photo credit: VirginiaBeach.com

The Oceanfront:  Obviously, families have a great time at the beach.  Kids love playing in the sand, letting the waves crash against their feet, and looking for crabs and shells.  There are many affordable family hotels and resorts right on the ocean or very nearby.  Sometimes the ones not on the beach have the better pools, AND offer cost savings.  Beaches have public access, so you can still enjoy the beach if your hotel is not oceanfront.  If playing on the beach is not your thing, there are plenty of restaurants, ice-cream parlors and souvenir shops along the boardwalk.  You can also rent buggies or bikes, or enjoy a leisurely stroll.

photo credit: ColonialWilliamsburg.com

Colonial Williamsburg:   Step back in time and immerse yourself in history at the world’s largest outdoor living history museum.  Learn about life in the 1800′s through movies, re-enactments and chatting with actors throughout town.  Even if you are not a history buff, it’s worth the hour drive to experience the 18th century life.  Who knows, your kids just may have a new appreciation for the things they now take for granted.

hours 9.30am-5pm
Tel:1-800-HISTORY

photo credit: Busch Gardens® Williamsburg

Busch Gardens Williamsburg:  Even though it’s about 45 minutes from Virginia Beach, a theme park this good is worth the time away from the beach.    From Sesame Street characters to wild roller coasters, everyone from toddlers to teens (and grownups, too!) will find something fun and exciting here.  Busch Gardens is a great place for animal lovers, too.  It’s the best of both worlds showcasing animal conservation and a full day of fun for the whole family.

hours 10am-10pm most days
Tel:757-253-3350

photo credit: Ocean Breeze Waterpark

Ocean Breeze Waterpark:  Cool off and have a blast at this waterpark near the oceanfront.  There are several play areas for all ages including a children’s splash area, a million-gallon wave pool, thrilling water slides and more.  There are plenty of snacks, drinks and shops to round out your day, or rent a cabana for a family base in the shade.

849 General Booth Boulevard
Tel: 757-422-4444

captian jacks pirate cruise virginia beach

Captain Jack’s Pirate Ship Tours:  Set sail on a Spanish Galleon called the “Lost Pearl” and enjoy fun and adventure for the whole family.  Kids of all ages love pirates, and on Captain Jack’s Family Fun Cruise, you can help search for  Blackbeard and fire the water cannons, learn pirate songs and dances, and more.

Rudee Inlet at 308 Mediterranean Avenue
Tel: 757-305-9700

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