Virginia Beach offers a surprising variety of tours that cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re eager to paddle alongside dolphins, zip through the treetops, or explore the city’s spooky stories, Virginia Beach has a lot to offer. We especially love the Sunset Dolphin Kayak Tours because of their stunning sunset views and close dolphin encounters—and for a more eco-conscious experience, the Small Group Dolphin Kayak Eco-Tour offers personalized attention in a small-group setting. Both tours provide memorable wildlife sightings, but the eco-tour emphasizes a quieter, more intimate connection with nature. If you’re after something active and fun, the Ziplining and Climbing at The Adventure Park is a fantastic way to enjoy Virginia’s outdoors, while history and mystery lovers will enjoy the Neptune Ghouls and Ghost Tours. This list covers a broad spectrum of experiences, so you can find the perfect fit for your trip.
Quick Overview
Virginia Beach’s tours span a range of interests, including dolphin kayaking, ziplining, ghost tours, and scavenger hunts. For example, the Sunset Dolphin Kayak Tours are perfect for sunset lovers and families wanting a relaxing wildlife experience. Meanwhile, the Small Group Dolphin Eco-Tour offers intimate wildlife viewing with expert guides. Adventure seekers will appreciate the Ziplining at Virginia Aquarium, and history buffs might enjoy the eerie stories on the Neptune Ghouls and Ghost Tours. There are also engaging scavenger hunts like the 3Quest Challenge to explore the city in a fun, interactive way.
1. Sunset Dolphin Kayak Tours
At number 1 on our list, the Sunset Dolphin Kayak Tours offers a breathtaking blend of wildlife viewing and scenic sunset views. This 2-hour small-group kayak trip departs from First Landing State Park, where guides help you launch into Chesapeake Bay. During the tour, you’ll likely see Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and enjoy sights of Cape Henry Lighthouses and the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel from the water. What makes this tour stand out is the chance to paddle in the quiet of the evening, with some guests describing dolphin encounters so close they could hear breathing and smell breath. The tour is suitable for all ages and skill levels, making it a popular choice for families and solo travelers alike. The small-group format ensures plenty of personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Expect a peaceful, memorable hour and a half with nature, especially at sunset.
Bottom Line: Perfect for sunset lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking a gentle introduction to kayaking in Virginia Beach.
2. Small Group Dolphin Kayak Eco-Tour
Ranked just behind the sunset tour, the Small Group Dolphin Eco-Tour offers a more intimate experience with Virginia’s marine life. This 2-hour guided tour departs from North End Beach and focuses on dolphin sightings and coastal exploration. Guides with over 25 years of experience lead the group, helping you spot Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and other wildlife like sea birds. The tour offers a relaxed, family-friendly environment with all equipment included, making it accessible even for beginners. Guests often note the knowledgeable guides who share fascinating facts about the dolphins and the local ecosystem. The quieter, personal setting makes it ideal for families, couples, or anyone wanting a closer encounter without a crowded tour. While dolphin sightings depend on nature, even just paddling along Virginia’s coastline is rewarding.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting personalized attention and a nature-focused adventure with expert guides.
3. Ziplining and Climbing at The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium
Next, for thrill-seekers and outdoor lovers, the Ziplining and Climbing at The Adventure Park offers a panoramic view of the Virginia forest canopy. Spanning 17 trails across six acres, this aerial adventure park is suitable for ages five and up. The courses include zip lines that snake between treetops and various challenges to test your agility. The park is ideal for birthday parties, scout groups, and team-building outings, offering a flexible experience that can be tailored to different skill levels. Guests rave about the staff’s friendliness and the beginner-friendly nature of the courses. As you soar through the treetops and explore miles of hiking trails, you’ll enjoy a full day of outdoor fun.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for active families and groups looking for an outdoor challenge combined with scenic views.
