Visitors flock to Virginia Beach for its miles of sand, outdoor sports opportunities, and beautiful natural surroundings. The campus, which sits between Norfolk and Virginia Beach, has a quiet and unspoiled atmosphere.
Handily, Norfolk has an international airport, just 15 minutes' drive away down Northampton Boulevard. Alternatively, Richmond International Airport is one hour and 40 minutes from the university if you follow the I-64.
At nearby Virginia Beach, you can relax or have fun in and around the water. The golden sands are excellent for sunbathing, and the fairly gentle waves suit beginner and casual surfers. Canoeing, kayaking, and spotting whales and dolphins are other popular local pastimes.
Away from the water, you can go golfing at any of the eight local courses. Alternatively, head to the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, which is far more beautiful than it sounds: it's a wonderful place to go hiking, cycling, or bird watching.
Mount Trashmore is a world-class example of turning trash into treasure – you'd never know it's a landfill-turned-park. Have a picnic, take the kids to the playground, or play some volleyball. Also, look out for the First Landing Cross, which marks the point where English settlers arrived in 1607, or fill up on local seafaring history at the Old Coast Guard Station's fascinating museum.
