Perfect Beach Day

Every day spent at the oceanfront is a perfect day, but for the optimal summertime experience, I'm recommending a sequence of events for a Saturday in Virginia Beach.

First, begin with a locally roasted coffee at one of Vibe District's many spots. Three Ships Coffee is a great cafe, serving up yummy biscuits and a Pungo Latte that quickly convinces you coffee was made for strawberry syrup.

Next up: Shop the Old Beach Markets. We're open from nine to noon, and you cannot help but enjoy the lively scene of happy market goers and vendors. Both the Farmers and Art Markets host local musicians. Moving from one market to the next is a cinch as Cypress Avenue is closed to traffic during that time.

Of course, you're going to hit the beach, but you may be discouraged by the crowds along the three miles of Virginia Beach's Boardwalk. While it is the most known area, you actually have many options for enjoying the sand and water! The best beaches are the ones that cater to your personal preferences, and Virginia Beach delivers.

When you're ready to escape the heat and refuel, you cannot go wrong with a visit to Taste Unlimited. Virginia Beach hosts multiple locations- one just a short walk from the oceanfront. Grab a salad or sandwich to go or dine in; it's super fast with the counter order feature. Try a flavored iced tea for the perfect refresher. An additional winning feature at this eatery: If you happen to have a cooler with you, shop the freezer for a meal to pop into the oven when you get home. This grants you the perfect excuse to linger a little longer because dinner is done!

Back at the Vibe District, you'll find some inspiring boutiques by local artisans whose products are making waves! I love to browse Jars of Dust and North End Bag Co. Many boutiques dot the Virginia Beach Oceanfront area, and if you drive Laskin Road from Atlantic Avenue toward the Virginia Beach Town Center, you may discover your favorites.

If you're not in the mood to shop, there's another option for a reprieve from the sun and heat. First Landing State Park remains the gem of the beach, in my opinion. Nestled in a maritime forest, you'll discover trails for biking, small beaches for swimming and sunning, a boat dock, and campsites. I have yet to camp in the dunes along the Chesapeake Bay, but I dream about it regularly.