The Ultimate Guide to Family Vacation Rentals in Virginia Beach for Summer 2025

Planning a family beach getaway in summer 2025? Look no further than sunny Virginia Beach – a classic seaside destination that’s perfect for all ages. Choosing one of the vacation rentals in Virginia Beach as your home base can turn a great trip into an unforgettable one. In this guide, we’ll explore why Virginia Beach is a top pick for families, highlight the best vacation rentals in Virginia Beach (including Sojourn’s upscale properties in Virginia Beach, including Sandbridge, and nearby Norfolk), and share tips and ideas to make the most of your summer escape. From Virginia Beach summer rentals with all the comforts of home to fun-filled activities like sandcastle building, water sports, boardwalk rides, and nature excursions, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!

Why Virginia Beach is the Perfect Family Summer Destination

Virginia Beach isn’t just another coastal city – it’s a family-friendly paradise with something for everyone. The city boasts 35 miles of sparkling coastline​ along the Atlantic, giving you plenty of sandy shoreline for beach play and relaxation. In fact, Virginia Beach is recognized as a summertime hotspot​, known for its warm weather, gentle ocean waves, and endless outdoor fun. Kids, teens, parents, and grandparents alike will find entertainment here, whether it’s splashing in the surf or exploring local parks.

One of Virginia Beach’s biggest draws is its iconic boardwalk, a bustling oceanfront promenade stretching three miles​ from 2nd Street to 40th Street. Taking an evening stroll or bike ride down the boardwalk is a must for any family. You’ll pass playgrounds, street performers, souvenir shops, and maybe even catch a live music show at an outdoor stage. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the 34-foot-tall King Neptune statue that stands guard at Neptune’s Park​ – an iconic landmark and a fun photo-op for the kids. Beyond the beach and boardwalk, Virginia Beach offers kid-friendly attractions like aquariums, waterparks, and nature trails, which we’ll detail later. The vibe in town is laid-back and welcoming, making families feel right at home.

For families seeking a balance of excitement and tranquility, nearby Ocean View in Norfolk offers a perfect complement to Virginia Beach. Just 30 minutes away, this Chesapeake Bay-facing community provides calmer waters ideal for young children and a more laid-back atmosphere when you need a break from the boardwalk's energy.

Spacious & Comfortable: Finding the Best Vacation Rentals in Virginia Beach for Families

When traveling with family, where you stay can make all the difference. Hotel rooms can feel cramped for larger families, and dining out for every meal gets pricey. That’s why vacation rentals in Virginia Beach are such a smart choice for family trips. You’ll have the space to spread out, plus conveniences like kitchens and living areas that let you maintain a home-away-from-home routine. Among these, Sojourn’s properties in Virginia Beach and Norfolk stand out as ideal options for families seeking comfort, convenience, and a touch of upscale living.

Sojourn Vacation Rentals offer a range of family-friendly homes – from cozy 2-bedroom apartments to spacious 4-bedroom beach houses – so whether you’re a family of four or a reunion of a dozen relatives, there’s a perfect fit. Each property is thoughtfully appointed with a full kitchen, so you can cook your picky toddler’s favorite meal or enjoy a family breakfast before heading out for the day. You’ll have multiple bedrooms and plenty of living space, meaning the kids can nap or watch a movie in one room while the adults unwind in another. Amenities like free Wi-Fi and smart TVs keep everyone entertained, and many homes include washers and dryers (a lifesaver for washing beach towels and swimsuits during a week-long stay). Sojourn prides itself on maintaining hotel-level comfort in a home setting – think plush bedding, fresh fluffy towels, and spotless cleanliness every time.

Location is key, and Sojourn’s Virginia Beach rentals put your family close to the action. Some homes are just steps from the beach or boardwalk, while others are nestled in quiet neighborhoods ideal for evening bike rides and walks. If Virginia Beach's oceanfront is booked up or you're looking for a different scene, Sojourn also offers excellent properties in Norfolk, particularly in the charming Ocean View neighborhood about a 20-30 minute drive from Virginia Beach. An Ocean View stay gives you access to the calm Chesapeake Bay beaches with gentle waves perfect for toddlers, the impressive Ocean View Fishing Pier, and local waterfront dining, while still being an easy drive from Virginia Beach's main attractions – it's the best of both worlds.

