Table of Contents
Virginia Beach in February – Our Vacation!!!
When planning a Virginia Beach vacation in February, people usually flock to ski resorts, mountain cabins, or a warmer climate with a beach. We decided to head to Virginia Beach – and here is what we found:
It’s still cold in February (obvious), but there’s still a lot to do. We took a whaleboat tour and had a blast at the Virginia Beach Aquarium. Keep reading to see what we discovered.
Navigate to What You Want…
- Virginia Beach Hotel Planning
- Virginia Beach Aquarium Booking Tickets
- Virginia Beach in February Vacation Review
- Virginia Beach Aquarium Whale Watching Boat Tour
- Virginia Beach Aquarium – From Our Perspective
Booking Our VB Winter Trip Accommodations
Virginia Beach Hotel Planning
First, we had to book a hotel, and even though it’s still cold in February, we had to get an oceanfront hotel. You just can’t beat that view no matter the season.
The good news is, prices for oceanfront hotels in the winter are incredibly low compared to summer/peak-season prices. We snagged a sweet spot to stay for the weekend, right by a navy memorial and a short walk to the Neptune statue.
Getting the Best Experience at Virginia Beach Aquarium
After securing our “home” for the weekend, we had to plan what we were going to do. A correctly placed call to the Virginia Beach Aquarium got us just what we needed.
The Clerk Cashier that we spoke with was fantastic. While her modesty prevented her from allowing us to publish her name, the Clerk Cashier provided the utmost customer service in navigating our trip planning process.
The public relations manager for the Virginia Beach Aquarium, Matt Klepeisz, was also fantastic. He let us know that there are active and retired military discounts for self and family ($2 per admission).
They were able to set us up with excellent bundle prices:
- Whaleboat tour –$26.00
- Admission to the aquarium –$24.95
- Movie at their IMAX theater in the aquarium –$5.00
***Prices shown were per person***
The total for our group [2 adults, one child] was $158.85.
The unbundled price for these activities would be:
- Whaleboat tour –$28.00
- Admission to the aquarium –$24.95
- IMAX movie –$7.95
By bundling, you receive a total savings of almost 10% per person! It may not seem like a lot but start adding more people to your group and… it’ll at least buy you lunch.
Virginia Beach Aquarium Optional Packages
The Virginia Beach Aquarium also has many other fantastic activities that you can do during this time of year. They have what they call “Mermaid Mondays” usually from February-April.
Matt let us know that there are five mermaids in fins for the event and a few more that are walking around. We are going to go back for this activity. We have a four-year-old daughter who is currently obsessed with mermaids.
They also have a seal spotting boat trip. The cost for members of the aquarium is:
- Adult $26.00
- Children 3-11 $22.00
For Non-members of the aquarium the cost would be:
- Adult $28.00
- Children 3-11 $24.00.
There is no charge for a child that is 2 or younger. This is a 2-and-a-half-hour boat trip to check out the Seals that come to this area when the temps drop. To check out more fun-filled activities, please visit virginiaaquarium.com.
Benefits of Becoming a Member
If you are planning on visiting a few times, we highly recommend membership!
- Individual Membership $75
- Individual +1 Membership $100
To break this down…admission is $24.95 for one person. If you go 3-4 times…you have just come out ahead.
The savings would be more if you chose the Individual +1 as you and someone you name has just received free admission. Meaning, if you and your +1 visit 2 or 3 times…the membership has paid for itself. Not to mention the discounts you receive on their other packages.
Just a thought.
Unfortunately, we aren’t even compensated for that plug. 🙂 We believe in a frugal life.
…Now For Our Amazing Experience!!!
Virginia Beach in February Vacation Review
Horse-Back Riding on the Beach
We checked into our hotel on a Friday afternoon. Once we got settled, we decided to hit the boardwalk. It was pretty chilly, so we had our winter coats. One of the first things that caught our eye was the horses on the beach.
This was awesome as we never saw this during the busy summertime. We later found out that they do horse rides on the beach in early spring and fall times. For pricing details visit virginiabeachhorseback.com.
We decided to head down to check out the Neptune Statue. It was within distance of our hotel – as in you can see the statue from your oceanfront balcony.
Touring the VB Boardwalk
It took us probably 10-12 minutes to walk there. Along your way to the statue are many fun photo opportunities.
There are giant shells, fish, and hermit crabs to name a few.
Virginia Beach King Neptune Sculpture, Made by P. DiPasquale (2005)
Once you arrive at the statue – there you see a giant Neptune holding his Triton in one hand and a giant sea turtle on the other side. There are fish, octopi, and dolphins swimming around him. It is a sight to behold.
Shout Out to Dough Boy’s Pizza (Seriously Good ‘Za)
As we headed back to our hotel, it started to get cold, so we decided to check out the indoor pool for the night and order some pizza from Dough Boys as it was #NationalPizzaDay! This is every February 9th so be sure to celebrate!
We then settled in for the night as we had a big day ahead of us on Saturday.
