Before anything else, we’ll be completely honest with you: Dating in Virginia Beach in today’s world is frustrating. Whether you’re hunting for a date in Virginia Beach or around the suburbs, many singles often ask themselves “How can I find a partner in Virginia Beach?”
The truth is singles in Virginia Beach do have lots of options for potential partners. The only problem is that finding singles around the city and beaches is a challenge thanks to the long-lasting effects of the pandemic, not to mention setting up a fun date, and ultimately finding a partner!
Is there a solution to this all-to-common problem for Virginia Beach singles? Of course, there is and HeartInsider is here to show you the way. With some minor planning and a reasonable amount of effort on your part, finding a date in Virginia Beach is actually much easier than in similarly-sized cities. The thing is, you will have to go out and explore the Virginia Beach dating scene. You will be surprised at what changing your entire approach and outlook can mean for boosting your dating life!
Continue reading this entire article to learn the most proven suggestions on where to meet Virginia Beach singles, great Virginia Beach date ideas to build rapport, Virginia Beach dating apps to boost your odds, and some of our favorite date spots around Virginia Beach.
Table of Contents
What Dating in Virginia Beach Is Like Right Now
Let's begin by setting some realistic expectations about what the Virginia Beach dating scene is currently like:
First, many singles choose Virginia Beach for its great climate and party atmosphere. Add to that an affordable standard of living and livability that’s higher than other cities in Virginia, and it’s no wonder why Virginia Beach is a hotspot. With many businesses and governmental entities here like Gold Key | PHR, Xerox, Venture Realty Group, and more, new people are calling Virginia Beach home for its access to a diverse set of economic opportunities.
There is also an astonishing amount of diversity in the type of partners you can find in Virginia Beach (especially when compared to Virginia), which makes finding exactly what you are looking for that much more attainable (that is, if you make the effort).
Here’s a breakdown of what Virginia Beach’s single demographics look like:
- Total population: 454,098
- Percentage: 30.70%
- Total singles: 139,408
- Single men: 66,259
- Single women: 73,149
Nearly 31% of the total population is looking for a partner, which means you’ve got pretty decent odds of finding an available partner. Now, we know what you’re probably thinking:
If there are so many singles out there in Virginia Beach, why am I still single?
Having plenty of dating options doesn't necessarily mean that dating in Virginia Beach is easy. In fact, it might be even harder with all the intense competition and the restrictions that come from the pandemic. However, keeping a realistic outlook is highly encouraged. Now, let’s look at where you can actually find someone to date in Virginia Beach.
Where to Meet Someone to Date in Virginia Beach
We’ll start off by mentioning that it is impossible to make a definitive list of all of the best places to find someone to date in Virginia Beach! There’s simply too much going on around town on any given day to choose from!
That being said, we’ll share some of the best places that make it much easier to meet Virginia Beach singles for long-term dating (we have a comprehensive article on where to find Virginia Beach hookups if that’s your end-game). These are places that tend to have the following criteria in common when you’re on the lookout for candidates for serious relationships:
- Lots of available singles
- Lively atmosphere/ambiance
- Easy to rub elbows with new people
- The environment is actually quiet enough to have a functional conversation
- Alcohol is always welcome and appreciated
- Doesn’t cost too much money
Now, before we get into some specific recommendations, let's briefly turn our attention to Virginia Beach dating apps:
Why you should be using at least one app
Are you using at least one dating app right now? If the answer is “no”, you are really missing out on who’s out there in Virginia Beach’s highly-competitive dating scene.
With the pandemic’s social-distancing guidelines still in effect for many people and those who have chosen to work from home (WFH), more Virginia Beach singles are relying on apps for their convenience. For better or worse, dating apps are here to stay.
Does this mean that dating apps in Virginia Beach are the only way to go? Of course not, but it can be a struggle if you have a busy schedule and not a lot of free time.