Why book with Sojourn? Not only do you get beautiful, well-equipped homes, but you also enjoy top-notch hospitality. Sojourn is committed to providing a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all guests, maintaining properties to the highest standards with attention to every detail​. Families can expect responsive customer service – a dedicated host is just a text or call away 24/7 if you need anything or want local recommendations. Plus, booking directly with Sojourn comes with perks: you can save up to 15% by skipping third-party booking fees​, and you’ll have the peace of mind of dealing directly with a trusted local business. Sojourn has earned a stellar reputation (guests consistently rate their stays 5 out of 5 stars​), so you can book with confidence knowing your family will be in good hands.

Some of the Amenities that families love in Sojourn rentals:

1. Fully equipped kitchens – great for fixing snacks, picnic lunches or special dinners.
2. Multiple bedrooms & living areas – everyone gets proper beds and space to relax (no squeezing onto sofa beds unless you want to).
3. Home comforts – free Wi-Fi, cable/streaming TV, air conditioning, and often extras like board games or beach gear.
4. Convenient check-in – most properties offer seamless self check-in with keypads, so arriving late with kids is no problem.
5. Parking and storage – easy parking (many have driveways or dedicated spots) and space to store strollers, beach carts, and bicycles.
6. Professional cleaning & sanitization – arrive to a sparkling clean home (huge relief for parents) with hotel-grade linens and starter supplies of toiletries, paper goods, and even coffee.

By choosing a Sojourn rental, your family can arrive and settle in comfortably and focus on making beach memories, not worrying about the small stuff.

Fun-Filled Family Activities in Virginia Beach

Once you’re settled into your homey vacation rental, it’s time to explore all the family fun Virginia Beach has to offer. Here are some highlights and family-friendly activities in Virginia Beach that will keep everyone entertained:

1. Sun, Sand & Surf for Everyone

Virginia Beach’s main attraction is, of course, the beach! The wide, sandy beaches have gentle waves that are great for kids to splash in, and in the summer months the water is warm enough for swimming and boogie boarding. Many areas of the beach have lifeguards on duty during peak season, so parents can feel at ease while the little ones play. Build towering sandcastles (the soft sand here is perfect for castle construction), fly kites in the ocean breeze, or collect seashells during morning walks.

For a more adventurous twist on your beach days, consider trying some water sports: older kids and teens might love paddleboarding or kayaking on the ocean or nearby bay​, and there are also jet ski rentals and parasailing operators along the oceanfront for a high-flying view of the coast. If you have tiny tots or seek calmer waters, head to the Chesapeake Bay beach side of Virginia Beach (or Ocean View in Norfolk) where the waves are smaller – perfect for toddlers to wade without worry. And for a break from saltwater, check out Ocean Breeze Waterpark (just 2 miles from the oceanfront boardwalk) – it’s a splashy paradise of pools and waterslides that kids will adore on a hot day.

2. Boardwalk Adventures & Amusements

The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is a 3-mile hub of family fun​. Take an evening stroll for some of the best people-watching around – you’ll see cyclists pedaling surrey bikes, families enjoying ice cream cones, and maybe even live street performers or musicians entertaining the crowds. Along the boardwalk are numerous vendors offering bike and surrey rentals​, so consider a family bike ride with an ocean view. Stop by Neptune’s Park (31st Street) to marvel at the King Neptune statue up close – this bronze giant is 34 feet tall and makes for an awesome backdrop for a family photo​.

Kids will also love JT’s Grommet Island Park, an oceanfront playground at 10th Street that’s accessible to all abilities​– it has swings, slides, and giant sea creature sculptures to play on, all overlooking the beach. When the sun starts to set, the boardwalk lights up with classic amusement rides and games at Atlantic Fun Park (near 15th Street): let the kids enjoy a Ferris wheel or carnival rides and win a prize at the arcade games. There’s also mini-golf courses and a mirror maze nearby for some kitschy family fun. As you wander, grab treats like funnel cake, saltwater taffy, or a famous freshly made boardwalk french fry. The energy here is contagious and will make your summer nights memorable.

The Virginia Beach boardwalk is perfect for strolls, bike rides, and soaking up the oceanfront atmosphere.

