Sail250 Virginia: Tall Ships Are Coming to Virginia Beach

This June, the largest gathering of tall ships our region has seen in decades will anchor right off our shores. Sixty international vessels. Twenty-plus countries. Ten thousand sailors. And it all starts in the Lynnhaven Roads off Shore Drive before sailing into Norfolk in one of the most spectacular maritime parades the East Coast has ever hosted.

If you have ever wanted to be in the middle of a once in a generation event, this is the week to come to Virginia Beach. Here is what is happening, where to watch, and where to stay so you do not miss a thing.

What is Sail250 Virginia?

Sail250 Virginia is the official maritime celebration for America's 250th anniversary. Think traditional tall sailing ships from around the world, naval vessels, international crews, the US Navy's Blue Angels conducting a flyover during the Parade of Sail, and free public events stretching from Virginia Beach across the bridge to Norfolk. It is the largest gathering of tall ships our region has seen in decades, and it is happening once.

Virginia Beach plays a starring role because the Lynnhaven Roads anchorage, right off the Lesner Bridge, is where the fleet gathers before the big parade.

The Best Spots to Watch from Virginia Beach

Here is where being on the Virginia Beach side of the bay is a real advantage. While Norfolk gets the festivals and the deck tours, Virginia Beach gets the rare and beautiful sight of the entire fleet at anchor.

Where to Stay for Sail250

A lot of guests are surprised to learn how spread out Virginia Beach really is. The Oceanfront is one experience. Shore Drive and the bay side are another world entirely, quieter, more local, and closer to the Lynnhaven anchorage where Sail250 is happening. Picking a Transcendent Stays property near the bay side or with easy Shore Drive access is the move for this week. A few favorites to consider:

The Atlantic Park Lofts give you a modern, walkable home base in the heart of the ViBe District with quick access up Shore Drive to the anchorage. Steps from the Dome, the surf park, and the best of the city's most exciting new neighborhood.

The Inn at Old Beach offers boutique suites in the heart of the Oceanfront, perfect for guests who want to split their time between the tall ships and the boardwalk. A short drive up to Shore Drive puts you right at the viewing spots.

Coastal Retreat sleeps ten across four bedrooms, so it works beautifully for families or groups traveling in for the event. A six minute walk to the beach and easy access to everything happening that week.

Bayberry House is our luxury standout for the week. Modern, spacious, and steps from the beach, it's the kind of property where everyone in the group has room to spread out after a long day on the water.