Have you been wondering if you are REALLY allowed to bring that margarita to-go on the beach? Do you sit on the beach and give a rude look to the couple smoking a cigarette beside you? Ever wonder if you are allowed to be at the beach so late at night? VirginiaBeach.com brings you the rules of the oceanfront! The answers may surprise you.
Have questions not answered below? E-mail Rachel at Rachel@virginiabeach.com and we’ll get you the answers.
Virginia Beach Frequently Asked Questions:
Where is Virginia?
Virginia is located on the east coast of the United States, somewhat centered between Maine and Florida.
Why is Virginia Beach so popular?
First and foremost, VB is such a popular vacation destination because of the beautiful oceanfront and boardwalk. Families love coming here year after year. It’s safe, clean, and affordable. Being centrally located to anyone on the east coast, it’s a short drive. This can save hundreds of dollars per family in travel costs alone versus flying to another beach. We’re also the first “warm beach” as vacationers from the north travel south looking for relaxation.
Can I bring alcoholic beverages to the beach?
Unfortunately, or fortunately, depending on your viewpoint, the answer is no. Alcoholic drinks are not permitted on the beach itself.
Can I bring glass bottles to the beach?
No. This is to protect barefooted people on the beach. The last thing you want to do is step on broken glass in the sand.
Is skateboarding permitted on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk?
No. However, it is permitted on the Bike Path.
Is smoking tobacco allowed on the beach?
Yes, if above 18 years of age.
Does the boardwalk ever close?
No. The boardwalk is open 24 hours a day, rain or shine. You can enjoy a late stroll on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk anytime you want!
Are you allowed to camp on the beach?
No overnight camping is allowed on the beach. But there are many incredible campgrounds within a couple miles of the VA Beach Oceanfront.
Is there a limit of how far you can swim into the ocean?
Yes, the lifeguards will blow their whistle to let you know you have swam too far away from the shoreline! Check out what else you should know about our lifeguards in our article, “5 things you don’t know about Virginia Beach lifeguards.”
Are you allowed to launch watercrafts (sail boats, jet skis, etc.) from the beach?
Yes, watercrafts are allowed to launch from the beach.
Are dogs allowed on the beach?
Dogs are permitted to play on the beach and in the water in the fall and spring (after Labor Day and before Memorial Day). During summer, dogs are limited to play on the beach only on the North End of VA Beach. Keep in mind that leashed dogs are allowed to walk the boardwalk between the hours of 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM. Check out all the rules for Dogs at the Virginia Beach oceanfront.
Weddings on the beach?
Weddings are definitely permitted on the beach. If your wedding is going to be a big production (large wedding crowd), a permit may be required. You can create the very best Virginia Beach wedding experience by learning a few beach hacks.
Where do I park?
There are many parking garages along Atlantic Ave, which is a street away from the boardwalk. There are also parking lots that you can pay to park by the hour or by the day. If parking in a parking garage, be aware of the signs separating the parking spaces between hotel guests and beach parking. Parking in the wrong one will get you get towed. Finding the best Virginia Beach Parking during the summer season can make a difference in your vacation experience.
Where are the lifeguard towers?
There are 50 lifeguard stands along the Virginia Beach that have been strategically placed for the best surveillance capability of the lifeguards. The lifeguards patrol the beach from 1st Street through 89th Street.
What are the hours in which the lifeguards are on duty?
Between the months of mid-May through mid-September, the lifeguards are on duty from 9:30 in the morning until 6:00 in the evening.
May we bring our personal large umbrella, lounge chairs, coolers, and kids sand toys (buckets, pails, etc) to use on the beach?
Yes, all of the above are allowed to bring to the beach.
If we have to rent umbrellas or chairs, what are the cost and where do we rent these at?
You will notice many rental places for umbrellas and/or chairs scattered all along the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. It can cost anywhere between $15 – $30 per day (depending on which rental place you choose and how many items you are renting).
