Virginia Beach’s Seasonal Bounty: Seafood & Harvests to Savor
One of the best parts about visiting Virginia isn’t just the stunning beaches and beautiful views—it’s the chance to taste the season. Late summer and early fall bring a true feast to our region, from freshly caught seafood to locally grown fruits and vegetables at their peak. Whether you’re dining at a waterfront restaurant or picking up local produce to cook in your vacation rental’s kitchen, here’s what’s in season right now.
Fresh Catch: Seafood in Season
Virginia Beach has long been known for its incredible seafood, and this time of year offers plenty to savor.
Blue Crabs – Sweet and tender, blue crabs are a summer and early fall favorite. Many local restaurants serve them steamed with Old Bay or in traditional crab cakes.
Flounder - Mild, sweet, and delicate, with a tender, flaky, and sometimes slightly firm texture that is not "fishy" when fresh. Its subtle flavor makes it very versatile, allowing it to be paired with various seasonings and cooking methods like baking, frying, or serving raw
Oysters – Virginia oysters are world-famous, and fall marks the beginning of peak oyster season. Whether roasted, fried, or raw on the half-shell, they’re a must-try.
Rockfish (Striped Bass) – As the waters cool, rockfish becomes more plentiful, offering a mild, flaky fillet that’s perfect for grilling.
Clams & Scallops – Available year-round but especially abundant in late summer, these shellfish are a highlight of seafood stews and pasta dishes.
Pro tip: Check out a local seafood market (like Welton’s next door to our building), grab a dozen crabs or oysters, and host your own feast right at your rental.
Just Picked: Late Summer & Early Fall Crops
Our coastal climate also makes Coastal Virginia a rich farming region, and this season brings plenty of fresh flavors to enjoy.
Sweet Corn – Still in season through early fall, local corn is at its peak sweetness—perfect for a beach barbecue.
Tomatoes – Juicy, ripe, and flavorful, local tomatoes are perfect for sandwiches, salads, or homemade sauces.
Peppers & Eggplant – You’ll find beautiful late-summer peppers and eggplants in local markets, ideal for roasting or grilling.
Pumpkins & Winter Squash – As September turns to October, pumpkins, butternut squash, and acorn squash start making their way to market stands.
Apples – Just a short drive inland, you’ll find orchards full of crisp Virginia apples, ready for snacking, cider, or pie.
Be sure to check out the Old Beach Farmers Market, occurring every Saturday morning or take a short drive to Cullipher Farm in the Pungo district for fun on the farm!
Where to Find It
Farmers’ Markets – Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and surrounding towns host bustling farmers’ markets where you can pick up fresh, local ingredients.
Seafood Shacks & Markets – Don’t miss the roadside stands and local fish markets—many sell right off the boat for the freshest catch.
Festivals – Fall in Coastal Virginia is festival season! Oyster roasts, seafood festivals, and harvest celebrations are great ways to experience local flavors.
Taste the Season During Your Stay
Whether you’re cracking open a bushel of blue crabs, sipping on fresh-pressed apple cider, or grilling local veggies on the deck, Coastal Virginia offers unforgettable flavors this time of year. Your vacation isn’t just about where you stay—it’s also about what you taste. So bring your appetite, explore the local markets, and savor the bounty of our coast. Explore our selection of Virginia Beach vacation rentals now!