Norfolk Outdoor Activities

The U.S. Coast Guard–certified team of adventuresome boaters at Adventure Parasail send patrons soaring over glistening Virginia Beach waters. For more than 25 years, the safety-first, dependable crew has made it possible for aquatic types to tame the Atlantic with Yamaha WaveRunners and let guests fly up to 1,200 feet in the air with parasailing experiences. Keeping families outside and enjoying the region’s natural splendor, Adventure Parasail also rents out sport boats that measure 20 feet in length and hold up to six passengers, ideal for an outing of fishing, cruising, or picnicking on a wave. Additionally, when special occasions arise—such as a school of visiting whales to Chesapeake Bay—the boat captains quickly mobilize awe-inspiring excursions to take in views of the majestic animals known for their size, gentle manner, and vocal stylings that have inspired many major pop singers.

With the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean in its backyard, the Xscape Water Sports complex lends itself to activities ranging from jet skiing and kayaking to journeys on aqua cycles—wheeled vehicles that let riders pedal over waves while tossing newspapers onto the top hatches of resident submarines. The shop's 2,000-square-foot loft includes a private guest space, snack bar, gift shop, and a yoga area, whereas the sand outside hosts beach games such as horseshoes and volleyball.

Virginia Beach Cornhole brings the classic challenge of chucking a corn-filled bag through a hole in a tilted game board to the seaside. Its waterfront shops stock an array of regulation-sized boards, with both painted and unfinished options, which patrons can rent or purchase. Like the bed pillows of most chickens, Virginia Beach Cornhole’s bags are packed with a pound of corn each, and are available in a rainbow of vibrant colors. For friendly competition, players can chuck bags in one of the company’s contests, hosted weekly throughout the summer and sporadically in winter months.