Getting There & Away: Virginia Beach

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Norfolk International Airport (ORF) is the closest major airport, approximately 18 miles (29 km) west of the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. ORF provides easy access to Virginia Beach.

Airlines and Routes

Major Airlines: American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, United Airlines, Breeze Airways, and Frontier Airlines.
Typical Routes: Direct flights link ORF to major U.S. Hubs like Atlanta, Charlotte, New York, Chicago, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Orlando, and Fort Lauderdale.
International travelers usually connect through major U.S. Hubs.

Other Airports & Pricing

Richmond International Airport (RIC), about 100 miles (160 km) northwest of Virginia Beach, serves as an alternative. Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF), 35 miles (56 km) northwest, offers limited domestic flights.

Seasonal Fluctuations & Booking

Flight prices are higher during summer (June-August) and major holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring Break).
Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) often present better value for flights.
Secure flights early for better rates, especially during peak travel times.

Airport Facilities ORF

Norfolk International Airport (ORF) offers standard airport facilities. You will find a terminal with various dining options, retail shops, and ATMs. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Car rental counters are located on-site, and a ground transportation desk offers assistance with shuttle services and taxis.

Transfer Costs

Taxi to Oceanfront: $40-$60 (25-40 minutes). Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): Similar pricing. HRT Bus: $2.00 (1.5-2 hours, with transfers).

Transfer Options from ORF

Taxis, rideshares, and shuttle services (like James River Transportation) from ORF to Virginia Beach accommodations. Rental cars offer the most flexibility for exploring.

Flight Deals & Booking Tools

Discovering Flight Savings

Consider services like Dollar Flight Club for flight deals.
Use flight comparison sites like Skyscanner to find the best rates.
Book flights in advance for better rates, especially during peak travel times.
International travelers often connect through major U.S. Hubs.

Airport Transfer Flexibility

Taxis and rideshares offer direct routes from ORF.
Rental cars are available on-site at ORF, providing great flexibility.
Public transit (HRT Bus) is a budget-friendly option, though less direct.
Check shuttle services like James River Transportation for pre-booked transfers.

Other Travel Modes

Train Connections

The closest Amtrak station is in Norfolk (NFK), about 20 miles from Virginia Beach. The "Northeast Regional" line links Norfolk to major East Coast cities.

Long-Distance Bus

Greyhound runs routes to and from Virginia Beach (terminal near Oceanfront) and Norfolk. Other services like Megabus may connect to Norfolk or Richmond.

Car Rentals

Requirements: Valid driver's license (IDP suggested for non-English) and major credit card. Minimum age generally 21 (surcharge under 25). Major companies operate at ORF and various city locations. DiscoverCars.com for rental comparisons.

Land Transportation

Train and Bus Links

While air travel is common, land transportation offers alternative ways to reach Virginia Beach, especially for travelers from nearby states or those preferring scenic routes.

Train and Bus Services

Amtrak: Closest station in Norfolk (NFK), about 20 miles from the Oceanfront. "Northeast Regional" line links Norfolk to East Coast cities.
Long-Distance Buses: Greyhound operates routes to and from Virginia Beach (terminal near Oceanfront) and Norfolk.
Transfer from Norfolk Station: Taxis, rideshares, or local HRT buses (with transfers) are necessary to reach Virginia Beach.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Roads in Virginia Beach are typically in good condition. Be aware of deer, especially in rural areas or near parks, specifically at dawn and dusk. Driving in heavy rain during summer thunderstorms may be challenging.

Driving Information

Requirements: Valid driver's license (U.S. Or international with an IDP) and proof of insurance. Minimum age for rentals is generally 21 (surcharge under 25).
Tolls: Several toll roads, bridges, and tunnels exist (Downtown Tunnel, Midtown Tunnel, Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel). Many are electronic-only (EZ-Pass).
Parking: Plentiful paid parking lots/garages in the Resort Area. Many hotels offer guest parking, sometimes for a fee.