3. Nature, Animals & Educational Adventures

Need a break from the beach? Virginia Beach has plenty of other attractions to keep young minds engaged. A top pick is the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, which lets your family get up close with sea turtles, sharks, rays, and countless marine creatures. Spend a morning there to admire the aquatic animals and learn about marine conservation​– it’s both fun and educational (and a nice escape if you need a day in the shade or if a rain shower passes through). Right next door is the Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium, a treetop adventure course with ziplines and rope bridges that older kids and teens (and adventurous parents!) will find thrilling​. Imagine climbing through the trees with views of the marsh – it’s an unforgettable experience for those who love a challenge.

For outdoor lovers, explore First Landing State Park, a historic park where the first English colonists landed in 1607. The park offers easy hiking trails through maritime forests and dunes, so you can take a nature walk and maybe spot wildlife like foxes, birds, or turtles. It’s a peaceful change of pace and gives kids a chance to learn a bit of history and ecology. Another natural gem is Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge on the southern end of Virginia Beach – a great spot for biking or walking along protected dunes and wetlands; you might catch sight of wild horses or migratory birds. If you’re up for a short drive, the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk is only about 30 minutes away and makes for a fantastic day trip – lions, giraffes, reptiles, and more await animal-loving kiddos there.

And let’s not forget the simple joy of dolphin-spotting! In summer, various outfitters offer dolphin-watching boat tours along the coast. It’s so exciting for kids to see dolphins jumping in the wild – a definite bucket-list item for a Virginia Beach vacation. For the ultimate adventure, if your family happens to visit in early summer (May or June), you might even consider a half-day trip to nearby Busch Gardens Williamsburg (about 1 hour away) for theme park thrills, though there’s more than enough to do in Virginia Beach itself.

4. Kid-Friendly Dining & Treats

All that play will build up an appetite, and Virginia Beach’s dining scene does not disappoint. The good news for parents: most restaurants here are very welcoming to children – after all, this is a beach town used to vacationing families. Along the boardwalk and nearby streets, you’ll find everything from casual seafood shacks to pizza parlors and ice cream shops. Many spots have kids’ menus and laid-back atmospheres, so you don’t have to worry if the little ones are a bit sandy or restless.

For breakfast, you can’t go wrong with a pancake house – local favorites like Pocahontas Pancake House or Doc Taylor’s serve up fluffy pancakes and waffles that kids (and adults) love. Lunchtime might be perfect for a picnic on the beach – you can grab takeout sandwiches or chicken tenders from spots like Taste Unlimited or pick up some famous Boardwalk fries to munch by the ocean. When it comes to dinner, treat the family to a classic Virginia Beach experience: dine at an oceanfront restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood while the kids dig into fish and chips or burgers. Waterman’s Surfside Grille is known for its delicious seafood and smoothies (plus their signature Orange Crush cocktail for mom and dad), and it’s right on the ocean. Chix on the Beach and Rudee’s on the Inlet are two other popular choices that combine tasty fare with family-friendly vibes (Rudee’s even has patio seating in boat-shaped booths – a hit with kids!).

Don’t forget dessert: take an evening stroll for ice cream or frozen custard. There are numerous sweet shops where you can grab a waffle cone or try some saltwater taffy. A pro tip for parents – Bruster’s Ice Cream on Pacific Avenue even has free baby-size cones for toddlers! With so many options, even the pickiest eaters in your family will find something yummy, and dining out will be another enjoyable part of your vacation experience.

Discovering Ocean View: Virginia Beach's Tranquil Neighbor

While Virginia Beach offers excitement and energy, consider spending part of your vacation exploring Ocean View in Norfolk for a change of pace. This bayfront community flies a bit under the radar but offers several unique family-friendly activities:

- Bay Beach Days: Enjoy the wide, sandy beaches with warmer, calmer waters – perfect for younger children who might find Atlantic waves intimidating.

- Ocean View Fishing Pier: Stretch nearly 1,700 feet into the Chesapeake Bay on one of North America's longest fishing piers. Rent poles and try your luck, or simply stroll for stunning water views and spectacular sunsets.

- Waterfront Dining: Sample fresh Chesapeake Bay seafood at casual spots where kids can wiggle their toes in the sand. Local favorites include the pier's rooftop restaurant, Captain Groovy's, and Longboards East Beach.

