning rise and vast open areas.

What to encounter:

  • Boardwalks going through the wetlands
  • Drawing and watching birds and other wildlife
  • Isolated beaches and beautiful landscape

8. First Landing State Park

First Landing State Park is a perfect combination of history and natural recreation. It’s a big moment for guests in vacation home rentals virginia beach, who want the best of both worlds, nature and convenience.

Most popular activities are:

  • Walking and riding bikes
  • Going through the water in a kayak
  • Having lunch in the shade

9. Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

The Virginia Aquarium is a prime attraction for families, as it merges education with fun. It’s an obvious choice for a day when the weather isn’t cooperating and for family outings midweek.

The main attractions are:

  • Marine life displays that you can touch and play with
  • Nature trails to explore outdoors
  • Boat rides and behind-the-scenes programs

10. Military Aviation Museum

This museum is one of the largest collections of historic military aircraft in the world, and is close to home away from home rentals in Virginia Beach. History enthusiasts will appreciate the depth and authenticity of the exhibits.

Why it stands out:

  • Restored planes from World War I and II
  • Open hangars and guided tours
  • Occasional flight demonstrations

11. Virginia Beach Boardwalk

No visit is complete without time on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk. The boardwalk is lively in summer and quieter in the mornings - perfect for different moods.

What to do here:

  • Walk or bike the three-mile promenade
  • Enjoy street performers and ocean views
  • Dine at beachfront restaurants

Best Times to Visit Each Spot Seasonally

Attraction

Best Season

Why

Atlantic Park Surf

Spring–Fall

Warm weather enhances surf and outdoor dining

Motor World

Summer

All attractions fully open

MOCA

Year-round

Indoor, rotating exhibits

Ocean Breeze Waterpark

Summer

Peak operation and warm temperatures

Cape Henry Lighthouse

Spring–Fall

Clear views and mild weather

Neptune’s Park

Summer evenings

Live music and events

Back Bay Refuge

Spring & Fall

Cooler temps and wildlife activity

First Landing State Park

Spring & Fall

Ideal hiking and kayaking

Virginia Aquarium

Year-round

Great in any weather

Aviation Museum

Spring–Fall

Outdoor displays and events

Boardwalk

Summer mornings & evenings

Best atmosphere without midday crowds

Why Staying at Will Sea Makes Exploring Easy

Located in the peaceful Croatan neighborhood, Will Sea offers the ideal base for exploring all of these attractions.

What makes Will Sea a smart choice:

  • Three master bedrooms with private baths
  • Two full kitchens - perfect for groups
  • Decks on all three levels
  • Short walk to Croatan Beach
  • Easy access to major attractions

For travelers looking through virginia beach short term rentals, Will Sea stands out for comfort, space, and location - without sacrificing peace and privacy.

Conclusion

Virginia Beach offers something for every traveler - adventure, culture, nature, and coastal charm. Staying in a well-located holiday rentals home in Virginia Beach gives you the flexibility to experience it all at your own pace.

If you’re looking for a comfortable, well-equipped base close to top attractions, Will Sea delivers the space and convenience that turns a vacation into a true getaway. Book your stay at home away from home rentals in Virginia Beach, plan your outings, and enjoy Virginia Beach beyond the shoreline.

FAQs

1. Are these attractions close to vacation home rentals Virginia Beach?

Yes, most are within a short drive or easy day trip from popular rental areas.

2. Which attractions are best for families with kids?

Ocean Breeze Waterpark, the Aquarium, Motor World, and the Boardwalk are top picks.

3. Are there nature-focused places near virginia beach short term rentals?

Absolutely. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and First Landing State Park are both nearby.

4. Is Croatan a good area to stay in?

Yes, it’s quieter, family-friendly, and close to beaches and attractions.

5. Can I visit these places year-round?

Most attractions are open year-round, though summer offers the fullest experience.