Buried Beneath the Boardwalk: Neptune Ghouls and Ghost Tours

Buried Beneath the Boardwalk: Neptune Ghouls and Ghost Tours
Location: Virginia, United States
Price: $24 per person
Duration: 1 hour
Rating: 4.3/5 based on 27 reviews

When you think of Virginia Beach, your mind might drift to sunbathing on the sandy shores or enjoying lively boardwalks. But what if you could explore a darker, more mysterious side of this seaside town? For around $24 per person, you can do just that with a 1-hour ghost tour led by US Ghost Adventures, starting right at the iconic King Neptune Statue on Atlantic Avenue.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines local storytelling with a taste of Virginia Beach’s haunted history, giving you a sense of the town’s secret past beyond the typical beach day. The tour’s dark, atmospheric walk through the historic district is both fun and educational, providing tales of pirates, witches, sirens, and shipwreck spirits that linger in the shadows. Plus, the guide wearing a lantern makes for an authentic, old-timey vibe that adds to the thrill.

On the flip side, some might find the stories more atmospheric than frightening, especially if you’re after a scare. Also, the tour doesn’t feature many specific sights—mostly storytelling along the streets—so if you’re expecting a visit to haunted sites or historic landmarks, you might be a bit disappointed. Still, it’s a good choice for those curious about ghost lore and local legends. Perfect for history buffs, casual ghost enthusiasts, or families looking for a spooky twist to their Virginia Beach visit.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Guides: Led by knowledgeable storytellers who bring Virginia Beach’s ghostly tales alive.
• Historical & Haunted Blend: Combines legend with history, providing context for each spooky story.
• Affordable and Short: At just $24 and one hour long, it’s a budget-friendly, manageable outing.
• Atmospheric Setting: A walk through dimly lit streets creates a haunting ambiance.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for most, but not recommended for those with mobility issues since walking is involved.
• Weather-Ready: The tour takes place rain or shine, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Detailed Experience: What to Expect and How It Fits Into Your Trip

Starting Point & Atmosphere
The tour begins at the King Neptune Statue, a central and recognizable Virginia Beach landmark, making it easy to find your guide—who will be carrying a lantern and sporting a US Ghost Adventures t-shirt. Arriving 15 minutes early ensures you’re ready to step into the darkened streets as the tour kicks off.

Walking through Virginia Beach’s historic district, you’ll notice the quiet, dimly lit streets—much different from the lively daytime scene on the boardwalk. The guide will lead you past historic buildings, but the focus is on storytelling rather than sightseeing.

Stories and Stops
While the tour doesn’t specify many stops at particular buildings, it’s clear each tale is connected to the locations you pass. Expect to hear about the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum, the 1891 Shipwreck, and stories of murderous sirens and undead witches. One reviewer mentioned that the guide, William, was very knowledgeable, which enhances the storytelling experience, though some found the stories a bit TMI at times.

Authenticity and Storytelling Style
The stories are based on well-researched local legends, giving the tour a credible edge. The guide’s detailed narration helps you imagine Virginia Beach’s dark past, making the experience more than just a series of ghost stories. Instead, it becomes a window into the town’s mysterious history, with tales that linger long after the walk ends.

The Atmosphere and Overall Vibe
The atmospheric dim lighting and the lantern carried by the guide help set a haunting tone. However, some reviews note that the stories aren’t overly scary but rather intriguing and atmospheric. If you’re seeking a chilling scare, this might not be your best bet, but if you enjoy interesting stories and local lore, you’ll likely find it highly enjoyable.

Group Size & Comfort
Since the tour is in a small group and wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers. The one-hour duration keeps it manageable, but be prepared for a walk of about a mile, which might be tiring for some. The guide’s friendly demeanor and engaging storytelling help make the walk feel lively rather than tedious.

Price & Value
At $24 per person, the tour offers good value for money—a compact, atmospheric experience infused with local flavor and credible stories. Some reviews mention that the guide’s knowledge and friendliness make the experience worth the ticket price, especially for those interested in ghost stories and local mysteries.

Additional Considerations
– No transportation is included, so plan to arrive at the meeting point on foot or via other transport.
– The tour is not suitable for those with mobility challenges or who cannot walk a mile comfortably.
– It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as the walk is outdoors, rain or shine.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This ghost tour is best suited for history enthusiasts, ghost story aficionados, or anyone curious about Virginia Beach’s hidden past. It’s a good choice for travelers who enjoy atmospheric walks and storytelling over scares, especially since the reviews suggest the tales are more intriguing than terrifying. Families with older children or teens who can handle walking and mild spooky stories might also find it a fun, memorable experience.

If you’re looking for a lighthearted, informative, and atmospheric evening activity that combines history and mystery, this tour hits the mark. Just don’t expect to be jumping at shadows—think of it more as a storytelling stroll through Virginia Beach’s shadowy corners.

Final Thoughts on Value and Experience

For just $24, you get a well-researched, engaging storytelling experience that reveals a different side of Virginia Beach—its haunted history and local legends. The guides’ knowledge and the atmospheric setting make it stand out among typical ghost walks, especially if you’re interested in authentic local stories rather than pure scares.

It’s a short, manageable outing, perfect for those with limited time or who prefer a more relaxed, story-driven experience in the evening. The tour’s focus on historic intrigue rather than jump scares makes it ideal for curious travelers who love a good story and want to feel a bit of Virginia Beach’s mysterious past.

In summary, if you’re after a fun, atmospheric walk that offers insight into local legends and a chance to experience Virginia Beach from a different perspective, this tour will serve you well. Just arrive prepared for a walk, bring your curiosity, and enjoy the stories that have haunted this coastal town for generations.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most children older than 10 who can walk a mile comfortably should enjoy it, but very young children might find the stories too spooky or the walk tiring.

What should I wear?
Dress in weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes suitable for walking outdoors.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most travelers with mobility impairments.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Are there any additional costs?
The tour price includes the guided walk, but guides rely on tips, which are not included. Extra stops or add-ons during booking are optional but may require additional payment.

Will I see actual haunted sites or just stories?
The tour mainly features storytelling along the streets, with no specific haunted sites visited. It’s about local legends and history rather than visiting haunted locations.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately one hour, making it a quick but immersive experience.

What time does it run?
Usually in the evening, but check the schedule for specific times when booking.

Is it safe to do at night?
Yes, the walk is along well-lit streets and in a safe, familiar area, but always stay aware of your surroundings.

Can I join if I’m not local?
Absolutely. The tour is open to visitors and offers a great way to experience Virginia Beach’s darker side for a short, entertaining immersion.

If you’re looking to add a dash of mystery and discover a lesser-known side of Virginia Beach, Buried Beneath the Boardwalk offers a charming, engaging, and reasonably priced way to do so. It’s a fun, atmospheric stroll that’s more about storytelling than scares but leaves plenty to think about long after you return to the bright sunshine of the beach.

You can check availability for your dates here: