Activities at the Beach

Founded in 1996 as Chesapean Kayak Tours, this was the first company in Virginia to offer guided kayak dolphin tours. Operating now as Chesapean Outdoors, they still offer guided dolphin tours as well as stand-up paddle-board tours, bike tours, surf lessons, rentals, adventure camps, corporate outings and team building events for groups of all sizes. You will not be disappointed if you spend your day with them! 

Travel on an aquatic journey from the shore to the depths of the Atlantic Ocean. Experience coastal habitats from around the world. You will see thousands of animals representing over 300 species, displayed in entertaining and educational exhibits. They are ready to enchant, entertain and inspire you! The Aquarium is easily an all day adventure. Check out the 3D Movie Theater, and the eco boat tours they offer. 

This waterpark has been a part of our family summer tradition as long as I can remember. We had season passes for years. There are more than 30 rides, slides, and attractions here. Plenty to do for everyone in the family. You will love the new lazy river. Do something different for a day. Plenty of food and drinks here too. Enjoy your day at the park! 

Located in Virginia Beach the Military Aviation Museum is home to one of the world’s largest collections of flying vintage military aircraft.

The Adventure Park – Zip, Climb, and Soar Through the Trees!
Looking to add a little thrill to your beach vacation? The Adventure Park is the perfect spot for unforgettable family fun. Just a short drive from the house and located next to the Virginia Aquarium’s Marsh Pavilion, this aerial forest park lets you climb, zip line, and explore high up in the trees.

Whether you're five or fifty-five, there’s something for everyone. With multiple aerial ropes courses designed for all skill levels, every visit offers a new challenge and a whole lot of laughs.

✨ And don’t miss their Glow in the Park nights—where you can climb under the lights and music for a magical treetop experience like no other.

It’s active, adventurous, and absolutely worth it if you're up for some high-flying fun (and memories your kids won’t stop talking about!).

Petting Zoo, Pony Rides & Farm Fun 
If you’re looking for a sweet spot that your kids will absolutely love, Hunt Club Farm is a must! It’s the only petting zoo in Virginia Beach and just 13 miles from the beach house, making it a perfect family outing during your stay.

From feeding birds in the walk-through aviary, to petting goats and llamas, riding ponies, climbing in the playground, and exploring the TreeWalk Adventure—you’re in for a full day of smiles and memory-making. 🐐🐦🌳

✨ Here’s what to know:

• Petting zoo admission is $15 per person (2 & under are free)

• Pony rides are an extra charge

• Bring snacks or grab a bite at their small market

• The Birdwalk Aviary lets you feed hundreds of birds by hand (definitely a highlight!)

• Their TreeWalk lets kids (and you!) climb 8–12 feet in the air to learn about woodland animals

• They host seasonal festivals, birthday parties, and always seem to be adding something new!

It’s a 50-acre, family-owned farm filled with good old-fashioned fun—and it’s one of those places that brings out the wide-eyed wonder in everyone, no matter your age.

Fishing Charters – Reel in the Fun! 🎣
Ready to cast a line and try your luck with some of the best fishing on the East Coast? Rudee Tours offers a variety of daily fishing trips—whether you’re brand new to fishing or you’ve got your own lucky rod at home.

With inshore, nearshore, and offshore trips running year-round, there’s always a chance to hook something exciting. Thanks to our unique spot right between the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay, the bite is almost always on!

Their captains have been fishing these waters for over 40 years, so you’re in great hands. All the gear is provided, and their crew is super helpful (especially if this is your first time out). Whether you’re flying solo, with family, or coming with a group, Rudee Tours has something for everyone—and they’ll make sure you have a great time, fish or no fish!

If you are lucky enough- you might even get to fish with our favorite captain- Rusty-my future daughter in law's Dad! He's awesome. 

Cocktail Cruise – Sip, Sail & Soak in the Sunset 🍹🌅
Need a night out that feels like a vacation within your vacation? This adult-only Cocktail Cruise is the perfect excuse to leave the kiddos with a sitter and treat yourself to a relaxed, breezy evening on the water.

Partnered with Chesapeake Bay Distillery, this cruise features regional craft spirits, smooth cocktails, and unbeatable sunset views over the Atlantic. Whether you're celebrating something—or just celebrating making it to bedtime with aloed-up sunburned kids this week—this is your moment.

