Virginia Beach, Virginia: 10 Short Day Trips You'll Love
10 Easy Road Trips from Virginia Beach, Virginia for a Fun Day Away
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| Trade the beach crowds for wild horses, lighthouse views, waterfront history, and peaceful harbor strolls on these easy Virginia Beach day trips. |
Need a quick escape from Virginia Beach, Virginia? You’re in a great spot for it. When the beach crowds feel a little too busy or you just want to switch things up, there are plenty of short road trips and day trips near Virginia Beach that can turn a regular day into something memorable.
One of the best things about this area is how fast the scenery changes. In under a couple of hours, you can go from oceanfront energy to quiet small towns, wild horses, boardwalk views, history sites, and waterfront parks. It’s like flipping channels until you find the perfect mood for the day.
Below, I’ve rounded up 10 out-of-county day trips from Virginia Beach using nearby destinations in Currituck County, NC, Northampton County, VA, Chesapeake, Hampton, and Norfolk. These picks are great for couples, families, solo travelers, or anyone craving a simple nearby getaway.
1. See the Wild Horses in Corolla, Currituck County, NC
If you’ve never seen the famous Corolla wild horses, this is the kind of day trip that sticks with you. Corolla is about 35 to 40 miles from Virginia Beach, depending on your starting point, and the drive feels like a true coastal escape.
The big draw here is a wild horse tour along the northern Outer Banks beaches. Watching these horses move through the sand dunes feels a little unreal, like stepping into a postcard. I remember the first time I saw photos of them and thought, “No way that’s this close.” It really is.
Why go:
- One of the most unique day trips from Virginia Beach, VA
- Beautiful beach scenery and dunes
- Great for families and photographers
Tip: Book a guided tour if you want the best chance of spotting the horses without stress.
2. Visit the Currituck Beach Lighthouse in Corolla, Currituck County, NC
While you’re heading into Currituck County, another classic stop is the Currituck Beach Lighthouse. This red brick lighthouse is one of the most iconic sights near the Virginia-North Carolina line, and it makes a simple but rewarding road trip.
If the tower is open for climbing, the view from the top is worth the steps. On a clear day, you get sweeping views of the coast, the sound, and the surrounding village. Sometimes a good trip doesn’t need a giant itinerary. It just needs fresh air and a great view.
Best for:
- Couples looking for an easy nearby getaway
- History lovers
- Travelers who want a scenic half-day or full-day outing
3. Walk the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail in Chesapeake, Virginia
Want something quieter? Head to Chesapeake, VA for the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail. This flat, peaceful trail is great for walking, biking, or just slowing down for a bit.
The name may sound dramatic, but the area is actually calm and beautiful. Think trees, water, birds, and long stretches where it feels like the world has finally turned down the volume. If your ideal road trip from Virginia Beach includes more nature and less noise, this is a smart pick.
What makes it special:
- Easy outdoor activity close to Virginia Beach
- Good for biking and casual walks
- A relaxing break from beach traffic and crowds
4. Explore the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge in Chesapeake, Virginia
For another Chesapeake adventure, check out the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. This spot feels wild in the best way. There are trails, waterways, and lots of chances to see birds and other wildlife.
It’s a nice choice if you want a weekend trip feel without actually going far. Bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and give yourself time to enjoy it. Nature here unfolds slowly, not all at once, which is part of the charm.
Good to know:
- Ideal for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature fans
- One of the top outdoor things to do near Virginia Beach
- Works well for a low-cost day trip
5. Spend the Day at Buckroe Beach in Hampton, Virginia
If you love the water but want a change from Virginia Beach itself, Buckroe Beach in Hampton makes an easy switch. It has a laid-back local feel, a fishing pier, and wide-open views of the Chesapeake Bay.
Sometimes the best day trips are not about doing a lot. They’re about doing less somewhere new. Pack snacks, bring a chair, and enjoy a beach day with a different vibe.