If you've struggled in the past with choosing which app works for you, check out our rankings of the best dating apps in Virginia Beach to find out which apps best fit the type of relationship and partner you’re looking for. From professionals, religious types, and those looking for a quick sexual rendezvous, there’s a wealth of choices of Virginia Beach dating apps at your disposal. If you're pressed for time and don’t want to read the full article, these apps are the best options:
- eHarmony is simply the best choice you can make among dating apps in Virginia Beach for long-term relationships. Out of all the dating apps and sites that are popular in Virginia Beach this is the best option for real relationships. Try eHarmony today for a free trial!
- AFF is the best option in Virginia Beach for finding casual fun right now. With some of the best features, you’ll find out there (like privacy and endless selection) as well as a lot of local users. When it comes to finding casual relationships this is the best option for most guys right now. Try AFFs free trial today!
At Heart Insider, we’ve tried out dozens of popular dating apps in Virginia Beach and learned what actually works out in the real dating world. Be sure to check out our rankings above for more info. Now, let's talk about our favorite singles bars and more around Virginia Beach.
The best singles bars in Virginia Beach
Using the criteria we listed in the previous section, HeartInsider has made a definitive list of the best singles bars in Virginia Beach. These bars offer the greatest chances for single people in Virginia Beach to interact, have a drink, and enjoy a comfortable ambiance that’s compatible with meeting new people:
- The Shack - 712 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
- Croc's 19th Street Bistro in Vibe Creative District - 620 19th St, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
- The Edge - 2108 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
- Just One More Bar and Grill in North Virginia Beach - 2548 Virginia Beach Blvd # 101, Virginia Beach, VA 23452
- H Bar - 2705 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
- Visit Sky Bar if you want to meet a Virginia Beach cougar - 3001 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
From choosing the right time of day to whether there’s live entertainment, or whether a popular bartender is working, your mileage will vary when selecting the right bar. So, don’t be afraid to try a place a couple of times to figure out the best times for that place. (If you have any suggestions about the best singles bars in Virginia Beach, drop a comment below.)
A few other great places to find a date in Virginia Beach
Not a fan of bars and alcohol? There are still plenty of other options for finding a date that doesn’t rely on getting drunk- even during Virginia Beach’s humid summers and chillier winter months.
Take a look at a few more options below that have gotten great results for Virginia Beach singles. Just keep in mind to search for many places as possible. Don't take things too seriously, and instead simply focus on having a good time. With this mindset, you’re more likely to find someone that you might not have run into elsewhere!
- Lynnhaven Coffee Company in Lynnhaven Colony - 2945 Shore Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
- Compass Rose coffee in Alanton - 1320 Mill Dam Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23454
- Granier European Bakery & Café in North Virginia Beach - 1544 Laskin Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
- Roast Rider in North Virginia Beach - 1554 Laskin Rd #116, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
- Three Ships Coffee Roasters - 607 19th St, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
- Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, or The Fresh Market are great choices to cross paths with attractive people in Virginia Beach that shop upscale and organic!
- Meetup groups - There are plenty of groups in Virginia Beach that are full of eager singles looking to share their interests, hobbies, outdoor activities, and even singles mixers
- Again, apps and dating sites are a good option for just about anyone (check out the best dating sites in Virginia Beach here)
The Apps Dating Coaches Recommend Most For Dating in Virginia Beach
Meet more women and go on more dates by using technology to your advantage. These are the dating apps that we’ve learned are incredibly popular with women. Try out at least one of them and you might just find yourself overwhelmed with matches and dates. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!
Site Our Experience Our Rating Free Trial Link 
Experience Highlights Try eHarmony 
Experience Highlights Try AFF For Free 
Tinder Highlights Try Tinder
What about speed dating in Virginia Beach
Speed dating in Virginia Beach has become an extremely popular choice ever since the start of the pandemic and up to the present. With virtual speed dating now also an option as well as the traditional in-person events, speed dating can help you meet plenty of singles in a relatively short amount of time.
If you're short on free time and have a little spare cash on hand, speed dating in Virginia Beach is perhaps the most efficient way to meet a handful of single people in the space of an hour-plus. Events typically cost anywhere from $30 - $100+ to attend, with the pricier events yielding better clientele and more amenities (like refreshments). And because the time is guaranteed for each conversation, you’ll at least know you have some sort of shot (as compared to getting ignored in a loud bar setting, for example).
