5 ways to enjoy a date day along Virginia’s coast

Photo by Jeremy Bishop/Unsplash

By Amie Knowles

May 16, 2024

“Summer lovin’, had me a blast/ Summer lovin’, happened so fast!” If you’re singing along to summertime tunes already, it’s time to start planning a trip for you and your sweetheart. Thankfully, Virginia is for Lovers—and we’ve got five of the best ideas to romance your partner along the commonwealth’s coastline.

Sunset cruise

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There are few things more romantic that setting sail as the sun sets—and that’s a popular option at Rudee Tours in Virginia Beach. The sunset cruise offers a 90-minute trip to sea, complete with onboard snacks, adult beverages, and both upper and lower sightseeing levels.

Be sure to call ahead for availability, or book your cruise online.

Oceanfront dining

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If you and your date are fresh seafood fans, you’ve got to stop by The Deadrise. Offering bites to eat by the ocean, guests can enjoy everything from seaside oysters to savory shrimp to delicate slices of cheesecake.

The Hampton restaurant doesn’t take reservations, so be sure to get there early to snag a good seat.

Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center

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Ever wondered what’s below the surface of the the Atlantic Ocean? A trip to the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center in Virginia Beach answers that question—and more! Home to over 800,000 gallons of fresh and saltwater displays, the facility houses thousands of animals, numerous hands-on exhibits, and experiences visitors won’t soon forget.

See the wild horses

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Remember Misty of Chincoteague? The novel by Marguerite Henry follows the story of a horse who participated in the area’s famous Pony Penning (also called the Pony Swim), which happens annually in July. If you’re hoping to get a glimpse of the wild coastal herd, your best bet for the majority of the year will be a visit to Assateague Island, where the horses reside prior to the swim.

Search for seashells

Photo by Mathias Reding/Unsplash

Does the apple of your eye enjoy long walks on the beach? If so, enhance the experience by surprising your date with a search for seashells by the seashore.

Sandbridge Beach is one of the premier locations for shelling in the Virginia Beach area, according to Sandbridge Vacation Rentals. The company suggests scouring the shoreline at low tide for the best chance at finding a variety of quality shells.

Amie Knowles

Amie Knowles is Dogwood's newsletter editor. She has been in journalism for several years, winning multiple awards from the Virginia Press Association for news and feature content. A lifelong Virginia resident, her work has appeared in the Martinsville Bulletin, Danville Register & Bee, and NWNC Magazine.

Have a story tip? Reach Amie at [email protected]. For local reporting in Virginia that connects the dots, from policy to people, sign up for Amie’s newsletter.

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