Virginia Beach Aquarium Whale Watching Boat Tour
Saturday morning, we headed to the Virginia Beach Aquarium for our Whale Watching Boat Tour that started at 10:00 am. The Aquarium is located at 717 General Booth Blvd. just down the street from the main drag at Virginia Beach. It is open every day including Sundays from 9 AM to 5 PM. They are closed Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Definitely check out Virginia Beach in February as the ‘off-season’ is the best for not fighting large crowds.
It was a much warmer day (in the 50’s) but still very chilly when you’re in the open ocean water.
Boarding the Vessel
Just before you board, there is a photo opportunity for your party. They snap your pic, and when you return, they have them readily available for purchase.
We boarded our boat a little before 10:00 AM. It was a lovely boat with seating all around and a warm indoor area where you can purchase food, drink (coffee, soda or… alcohol) and merchandise.
Exiting Rudee’s Inlet From the Aquarium
As the boat was taking off into the open ocean, we were alerted of the all amazing wildlife in the inlet. There were many different birds including Bald Eagles that we were able to see and get some fantastic pictures of.
Shoreline View From the Open Ocean
As we were going along in the ocean, we were always able to see the Virginia Beach shoreline for those of you who are a bit wary of being in the open ocean.
Snack Time on the Vessel
After a good 45 minutes, our 4-year-old was ready to get out of the chilly wind, so we headed inside for a little snack and something to drink. We got hot dogs (all beef) and warm apple cider. She also opted for the small humpback whale stuffed animal.
Shy Whales Over-shadowed by Spotlight-Loving Seals
There was wildlife staff from the aquarium on the boat identifying different birds out in the ocean getting their lunch.
Unfortunately, the only whale we saw on this trip was the one we purchased for our little sea lad.
Don’t let this discourage you though as we were told before coming that they had excellent luck and they saw many whales.
Since the whales were hiding on this day, the Captain decided to take us a little further than scheduled to see some Seals. It was a fascinating experience to watch these playful Seals out in the open ocean and along some rocks near the bridge. We couldn’t get enough of these fantastic creatures, and they were sure of checking us out as well.
Ghost-ships Do Exist
As we were heading back to the Aquarium, it started to get eerily foggy. Then, a large ship passed by us in this fog looking like the Flying Dutchman straight out of the Pirates of the Caribbean movie. It was exciting.
Continuing Our Aquatic Adventure with an Informational Galapagos Movie
Once we got back to the Aquarium, it was almost time for our show. We got a snack and drinks at a stand right outside of their IMAX theater and then headed inside for one of the top rows which are best for viewing in this theater.
We saw a 25-30-minute documentary called Galapagos 3D. It took you along the islands to learn about some of the most incredible wildlife that lives there. It was the perfect amount of time for our 4-year-old who seemed to be entertained the whole time.
Virginia Beach Aquarium Taken Over by Dragons
We then had to check out this fantastic aquarium. We started with the “new to us” Dragon area. This was a very cool spot dedicated to all types of lizards in a medieval-looking setting. In the middle of this area was a giant castle with a Komodo Dragon inside. The decorations in this area were truly magnificent. There were giant dragons all along the walls and the ceilings.
Right as you walk in, there is a cute little area for children to put on puppet shows. The kids were flocking to this area to put on shows for their parents.
After that, our daughter went to a cool display where she could use a catapult to shoot giant boulders over a castle wall. This is fun for kids and parents as well!
Our little entertainment seeker then wandered over to the Dragon Explorer Dino Dig. This is a cute small area where they can get in the dirt and dig up bones. You could honestly spend a long time in this area.
There are lots of exhibits displaying amazing lizards from all around and enough things for your little ones to do to stay happy.
Virginia Beach Aquarium Layout
The Virginia Beach Aquarium is split into two different buildings. The central pavilion that you start off at where the Dragon Area and IMAX theater is located is called the Bay and Ocean Pavilion.
Once you have checked out everything this area has to offer, you can head over to their other building called the Marsh Pavilion, but to get to the Marsh Pavilion, you have to walk through the Nature Trail that is between the buildings.
The Bay and Ocean Pavilion have many great exhibits. As I previously mentioned this is where the IMAX Theatre and Dragon exhibit are located. Right outside of this building is the Seal Harbor. Right as you enter the Aquarium, you are greeting by playful seals in a large aquarium swimming around.
Starting Our Amazing Tour of the Aquarium in Virginia Beach
Once you walk in and purchase your tickets at the ticket kiosk, you begin your adventure. No adventure is complete without a photo opportunity as you begin.
They snap a pic of your full party, and by the time you get through this building, your pics are waiting for you at the exit to purchase if you wish.
Being a huge picture person, I love things like this. Although I do know that they are overpriced – it’s okay to splurge every once in awhile for capturing memories.
Where to Begin?
To your right is where all of your exhibits will start. Your first exhibit is the Upland River, followed by Coastal River. You then run into a Scenic Overlook for excellent viewing, followed by the Chesapeake Bay Exhibits. There is a touch tank in this exhibit.
