Welcome to Travel Guide Hampton Roads, Virginia

When you’re ready for some quiet time in Virginia Beach, look to this outdoor retreat just south of Sandbridge Beach. Natural beauty flourishes on this coastline which has been under protection as a refuge since 1938. Turtles sun on waterside logs. White-tailed deer graze on grass and shrubs. Ospreys soar overhead. A secluded setting invites slow walking, beachcombing, and animal watching.

This national wildlife refuge spans over 9,000 acres. It includes a narrow strip of barrier island, affording views across Back Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Maps available on site detail eight miles of well-marked and maintained trails for walking, including boardwalk paths through the marshes. Or purchase a seat on the Blue Goose Tram and relax on a guided tour through the refuge and down to False Cape State Park. Bikes are permitted on a seasonal basis.

Over 300 bird species have been sighted here, so bring binoculars to watch them, add to your birding list, and catch views of land animals. Flocks of descending white snow geese are a special winter treat.

Approximately 30 minutes by car from central Virginia Beach, the drive to the refuge is beautiful, with lovely views of the waterfront. For directions and additional information, check the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge website, or call (757) 301-7329.Before setting out on the trails fill your water bottles and pocket some snacks since the trails remain as nature intended. Definitely take along bug spray, especially during the summer.

Trails and special wildlife viewing stations are open year-round from dawn to dusk. The Visitor Station opens daily with the exception of Sundays from November through March, most holidays, and special closing days. It is staffed on Memorial Day, July 4^th, and Labor Day. Visitor Station hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the weekend. There is no entry fee from November through March.

Visitors have soaked in ocean views on the well-maintained Virginia Beach boardwalk since 1888. Over the years it has acquired a unique character that makes it a memorable Virginia Beach destination. In addition to the famous bronze Neptune that anchors the 31^st Street end of the boardwalk, this pedestrian friendly avenue showcases many sculptures. One of the most notable is the large Naval Aviation Monument which highlights three eras of naval aviation history. At the other end of the boardwalk, a special playground called Grommet Island Beach Park is wheelchair accessible and beckons all kids to play time. Restaurants serve a variety of fare along the boardwalk, from ice cream to local blue crab and landlubber standbys like burgers and fries. Treat your senses to outdoor dining and the sound of the surf or live nightly musical entertainment on one of four stages in the summer.

Adjacent museums protect precious maritime treasures and are great places to pick up information about the area’s rich history. Housed in a 19^th century cottage build by the first Mayor of Virginia City, the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum pays homage to local waterfowl with displays, artwork, and carvings and decoys. Visitors interested in sea lore can entertain themselves for hours at the Old Coast Guard Station at 24^th Street. Exhibits and an evening walking tour describe coastal community and Coast Guard Services history as well as tales about nearby shipwrecks. This museum contains thousands of artifacts and images which are available to researchers and used in special displays.

After absorbing local history, collect souvenir bounty at boardwalk shops which offer cool respite on hot summer days. Active families can pedal together on a multi-person rental surrey. The boardwalk’s also a splendid spot for people-watching.

The Hampton Roads area around Virginia Beach, VA is a kayaker’s paradise. Seated in a single or double kayak, drop in on a dolphin playground in just a couple of hours. With a trained guide, you’ll start out by launching over the surf into open waters. Paddle out of the cool sea spray and prepare to float practically nose-to-nose with many of these amazing whistling animals who will leap out of the water just feet from your kayak. After visiting with your new sea friends and swimming if time allows, practice your skills by returning to the beach. You will get wet – it is the ocean after all! Don’t worry if you slide off your craft. Life vests supplied by the tour will keep you safe and the open kayaks are easy to get back into. Our expert guides will have prepared you for this challenge which for many feels like an awesome accomplishment.

Love to try kayaking but concerned about motion sickness? This kayak rentals outfitter is also your ticket to fun on calmer inland and bay waters. Choose from a selection of flat-water tours which vary in length from 2.5 hours to all-day excursions around Lake Drummond or eastern shore beaches. Shorter tours travel to the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, First Landing State Park, Blackwater River, Plum Tree Island, and include a sunset voyage in the lush Norfolk Botanical Gardens. Cruise in the shade of cypress forests and under bald eagle and osprey nests. You’ll paddle along grassy marshes, creeks and sandy beaches.

Advance reservations are required. Make them by calling (888) 669-8368 or online where you’ll find rates, detailed tour descriptions, and helpful information about what to bring for an enjoyable trip. Guests receive directions to tour starting points which vary by trip. Staff are happy to answer questions via email to fun@kayaknaturetours.net. Dolphin tours leave from late May through October and flat-water tours set off year-round, weather permitting.

If you are looking for the perfect summer vacation and a perfect oceanfront location, look no further than the Courtyard by Marriott South. Located in the heart of Beach Street USA, you and your family will be thrilled by their central location, oceanfront balconies and newly remodeled guest rooms and one bedroom suites.

