Visiting the beach on vacation conjures up many different activities that can be enjoyed by one person or as a group. Spending time at the Virginia Beach, Virginia oceanfront lends itself to staying at suites and resorts while visiting on a family vacation. Here are 10 things to do while spending hours in the surf and sand of the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay on Virginia Beach vacations.

Sunbathing

Lying on the beach in a bathing suit or shorts and a T-shirt is one of the most basic – and popular - types of relaxation for a Virginia Beach resort vacation. A soft towel or comfortable chair is all that is needed to enjoy the sunshine amid soft sounds of the waves crashing on the beach. Sunbathers should wear sunscreen to protect themselves from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

Sand Sculpting

Building a sand sculpture does not require any special equipment. While a bucket and a shovel are helpful for creating molded sculptures and basic structures, using arms and hands to sculpt damp sand is usually sufficient. Sand castle plastic molds are available in local stores for those seeking a fancier sand castle building experience.

Skimboarding

One of the more unusual means of riding the ocean surf is a skimboard. The person runs in a few inches of water on the sand, then throws down the skimboard and hops on for a swift ride. Some head into the waves and complete the ride with a flip into the deeper water. Others spin in circles or ride as far down the beach as the skimboard’s momentum carries.

Surfing

Home of the East Coast Surfing Championships, many people bring or rent a board and go surfing on their Virginia Beach vacation. Some areas are restricted during certain hours where swimmers are present.

Boogie Boarding

Boogie boards are made of stiff buoyant material, usually foam. They are made for riding the waves from a crest until they run aground in the sand. Some prefer to use them as a floatation device in the water. They are used by children and adults alike for hours of fun in the water, then covered with a towel as a soft resting spot on the sand.

Picnicking

Pack a lunch in a picnic basket and bring along a cooler. Lunch on the beach is another popular pastime. Some Virginia Beach hotels and restaurants offer picnic lunches for their guests as a quick and easy meal on the sand for a nominal fee.

Walking

A classic walk on the beach is one way to enjoy the sand, the waves and the sounds of the ocean. It is good for those who want to exercise their legs and free their minds.

Soccer

Virginia Beach is now home of an annual sand soccer tournament. This sport has gained popularity in recent years. During spring, summer and fall, there are many pick-up games along the beachfront as well.

Volleyball

Several volleyball courts are set up on the sand for patrons at Virginia Beach waterfront hotels. It is common to see games being played during the daytime in the summer.

Swimming

Swimming in the waves is one way to cool off from the hot summer sun. It is also good cardiovascular exercise and a way to burn calories for those watching their weight while on Virginia Beach vacations.