Virginia Beach Information

The Virginia Beach area is one of the most beautiful places in the entire United States. With miles of sandy beaches and great golfing and fishing, the city has become a popular resort destination. But the area is also rich in history, having been the site of the first English colonists' landing in 1607. There are many great things to see and do in Virginia Beach, and lots of parks and scenic areas to explore. Virginia Beach is also a military town, with two major naval bases and thousands of military personnel. In all, the city has about half a million residents, with the population swelling each summer as millions of people travel to this city by the sea.

Virginia Beach has had a long and checkered history. While the first colonists moved inland, more came to the area in the years following 1607. One of the first to settle in the area was one Adam Thoroughgood, who encouraged others to settle in Virginia Beach. The Cape Henry Lighthouse, one of the city's most famous historical attractions, was founded to guide ships into port in the Hampton Roads area. Prior to its construction, pirates were known to have come ashore and lit false signal fires to lure ships to an easy capture.

The city was also home to a witchcraft trial by dunking (then called "Ducking") in 1706. Grace Sherwood was found to be a witch, but was later released from prison. There are no witchcraft trials in Virginia Beach these days, just great attractions for visitors to enjoy. The beach is a major drawing point, and on any given day during the summer months thousands of people enjoy games like volleyball and Frisbee, surfing, Jet Ski and swimming. Still others venture off shore for deep water fishing and sailing.

When you come to Virginia Beach you will discover a world of history, recreation and fun waiting for you. The city welcomes many travelers each year to enjoy its charms. Hut the really lucky people are those who get to live in this seaside city and experience all that Virginia Beach has to offer every single day.