If you like classic beach destinations, long boardwalks, and a small-town atmosphere that comes with big city perks, Virginia Beach is hard to beat. If you like fresh seafood, it might be impossible to top.
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Though not quite as popular as the famed Myrtle Beach and not as flashy as spots like Hilton Head, Virginia Beach is a summer hotspot with its own unique charm. It’s got natural beauty on the coast and just slightly inland at places like Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, with dozens of hiking trails. There’s also a burgeoning culinary scene, tons of family-friendly activities, and even surf-friendly waves.
Best of all, Virginia Beach is just a stone’s throw from cities like Washington DC. In less than four hours, you can drive from the nation’s capital to one of its favorite summer getaways.
Here’s where to stay if you want to book an Airbnb in Virginia Beach that’s close to the water.
Airbnbs in Virginia Beach close to the beach
Studio Condo Right on the Beach
- Bedrooms: Studio (sleeps two)
- Distance to beach: On the beach
- Great for: Couples who want beach days and boardwalk jaunts. This quaint studio is located in a small oceanfront complex that gives you direct access to the Atlantic Ocean. The unit also includes access to a shared pool, BBQ area, and beach lawn.
‘Sea-clusion’ Oasis
- Bedrooms: Two (sleeps four)
- Distance to beach: 3.5 blocks
- Great for: Families and groups that want a little seclusion. Like the name suggests, this unit is a bit removed from the Virginia Beach hustle—but is still just blocks from the beach and boardwalk. This unit has a private entrance to a renovated upstairs; the hosts live downstairs. You’ll feel at-home in this little green garden oasis.
Condo with Shared Pool
- Bedrooms: Two (sleeps five with a sleeper couch)
- Distance to beach: Two blocks
- Great for: Families who want to save. This affordable condo includes access to a shared community pool and has a private washing area (in-unit). The second bedroom has bunk beds for the kids, while the sofa converts into a bed for a fifth guest.
Wave Break Hideaway
- Bedrooms: Two (sleeps six)
- Distance to beach: 3.5 blocks
- Great for: Families and groups that want their own townhouse. This rental has everything you need, from a full kitchen to a private balcony where you can watch sunsets. It’s also great for anyone who wants to stay close to the action, as its just a few blocks from the boardwalk.
Beachfront Condo with Great Views
- Bedrooms: Two (sleeps six)
- Distance to beach: Beachfront
- Great for: Families and groups that want to soak up views of the Atlantic Ocean. This new rental is newly renovated with floor-to-ceiling windows that capture the essence of Virginia Beach: its sprawling beaches. The condo also includes access to a shared outdoor pool.
Condo in the Heart of the Vibe District
- Bedrooms: Two (sleeps six)
- Distance to beach: 3 blocks
- Great for: Families and groups that want to stay entertained. You have the beach and boardwalk just a short walk away. But the real perk is that this rental has space to hang out comfortably with up to six guests—plus, games available to keep the fun going. The mattresses are all memory foam, too. There’s also plenty for little ones, including a playpen and high chair.
Minimalist Beach Haven
- Bedrooms: Two (sleeps four)
- Distance to beach: 1.5 blocks
- Great for: Gen Z and millennials who like a minimalist setup. This is a modern beach haven—that doesn’t come with the traditional beach cottage vibe. If you prefer the clean aesthetic, book this condo.
Cozy Cottage Standalone Home
- Bedrooms: Two (sleeps four)
- Distance to beach: 2 blocks
- Great for: Those who like a sophisticated beach cottage. This gorgeous unit, which dates back to the 1940s, has a fresh design that lets you feel truly at home while you take on Virginia Beach.
Historic 1910 Home
- Bedrooms: Three (sleeps six)
- Distance to beach: Beachfront
- Great for: Those who love a classic beach vacation, similar to the unit above. This is a 1910 historic home that has been fully restored with modern décor and amenities. The shared areas are all large and designed to comfortably host up to six guests, making this ideal for families and groups.
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