✨ Some ideas to make it extra fun:

• Grab your spouse and call it a date night with a view

• Gather a gaggle of girlfriends for a golden hour girls' night

• Plan a pre-dinner cruise with friends before heading out on the town

• Surprise your partner with a romantic outing that doesn’t involve making dinner or doing dishes 🙌

This one’s just for the grown-ups, and it’s got all the ingredients for a night you’ll talk about long after vacation ends.

This is just one of the fun tours Rudee Tours offers. Check out their website for more. 

Buckle Up for the Splashiest Ride in VB! 💦
Looking for something that’ll make your heart race and your cheeks hurt from smiling? The Rudee Rocket is your go-to for an unforgettable, high-speed thrill ride along the Virginia Beach coast—and yes, dolphin sightings are guaranteed!

In just 60 minutes, you’ll zoom across the ocean with salty wind in your hair, ocean spray in your face, and the kind of laughter that turns into “let’s do that again!!” by the time you dock.

⚡️ Perfect for:

• Families with older kids who want something a little more exciting

• Thrill-seekers craving speed and splash

• Anyone who wants a super fun way to spot dolphins (and maybe get soaked doing it!)

🎟 Need-to-knows:

• Ride is 60 minutes

• Kids must be at least 39 inches tall

• You will get wet (and love every second of it)

• Didn’t see dolphins? You’ll get a free re-ride! 🚤🐬

Speed. Dolphins. Ocean spray. ✅

Rudee Tours also has dolphin watching with a SLOWER pace- just go to their website. 

Adventure Parasail – Parasailing, Jet Skis & More!
If you're up for a thrill, Adventure Parasail is the place to go! They've been around since the 1980s and have an impeccable safety record—which, as a mama and a local, gives me serious peace of mind. (Fun fact: my son even worked there one summer, so I’ve seen firsthand how seriously they take both safety and fun.)

This is currently the only spot in Virginia Beach offering high-quality parasailing, jet ski rentals, and banana boat rides—all on the ocean side, so expect bigger waves and a little more adventure than you'll find right by the beach house.

Whether you're flying high with the gulls or zipping through the surf on a jet ski, you're in for a memorable day. These guys are the real deal, and I promise—you won’t be disappointed if you spend part of your day with them!

Paddleboard & Kayak Rentals – Delivered Right to Your Beach House!
Looking to explore VB from a whole new perspective? Tula Sports makes it super easy! You can rent paddleboards or kayaks and have them delivered right to the house—whether it’s just for the day or the whole week.

There’s something magical about seeing the coastline from the water. From peaceful morning paddles to sunset kayak sessions, this is one of our favorite ways to unwind and take in the beauty of the area.

🌊 A few important notes to keep in mind: Equipment must be delivered after you’ve arrived and picked up before your check-out day. Please store all boards and kayaks on the deck, inside the fenced area, and keep them locked when not in use. We are not responsible for any damage, theft, or missing equipment, so be sure to treat them like your own!

Tula Sports also offers guided paddleboard and kayak tours if you're looking for a little adventure with a local twist.

Live Music, Street Performers & Summer Nights to Remember
One of our favorite things to do when friends or family visit is head down to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront at night—especially in the summer! From 17th to 25th Street, the whole area comes alive with free concerts, live entertainment, magicians, street performers, and more. 🎶✨ It’s got that fun, vacation vibe that just makes you want to grab an ice cream and stroll.

There’s literally something for everyone—whether you’re into music, magic, or just people-watching. You can even catch free outdoor movies with the kids on select nights at 29th Street! (Bring a blanket or beach chair and settle in—it’s such a sweet way to end the day.)

I am NOT a huge fan for going down alone at night or trying to take small kids when you don't have the best adult/kid ratio. Park in the public parking garage at 31st street or any of the other public parking lots.

Fresh Catch Just Minutes from the House 🐟🦀
If you're looking to cook up a little something local while you're here, swing by the Dockside Seafood Market—just a quick drive from the house and one of our favorite hidden gems. They offer a fantastic selection of fresh, locally caught fish, crab, lobster, and other seafood you just won’t find at the grocery store.

Pick out your own fresh catch and head back to the beach house to throw it on the grill. It’s the perfect way to slow down, gather your people, and enjoy a meal together that’s simple, fresh, and full of flavor.

Add in some local veggies from the farmers market, light a few citronella candles, and you’ve got yourself an evening that feels like a scene out of a coastal magazine—but with your crew, your laughter, and your stories.

And don’t forget to watch the sky—because honestly, there’s no better backdrop for dinner than a Virginia Beach sunset. God is creative, and every single one feels like a masterpiece. 🌅✨

*NOT AT OCEANFRONT. VERY CLOSE TO THE BEACHHOUSE. 

