Monuments and Sculptures
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is home to many monuments and sculptures. At 25th Street the Norwegian Lady commemorates the lives lost during the 1891 shipwreck of a ship sailing to Virginia Beach from Moss, Norway. Adjacent to the Norwegian Lady is the Naval Aviation Monument Park, home to six larger-than-life bronze sculptures with action-oriented presentations depicting three historic eras in naval aviation. A large bronze statue of the mythological god Neptune, sculpted by Paul DiPasquale, greets visitors entering the boardwalk from 31st Street. Other works of art found along the boardwalk include colorful starfish, dolphins and painted sea turtles.
The Virginia Beach Fishing Pier
Located off of 15th Street is the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier, built in 1950 by Elkan Lachman. This popular attraction and fishing spot extends approximately 1,000 feet out into the Atlantic Ocean providing fisherman with the opportunity to catch a unique variety of fish. Stop by the pier’s bait and tackle shop to rent a rod and reel, or stroll the wood pier and watch as fisherman cast their reels, children run on the sandy beach below and surfers wait to catch the perfect wave on the water.
Entertainment and Events
From magical shows and musical talents to psychics and palm readers, live entertainment takes place along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, its stages and the beach throughout the entire year. With special events also held throughout the year, there is sure to be something that will spark every interest. Experience the magic of the McDonalds Holiday Lights at the Beach in the winter. See fresh works of art at the Downtown Art Fair in the spring. Rock out at the American Music Festival in the summer. Savior flavors at the Craft Beer Festival in the fall.
Shopping and Restaurants
Shopping
Shops along Atlantic Streets include everything from fashionable boutiques and jewelry stores, to beach clothes and accessories and Virginia Beach souvenirs. Shop taffy, delicious fudge, pecan delights and tasty candies, a large selection of peanuts, Virginia Beach gifts, shell items, toys, beach accessories and shirts at Forbes Candies and Gifts. Island inspired clothing is carried at Island Breeze Tropical Trends. Pier Food Mart is a convenient store selling everything from disposable cameras to sunscreen. Sports Alley is your one-stop store carrying beach and sports merchandise. Atlantic Avenue’s largest department store, Sunsations, stocks everything you need for a perfect vacation: beachwear, swimwear, footwear, hats, T-shirts, umbrellas, chairs, boogie boards, toys, souvenirs, gifts, sunglasses, jewelry and more.
Restaurants
Virginia Beach restaurants offer something for everyone. Casual dining with an “old beach” atmosphere and a panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean awaits you at Ocean Eddie’s Seafood Restaurant, located on the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier. Enjoy tropical drinks from the bar, fresh oysters and clams on the half shell at the Raw Bar and mouth-watering seafood dinners cooked fresh to order. Chicho’s Pizza Express, located on Pacific Avenue, serves some of the best pizzas in town made with the freshest ingredients. Beach Bully Restaurant BBQ has earned a certificate of excellence from TripAdvisor. Favorites at Beach Bully Restaurant BBQ include sandwiches, salads, BBQ ribs, baked chicken, fried chicken, baby back ribs and tuna filets. Visit the Side Street Cantina offering Peruvian-influenced Mexican fare served in a colorful cantina with funky decor and live music. Praised by the Food Network as the “Best Pancake House in Virginia Beach” is Pocahontas Pancakes, serving all your breakfast favorites. From Duck Donuts to Sweet Frog Premium Frozen Yogurt, your sweet tooth can be easily satisfied during your visit to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.
- The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is ADA compliant. Accessibility ramps from the boardwalk to the beach are available at every block. Located at 8th, 17th, 24th and 30th Streets are eight-foot wooden walkways that reach the water's edge. Accessible restrooms are located at 17th, 24th and 30th Streets.
- There is a small fee to walk onto the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier if you are not fishing.
- Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.