Driving & Safety Reminders

Standard U.S. Driving laws are in effect. Drive on the right, seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers, and obey posted speed limits.

Driving Laws

Drive on the right side of the road.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
Obey posted speed limits.

Traffic & Hazards

Traffic may be heavy during peak commute times and summer weekends, especially when approaching the Oceanfront.

Safety Notes

Watch for deer in rural areas or near parks, especially at dawn and dusk.
Exercise caution in adverse weather, like heavy rain during thunderstorms.
A right turn on red is generally permitted after stopping, unless otherwise signed.

Sea/River Arrivals & Departure Info

Cruise Port: Virginia Beach lacks a large cruise ship terminal. The nearby Port of Virginia in Norfolk (Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center) functions as the region's cruise port.
Immigration Procedures: Standard U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) immigration procedures are in effect at the Norfolk cruise terminal.
Connections to Land: Taxis, rideshares, or HRT buses (with transfers) are necessary to reach Virginia Beach from Norfolk's cruise terminal.

Departure Procedures: For domestic flights from ORF, arrive 1.5-2 hours prior to departure. For international flights (via an U.S. Hub), arrive 2-3 hours prior.
Exit Fees: No specific exit fees or taxes apply for departing from U.S. Airports beyond those in your airline ticket.
Airport Facilities: ORF offers standard facilities: check-in, baggage drop, security, gate areas, shops, restaurants, restrooms, accessible services. Amtrak stations also provide waiting areas.

Sea/River Arrivals & 4.4 Departure Information

Sea/River Arrival Notes

While not a main mode of arrival for most tourists, understanding sea-based options is useful for cruise passengers or those considering regional ferry connections.

Cruise and Ferry Services

Virginia Beach lacks a dedicated large cruise ship terminal. The nearby Port of Virginia in Norfolk serves as the region's cruise port.
For cruise passengers arriving from international destinations, standard U.S. CBP immigration procedures are in effect at the Norfolk cruise terminal.
No passenger car ferries directly serve Virginia Beach. River transportation is not relevant for direct arrival.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure from Virginia Beach for a smooth journey home.

Departure Details

No specific exit fees or taxes apply for departing from U.S. Airports beyond those already included in your airline ticket price.
For domestic flights from Norfolk International Airport (ORF), arrive 1.5-2 hours prior to scheduled departure.
If flying internationally via an U.S. Hub, arrive 2-3 hours prior to your scheduled departure from ORF.

Smooth Departure

Check with your airline for their specific recommendations, as these can vary. ORF offers standard facilities for departing travelers.

Final Beach Visit

Consider one last walk on the beach or a visit to a favorite spot before heading to the airport.

Peak Travel Times

Be aware of higher traffic and wait times during peak season and holidays.

Travel Tips for Getting Around

Navigating the Hampton Roads Area

The Hampton Roads area includes several cities, each with its own character. Virginia Beach is part of this larger metropolitan area.

Regional Travel

Consider traffic during peak times, especially around tunnels and bridges.
Many toll roads use electronic payments; check with your rental car company for options.
Plan your route in advance using navigation apps to account for tolls and potential congestion.

Public Transport Efficiency

While a car offers the most flexibility, public transportation can be a cost-effective option for certain areas.

Utilizing HRT and VB Wave

The HRT bus system covers a wide area.
The seasonal VB Wave Trolley operates mainly along the Oceanfront Resort Area.
Day Passes for HRT buses and trolleys present value if you plan frequent transit use.

Navigating the City

Rideshare and Taxis

Uber and Lyft are widely available and popular. Taxis can be hailed in high-traffic areas or called for pick-up.

Bicycle Rentals

Numerous bike rental shops are along the boardwalk and in other areas. Some hotels also provide bikes.

Walking Exploration

The 3-mile Virginia Beach Boardwalk is ideal for walking, running, and cycling. The ViBe Creative District is also walkable.

Final Travel Note

Consider your preferred pace and level of independence when choosing your transportation methods. Each option presents unique benefits for exploring Virginia Beach.

Getting There & Away