4. Wetland Zip Tour
For those interested in the wetlands, the Wetland Zip Tour combines adventure with education. From towers 80 feet in the air, you’ll zip along up to 1200-foot lines over Virginia’s wetlands. This 90-minute experience offers spectacular views of the unique forest ecosystem and wildlife. The tour is designed for all comfort levels, with safety gear provided and no ziplining experience necessary. Guides focus on safety while making sure everyone has fun, often mentioning the impressive wildlife sightings that include birds and forest creatures. The course’s nine zip lines offer a thrilling way to see Virginia’s wetlands from above, making it an exciting activity for families and friends.
Bottom Line: Ideal for nature lovers seeking an active, scenic adventure with a focus on Virginia’s wetlands.
5. Private Professional Vacation Photoshoot in Virginia Beach
Want to immortalize your trip? The Private Professional Vacation Photoshoot offers a tailored photo experience led by a local photographer. You’ll visit scenic spots, including lesser-known local favorites, and receive 45 fully edited high-resolution photos within days. It’s perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers wanting high-quality vacation photos in stunning settings. Guests praise the photographer’s patience and eye for lighting, making the experience both fun and relaxed. The session lasts around an hour, providing plenty of opportunities for memorable shots without feeling rushed. Whether celebrating an anniversary or just capturing the moment, this tour brings home more than memories—your photos become keepsakes.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting personalized, high-quality photos in Virginia Beach’s most photogenic locations.
6. Virginia Beach: Dolphin Kayak Tour: This is a Workout!
If you’re looking for a more vigorous way to see dolphins, the Dolphin Kayak Tour: This is a Workout is the choice. This 2-hour guided tour emphasizes paddling and physical activity, appealing to active travelers. It’s recommended that you know how to swim, and it offers high-quality gear and an experienced guide to help you navigate Chesapeake Bay’s tidal waters. While dolphin sightings are likely, the emphasis here is on the workout and the thrill of paddling in open water. Reviewers mention how the tour provides excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife spotting, including stingrays and sea turtles.
Bottom Line: Best suited for fit travelers eager for a more energetic dolphin-viewing experience.
7. Private Floating Paddle Lesson and Photo Session
The Private Floating Paddle Lesson and Photo Session is a unique blend of instruction and photography. On Rudee Inlet, you’ll learn to paddle on a stand-up paddleboard in a relaxed environment while getting professional photos taken. The 1.5-hour session is perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to improve their paddleboarding skills. Guests rave about the personal attention, the wild wildlife views, and the chance to capture great photos with the help of the guide. It’s an ideal activity for those who want a hands-on experience and beautiful images of their time in Virginia Beach.
Bottom Line: Perfect for beginners and those wanting a memorable photo souvenir.
8. Buried Beneath the Boardwalk: Neptune Ghouls and Ghost Tours
For fans of spooky stories, the Neptune Ghouls and Ghost Tours are a fun, eerie way to explore Virginia Beach’s darker side. This 1-hour tour guides you through haunted streets, revealing tales of pirates, witches, and mysterious happenings behind historic buildings. Local guides share creepy stories of sirens and undead witches, creating a spooky atmosphere. Perfect for night-owl thrill-seekers or families with older children, the tour offers a blend of history and ghostly encounters. It’s an engaging way to discover Virginia Beach’s hidden stories and enjoy some festive scare.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in ghost stories, local legends, and a fun spooky experience.
9. Scavenger Hunt in Virginia Beach by 3Quest Challenge
The 3Quest Challenge turns sightseeing into a fun game. This 2-hour app-based scavenger hunt guides you across Virginia Beach, encouraging you to take photos and solve clues. It’s a great way to see lesser-known spots while enjoying some friendly competition. The tour is suitable for all ages and comes with remote host support if needed. It’s perfect for families celebrating special occasions or groups wanting a different way to explore. Guests mention that the guide’s fun facts and the challenge’s interactive nature made the experience memorable. Expect to see landmarks, take creative photos, and learn local stories along the way.
Bottom Line: Best for active explorers seeking a fun, interactive experience.