Why travelers like it:
- Simple and family-friendly
- Nice spot for a casual picnic
- Easy coastal day trip near Virginia Beach, Virginia
6. Tour Fort Monroe National Monument in Hampton, Virginia
History lovers should put Fort Monroe National Monument high on the list. This large historic fort sits right by the water in Hampton and brings together military history, walking paths, and great views.
There’s something interesting around almost every corner here. You can explore old stone walls, learn about the site’s role in American history, and still have time to relax by the shoreline. It’s the kind of place that makes a day trip feel fuller than expected.
Highlights include:
- Historic architecture and exhibits
- Waterfront scenery
- A mix of learning and leisure in one stop
7. Step Back in Time at Historic Jamestowne on Jamestown Island, Northampton County, Virginia
For a history-focused adventure, Historic Jamestowne is a memorable pick. It takes more driving and includes crossing over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel route area to the Eastern Shore side before continuing, but it still fits a longer day trip from Virginia Beach if you start early.
This is where you can explore the original site of the first permanent English settlement in America. There’s archaeology, exhibits, and a real sense of place. If you’ve ever wondered what early America looked like beyond the textbook pages, this is a fascinating stop.
Best for:
- American history fans
- Older kids and curious teens
- Travelers wanting a meaningful road trip
8. Enjoy the Waterfront at Town Point Park in Norfolk, Virginia
Norfolk, VA is one of the easiest and most popular short trips from Virginia Beach, and Town Point Park is a great place to start. Set right on the Elizabeth River, this downtown park gives you space to stroll, sit by the water, and enjoy city views without feeling rushed.
It’s especially nice when the weather is mild. Grab coffee, walk the waterfront, and let the day unfold from there. Sometimes I think places like this are perfect because they don’t force the fun. They just make room for it.
Why it works:
- Waterfront views and downtown energy
- Good for couples and casual outings
- Easy to pair with lunch or other Norfolk stops
9. Visit Nauticus in Norfolk, Virginia
If you’re traveling with kids or just like hands-on museums, Nauticus is a strong choice. This maritime discovery center in Norfolk focuses on the region’s deep connection to the sea.
It’s educational, but in a way that still feels fun. Exhibits cover ships, science, and naval history, making it one of the best indoor-friendly things to do near Virginia Beach when the weather shifts.
Perfect for:
- Families looking for a flexible day trip
- Rainy or hot weather plans
- Anyone curious about coastal and naval history
10. Explore the Norfolk Botanical Garden in Norfolk, Virginia
Need a peaceful reset? Head to the Norfolk Botanical Garden. This is one of those places that instantly slows your pace. With winding paths, seasonal flowers, and quiet corners, it’s an easy favorite for a calm nearby getaway from Virginia Beach.
In spring and summer, it’s especially beautiful, but every season has something to offer. If your week has felt nonstop, this spot is like hitting a reset button without having to drive all day.
Don’t miss:
- Garden walking paths
- Colorful seasonal blooms
- A relaxing atmosphere perfect for couples or solo travelers
Quick Tips for Planning Day Trips from Virginia Beach, Virginia
Before you hit the road, here are a few simple tips to make your trip easier:
- Start early if you’re heading toward popular beach or history spots.
- Check hours ahead of time, especially for museums, tours, and seasonal attractions.
- Pack layers since coastal weather can change fast.
- Bring cash or a card for parking just in case.
- Keep snacks and water in the car for a smoother ride.
A little planning goes a long way, especially on a quick weekend trip or spontaneous day out.
Final Thoughts on the Best Road Trips from Virginia Beach
From wild horses in Currituck County to gardens in Norfolk and waterfront history in Hampton, there are so many fun day trips from Virginia Beach, Virginia that don’t require a huge time commitment. Whether you want nature, beach views, history, or something family-friendly, there’s a road trip here that can fit your mood.
Which one would you try first? If you’ve already taken a favorite road trip near Virginia Beach, share it in the comments. And if this list helped you plan your next adventure, send it to a friend or post it on social media so they can join in too.
Happy travels and enjoy the ride.
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