Virginia Seashore, Virginia is a vibrant coastal metropolis that gives miles of sandy seashores, a thriving artwork scene, and scrumptious Southern-style seafood delicacies and has lengthy been a well-liked vacation spot for vacationers. However past the well-known sights lies a world of hidden gems ready to be found by new-comers and weathered locals residing in Virginia Seashore itching to strive one thing new. From secluded parks to off-the-beaten-path eateries and historic landmarks, Virginia Seashore is filled with surprises. So, if you happen to’re able to unlock the secrets and techniques of this coastal metropolis, take a look at Redfin’s listing of this ocean city’s hidden gems which can be simply ready to be explored.
1. The Navy Aviation Museum
Situated only a brief drive from Virginia Seashore in Pungo, the Navy Aviation Museum is a hidden gem that aviation fans will completely love. This distinctive museum is dwelling to a set of classic planes from WW I and WW II, lots of that are nonetheless in flying situation. Guests can see planes just like the well-known P-51 Mustang, the Spitfire, and the B-25 Mitchell up shut and even watch them take flight throughout air exhibits and occasions all year long. The museum additionally affords guided excursions, flight experiences, and academic applications for youngsters and adults.
2. First Touchdown State Park
Tucked away on the north finish of Virginia Seashore, First Touchdown State Park is a hidden oasis that gives a respite from the busy coastal metropolis. The park is known as after the spot the place the Jamestown colonists first landed in 1607, and guests can discover the world’s wealthy historical past by means of the park’s academic applications and displays. There are additionally over 19 miles of mountain climbing trails, a pristine seaside, and a campground for many who wish to spend the evening beneath the celebrities. First Touchdown State Park is a superb place to flee into nature and luxuriate in some peace and quiet.
3. Again Bay Wildlife Refuge
For many who love wildlife and nature, the Again Bay Wildlife Refuge is a hidden gem on the southern finish of Sandbridge Seashore. This 9,250-acre refuge is dwelling to quite a lot of wildlife, together with migratory birds, sea turtles, and dolphins. Guests can discover the refuge on foot or by bike on one of many many trails that wind by means of the marshes, dunes, and forests. The refuge additionally has a seaside that’s extra secluded than the primary Sandbridge Seashore, making it an ideal spot to calm down and take in the solar.
4. ViBe Inventive District
The ViBe Inventive District is positioned within the coronary heart of Virginia Seashore that’s dwelling to a vibrant neighborhood of native artists, makers, and creatives. Guests can discover the district’s distinctive outlets, galleries, and studios and uncover one-of-a-kind items of artwork, jewellery, and residential decor. The district additionally hosts common occasions and festivals, together with the ViBe Mural Competition, the place guests can watch as artists create beautiful murals on the district’s buildings.
5. Commune
Situated within the coronary heart of Virginia Seashore’s oceanfront, Commune serves up scrumptious, domestically sourced meals in a comfortable, welcoming environment. The restaurant’s menu modifications repeatedly primarily based on what’s in season and accessible domestically, and options dishes like smoked salmon toast, veggie bowls, and pork stomach sliders. Commune can also be dedicated to sustainability, utilizing compostable take-out containers and donating its meals waste to a neighborhood farm. Seashore dwellers can take pleasure in a meal or a cup of espresso at Commune and be ok with supporting native farmers and the atmosphere.
6. The Thoroughgood Home
Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood in Virginia Seashore, the Thoroughgood Home is a historic gem that gives a glimpse into town’s previous. Inbuilt 1719, the home is likely one of the oldest properties within the space and has been rigorously restored to its authentic situation. Guests can take a guided tour of the home and find out about its historical past and the lifetime of the Thoroughgood household, who had been among the many first settlers within the space. The home additionally hosts particular occasions all year long, together with candlelight excursions and vacation celebrations.
7. False Cape State Park
For many who wish to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature, False Cape State Park is a hidden gem on the southern finish of Sandbridge Seashore. The park is barely accessible by foot, bike, or boat, making it a peaceable and secluded spot to discover. Locals and vacationers can hike alongside the park’s 15 miles of trails, which wind by means of dunes, marshes, and forests, or take a guided tour on a seaside cruiser. The park additionally has a campground for many who wish to spend the evening.
8. The Seashore Bully
For those who’re in search of some scrumptious Southern barbecue, the Seashore Bully is a favourite amongst locals on the Virginia Seashore oceanfront. This native joint serves up mouthwatering smoked meats, together with pulled pork, beef brisket, and rooster, in addition to quite a lot of sides like mac and cheese and collard greens. The restaurant additionally has a choice of craft beers on faucet and hosts reside music on the weekends.
9. The Edgar Cayce Affiliation for Analysis and Enlightenment
The Edgar Cayce Affiliation for Analysis and Enlightenment (ARE) is a neighborhood secret retreat in Virginia Seashore that’s devoted to the research of metaphysics and the teachings of Edgar Cayce, a famend psychic and healer. The middle has a library and museum which can be open to the general public, in addition to quite a lot of academic applications and workshops. Guests can find out about Cayce’s life and work, in addition to discover matters like meditation, holistic therapeutic, and psychic growth. The middle additionally has a spa that gives quite a lot of holistic therapies, together with massages and hydrotherapy.
10. HK on the Bay
Nestled within the coronary heart of Stylish’s Seashore, a quieter and fewer touristy seaside, HK on the Bay affords scrumptious seafood and beautiful views of the Chesapeake Bay. The restaurant has a comfortable, laid-back environment and a menu that options contemporary seafood and different Southern favorites like gumbo, jambalaya, and fried rooster. Foodies can dine on the out of doors patio and watch the sundown over the water, or seize a drink on the bar and luxuriate in reside music on the weekends. HK on the Bay is a neighborhood favourite and an incredible eating expertise for anybody in search of a style of Virginia Seashore’s coastal delicacies.