$10.00 per person
10. Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: Surf, Sand and Sculptures!
This smartphone app-based scavenger hunt invites you to explore Virginia Beach at your own pace. Covering about two hours, you’ll visit sites like the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum, the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum, and the Atlantic Fun Park. It’s a family-friendly activity that requires no guide and allows for flexible scheduling. While the reviews are mixed, the activity suits families or solo travelers who enjoy educational, interactive exploration. It’s an inexpensive way to discover the city’s landmarks and hidden spots, with the added fun of solving challenges along the way.
Bottom Line: Suitable for families or solo explorers wanting an independent, educational adventure.
$12.31 per person
11. Virginia Beach Scavenger Hunt by Crazy Dash
Crazy Dash offers a laid-back way to see Virginia Beach. This 2-hour scavenger hunt app allows you to visit points of interest and perform challenges in any order, making it flexible and stress-free. A remote host chats with you during the game, providing hints and support. It’s a straightforward, relaxed activity perfect for those who prefer wandering without a strict schedule. Though there are no reviews yet, the format encourages casual exploration and social fun, making it ideal for friends or families.
Bottom Line: Good for easygoing explorers who want to see the sights without feeling pressured.
$10.00 per person
12. Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Virginia Beach by Holly Jolly Hunt
Perfect for the holiday season, the Holly Jolly Hunt is a festive, app-based scavenger hunt. For about an hour, your team searches for holiday-related items and completes fun challenges, earning points and climbing the leaderboards. It’s a festive activity for groups up to ten, ideal for holiday gatherings or winter visits. The reviews are limited, but the activity promises a cheerful, interactive way to enjoy Virginia Beach’s holiday spirit. Participants will enjoy taking photos and sharing laughs along the way.
Bottom Line: Best suited for seasonal fun and small groups celebrating the holidays.
$20.00 per group (up to 10)
13. Scavenger Hunt in Virginia Beach by Operation City Quest
Another great app-based option, Operation City Quest lets you explore Virginia Beach in any order. Over two hours, you’ll find objects and complete challenges, all with a remote host available for tips. It’s a straightforward way to see the city’s landmarks and hidden corners without a strict schedule. Reviewers often enjoy the flexibility to wander at their own pace and the added challenge of competing against others. Suitable for friends, families, or solo explorers, it turns sightseeing into a game.
Bottom Line: Ideal for casual explorers who want to combine discovery with friendly competition.
$10.00 per person
14. Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Virginia Beach by Wacky Walks
Last on our list, Wacky Walks offers a fun, interactive scavenger hunt across Virginia Beach, using an app to locate objects and perform challenges. With a live remote host available, this activity emphasizes entertainment and exploration, suitable for all ages. The live updates on your score keep the game exciting, while the variety of challenges ensures you see many parts of the city in a playful way. It’s a great option for families or groups looking for an engaging, laid-back activity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a lively, social way to explore Virginia Beach’s streets and secrets.
$10.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour in Virginia Beach
When deciding which tour to book, consider your interests, fitness level, and budget. For wildlife lovers, the dolphin kayak experiences (Sunset or Eco-Tour) offer a chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat, with the sunset tour adding a magical touch. Families or groups wanting adventure might prefer the ziplining (Virginia Aquarium), while history or spooky stories come alive on the ghost tour (Neptune Ghouls). For a more relaxed exploration, the scavenger hunts (3Quest, Crazy Dash) are fun and flexible options.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular dolphin tours or adventure parks, to secure your spot.
Virginia Beach offers an impressive mix of activities that suit many styles of travel. Whether you want a peaceful paddle at sunset, an adrenaline rush ziplining through treetops, or uncovering ghost stories, you’ll find an experience that enriches your stay. For active travelers, the kayak tours and adventure parks are excellent choices. If you prefer something more relaxed, scavenger hunts and photography sessions provide memorable ways to explore. Our advice? Book your favorite activities early, and get ready for a trip full of fun, discovery, and a few surprises along the way.