STEPPINOUTVABEACH

Think Outside the Beach

admin — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0000

Whether you’re visiting from a place where you had to set your ADT Palm Beach before leaving home or you’re flying in from the rainy shores of Seattle, there’s something for everyone in Virginia Beach! If you’re looking for things to do, we’ve got you covered:
Rent a Bike: There are numerous rental shops along the boardwalk and you can ride around the area, too! With miles of trails and tons of safe places to let the kids roam biking is one of the favorite pasttimes at the beach.
Surf and Sand: Happened on one of those rare rainy days at the beach? Surf and Sand is the area’s newest remodeled movie theater and you can buy dinner and drinks with your movie to boot! It’s a novel concept and locals are loving it.
Downtown VA Beach: Most tourists never venture outside the sands but if you go a few miles inland you’ll come to the gleaming new downtown Virginia Beach. With restaurants, shops and tons of nightlife this is an area you won’t want to miss while you’re here.

Five Star Accomodations Near Virginia Beach

admin — Sat, 30 Apr 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Whether you are planning a vacation or a complete relocation, Virginia Beach is the right place for you and your family. There is so much to see and do that you will never hear anyone say that they are bored. You and your family can take a trip to the aquarium that not only entertains your sences, but also gives an educational experience that you will never forget. If you are more into the active type of entertainment styles, then slip on over to the water park. Here you will find 16 rip roaring water slides that are sure to make any heart beat faster. If how ever you are more into the more laid back recreation, you will find the many miles of white sandy beachs to be the best you have ever seen. The greatest thing is that most of the attractions are year round. So if you just want a vacation or a permenant home, Virginia Beach is the perfect place for you and your family. Pack your bags or pack the moving van, come make Virginia Beach the topic of family memories to come. And don’t forget to bring the camera, pictures are worth 1000 words.

Relocating Your Family to Virginia Beach

admin — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 00:00:00 +0000

If you love beaches, then Virginia Beach is for you. Virginia Beach, Virginia has the reputation of being the most populated city in Hampton Roads with a population of 437,994. The beautiful city sits right at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay on the Virginian Coast of the Atlantic and is the easternmost city of the Hampton Roads region. The resort city of Virginia Beach consists of sandy beaches and hundreds of hotels and motels along the beach.

The city has a total area of 497.3 square miles and is located in the far southeastern corner of Virginia. Virginia Beach living is more like suburb living than city living. Virginia Beach has a very humid and subtropical climate with a mean average temperature of 59.6 F degrees. Virginia Beach experiences mild winters with an average snowfall of 8.1 inches and an average rainfall of 45 inches.

The area of Virginia Beach has a rich history. The first English Colonists landed close by at Cape Henry and then settled in Jamestown. The city is home to three military bases which includes the largest naval base in the country, Naval Station Norfolk. Each year the local surfing community comes to celebrate the East Coast Surfing Championships. Finally a celebrated historic Civil War Naval battle occurred off the coast, the battle of the Monitor and Merrimac.

Finding Sun and Fun in Virginia Beach

admin — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:00:00 +0000

According to The Guiness Book of World Records, Virginia Beach, Virginia boasts the world’s longest recreational beach but if you’re looking for something to do besides dipping your feet into the Atlantic Ocean, there are lots of other things to do and see.

One of the most fantastic things to experience is a view of the unique Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel from a double decker Adventure Cruise ship. This bridge is a combination bridge and tunnel. As you drive across this span between the western shore and the eastern shore of Virginia, just when you see a huge ship headed straight for your vehicle, you go down into a tunnel potion under the water quickly to return to a bridge portion once the ship channel has been bypassed. Watching this unique experience from a distance affords a whole new understanding of this very unique highway. The Adventure Cruise also offers close up views of sea creatures including whales.

Another experience not to be missed is a self-guided tour of Legends Walk. Located on one of the streets intersecting the boardwalk, this walkway honors famous Virginians from Edgar Allen Poe and country singer Patsy Cline to Pocahontas and Captain John Smith.

Hit the Streets: The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon

www.steppinoutvabeach.com — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0000

If you’ve been looking for a reason to get to Virginia Beach before the summer weather bears down from above you might want to hit the streets for the 2011 Yuengling Shamrock Marathon (or the less demanding Anthem Marathon, Townebank 8K, or Operation Smile Final Mile) which starts on Atlantic Avenue in Virginia Beach and ends on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk.Highlights of the race include:

Over 24,000 participants with all 50 states being represented
Start times of 7am and 8am
Free concerts and everyone gets a medal
Scenic oceanfront course with an average temperature of 57 degrees
Since Yuengling is one of the sponsors, you know there’s going to be plenty of it!

