Beach-bound visitors can choose from miles of shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean, Chesapeake Bay and major rivers that lead to the bay and ocean. In addition to the best-known beaches in Virginia Beach and on Assateague Island, visitors explore popular beaches at Kiptopeke, Norfolk, Hampton, Yorktown and in Surry County and Virginia's Chesapeake Bay region. Starting in spring each year, sun lovers flock to Virginia Beach for a traditional beachfront vacation along the Atlantic Ocean. Most of the city's estimated 2.5 million annual visitors are drawn to the three-mile area along the city's oceanfront boardwalk where numerous hotels and restaurants overlook the beach. Parking is ample here with 5,000 on-street parking spaces and five municipal lots.
Many visitors are surprised to find free access to the city's well-maintained beaches.
Vendors scattered along the oceanfront cater to the good life by renting expansive umbrellas and sling-back beach chairs. Virginia Beach's pedestrian boardwalk and cycling path are magnets for physical fitness lovers who enjoy jogging, strolling, roller skating and cycling. The boardwalk is also the place for alfresco dining and free nightly entertainment. Visitors rent bikes and skates from many hotels and from Cherie's Bicycle and Blade Rental at 24th Street and the oceanfront to connect with miles of bike trails throughout the resort area. Fishermen amuse themselves for hours at the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier, which juts out from the boardwalk at 15th Street.