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| Location | Pros | Cons | Notes |
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| Norfolk International Airport (ORF) |
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| Virginia Beach City Locations |
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On average, car rentals in Virginia Beach cost around $66 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $28 per day.
Compare airport vs city pickups: ORF airport adds hefty facility fees. A quick rideshare to a Virginia Beach Boulevard office can knock 10-20 % off the base rate.
Rent only when you need wheels: Staying at the Oceanfront? Skip day-to-day parking costs and grab a car just for outer-area trips. Pick up early morning, return that night, and pay for 1 day instead of the whole week.
Time matters: In peak July-Aug weekends cars sell out, so lock something in early; the rest of the year watch prices and re-book if they drop. Shifting pickup to a Monday or midweek afternoon often lowers the rate.
Mind the toll math: Skip pricey daily toll devices unless you're crossing the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel or VA-168 multiple times. Pay cash/card at booths or settle online afterward.
Dodge upsells: Bring/buy cheap beach chairs and coolers at local stores instead of paying rental counter "extras."
Fuel up inland: Stations on Laskin Rd or Nimmo Pkwy are usually 15-20¢/gal cheaper than pump prices near the boardwalk or airport.
| Location | Rates | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oceanfront Municipal Lots/Garages | Paid hourly with daily maximum (varies by season) | 9th St., 19th St. and 31st St. garages recommended |
| Oceanfront Street Meters | Metered | Enforced 24/7 in summer; use Passport Parking app |
| Residential Streets near Oceanfront | Permit only | Avoid without proper permits |
| Town Center Area | Free period available with daily maximum thereafter | Many garages free evenings during events |
| Off-season (Oct-Apr) | Free or reduced rates | Many municipal lots/garages and street meters not enforced |
Speed limits:
Get a rental car so you can visit:
Sandbridge Beach – coast, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Cape Henry & First Landing State Park – lighthouse, trails, Chesapeake Bay
Williamsburg & Busch Gardens
Outer Banks, North Carolina – beaches, islands, Wright Brothers sites

Do I need a car for my entire Virginia Beach vacation?
If you're staying at the Oceanfront and don't plan to go far, you might only need a car for a few day trips. You can easily walk around the resort area or ride the VB Wave trolley.
What's the best type of vehicle for a beach vacation?
A midsize sedan gives you a good mix of comfort and easy parking. An SUV will give you more room for beach gear, but you might find it harder to park in busy spots. Convertibles are a popular choice, but they have very little trunk space.
How do I handle electronic tolls in a rental car?
Most rental companies offer a toll program for a daily fee that lets you use E-ZPass lanes. If you say no to the program, you can still pay your toll bills online within five days for roads like the Elizabeth River Tunnels. At the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel and Chesapeake Expressway, you can pay with cash or a credit card at the booth.
Is parking difficult at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront?
In the busy summer season, especially on weekends, parking spots fill up fast. You should use the city garages, get there early or think about staying at a hotel that includes parking.
Can I drive on the beach in Virginia Beach?
No, you are not allowed to drive on the public beaches in Virginia Beach. Besides, most rental car contracts don't let you drive off-road.
What's the best route to the Outer Banks from Virginia Beach?
To get there the fastest way, you should take I-64 E to VA-168 S (this is the Chesapeake Expressway, a toll road) into NC and then US-158 E. Plan for the drive to take over two hours and you should expect heavy traffic on summer Saturdays.
How do I avoid getting stuck in beach traffic?
You should travel in the early morning (before 9 AM) or later in the evening (after 7 PM), particularly on weekends. You can also try other routes, like taking Shore Drive instead of I-264 if it makes sense for your trip.