Step out of their backdoor and into the sand for a day at the beach. Hit Atlantic Avenue for nightly family-friendly summertime performances on Beach Street USA and a variety of restaurants and shops. Hop on the trolley and head to one of the nightly concerts at Neptune Park or take the family dolphin watching at Rudee Inlet. No matter what your family is looking for you will be in the perfect location for all of it!

Guest will find all of Courtyard’s spacious rooms and suites feature plush bedding, a mini-fridge and a private furnished balcony with panoramic views of the ocean. If the weather prevents you from getting out to the beach, travelers will also be able to unwind in the indoor pool and whirlpool spa. Enjoy an invigorating workout in their well-equipped fitness room and complimentary WIFI throughout the hotel rooms and lobby.

Courtyard Virginia Beach Hotel Highlights:

* Private balconies & ocean views
* Direct access to beach & boardwalk
* Steps from restaurants, shopping, and events
* The Bistro featuring Starbucks® coffee

* Complimentary high-speed Internet access
* Sparkling indoor pool
* Whirlpool & fitness room
* Two-room suites

* TVs with premium cable channels
* In-room mini-refrigerators
* Laundry facilities

Reservations can be made at www.marriott.com/orfoc

The Holiday Inn & Suites North Beach offers a unique resort- experience that’s fun, relaxing and entirely child friendly, yet has plenty of style for mom and dad. Loaded with resort- amenities designed to provide plenty of perks for families, the Virginia Beach hotel and resort offers a family experience like no other.

With a choice of deluxe oceanfront hotel rooms and suites awaits you can’t go wrong they all feature a winning combination of style and contemporary living amenities specially designed for families; the perfect place to rest and relax after a fun day. Each guest room is well appointed with a coffee maker, refrigerator and microwave, iPod docking station, triple-sheeted deluxe bedding, movies on the sleek flat screen television, iron & ironing board, hairdryer, electronic keys and complimentary toiletries. Stay connected with complimentary high-speed wireless access; take some to time to enjoy the view of the ocean from the private balcony, which is available in all of the rooms.

This resort’s, oceanfront location is a perfect relaxing family retreat as the hotel offers everything under the sun. Slide into the Splish Splash Lagoon, float along the indoor lazy river or lounge with your favorite summer time beverage at the oceanfront outdoor pool. The hotel’s activity center, Splash Kamp is the perfect place for your children to get imaginative. The arts and crafts, games and more will create unforgettable memories- they’ve thought of everything to give you the ultimate family vacation, including a movie theater.

With the needs of families and kids in mind, the Holiday Inn & Suites, North Beach provides free guest laundry facilities, room service, a relaxing hot tub, as well as a choice of three delicious restaurants. Enjoy the best of the beach, inspired by 50 years of family tradition, the Isle of Capri offers fine Italian dining and stunning views of the Atlantic. The Square Whale is the ideal spot to enjoy moderately-priced poolside specialties. Want a great start? The Greenery Café’s funky candy-colored atmosphere serves a buffet of breakfast delights.

Spring is in the air and Virginia Beach hotels are starting to offer some great Spring rates!

You’ll love the perfect boardwalk location of the Courtyard Virginia Beach Oceanfront/North.  All oceanfront rooms and only steps away from the boardwalk and many events and festivals.

Enjoy a private getaway and spend a day at the pool, with its cascading waters and swaying palms, work out in the fitness room, or step outside for a quite walk on the beach. After a full day, retreat to your oceanfront balcony and daydream while taking in the beautiful view of the ocean.

Special weekday rates of $89 per night and only $109 per night on weekends. Upgrade to a spacious suite with all the extra amenities for only$20 more.

Folow the link below to book

Book a room at Courtyard Virginia Beach Oceanfront/North 37th Street at the Spring Getaway rate

• Offer expires May 23, 2013
  • Rates are based on availability and cannot be combined with other discounts and promotions

 Just for a few minutes, today January 24th around 8:20 in the morning SNOW FLURRIES were spotted at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.

The Holiday Inn & Suites, North Beach is inviting you to celebrate with your loved one with a night at the oceanfront. Honeymoons, anniversaries, birthday or just a simple date night, our Romance by the Sea package will help you relax and appreciate the time you have together. Package includes Oceanfront accommodations, Champagne and Truffles upon arrival and breakfast in bed for two.

ID required for champagne.

Offer is based on availability. Package amenities are per stay, no refunds issued for any unused portion of package. Other restrictions may apply.

Click below to book now!

Romance by the Sea

3900 Atlantic Ave

Virginia Beach, VA

757|428|1711

Plan the perfect wedding at the Holiday Inn Oceanside.

Are you EARTH friendly? Looking for a great deal and a way to save the earth? The Holiday Inn & Suites, North Beach has a way for you to help conserve resources and contribute to a cleaner enviroment. If you waive the daily housekeeping services upon check-in you will receive breakfast for two daily during your stay.