Here’s how most speed dating events in Virginia Beach go:
- First, you will preregister online. You’ll receive the rules of the event, as well as what you should expect (ie. dress code, code of conduct, etc.)
- On the day of the event, you show up at the venue. Many bars rent out rooms for speed dating events so there’s some expectation of privacy (or at least minimize distractions).
- Now that everyone’s arrived, the host makes an announcement about how the event will proceed. These mini-dates last approximately 5 minutes, where participants make conversation and determine if there’s any chemistry for compatibility.
- Once 5 minutes is over, a bell sounds indicating the men to move to the next table where a woman remains seated (sometimes women swap seats just so they don’t get tired).
- This 5-minute process repeats until every participant gets a chance to meet all of the attendees.
As the event progresses, both participants make a list of the people they want to see again. If both singles want to see each other again, the speed dating organizer gives you the other match’s contact info (usually by the next day). Pretty simple, right?
If this sounds like a fun, efficient way to meet available singles in Virginia Beach, the following are the best Virginia Beach speed dating groups worth your time:
Now that we’ve covered the basics about finding a date, let's shift our focus on how to have a great date in Virginia Beach!
Our Best Date Ideas in Virginia Beach - and Why They’re Great
Once you've met someone who agreed to a date, it’s time to plan what you’re going to do to create chemistry (or discover why they’re a poor match). Many people who feel they want a safe choice often default to the unfortunately all-too-common “dinner and a movie”. Big mistake for dating in Virginia Beach!
Here’s why:
- A dinner date between two relative strangers more often than not turns into a pseudo-interview. Plus, eating makes people lethargic, and don’t even get us started on what happens when it’s time to decide who has to pay the bill!
- A movie is a passive activity and doesn’t involve any conversation until afterward. You’ll have to sit still for 90 minutes or more, which can be awkward if both of you don’t feel comfortable with one another yet. And if the movie stinks or one person doesn’t enjoy it, it’ll feel like a waste of time.
We do have a couple of rules that serve as a guide for a date night in Virginia Beach. A great date idea in Virginia Beach tends to be one that:
- Doesn’t require traveling far distances across town or between venues
- Focuses on new, fun, and interesting experiences
- Things are happening around you that make great conversation topics
- Doesn't involve sitting for prolonged periods of time
- Requires some physical activity or movement
- Isn't too expensive or requires expensive equipment to participate
- Doesn't last for hours (you can bail if things aren’t working out)
- Enables you both to feel completely at ease and comfortable
- Involves a little friendly competition
Here’s a useful tip: Try to get an idea of what your date enjoys doing beforehand. For example, if you know your date is studying art, going to a museum is probably a solid choice.
Just remember to keep an open mind and do things that can potentially create a memorable experience that you both share (even if it goes poorly and you can laugh about it later). To get started, here are some great dating ideas in Virginia Beach:
- Cool off and go ice skating
- Have fun with a few competitive rounds of miniature golf
- Cut a rug at a beginner’s group dance class
- Work on your skills at an archery range
- Work on your golf swing at a driving range
- Hit up the wildlife refuge or zoo
- Check out a street fair during the warmer months
- Explore the many booths at a local farmer's market
- Try your hand at ax throwing
- Test your quick-thinking skills in an escape room
- Go rollerskating to show off your moves
- Bring your dog along for a walk
- Take a painting or drawing class
- Explore museums and botanical gardens
Use this list to plan a date in Virginia Beach or at least get an idea of what other singles in Virginia Beach are actually doing on their dates. Each of the listed activities doesn’t require that much physical skills to enjoy (or at least attempt), so there’s basically no pressure to be good at any of them. Instead, just focus on having a good time!
The first date idea that we always recommend
The ideas above can be great first dates but we have a better idea. When people ask our team what the best first date in Virginia Beach is we always tell them the same thing, meet up at a laid-back lounge or coffee shop and get to know each other a bit.
A full-blown date is a lot of pressure and isn't cheap. It takes time to plan and might involve you taking a bus around town to get there. Before you make that kind of investment you want to know that you and your interest have at least some level of compatibility. The last thing you want is to get stuck for hours on a date that you knew 10 minutes in, wasn't going anywhere.
