Photo courtesy of Wavegarden + Atlantic Park
Virginia Beach is making waves this fall following the debut of Atlantic Park, a $350-million entertainment district driven in part by hometown icon Pharrell Williams. At its core is the first Wavegarden Cove in the United States, a surf lagoon capable of generating up to 1,000 waves per hour. Designed to deliver consistent conditions for all levels of surfers, it ensures Virginia Beach can offer an experience that’s as compelling in October as it is in July.
Atlantic Park is a public-private partnership among Williams, the City of Virginia Beach, and others. Beyond the surf lagoon, the development includes The Dome, a reimagined music venue, along with new dining and retail offerings. Together, these elements mark a major evolution of the city’s oceanfront and underscore its year-round tourism ambitions.
At the same time, fall brings the start of Lynnhaven oyster season, when cooler waters enhance the distinctive briny-sweet flavour that has made the oysters a regional signature. Local chefs highlight them in inventive ways, from Terrapin’s Pungo Strawberry Mignonette to dockside platters at Chick’s Oyster Bar or thoughtful wine pairings at Zoe’s Steak & Seafood. For a hands-on experience, visitors can join Pleasure House Oyster Farm tours and harvest oysters straight from the Lynnhaven River while learning how farming supports the local ecosystem.
Complementing the surf and seafood are whale-watching cruises running from December through March, offering front-row views of migrating humpback and fin whales along the Atlantic. Adding to the appeal is the popular Loonie Savers Pass. It unlocks exclusive discounts on accommodations, dining, and experiences across the city. Tailored for Canadian travellers it gives even more reason to plan a Virginia Beach getaway this fall and winter.
Photo courtesy of K. Rayfield
Nancy Helman, director of the Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau, says the season is the perfect time for Canadians to rediscover the destination.
“Canadians have always been an important part of our story in Virginia Beach,” she says. “We want them to feel assured they are genuinely welcome here. Now, with Atlantic Park open, oyster season in full swing, and a calendar of events to enjoy, there has never been a better moment to return and experience Virginia Beach as a year-round destination.”
With world-class surf, signature flavours, and cultural vibrancy, Virginia Beach is proving that its story extends well beyond summer. Get inspired at Visit Virginia Beach.