- Beach Parks: Ocean View Beach Park, Community Beach Park, and Sarah Constant Beach Park offer playgrounds, picnic areas, and summer concerts – perfect for a relaxed family outing.

- Virginia Zoo: Located just a short drive from Ocean View, the zoo is home to over 700 animals and makes for a perfect half-day trip, especially on cloudy days.

Many families find splitting their vacation between Virginia Beach and Ocean View offers the perfect balance – energetic beach days and boardwalk fun, followed by peaceful bay sunsets and a slower pace.

Practical Travel Tips for Families Visiting Virginia Beach in Summer 2025

A little planning and preparation go a long way toward a smooth, stress-free family vacation. Here are some useful travel tips to help you make the most of your Virginia Beach summer trip:

Summer is the Best Time to Visit Virginia Beach

Summer is the peak season in Virginia Beach, which means lively energy and lots of events, but also bigger crowds. Generally, late June through August is when you’ll find the warmest ocean water (perfect for swimming) and the most happening atmosphere. If your schedule is flexible, consider coming in early summer (late May to mid-June) or towards the tail end (late August) to enjoy all the perks with slightly fewer people around and potentially lower rates​.

These shoulder summer periods still have long, sunny days and all attractions open, but you might have an easier time finding a spot on the sand. July is the busiest month – great for families who love a buzz of activity (think fireworks on Independence Day and nightly entertainment on the boardwalk), but be sure to book accommodations well in advance for July dates. Whenever you visit in summer, weekdays will typically be less crowded than weekends, so if you can plan a Sunday-to-Thursday stay, you might benefit from a calmer beach and restaurant scene. Keep an eye on the local event calendar too – Virginia Beach hosts fun summer events like sand soccer tournaments, music festivals, and the famous Neptune Festival in late summer. These can add extra fun (or a bit more crowd) depending on your preference.

What to Pack for a Family Beach Vacation

Packing for a family involves more than just swimsuits! Here’s a handy checklist of items to bring for your Virginia Beach summer vacation:

1. Beach Essentials: Swimsuits for everyone, beach towels, flip-flops or sandals, and a beach bag. Don’t forget sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), sun hats, and sunglasses for sun protection.
2. Beach Gear for Kids: Buckets and shovels for sandcastle building, inflatable floats or boogie boards for wave riding, and life jackets or water wings for younger kids or weaker swimmers. A UV beach tent or umbrella can be great for providing shade during midday sun.
3. Day Pack Items: Reusable water bottles (stay hydrated!), snacks, and a cooler if you plan to picnic. Baby wipes come in handy for quick clean-ups. Bring a basic first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any medications your family might need (e.g., motion sickness bands for boat rides, children’s Tylenol, etc.).
4. Clothing: Besides your beachwear, pack light, breathable clothing – shorts, t-shirts, sundresses – and a light jacket or hoodie for the occasional cool evening or indoor air-conditioning. If you plan on nicer dinners, include one or two casual dressy outfits. Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are a must for days at the aquarium, park, or boardwalk explorations.
5. Miscellaneous: Waterproof phone cases or pouches (to snap photos in the water), a camera or GoPro for capturing memories, and chargers for all your devices. If you have toddlers, don’t forget swim diapers and a stroller for walks. And maybe pack a favorite toy or bedtime book for the kids to help them feel at home in the rental house.
6. Household Conveniences: Check what your Sojourn rental provides, but often basics like dish soap, laundry detergent, and paper products are supplied. You might want to pack any specialty kitchen item you can’t live without (for example, a specific baby bottle brush or your coffee beans if you’re a coffee connoisseur – though Sojourn partners with Tayst Coffee, a sustainable coffee company www.tayst.com). The beauty of a rental is many of these things are on hand, so you don’t have to overpack.

One bonus tip: because Sojourn homes have washers and dryers, you can pack a bit lighter on clothes and just do a quick laundry load mid-trip – less luggage to lug around!

