Virginia Beach offers a wonderful variety of water sports, starting, of course, with its fine-sand beach. But note that between Memorial Day and Labor Day, no ball playing, fishing, or other sports are allowed on the beach between 2nd Street and 42nd Street from 10am to 5pm.

Dolphin-Watching & Splashing with the Seals

Provided you're not overly prone to seasickness, one of the most interesting things to do here is to take an offshore dolphin-watching cruise given by the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center (daily June-Sept, Fri and Sat in spring and fall). The center also has whale-watching cruises in winter (also offshore), sea life collecting trips in summer, and creek cruises May through October. The trips cost $12 to $18 for adults, $10 to $16 for children younger than 12. The boats leave from Rudee Inlet. Call the aquarium or check its website for schedules (tel. 757/425-3474). To make reservations, which are required, call (tel. 757/437-2628).

Another marvelous experience at the center, especially for children, is its Harbor Seal Splash. Accompanied by an animal care specialist, you actually get into a pool and splash around with the resident harbor seals and participate in a training session. The 2-hour sessions take place April through September. If you can afford it, the $125 per person is worth it. Reservations are required.