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If you live in Virginia Beach, chances are you’ve driven past the Oceanfront a thousand times, caught glimpses of dolphins from the shore, or passed signs for First Landing State Park without ever stopping. When you live in a vacation destination, it’s easy to forget that people from all over the country save up just to visit your backyard.
During the height of summer, it’s understandable why locals steer clear—tourist traffic, packed beaches, and long lines can make it hard to enjoy the very things that make this city special. But now that Labor Day has passed and the out-of-towners have gone home, it’s your moment to slow down and experience Virginia Beach the way visitors do—without the crowds.
This fall, we’re inviting you to flip your perspective. Take a break from your routine, skip the travel stress, and fall back in love with where you live.
5 Ways to Enjoy Virginia Beach Like a Local-Turned-Tourist
1. Visit Popular Spots at Off-Peak Times
Skip the lines and soak in the peace—September weekdays are perfect for visiting spots like the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center or Ocean Breeze Waterpark when the crowds are gone and the sun is still shining.
2. Discover Hidden Local Discounts
Many attractions offer unadvertised discounts for residents—just ask! You might find reduced admission at places like the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art or even a deal on boat tours leaving from Rudee Inlet.
3. Trade the Oceanfront for First Landing
If you want a peaceful beach day or a scenic nature walk, First Landing State Park offers quiet sands, shaded trails, and some of the best sunrises on the coast.
4. Take Advantage of Free Entertainment
September still offers tons of free fun. Stroll the boardwalk and enjoy the last nights of Live! On Atlantic with live music, street performers, and that laid-back beach-town energy.
5. Eat Like a Tourist, Without the Wait
Now’s the time to try those popular spots you’ve avoided all summer. Grab seafood at Waterman’s with a view, or enjoy a cocktail as the sun sets—without the hour-long wait.
Want to Vacation in Your Own Backyard? KOA Has You Covered.
If you’re ready to turn your hometown into your next vacation destination, we’ve got the perfect opportunity:
From September 12–14, Virginia Beach KOA Holiday is hosting a locals-only weekend called Be a Tourist in Your Own Home—a staycation designed to help you relax, explore, and reconnect with your city.
Whether you’re camping with your family, parking the RV for a weekend reset, or enjoying a cozy cabin escape, KOA makes it simple. You’ll get:
Discounted stays for local zip codes on cabins, RV sites, and tent sites
A curated itinerary featuring nearby attractions and partner discounts
On-site fun and activities for all ages!
You don’t have to go far to feel like you’ve gotten away. In fact, you don’t have to go far at all. Just bring your flip-flops, a sense of adventure, and maybe a few marshmallows.
Book Your Spot & Rediscover Virginia Beach
As locals, we often overlook how exciting it can be to live in Virginia Beach. This September, explore the places you always mean to. Be a Tourist in Your Own Home is more than a fun weekend—it’s a reminder that you don’t have to leave town to make memories that last.
Reserve your campsite today and treat yourself to the hometown getaway you didn’t know you needed.
That doesn't mean this area has to always be empty. When you start reviewing camping options, your history will display here to help compare sites and find the best stay. You will be able to share your stay information with friends or family and save it for a later time if you have a KOA Account.
Make checkout easy by booking all your reservations at once. Add your sites from different campgrounds into your shopping cart* and then choose checkout.