Making the Most of Your Stay

1. Book Early & Direct: Summer is popular, so secure your Virginia Beach summer rental early, especially if you have specific dates in mind. Booking directly with Sojourn can save you money and ensure you get your first-choice property. Mark your calendar to start looking a few months out (for summer 2025, many families start booking in winter or early spring 2025).
2. Plan (a Little) Each Day: There’s a lot to do, so it helps to outline a flexible itinerary. Maybe dedicate certain days to just beach time and boardwalk fun, and other days to off-beach outings like the aquarium or a state park. However, avoid over-scheduling – leave room for spontaneous fun or just relaxing. A good rule is one main activity per day (e.g., a morning at the aquarium) and free time in the afternoon for naps, pool, or unplanned exploration.
3. Beat the Crowds: For popular spots like the Virginia Aquarium or waterpark, try to arrive when they open to enjoy exhibits with fewer people around. Likewise, hitting the beach earlier in the day (before 11am) can help you snag a great spot and enjoy cooler temperatures. Late afternoon (after 3pm) is another sweet spot for beach time once the strongest sun has past, and the light is beautiful for photos.
4. Use Sojourn’s Local Tips: Your Sojourn host is a great resource – don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations on the best family restaurants, where to rent a kayak, or which local events might be happening during your stay. Often, vacation rental hosts know hidden gems like a quieter beach access or a favorite local ice cream parlor that might not be in the guidebooks.
5. Stay Safe & Comfortable: Always keep water and snacks handy (kids can get hungry fast after swimming). Take regular shade breaks to reapply sunscreen and prevent anyone from overheating – maybe combine a beach morning with an indoor afternoon activity to balance sun exposure. In the ocean, observe posted signs and listen to lifeguards regarding surf conditions. If you have little ones, designate a meeting point on the beach or boardwalk in case someone wanders off in the crowd.
6. Enjoy Evenings In: While there’s lots of nightlife in Virginia Beach, some of the best family memories might be made right at your rental home. Take advantage of that full kitchen and grill – perhaps cook up fresh local seafood from a market and have a fun family dinner together. Many Sojourn properties have patios or decks; you can relax outside, maybe stargaze or listen to the ocean if you’re close by. Bring a deck of cards or a board game (or check if the house has some) for a game night. Vacation is all about spending quality time, and those quieter evenings can be just as special as going out.
7. Consider a Bay Day: Even if you're staying in Virginia Beach, dedicate a day to exploring Ocean View in Norfolk. The 30-minute drive offers a refreshing change of scenery, and the calmer bay waters can be a welcome break from the Atlantic waves. It's also a smart strategy to visit Ocean View on weekends when Virginia Beach is at its busiest, or vice versa.

Create Unforgettable Family Memories with Sojourn in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach in summer 2025 is calling your family’s name – with sunny skies, sandy toes, and smiles all around. By choosing a Sojourn vacation rental, you’re setting your family up for an unforgettable experience that combines the best of both worlds: the comfort and convenience of a home and the excitement of a beach vacation. After a day of building sandcastles, riding roller coasters on the boardwalk, or discovering sea creatures at the aquarium, you’ll love coming “home” to your Sojourn property to relax in comfort. The kids can recount their favorite parts of the day over a homemade dinner in the dining room, and you can kick back on a comfy couch knowing that tomorrow holds even more adventures.

Virginia Beach and neighboring Ocean View in Norfolk offer complementary coastal experiences, and Sojourn's properties in both areas provide ideal home bases for your family: close to attractions, plenty of space for everyone, and amenities that make travel with kids so much easier. Plus, the little luxuries – crisp linens, stylish décor, and attentive service – add a slightly upscale touch that will make your vacation feel extra special without losing the laid-back, approachable vibe that families need. It’s this blend of warmth and quality that aligns with Sojourn’s mission of “Experience comfort and care, where every stay becomes a memory.”

Ready to start planning? Summer 2025 will be here before you know it. Lock in your dates, pack your bags, and prepare for days of sandcastle building, dolphin watching, and seafood feasting. By booking your stay with Sojourn, you can look forward to a hassle-free vacation full of laughter, joy, and precious family moments. Don’t wait – those Virginia Beach sunsets and ocean breezes are waiting for you. Here’s to an amazing family vacation in Virginia Beach with Sojourn – see you on the sand!

The iconic King Neptune statue on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk – a symbol of the fun and wonder awaiting your family in summer 2025.