Virginia Beach’s Holly Jolly Hunt offers a playful twist on holiday sightseeing, combining the fun of a scavenger hunt with the festive spirit of the season. For just $20 per group (up to 10 people), you get approximately an hour of laughter, photo-taking, and holiday challenges, guided remotely by a friendly host named Mike. It’s a flexible adventure you can tailor to your schedule—playing anywhere in Virginia Beach, from bustling Atlantic Avenue to quieter neighborhoods.
What we love about this experience is how it makes holiday exploring interactive and fun for everyone—no boring walking tours here. The game’s mix of traditional and quirky holiday items keeps the activity light and engaging, while the real-time leaderboard encourages a little friendly competition. Plus, the option to perform silly challenges adds a layer of humor that’s perfect for family or friends.
One potential consideration is that the tour relies on your own smartphone for participation, so you’ll want to ensure your device is charged and ready. Also, it’s designed to be a short, one-hour activity—great for a quick festive break, but perhaps not enough if you’re craving an immersive, in-depth tour.
This scavenger hunt is best suited for groups of friends, families, or co-workers looking for a casual, joyful way to celebrate the holidays. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy interactive, self-guided adventures that create lasting memories in a lively coastal setting.
Key Points
- Flexible and location-independent: Play anywhere in Virginia Beach during the holiday season.
- Affordable fun: At $20 per group, it offers a budget-friendly way to enjoy holiday cheer.
- Includes a remote guide: Assistance via text keeps it simple without the need for in-person guides.
- Suitable for all ages: Both kids and adults will find the challenges amusing and engaging.
- Photo challenges and tasks: Adds a creative, humorous element to the experience.
- Short duration: Perfect for a quick holiday activity, fitting easily into a travel day or family outing.
In-Depth Review of the Holly Jolly Hunt in Virginia Beach

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The Basics: What to Expect
The Holly Jolly Hunt is a mobile app-based scavenger hunt designed to bring out the holiday spirit in Virginia Beach. It starts at 2401 Atlantic Ave, a lively spot near the oceanfront, and after about an hour, it concludes back at the same meeting point. Priced at $20 per group, it’s an affordable way to add some seasonal fun without breaking the bank, especially when divided among up to 10 people.
The activity runs from late November through the end of December, aligning perfectly with the holiday season. Operating Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, it’s flexible enough to fit into most travel plans or holiday schedules.
The Experience: How It Works
Once you book, you’ll receive a mobile ticket and a link to the app. You’ll be guided remotely by Mike, who communicates via text message, providing clues, challenges, and encouragement along the way. The main goal is to find a variety of holiday items scattered around the city—both traditional (like Christmas trees, ornaments) and non-traditional (such as holiday-themed street art or quirky decorations).
As you spot these items, you take photos through the app to score points. The system tracks your progress and displays your ranking on a leaderboard, adding a friendly competitive element. Alongside item-hunting, you’ll also perform silly holiday challenges designed to induce laughter and shared smiles. These might include singing a holiday song loudly in public or making a funny face with a holiday ornament.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Since the activity is flexible and self-directed, it doesn’t follow a strict route but rather encourages you to explore different parts of Virginia Beach. You might find yourself wandering along Atlantic Avenue, passing lively shops and cafes, or venturing into quieter neighborhoods for more unique holiday sights. The goal is to discover festive surprises and enjoy the city’s holiday decorations and cheer.
Authentic Experiences and Local Flavor
One of the best parts, according to reviews, is how accessible and inclusive this activity is. It’s designed for all ages and group types, making it ideal for families, friends, or coworkers. As one reviewer noted, “This was such a fun way to get into the holiday spirit—my kids loved the silly challenges, and we all enjoyed exploring the city differently.” The emphasis on photo challenges, combined with the laughter generated from performing tasks, makes for memorable moments.
Group Size and Social Aspects
Playing with up to 10 people keeps the group manageable and ensures everyone can participate actively. The remote guidance means you won’t be tied to a tour guide following you around—giving you freedom to roam at your own pace, which is a big plus for those who prefer flexibility.
Value and Cost Analysis
At $20, the experience offers an excellent value for a personalized, engaging hour of holiday entertainment. Compared to other paid attractions in Virginia Beach, this activity is notably budget-friendly, especially considering it’s private for your group. The inclusion of all fees, taxes, and activities makes it straightforward—no hidden costs.
Possible Drawbacks
The main consideration is the activity’s short duration. If you’re looking for a lengthy tour or more in-depth exploration, this may feel a bit light. Plus, since it relies on your smartphone, it’s important to have a charged device—nothing ruins a fun scavenger hunt like dead batteries. Finally, if bad weather strikes, your outdoor exploration could be limited, which might affect the experience.
Who Will Enjoy This?
This experience is perfect if you’re seeking a lighthearted, interactive activity that’s easy to fit into your holiday itinerary. It suits families with kids, groups of friends, or colleagues wanting to kick off the season with some laughter and friendly competition. Those who enjoy photo challenges, holiday decorations, or quirky challenges will find this especially entertaining.
Final Thoughts: A Festive, Fun-Filled Activity for All
The Holly Jolly Hunt in Virginia Beach offers a unique and interactive way to celebrate the holiday season. Its simplicity, affordability, and focus on fun make it an excellent choice for those wanting a break from traditional sightseeing. You’ll love the light-hearted challenges and the chance to see the city through a festive lens, all while creating memorable moments with your group.
While it’s not a deep dive into local history or culture, it more than compensates with laughter, bonding, and holiday cheer. Whether you’re visiting Virginia Beach for a few days or just passing through during the holidays, this scavenger hunt adds a cheerful touch to your trip.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, joyful activity that engages everyone and makes holiday memories, the Holly Jolly Hunt is a solid pick. It’s casual, fun, and full of personality—perfect for making the most of your holiday in Virginia Beach.
FAQ

Is this scavenger hunt suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed to be fun for all ages, with silly challenges and photo tasks that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
How long does the activity take?
Expect approximately 1 hour of play, making it a quick yet memorable holiday activity.
Do I need to bring anything?
You’ll need your own smartphone with a charged battery to participate fully; all other activities and fees are included.
Can I do the hunt at any time?
Yes, as long as it’s during operating hours (9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday to Sunday, from late November to December 31).
What if the weather is bad?
Outdoor activities can be affected by weather; it’s best to check the forecast and plan accordingly.
Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group participates, making it a personalized experience.
What’s included in the price?
All activities, fees, taxes, and remote guidance via text message are included.
Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted during the activity.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This fun, flexible holiday activity makes for a memorable, laughter-filled way to enjoy Virginia Beach during the Christmas season. Whether it’s a family outing, a group celebration, or a festive team-building event, the Holly Jolly Hunt brings holiday cheer right to your fingertips.
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