Additionally, should you have your hopes and sights set on the Boston Marathon, the Shamrock serves as a qualifying race for the 2012 Boston event. Also, Runner’s World ranked the Shamrock Marathon as the “cream of the crop, the race to run” so you know it’s one of the best organized events available.Also, for those who truly want to turn a good day into a good deed, you can bring a non-perishable food item to the Sports and Fitness Expo to help fight hunger in Southeastern Virginia.Check out the Shamrock Marathon website for information on registration.

Visiting Jamestown

www.steppinoutvabeach.com — Sun, 26 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0000

If you’re visiting Virginia Beach you definitely need to plan time to visit nearby historic Jamestown situated on the banks of the James River. The site was home to the first permanent English settlement in North America and it is where Captain John Smith and Pocahontas walked. In the two hundred years following the arrival of the English, the island landscape evolved from a seat of government to large plantations owned by the Ambler and Travis families. From the island’s rim, Confederate forts guarded the river channel during the Civil War. Today, the Island Drive affords views of the island, James River, the marshlands, and regenerating forest. Jamestown can be explored in any number of ways. The three/five mile island loop drive of the island can be walked, ran, or biked and nature lovers will enjoy the wide assortment of species to be found like the bald eagle, raccoon, opossum, red tail fox, and mink (many of whom had ancestors who no doubt provided pelts for warmth to the early settlers). The park’s guided tours focus on America’s beginnings and visitors can learn many little known facts about America’s heritage ranging from times of starvation and cannibalism to times of industry and prosperity. It is suggested that visitors allow two hours (at a minimum) when visiting the park since it’s a natural respite with its many shade trees and benches along some of the pathways. A trip to the Colonial National Historical Park includes Historic Jamestown and Yorktown Battlefield.

Parks

www.steppinoutvabeach.com — Sun, 14 Nov 2010 14:28:14 +0000

Sure, the beach is a lot of fun. But sometimes it’s nice to run your toes in some grass instead of sand, and if you’ve got the urge to do just that, check out the following list of some nearby parks.Bayville Farms Park located at 4132 First Court Road is a 68-acre park established in 1978 through the cooperative efforts of the City of Virginia Beach, the National Park Service, and Virginia’s Department of Conservation and Recreation. Of special interest is the 20-hole disc golf course, the first such course in Virginia Beach. Also of interest is the park’s fishing pond, horseshoe pits, shuffleboard courts, and walking trail.Great Neck Park was established in 1990 and is a 70-acre district park located along the banks of the Lynnhaven Bay at 2513 Shorehaven Drive. The gazebo and Lynnhaven Bay overlook are popular sites for weddings. You may also enjoy exploring the pathways through the wooded areas of the park as well as the volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, family picnic tables and the five large group shelters.Red Wing Park is a 97-acre park that was developed in 1966 by the City as a family, general use park and is located at 1398 General Booth Blvd. The property was acquired by the County in 1879 and was formerly known as the “Old City Poor Farm.” Red Wing Park is home to many gardens, including the Reba S. McClananFragrance Garden,established through the joint efforts of Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation and the Council of Garden Clubs of Virginia Beach, and the Miyazaki Japanese Garden. Also of interest is the park’s dog park, one of city’s two such canine parks (the other being located at Woodstock Community Park located at 5709 Providence Road).Mt. Trashmore Park encompasses 165 acres and is comprised of two man-made mountains, two lakes, two playgrounds, a skate park and vert ramp, and multi-use paths. The main mountain, Mount Trashmore, now 60 feet in height and 800 feet long, was created by compacting layers of solid waste and clean soil. Recognized for its environmental feat, this former land fill features a water-wise garden that boasts xeriscaping, where you can enjoy a beautiful garden that requires minimal water. Located at 310 Edwin Drive.False Cape State Park is a mile-wide barrier spit between Back Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Access is limited to hiking, bicycling, or boating, and while it may not be “traditional” grass like park setting, the 4300 acres provides 15.3 miles of trails and extensive environmental education opportunities in one of the last undisturbed coastal environments on the East Coast. From Interstate 64, exit on to Indian River Road East. Go 13 miles, then turn left onto Newbridge Road, then right onto Sandbridge Road. Next, turn right onto Sandpiper Road to Little Island City Park. Parking fees required Memorial Day to Labor Day. Day use only parking also is available at Back Bay Wildlife Refuge. This is about a 40 minute drive from Virginia Beach’s oceanfront to the Little Island city parking lot.

