Virginia Beach, the largest city in Virginia, offers families an ideal coastal destination that combines pristine Atlantic beaches with diverse attractions, entertainment venues, and recreational activities perfect for multi-generational reunions. This resort city provides the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure along 35 miles of beautiful coastline. From the famous oceanfront boardwalk and world-class aquarium to state parks and family-friendly attractions, Virginia Beach delivers comprehensive coastal experiences that ensure every family member finds enjoyable activities while creating lasting memories by the sea.
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Virginia Beach Oceanfront & Boardwalk
The famous three-mile boardwalk stretches along pristine Atlantic coastline, offering families beach activities, entertainment venues, restaurants, and attractions suitable for all ages and interests. The area features accessible beach access points, bike rentals, fishing opportunities, and lifeguarded beaches during summer months, creating comprehensive coastal experiences for multi-generational groups. With ample parking, restroom facilities, and the iconic Neptune statue, Virginia Beach provides safe and enjoyable oceanfront experiences that combine relaxation with recreation while offering stunning sunrise views and endless opportunities for family photos and beach memories.
SCOUT LOGISTICS
The 3-mile boardwalk is free and fully ADA accessible with beach wheelchair loans available at 5 lifeguard stations from Memorial Day through Labor Day at no charge. Metered parking along Atlantic Avenue costs $3 per hour from May through September and the 9th Street garage offers group parking at $15 per day for 4 or more vehicles arriving together. Book oceanfront hotel blocks at least 6 months ahead for summer reunions as group rates of 15 to 25 percent off require a minimum of 10 rooms per night.
Website: visitvirginiabeach.com
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
This world-class aquarium features over 800,000 gallons of aquatic exhibits showcasing marine life from around the world, including sharks, sea turtles, and interactive touch tanks that engage visitors of all ages in marine education. The facility offers educational programs, IMAX theater experiences, and outdoor adventure park activities that combine learning with entertainment. With wheelchair accessibility, group tour options, and hands-on exhibits designed for families, the Virginia Aquarium provides comprehensive marine education experiences that inspire ocean conservation while creating memorable encounters with fascinating sea creatures and marine ecosystems.
SCOUT LOGISTICS
Adult admission is $28 and groups of 15 or more pay $22 per person when booked at least 2 weeks in advance with a required $100 deposit. The aquarium is fully ADA accessible with elevators to both levels and wheelchair rentals available for $5 at the front desk on a first-come basis. Free parking in the main lot holds 500 vehicles and overflow parking during summer peaks is available in the adjacent Owls Creek lot with a free shuttle running every 8 minutes.
Website: virginiaaquarium.com
First Landing State Park
This historic state park marks the site where English colonists first landed in 1607, offering families hiking trails, beach access, camping facilities, and educational programs about early American history and coastal ecosystems. The park features diverse habitats including beaches, dunes, forests, and wetlands that provide opportunities for wildlife viewing, photography, and nature education. With accessible trails, visitor center exhibits, and programs designed for all ages, First Landing State Park creates meaningful outdoor experiences that combine natural beauty with historical significance while offering peaceful retreat from busy beach resort activities.
SCOUT LOGISTICS
Parking is $10 per vehicle on weekdays and $15 on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day with an annual pass available for $40. Groups of 10 or more can reserve picnic shelters for $50 per day with 2 weeks advance notice and the park has 1.5 miles of ADA-accessible boardwalk trails through the cypress swamp. The park entrance on Shore Drive sits just 5 miles from the oceanfront hotel district so reunion groups can combine beach time with nature walks without significant driving between activities.
Website: dcr.virginia.gov
Virginia Beach Fishing Pier
This 1,200-foot fishing pier extends into the Atlantic Ocean, providing families with fishing opportunities, scenic ocean views, and a unique perspective of the Virginia Beach coastline that appeals to anglers and sightseers alike. The pier offers equipment rentals, bait shop services, and fishing instruction for beginners, making it accessible to families with varying fishing experience. With accessible walkways, seating areas, and the opportunity to observe marine life and seabirds, the fishing pier creates relaxing experiences that connect families to coastal traditions while providing opportunities for catching dinner and creating fishing memories together.
SCOUT LOGISTICS
Sightseeing admission is $3 per person and fishing passes cost $10 per adult with rod rentals available for $15 per day including tackle and bait. The pier is ADA accessible with a flat wooden deck surface and accessible restrooms at the pier house entrance. Group fishing charters for 10 to 20 people can be arranged through the pier office at $8 per person with 1 week advance notice and the pier sits at 15th Street directly on the boardwalk allowing easy access for groups already exploring the oceanfront.
Website: virginiabeachfishingpier.com
Ken O.
Founder of AmazingReunion and veteran reunion organizer who has coordinated 50+ family gatherings across the US.