Summer in Norfolk, VA brings with it the opportunity to explore vibrant city life downtown, watch live music at one of our city’s outdoor music venues, catch a ball game at Harbor Park and get out on one of the many bodies of water that surround our beautiful city. Our coastal city is surrounded by several rivers and the Chesapeake Bay, and our residents can enjoy spending long days at the beach, or exploring a nearby river by boat without having to travel more than a few miles.

When the temperatures rise outside, getting out on the water in Norfolk, VA is a perfect way to cool down while connecting with nature. Whether you’re a seasoned beach-goer, an aspiring stand up paddle boarder, a long time kayaker or just a person who likes to enjoy a cocktail aboard a relaxing cruise ship, when you live in Norfolk, you can do it all!

Of course, our community pool is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, meaning you can dip into cool water just about anytime you need to from home, but when you want to get out and explore the bodies of water around our city, there are 5 ways we recommend you try. Make the most of living in our gorgeous city this Summer, and get out on the water today!

Ocean View Beach
Beautiful, quiet and just a short drive from your front door, Ocean View Beach is a perfect way to cool down and relax in the Chesapeake Bay, all season long. The water in the bay tends to be warmer than the ocean, making it more comfortable during early or late Summer beach days, and the water itself tends to be calmer for swimmers who don’t like large waves and rough seas. While you’re there, stop by the fishing pier or grab a drink or snack at the Ocean View Fishing Pier restaurant.

Spirit of Norfolk
The Spirit of Norfolk cruise ship cruises year round from downtown’s Town Point Park, and features dining, dancing, singing, cocktails, sightseeing and more. When you want to dress up and enjoy an elegant evening on the Elizabeth River, the Spirit of Norfolk is your answer. Perfect for Summer date nights, work parties or special events, you’ll love cruising Norfolk’s gleaming waterways on the Spirit.

American Rover Cruise
Sail away on the American Rover across the Elizabeth River for an afternoon or evening of history, fresh breezes off the river and a truly nautical experience. Enjoy snacks or a cocktail from their full bar while relaxing aboard this beautiful and grand sailing ship that sets sail from Norfolk’s Town Point Park.

Guided Kayak Tours from Nauticus
Beginning Memorial Day weekend and ending Labor Day weekend, grab your friends and family and sign up for a guided kayak tour at Nauticus in downtown Norfolk. Setting off every day at 10 am and 6:30 pm, these tours are a wonderful way to experience Norfolk’s beautiful, coastal waterways. Kayaking is a great way to get exercise and get close to the water, and the glistening Elizabeth River is a body of water you have to experience for yourself!

Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Avid beachgoers who want to mix it up and get active can now rent stand up paddle boards from Great White Water Sports in Ocean View, all Summer long. If you’ve never tried SUP, the bay is a perfect place to start, since you’ll encounter fewer large waves and calmer surf. Stand up paddle boarding is a great workout and a wonderful way to experience the cool breezes off Chesapeake Bay.