Seafood Restaurants

www.steppinoutvabeach.com — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 14:26:25 +0000

You’re at the beach and your mouth is probably watering for some delicious seafood, right? If so, here’s a selection for you to consider:The 22^nd Street Raw Bar & Grille offers a full menu including fresh local seafood, pasta, and steaks. Known for their blackened tuna sandwich and pound burger, the restaurant also has a full selection of beer, wine, and liquor. Located at 101 22^nd Street .Awful Arthur’s Oyster Bar has been in Virginia Beach for over 24 years. This family owned business strives to bring customers the best in atmosphere and great food, all at a reasonable price. Choose from favorites like Blackened Tuna Bites or Oysters “Awfuller” as appetizers and Fried Oysters or a Scallop Platter for entre options. And if salad is on your list, try the Awful’s Wedge Salad which his sure to delight. And yes, there is a full raw bar to choose from, too! Located at 1630 General Booth Blvd.Catch 31 Fish House and Bar is an exciting, multi-venue seafood dining experience and offers an extensive menu of fresh seafood and a variety of seating options. Interior dining sections and the raw bar feature views of the display kitchen’s hardwood grill. Outdoor terraces with firepits for cool weather overlook the Boardwalk and Neptune’s Park. The unique bar extends through a glass wall and offers seating inside the restaurant as well as outside facing Neptune’s Park. Located at 3001 Atlantic Avenue.Croc’s 19^th Street Bistro offers a unique, one of a kind Green restaurant experience as an eco-bistrowith an award winning wine list, alfresco dining, private seasonal patio for events, Lil’ Croc’s menu for kids and when the sun goes down a lively gathering place for dancing, live local musicians and a DJ Thursday-Saturday. Coastal casual cuisine and Lebanese fare are a highlight with sustainable, organic, local, and seasonal ingredients including Green drinks with organic coffee, wine, beer, vodka and gin. Our seafood is selected from the Monterrey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch List. Located at 620 19^th Street.Ocean Eddie’s Seafood Restaurant offers great seafood, sandwiches, dinners, and tropical drinks as well as one of the best views in Virginia Beach. No other restaurant in the city can lay the claim of a view while sitting over the Atlantic Ocean. They have a full raw bar, offer up appetizers such as hot crab dip and calamari, and seafood dinners that include Cajun flavors and stuffed flounder. Located at 1506 Atlantic Avenue.And if you’re looking for chain restaurants you can chose from the likes of Bonefish Grill or McCormick and Schmick’s to name a few. So whatever you have a hankering for, Virginia Beach has it covered!

Cavalier

www.steppinoutvabeach.com — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 14:24:12 +0000

If you want to experience some history in Virginia Beach during your next visit, then head on over to the Boardwalk for some fun-in-the-sun and also enjoy some memories from the past when you visit the Cavalier Hotel.The Cavalier was opened on Memorial Day in 1929 and has been used by seven US Presidents including Calvin Coolidge, Herbert Hoover, Harry Truman, Dwight Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson, and Richard Nixon as well as being a popular venue for big band greats such as Tommy Dorsey, Frank Sinatra, Glen Miller and Bing Crosby to name just a few.Also opened on the same date was the Cavalier Golf and Yacht Club, and in May of that same year the Cavalier hosted its first annual horse show. Quite a well-rounded venue, wouldn’t you agree?Other guests of note include F. Scott Fitzgerald, Judy Garland, Will Rogers, Better Davis, Jean Harlow, Mary Pickford, and Betty Grable.On October 3, 1942 the Cavalier was used to house the U.S. Navy as they operated a Radar Training School on the hotel’s grounds. The stables (previously mentioned in conjunction with the hotel’s horse shows) were needed to house additional sailors and were converted to living quarters. During the WWII blackout the swimming pool water was drained and it was used as a classroom!In 1973 the Cavalier Oceanfront was opened and it was then decided that the original Cavalier (renamed Cavalier on the Hill) would be closed (which it was until it was reopened in 1976 due in part to popular demand).And so it is today that there are two Cavaliers: the original Cavalier on the Hill and the Cavalier Oceanfront, with a combined total occupancy of 400 rooms.The Cavalier on the Hill has an indoor pool, two clay tennis courts, a library, and a croquet lawn. The Cavalier Oceanfront has an outdoor pool that is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, half-court basketball, beach volleyball, and beach rentals.Dining options abound with options such as the Hunt Room Grill and the Dolphin Lounge as well as a Kid’s Caf.While staying at either of the Cavaliers guests are mere minutes from the Virginia Aquarium, the Contemporary Art Center of Virginia, and many other fun attractions that are sure to delight.So when you’re next visiting Virginia Beach, why not consider a stay at the historic Cavalier? If you can’t stay, maybe just drop by for a drink or a meal at one of the restaurants so you can get up-close-and-personal to some incredible history.