Visit Virginia Beach for Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial start to summer in cities across the US, and there’s no better place to celebrate the season than Virginia Beach and the laid-back enclave of Sandbridge Beach. This slice of Virginia’s Atlantic Coast has everything you need for a long holiday weekend escape, whether you’re craving relaxing beach days with friends and family, or a busy night out on the boardwalk. If you're considering visiting the Virginia Beach area for Memorial Weekend, Sandbridge Blue has a handful of Sandbridge Beach vacation rentals left. Check out our recommendations for what to do over this fun holiday weekend, and secure your vacation rental before we sell out!


Weather in Virginia Beach

Late May in Virginia Beach brings warm, sunny days that are ideal for enjoying the beach and outdoor activities. Temperatures are in the upper 70s (F) during the day, with mild and breezy evenings in the 60s. The ocean water is brisk but refreshing – perfect for a quick dip or paddle board session. 

Memorial Weekend is the sweet spot for a visit before peak summer humidity sets in, making it a very pleasant time to visit.

Crowds over Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Weekend brings more visitors to the area, as schools let out and visitors hit the beach for the holiday weekend. The Virginia Beach area is buzzing with energy, with events and festivities offering plenty of fun to be had along the oceanfront. To the south, Sandbridge Beach remains a quiet retreat, offering a relaxed atmosphere where you can find fewer crowds while still being close to the action.


Things to Do in Virginia Beach Over Memorial Day Weekend


Hit the Beach. Any time you visit the Virginia Beach area, beach time is on the schedule! Soak up the sun with a good book, toss a frisbee or football, play a round of cornhole, or try out a water sport like surfing. The high energy Virginia Beach is perfect for an active beach day, while Sandbridge Beach is uncrowded with gentle, family-friendly waves.

Explore Nature. Sandbridge Beach is nestled next to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, a peaceful nature preserve that is perfect for bird watching and relaxed exploration. Rent a kayak or paddle board to glide through the waterways and observe wildlife. The trails through False Cape State Park offer a beautiful coastal environment to explore on foot or by bike as well.

Go fishing. The waters off Sandbridge Beach are perfect for fishing, full of everything from flounder and bluefish to mahi-mahi. Spend a relaxing afternoon on the pier or casting a line from the shore, or book an afternoon on a charter boat for a memorable day on the water.

Enjoy Local Dining. Treat yourself to a meal out at one of the incredible local restaurants in Sandbridge Beach. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick taco lunch or a fresh seafood buffet at longtime institution Margie & Ray’s, there are plenty of delicious spots to check out!

Spend Quality Time at Your Rental. When you book a beach rental for Memorial Day Weekend, you'll have plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories, whether you're traveling with family or friends. Splash and lounge at your private pool, grill delicious meals on the BBQ, set up yard games out front, have a movie night, enjoy cocktails while the sun sets over the Atlantic - whatever floats your boat! With a vacation rental, you'll have plenty of things to do without even leaving the house. 


Memorial Day Weekend Events in Virginia Beach


Salute to Summer Concert Series. The annual Memorial Weekend tradition continues in Virginia Beach, where the Salute to Summer Concert Series brings live music performances to the Oceanfront from Friday to Sunday. These concerts feature local bands across various genres, as well as food and live entertainment at 17th, 24th and 31st Street Parks.

Memorial Day Events. Stroll along the Virginia Beach boardwalk to take in the Heroes’ Walk, a series of banners created by local students to honor fallen soldiers. On Memorial Day, a formal ceremony pays tribute to all members of the armed forces at the Tidewater Veterans Memorial, with speakers, a 21-gun salute and military aircraft flyovers.

Virginia Beach Surf Art Expo & Coastal Edge Steel Pier Classic. Surf fans won’t want to miss this event celebrating surf culture and art. On Memorial Day Weekend, you can gather between 3rd and 6th Streets on the Virginia Beach boardwalk to browse artwork celebrating the beach lifestyle from over 70 artists. This free arts festival is held in conjunction with the Coastal Edge Steel Pier Classic, a renowned surfing competition that kicks off the summer season at this beloved surf spot.


Plan Your Memorial Day Visit

Experience the best of Virginia Beach and Sandbridge this Memorial Weekend with a stay in a Sandbridge vacation rental. There’s nothing like having your own private space to relax and spread out, with a full kitchen, entertainment spaces and easy access to the beach. We even have pet-friendly options so you can bring your furry family members for a holiday weekend getaway.

Take advantage of reduced rates through May 25 on vacation rentals through Sandbridge Blue, and make this Memorial Day one to remember. Browse our available vacation rentals and start planning your perfect kickoff to summer!


Previous Spring Spectacular: A Guide to Easter Events in Sandbridge Beach