Virginia is one of the most diverse and exciting travel destinations on the East Coast, offering a perfect mix of historic sites, breathtaking mountains, scenic beaches, and luxury resorts. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family-friendly adventure, or a relaxing retreat, Virginia has something for everyone.
In this guide, we explore the five best vacation destinations in Virginia, highlighting their top attractions, outdoor experiences, and luxury accommodations.
1. Virginia Beach – The Ultimate Coastal Escape
📍 Location: Southeastern Virginia
⭐ Best For: Beach lovers, water sports, and family vacations
Why Visit Virginia Beach?
With miles of sandy shores, an exciting boardwalk, and a variety of outdoor activities, Virginia Beach is the perfect place for a fun and relaxing beach vacation. Whether you’re looking to surf, explore local seafood restaurants, or enjoy a luxury oceanfront stay, Virginia Beach has it all.
Top Things to Do in Virginia Beach:
🏖️ Relax on the Beach – The three-mile boardwalk offers stunning ocean views.
🌊 Water Sports & Dolphin Watching – Try jet skiing, parasailing, or a dolphin-watching tour.
🏄 First Landing State Park – Hike or kayak through coastal wetlands and forests.
🦪 Enjoy Fresh Seafood – Dine at award-winning seafood restaurants like Waterman’s Surfside Grille.
Luxury Stay:
- The Cavalier Hotel – A historic oceanfront resort offering fine dining, a private beach club, and a luxury spa.
- Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront – Located on the boardwalk with rooftop pools and oceanfront suites.
🎟️ Best Time to Visit: Late Spring to Early Fall
2. Williamsburg – The Perfect Blend of History and Luxury
📍 Location: Eastern Virginia
⭐ Best For: History lovers, family-friendly attractions, and cultural experiences
Why Visit Williamsburg?
Williamsburg is one of the most historic destinations in the U.S., offering immersive colonial experiences, thrilling theme parks, and luxury accommodations. Whether you’re exploring 18th-century streets or riding roller coasters, this city offers something for all ages.
Top Things to Do in Williamsburg:
🏰 Colonial Williamsburg – Step back in time in the largest living history museum in the world.
🎢 Busch Gardens Williamsburg – Experience world-class roller coasters and entertainment.
🍷 Williamsburg Winery – Enjoy a luxury wine-tasting experience with scenic vineyard views.
⛳ Luxury Golf Courses – Play at the renowned Golden Horseshoe Golf Club.
Luxury Stay:
- Williamsburg Inn – A five-star historic hotel offering fine dining, a spa, and championship golf courses.
- Kingsmill Resort – A waterfront resort featuring private villas, a full-service spa, and a private marina.
🎟️ Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall for mild weather and fewer crowds.
3. Shenandoah National Park – A Mountain Escape with Scenic Beauty
📍 Location: Northwestern Virginia
⭐ Best For: Outdoor adventurers, couples, and nature lovers
Why Visit Shenandoah?
If you’re looking for stunning mountain views, hiking trails, and a peaceful retreat, Shenandoah National Park is the perfect destination. It offers world-class hiking, breathtaking fall foliage, and luxury mountain lodges.
Top Things to Do in Shenandoah National Park:
🚗 Drive Skyline Drive – A 105-mile scenic road with unforgettable views.
🥾 Hike Old Rag or Dark Hollow Falls – Two of the most popular trails in Virginia.
🦌 Wildlife Spotting – See black bears, deer, and wild turkeys in their natural habitat.
🌅 Sunset at Stony Man Overlook – A romantic and picture-perfect viewpoint.
Luxury Stay:
- Primland Resort – A five-star luxury mountain retreat with a spa, stargazing observatory, and private cottages.
- Skyland Resort – A charming lodge within Shenandoah National Park, offering panoramic Blue Ridge Mountain views.
🎟️ Best Time to Visit: Spring for wildflowers, Fall for peak foliage.
4. Charlottesville – Wine Country and Historic Charm
📍 Location: Central Virginia
⭐ Best For: Wine lovers, history buffs, and couples looking for a romantic escape
Why Visit Charlottesville?
Charlottesville offers rolling vineyards, historic sites, and luxury accommodations, making it an ideal getaway for those who appreciate fine dining, wine tasting, and history.
Top Things to Do in Charlottesville:
🏡 Visit Monticello – Explore Thomas Jefferson’s historic estate.
🍷 Tour the Monticello Wine Trail – Visit award-winning wineries like Barboursville Vineyards.
🏞️ Hike at Shenandoah National Park – Just a short drive away for outdoor adventures.
🎭 Stroll the Historic Downtown Mall – A pedestrian-friendly area with boutique shops and fine dining.
Luxury Stay:
- Keswick Hall – A five-star countryside resort with a world-class spa and golf course.
- Boar’s Head Resort – A charming retreat with lakeside views and fine dining.
🎟️ Best Time to Visit: Fall for the vineyard harvest season.
5. Alexandria – A Waterfront City with Historic Elegance
📍 Location: Northern Virginia
⭐ Best For: Luxury travelers, history enthusiasts, and weekend getaways
Why Visit Alexandria?
Just minutes from Washington, D.C., Alexandria offers stunning waterfront views, cobblestone streets, boutique shopping, and fine dining. It’s a perfect blend of historic charm and modern luxury.
Top Things to Do in Alexandria:
🚢 Take a Sunset Cruise on the Potomac River – Enjoy scenic views of D.C. monuments.
🛍️ Shop in Old Town Alexandria – Explore high-end boutiques and antique stores.
🍽️ Dine at Michelin-Starred Restaurants – Try Vermilion or The Warehouse for gourmet cuisine.
🏛️ Visit George Washington’s Mount Vernon – A must-see historic site nearby.
Luxury Stay:
- The Alexandrian Hotel – A boutique luxury hotel in Old Town Alexandria.
- Morrison House – A romantic and elegant hotel with personalized service.
🎟️ Best Time to Visit: Spring and Summer for the best weather and waterfront views.
🏆 Final Thoughts: Planning Your Perfect Virginia Getaway
Virginia is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse vacation destinations, offering a mix of coastal retreats, mountain escapes, historic charm, and luxury experiences.
- For a beach vacation → Visit Virginia Beach.
- For history and theme parks → Choose Williamsburg.
- For scenic outdoor adventure → Explore Shenandoah National Park.
- For wine country and history → Stay in Charlottesville.
- For a luxury waterfront escape → Visit Alexandria.
For more expert travel guides, luxury experiences, and high-end vacation insights, visit CarValor for exclusive recommendations.
