Value has always mattered to Virginia Beach’s Canadian guests. “That’s why our Loonie Savers Pass has been a long-time fan favourite,” Nancy Helman, Director, Virginia Beach CVB, tells Travelweek in this edition of Take 5.
Helman also wants to reassure Canadians that they’re very much welcome in Virginia Beach: “Our city has a long-standing connection with Canadian travellers. There’s real affection here for the guests who return each season, and a sense of familiarity that goes both ways.”
1. Canadians have always loved visiting the U.S., but these are challenging times. What is the message from Virginia Beach for Canadians who are reluctant to cross the border now?
“We know many Canadians have been reconsidering travel to the United States. That hesitation is real, and we do not take it lightly.
“What I want Canadians to know is this: Virginia Beach is, and always has been, a destination where you are genuinely welcome. It is safe, relaxed and offers the kind of travel experience people are looking for right now. It’s one that feels familiar, yet full of fresh discoveries.
“Our city has a long-standing connection with Canadian travellers. There’s real affection here for the guests who return each season, and a sense of familiarity that goes both ways. Whether you have visited before or are considering it for the first time, Virginia Beach offers space to slow down, enjoy the coast and feel a little more at ease.
“It is easy to reach, whether by road or air, and just as easy to settle into once you arrive. Whether it’s your first visit or your 15th, we’re always glad to welcome you to the coast!”
Virginia Beach’s oceanfront views beckon (photo courtesy Virginia Beach CVB)
2. Virginia Beach’s Loonie Savers Pass is a great way for Canadian visitors to save and helps with the exchange rate, especially since so many travellers are very budget-aware right now. Can you provide a snapshot outline of the pass and its benefits for any travel advisors who want to pass the word on to their clients?
“Value has always mattered, especially to our Canadian guests. That’s why our Loonie Savers Pass has been a long-time fan favourite. It was created specifically for Canadian travellers, and continues to be our way of saying both thank you and welcome back.
“The 2025 pass offers curated discounts at hotels, restaurants, attractions and outfitters across Virginia Beach. It’s free and easy to use. Travellers simply show the pass at participating businesses to redeem their selected offers.
“To get started, sign up at VisitVirginiaBeach.com. Users receive the pass instantly by text and email, and there’s no app to download. Just save it to your phone for one-tap access.
“For travel advisors, it’s a dependable way to offer clients more, especially those weighing multiple U.S. beach destinations.”
3. For Canadians who haven’t visited in a while — or maybe just want a new take on a favourite destination — can you let us know about any new attractions in Virginia Beach?
“Virginia Beach continues to evolve, with new events and attractions adding energy and depth to the visitor experience.
“A multi-year agreement with Jackalope, the Canadian-founded action sports festival held annually in Montreal, brings skateboarding, BMX, base jumping, and live music to the Oceanfront each summer.
“In 2026, the city will also become a long-term host of the Super Girl Festival Series, the world’s largest platform dedicated to empowering women in surf, music, fitness, and culture, anchored by the top-ranked women’s surf competition. Launching over Labour Day weekend, the free multi-day event will feature a surf competition, live concerts, wellness classes, and mentorship programs, making it a major new addition to the city’s annual event calendar.
“Atlantic Park, a new US$350 million entertainment district backed by a public-private partnership, is set to open soon near the Oceanfront with a surf lagoon, live performance venue, restaurants, and retail.
“Owl Creek Landing is now open behind the Virginia Aquarium, offering families a new outdoor adventure space with a 65-foot spiral tower, four treehouses, suspended walkways, and forest trails.
“Visitors looking to explore beyond the beach can head to the ViBe Creative District, which continues to grow with galleries, markets, public art, and independent cafés. Nature lovers can take advantage of expanded access at First Landing State Park and Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, while the city’s culinary scene is drawing attention with chef-led restaurants, oyster farms, and a growing craft beer community.”
Virginia Beach’s Boardwalk stretches for three miles with shops, entertainment and more (photo courtesy Virginia Beach CVB)
4. Speaking of what’s new, are there new or recently renovated hotels agents should know about?
“Yes, the hotel landscape in Virginia Beach continues to evolve, giving travellers even more choice in where to stay. Some highlights include …
“Spark by Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront is a newly renovated, oceanfront property that debuted in July as part of Hilton’s premium economy brand. Located on the Boardwalk, it’s a smart, budget-friendly option in the heart of the resort area.
“Crowne Plaza Virginia Beach Town Center completed a full renovation in January 2025. The hotel now features refreshed guest rooms, a modernized lobby and lounge, an upgraded pool and event space. It’s a strong option for travellers staying in the bustling Town Center district.
“Courtyard Virginia Beach Oceanfront / South 25th Street completed a major refresh in May 2025. All 141 oceanfront rooms and suites were updated, and improvements were made to the lobby, dining areas, indoor pool, fitness centre and meeting space.
“Moxy Virginia Beach Oceanfront, which opened in June 2023, is a boutique beachfront hotel with a social, energetic vibe. With stylish communal areas, a restaurant, outdoor pool, and a fitness centre, it appeals to couples, younger travellers, and small groups looking for something with personality.
“Across Virginia Beach, travellers will find more variety than ever, from full-service resorts to smaller hotels with a unique sense of place.”
A multi-year agreement with Jackalope, the Canadian-founded action sports festival held annually in Montreal, brings skateboarding, BMX, base jumping, and live music to the Oceanfront each summer (photo credit Jeremie Perreault)
5. Why are travel advisors important to Virginia Beach’s outreach in the Canadian market, and also what resources does Virginia Beach make available to the trade?
“Travel advisors are essential partners for Virginia Beach. They help translate the appeal of our coastal city into real bookings by offering trusted guidance and personal service.
“In a crowded market, it’s advisors who highlight what makes our destination stand out, a genuine connection with Canada, a laid-back atmosphere, and experiences that go beyond the beach.
“To support their work, we offer a range of trade resources on our website VisitVirginiaBeach.com, including …
- Access to digital marketing materials such as imagery, videos and information about the Loonie Savers Pass
- Regular training opportunities and webinars tailored to the Canadian market
- A dedicated travel trade portal with itineraries, product updates and seasonal news
“The goal is to make it easy for travel advisors to recommend Virginia Beach with confidence, knowing their clients will feel welcome, supported and well looked after once they arrive.”
For more details about travel to Virginia Beach, see VisitVirginiaBeach.com
The free multi-day Super Girl Festival featuring a surf competition and much more is coming to Virginia Beach (photo courtesy Virginia Beach CVB)