Next, you can view the Dragons, Red Sea, Coral, Mediterranean Sea, Hedgehogs, Cobra, and Crocodile exhibits.
Rays Touch Tank
You are then at the Rays Touch Tank that is an absolute favorite of all kids. You can stand beside this exhibit and get a chance to touch a Sting Rays as they swim by you. Your kids will not want to leave this exhibit.
Aquatic Dwellers
Moving from the Rays Tough Tank, you will then be at the Wave Tank, Sea Turtle, Lobster, and Jellyfish exhibits.
Immersed in an Underwater, Shark Infested World
You then are at the Shark Exhibit. This exhibit is one of my favorites. It is one of those walks thru Aquariums as different fish, rays, and sharks are swimming all around and above you. This is a great photo op as well.
Wrapping Up The Aquarium Side
This is every exhibit you will encounter. As you exit this part of the Aquarium, you will, of course, be going through their gift shop. They have many beautiful gifts to remember the fantastic visit.
Retrace Your Steps to Refuel For a New Adventure
Now going back to where you started, on the left side of the entrance is where you will find their wonderful Cafeteria for some great food, the snack stand, and the IMAX theatre along with the path to get to the Nature Walk to the Marsh Pavilion.
VB Aquarium Nature Walk to the Marsh Pavilion-Take a Hike!
The nature trail is awesome! As you are walking thru and taking in all of the beautiful scenery, you come across many opportunities to view marsh life such as storks, foxes, ducks, geese, Bald Eagles, etc.
There is the Scenic Overlook, the Owls Creek Deck, and the Osprey Observation Tower.
Got Time, Hang Out In the Trees at the VB Aquarium Adventure Park
While you are viewing all that nature has to offer, you will notice a lot going on above you. This would be their famous Adventure Park. This is a young pre-teen, teens dream. They are climbing the woods above you via netting, zip cords, rope gear, pegs in trees to climb, etc. A “must” for any young nature lover. This little trail, depending on how many stops you make to take the scenery will take about 8-10 minutes until you arrive at the Marsh Pavilion.
Virginia Beach Aquarium Marsh Pavilion
As you approach the Marsh Pavilion, there is a small “seasonal” snack bar just as you’re entering the building. You start your experience in this building going to your right as you come. You will pass through the:
- Mammal Exhibits;
- Native American Exhibits;
also, one of my favorites,
- the River Otter Exhibit.
Watch as the River Otters swim around without a care in the world.
You will then get to view the Bird Exhibits, Crab Exhibits, Seahorses Exhibit, Turtle Exhibits, Frog Exhibits, and Snake Exhibits.
Saying Goodbye to the Aquatic-Marine Life
As you are leaving the Marsh Pavilion, you can stop off at their Souvenir shop for something awesome to remember your trip by. That was the end of our trip to the Aquarium. As we left, we said goodbye to the Seals swimming around at the front of the building. By the time we got back to our hotel, we were exhausted from the Day. We ordered in for dinner and called in a night.
Getting Our Final Dose of Virginia Beach in February
On our last day, we wanted to take in the sights. We got up and checked out of our hotel.
Hotel Parking: Hot Tip
Since we were visiting during the off-season, we were able to ask the hotel staff if we were allowed to continue to park for a few additional hours after our checkout. They were very kind and allowed us to do so. Would recommend asking if you’re not ready to go after checkout.
Time For Shorts and Swimming…Not Quite, but Almost
It was unusually warm on this day in February. It hit in the 70’s which is not typical for February in Virginia Beach. Taking advantage of this fantastic day, we headed for the Boardwalk. We were just taking in the beauty of the beach and walking along enjoying the fantastic weather – with no coats!
We made it to the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier only to find it was closed. No worries though as there were two small souvenir shops open on the Pier that we checked out.
We then decided to leave the Boardwalk and go on the main drag (Atlantic Blvd.) to see what we could find. The arcade was open, so our four-year-old was excited. There is plenty to do in there, and it kept her very entertained for a while.
It was getting close to lunchtime, and we were hungry. We decided to check out a new restaurant here called Cactus Jack’s Southwest Grill.
It was amazing. We got chips and queso dip for the table. We also ordered a taco trio meal that was incredible. There was a chicken taco, brisket taco, and steak taco.
Saying Goodbye to Our ‘Home Away From Home’: Virginia Beach
Once lunch was finished, we said goodbye to the ocean. As we headed over, we were greeted by the horses trotting along the beach carrying some very excited kids.
The waves were lapping the shore as the breeze competed with the sun to make a comfortable temperature. Seizing on our final moments our toes dug into the sand for one last time.
We ended our trip greeted by Seagulls. They swarmed over to us, and it was incredible seeing all of them so close.
Our Recommendation For Visiting Virginia Beach in February (or just the off-season in general)…
Overall, I would highly recommend you check Virginia Beach out in February or anytime in the ‘off-season’. There was so much for us to do, and the crowds were non-existent, which made this an unforgettable trip!
2 thoughts on “Virginia Beach Vacation in February | Must-Do Travel Experience”