Instead, tell them that you're really busy but would love to meet up for a drink to get to know each other a bit. If things go well you can always extend the date to one of the activities above. If it doesn't, you haven't lost much. This also takes a lot of pressure off both of you so you can both relax and be yourselves.
Best Date Bars in Virginia Beach (Especially for Fun First Dates)
Virginia Beach is renowned for its wonderful bar scene. With something for every person’s preference, choosing a bar is great for a memorable date. Whether you want to spend some time in a hip lounge or enjoy a one-and-done before going on to the next adventure, Virginia Beach’s bar scene offers a lot of options when it comes to planning your next date.
With this in mind, finding a great date bar in Virginia Beach simply comes down to what type of night you’re looking to have. Whether you hit up a dive bar to enjoy a fun jukebox, an elegant cocktail lounge that’s perfect for showing off your fancy new wardrobe, or even enjoy competitive gaming at a “barcade”, Virginia Beach has plenty of variety to impress your date.
Take a look at the list below, as we’ll focus on Virginia Beach bars with the best drink specials, live entertainment, and more:
- Dave & Buster’s (in Lynnhaven Mall) - 701 Lynnhaven Pkwy Suite G19, Virginia Beach, VA 23452
- Aqua Social Club - 705 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
- BeachHouse 757 - 1910 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
- Bayside Bar & Grill in Lynnhaven Colony - 2973 Shore Dr Ste 106, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
- Miss Kitty's Village Inn in Pocahontas Village - 660 N Witchduck Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23462
- Aqua Lounge in Pocahontas Village - 4453 Bonney Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23452
- Twist Martini & Associates in Pocahontas Village - 4517 Commerce St, Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Virginia Beach’s incredible bar scene and city layout (boardwalk, anyone?) mean that you’ll find plenty of bars within walking distance of one another. If you feel the energy of the date is starting to slip or you want to find a different vibe to shake things up, don’t be afraid to barhop or take a Lyft/Uber to another side of town. Your date will enjoy the spontaneity and it will reinvigorate their impression of you!
Best Date Night Restaurants in Virginia Beach that Should Be Your First Choice
Time to learn a crucial secret for dating in Virginia Beach: Skip the traditional “dinner date” until you’ve had a few dates.
As we mentioned earlier, dinner dates have the potential to be pretty dull and uninspiring. Plus, there’s always the issue of who pays for the check - something you probably want to avoid until you actually enjoy a relative stranger’s company.
Nevertheless, if you’ve got a decent rapport going and are already having fun, we've got some solid restaurant choices in Virginia Beach that offer great ambiance and affordable plates:
- Pacifica - 214 40th St, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
- Mannino's - 3420 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
- Shoreline Grill - 2809 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
- Commune - 501 Virginia Beach Blvd suite b, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
- Hearth Wood Fired Cuisine & Craft Beer - 605 Virginia Beach Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
- Side Street Cantina - 205 11th St, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
More Date Spots in Virginia Beach We Love
Dating today is more than just eating some food, having drinks, and people-watching. Successful dating in Virginia Beach means actively enjoying each other’s company in all the hotspots that the city has to offer. Based on our experience and in-depth research, singles in Virginia Beach have had great dates at the following date spots in Virginia Beach - and we're confident you can enjoy the same results:
- Go ice skating at Iceland Family Skating Center
- Visit the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art and the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum for one-of-a-kind exhibits and events
- Check out some fascinating wildlife at the Virginia Zoo
- Try a group dance lesson at Just Dance On - Ballroom and Latin Dance Studio
- Shoot some targets together at Oceana Outdoor Archery
- Stroll through vendor booths at the Boardwalk Art Fair
- Shop for fresh groceries and taste homemade food at the Virginia Beach Farmers Market
- Solve a puzzle at ESCAPE! Nightmare Mansion
- Catch live music and more at Sandler Center for the Performing Arts
Note: Weather is certainly a factor in which activities are the best for a successful date. Because of Virginia Beach's unique coastal climate, make sure to take a look at weather forecasts before plotting your next date - or at least have a couple of backups in case the weather takes a turn for the worst.
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