Introduction: Driving in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is one of the busiest cities in Virginia, especially during peak tourist season. While its coastal location and attractions make it a great destination, navigating traffic, **tourist hotspots**, and **tunnel systems** can be challenging. This guide will help you drive more efficiently in and around Virginia Beach.
Understanding Virginia Beach Traffic Patterns
Traffic in Virginia Beach varies throughout the year, with **summer months (May-August)** being the most congested. Key areas prone to delays include:
- Interstate 264 (I-264): Main route leading into the Oceanfront, prone to backups, especially on weekends.
- Pacific Avenue & Atlantic Avenue: The busiest streets in the resort area, filled with tourists and pedestrians.
- Virginia Beach Boulevard (US-58): A heavily traveled route for shopping, dining, and business traffic.
- Laskin Road (US-58): Connects to the Oceanfront and is known for congestion during rush hour.
- Shore Drive (US-60): A scenic route but with frequent stop-and-go traffic due to beachgoers.
Best Shortcuts and Alternative Routes
To bypass heavy traffic, consider using these alternate routes:
- Holland Road: Avoids congestion on Virginia Beach Boulevard and provides a smooth route west.
- Independence Boulevard: A faster route for reaching **Chesapeake and Norfolk** without using I-264.
- General Booth Boulevard: A good alternative to Pacific Avenue for accessing Sandbridge Beach.
- Princess Anne Road: Useful for getting to southern parts of Virginia Beach without using major highways.
Navigating Virginia Beach Tunnels
Virginia Beach is connected to the Hampton Roads area through multiple tunnels, which can experience significant congestion and delays:
- Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT) – I-64: One of the worst traffic bottlenecks in the state, especially during rush hours.
- Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge-Tunnel (MMMBT) – I-664: A less congested alternative to HRBT.
- Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel (CBBT) – US-13: A scenic but costly ($14-$18 toll) route connecting the Eastern Shore.
Tips for Tunnel Driving:
- Keep headlights on while inside tunnels.
- Be prepared for sudden slowdowns and lane restrictions.
- Avoid changing lanes in tunnels for safety.
Where to Park in Virginia Beach
Parking can be a challenge, especially in the resort area. Here are the best options:
- Oceanfront Parking: Public garages and lots are available near **19th Street, 25th Street, and Rudee Loop.**
- Street Parking: Limited metered parking is available, but be aware of time restrictions.
- Sandbridge Beach: Free parking is available at Little Island Park, but it fills up quickly.
- Town Center: Free and paid parking garages are available for shopping and dining.
Safety Tips for Driving in Virginia Beach
- Be cautious of **pedestrians and cyclists** along Atlantic Avenue and the Boardwalk.
- Use **navigation apps** to check real-time traffic updates, especially for tunnel congestion.
- Watch for **frequent lane closures and construction** near the resort district.
- Avoid peak traffic times (4 PM – 7 PM) if possible.
Improve Your Driving Skills in Virginia
Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, improving your driving skills can help you navigate Virginia Beach safely and efficiently. Consider taking a **Virginia driver improvement course** to reduce points on your license and lower insurance rates.
Click here to learn more about DriveSafe Online’s Virginia Driver Improvement Course.