Looking for a fun, low-stress adventure on the water?
Dockside Fishing Center is just a short drive from our rental and is such a great way to spend a morning or afternoon—especially if you're craving some family time out in nature (with maybe a few fish stories to bring back!).

They offer half-day fishing trips and relaxing bay cruises, perfect for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. Whether it’s your first time holding a fishing rod or you're practically a pro, their crew is super friendly and always willing to help.

The boats are Coast Guard-inspected and equipped with top-notch fish-finding gear—but let’s be real, some days the fish are shy! Either way, you're almost guaranteed a great time (and if you're lucky, a dolphin sighting too 🐬).

Bait and tackle are included in the price, and there's plenty of free parking—so it's pretty hassle-free. Just remember: the hardworking deckhands do appreciate tips!

*NOT THE OCEANFRONT. VERY CLOSE TO THE BEACHHOUSE.

Looking for a fun, low-stress adventure on the water with dolphins?
Dockside Fishing Center is just a short drive from our rental and is such a great way to spend a morning or afternoon—especially if you're craving some family time out in nature (with maybe a few fish stories to bring back!).

They offer half-day fishing trips and relaxing bay cruises, perfect for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. Whether it’s your first time holding a fishing rod or you're practically a pro, their crew is super friendly and always willing to help.

The boats are Coast Guard-inspected and equipped with top-notch fish-finding gear—but let’s be real, some days the fish are shy! Either way, you're almost guaranteed a great time (and if you're lucky, a dolphin sighting too 🐬).

Bait and tackle are included in the price, and there's plenty of free parking—so it's pretty hassle-free. Just remember: the hardworking deckhands do appreciate tips!

*NOT THE OCEANFRONT. VERY CLOSE TO THE BEACHHOUSE.

Looking for something fun to do indoors at the beach—rain or shine?
Beachside Social is one of our favorite local gems in Virginia Beach! With shuffleboard, bocce ball, board games, and comfy vibes, it’s perfect for families with kids (toddlers and below might be tough but...your call), date nights, friend hangs, or just escaping the heat (or rain).

You don’t have to be a drinker to have a blast here—but if you are, they’ve got craft cocktails and beer too.
Think: game night meets beachy lounge.

Whether you’re a competitive shuffler, a board game boss, a snack sampler, or just a laid-back beachgoer, this spot is a win.
Walk-ins welcome—go play and stay a while! 🎯🍕🧩

True confession- We play in a shuffleboard league in the spring and fall. So that just proves how fun it is! You need to check it out. 

Your Happy Place for Gifts, Decor & Boutique Finds 🛍️✨
Looking for a fun shopping spot that’s full of charm, variety, and all the things you didn’t know you needed? Look no further than The Painted Tree—a beautifully curated marketplace that feels like Etsy and Pinterest had a baby… and then opened a store.

With everything from boutique clothing and accessories to home decor, candles, art, and one-of-a-kind gifts, this is my go-to when I need something special or just want to browse and be inspired. Whether you're shopping for a birthday, a hostess gift, or a little treat for yourself—this place never disappoints.

🛒 Why I love it:

• You’re supporting tons of local makers and small biz owners

• It’s full of creative, unique items you won’t find at the big box stores

• It’s the perfect spot to wander with a coffee and a girlfriend (or three!)

From clothes to coasters, signs to soaps, The Painted Tree is the kind of place you walk into for “just one thing” and walk out with armfuls of goodness.

Where Local Flavor Meets Creative Vibes 🥬🎨🌿
If you’re in town on a Saturday morning, you have to swing by the Old Beach Markets in the heart of the ViBe Creative District. It's where local flavor, art, and sustainability come together in the coolest, most laid-back way.

🛍️ At the Farmers Market (May–October weekly, November–April every 3rd Saturday):
You’ll find 40+ local vendors offering everything from fresh produce, handmade breads, and pasture-raised meats to small-batch sauces and gluten-free goodies. Vegan? Carnivore? Just here for the fresh flowers and coffee? They’ve got you covered.

🎨 At the Art + Eco Market (April–October every Saturday, November–March on the 1st & 3rd Saturdays):
Come browse one-of-a-kind art, upcycled fashion, handcrafted jewelry, mixed media pieces, eco-friendly goods, and more. Think of it as your Saturday dose of inspiration—with a side of community and creativity.

Grab a coffee, take a stroll, and support local artists, farmers, and makers. It’s the kind of morning that feels good for the soul and your shopping bag.