How to get to Virginia Beach

When planning a trip to Virginia Beach, you are choosing a journey to a lively resort city on the Atlantic coast of the USA, famous for its iconic boardwalk and wide sandy beaches. You can reach this popular holiday destination in various ways: by flying into neighbouring cities, taking an intercity bus, or embarking on a road trip along the state's picturesque roads.

Although the city of Virginia Beach itself does not have its own commercial airport, the region is well-connected to the air hubs of neighbouring cities. The most convenient option for the majority of travellers is flying into Norfolk, located just 27 km from the resort.

Alternative arrival points include the airports of Hampton (38 km) and Newport News (51 km), which handle domestic flights. You can reach the coast quite quickly from all these hubs, as the region's transport infrastructure is well developed.

There is no direct rail service to the resort, as Virginia Beach does not have a passenger railway station. Tourists preferring trains should look for tickets to the nearest major transport hubs in the region.

The closest stations to the destination are in the cities of Norfolk and Hampton. You can also travel to the station in Newport News, from where you will need to continue your journey by taxi or rental car.

Bus services connect the resort with many cities in the region, offering a budget-friendly way to travel. The shortest and fastest route runs from Norfolk: the bus covers the distance of 37 km in approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

A trip from Hampton will take about 2.5 hours (63 km), while the journey from Newport News lasts around 3.5 hours, covering a distance of 92 km. This is a convenient option for those who wish to enjoy the views of Virginia without the need to drive.

Travelling by car is one of the fastest ways to reach the beach, especially if you are driving from neighbouring settlements. The drive from Norfolk takes only about 25 minutes, as the distance is less than 30 km.

From Hampton, you can arrive in roughly 35–40 minutes (about 50 km), while the route from Newport News (64 km) will require just under an hour. For those who do not plan to rent a car, taxi and ridesharing services are available, making the trip comfortable and hassle-free.

To ensure your holiday on the Atlantic coast goes perfectly, it is worth considering a few important nuances regarding local culture and logistics in advance. Here is a list of practical recommendations to help you feel confident during your journey.

1. Clothing and Essentials. In summer, swimwear, sunglasses, and light clothing made from natural fabrics are essential. However, even in the warm season, evenings by the ocean can be cool, so bring a windbreaker or a hoodie.
2. Transport. Virginia Beach is quite a spread-out city, so renting a car is recommended for maximum freedom of movement. Public transport exists, but it may not cover all the areas you wish to visit.
3. Finances. The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, but keeping some cash for small expenses and tips (which are customary here and range from 15–20%) is useful.
4. Health and Safety. Healthcare in the USA is very expensive, so having travel insurance is critically important. Do not forget to use high SPF sunscreen, as the sun near the water is very strong.
5. Communication. The main language of communication is English. Staff in tourist zones are welcoming, and basic knowledge of the language will be sufficient to resolve most queries.
6. Local Etiquette. Americans value personal space and politeness. It is customary to greet staff in shops and smile when making eye contact. Respect the queue — this is a strict social rule.
7. What to Avoid. Do not consume alcohol in public places (beaches, streets) outside of specifically designated zones in bars and restaurants — this may lead to a fine. Also, avoid swimming when a red flag is displayed on the beach.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on your holiday, enjoying the atmosphere of the American coast.