Buried Beneath the Boardwalk: Neptune Ghouls and Ghost Tours

If you’re in Virginia Beach and craving a different kind of sightseeing—a night filled with ghost stories, eerie legends, and historic secrets—Buried Beneath the Boardwalk by US Ghost Adventures might just be your cup of midnight tea. This one-hour walking tour takes you through the shadowy corners of the city’s historic district, revealing the ghostly tales that have haunted locals for generations.

What makes this tour truly appealing? First, you get the chance to hear well-researched, authentic stories from a knowledgeable local guide, which adds a layer of credibility and connection. Second, the tour’s atmosphere—dimly lit streets, the glow of lanterns, and a small, intimate group—sets the perfect scene for a spooky evening. On the downside, some travelers have noted that the tour can feel a bit short and that the stories may lean more toward history than spine-tingling fright. Still, if you’re a history buff or someone intrigued by ghostly legends, this experience offers a unique peek into Virginia Beach’s darker stories. It’s best suited for those who enjoy storytelling over scares, with an interest in local lore and historic architecture.

Contents hide

1 Exploring Virginia Beach’s Haunted Past: What to Expect

2 Who Should Consider This Tour?

3 The Sum Up

4 FAQ

Key Points

Authentic Local Guides: Learn about Virginia Beach’s haunted history from knowledgeable, credible storytellers.
Historic & Haunted Sites: Experience the city’s dark past as you stroll through iconic landmarks and lesser-known corners.
Atmospheric Setting: The walk takes place after-hours, with dim lighting and a lantern-carrying guide, heightening the spooky vibe.
Value for Money: At $24, it offers a compact but interesting hour of entertainment, especially for those interested in ghost stories and local history.
Accessibility & Practical Info: The tour is wheelchair accessible, meets at the King Neptune Statue, and is suitable for most ages—though not for those with mobility issues.
Mixed Reviews on Content & Delivery: Some find the storytelling engaging, while others feel it could be more dynamic or include more stops with sights related to the stories.

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Exploring Virginia Beach’s Haunted Past: What to Expect

The tour begins at the iconic King Neptune Statue on Atlantic Avenue, where your guide will be easy to spot, sporting a lantern and a US Ghost Adventures T-shirt. Arriving 15 minutes early ensures you’re ready to go without missing any of the spooky storytelling. Once underway, you’ll wander through the historic district, which offers a fascinating backdrop of old buildings, cobblestone streets, and seaside charm—only now, with an eerie twist.

The highlight is hearing stories of pirates, witches, sirens, and shipwreck ghosts that have left their marks on the town. For example, one story recounts the Ghosts of 1891 Shipwreck, revealing why certain spots are believed to be haunted. As you walk, your guide will share well-researched, credible history intertwined with local legends, making the experience both educational and spooky.

A particularly praised aspect is the guide’s knowledge—“William was very knowledgeable, TMI at times,” one reviewer mentioned, highlighting how some guides provide detailed context that enriches the ghost stories. Conversely, some travelers note that certain parts of the tour feel more like a history lesson—”more history than ghosty”—but for many, that’s part of the charm.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Virginia Beach.

The Stops and Stories

While the tour covers several sites, some reviews suggest that the stops may not always be directly linked to the stories, which could detract from the immersive feeling. For example, a reviewer remarked that most stops on the tour didn’t have to do with the stories and that the tour mostly took place along the boardwalk. Still, the overall experience remains engaging, especially for those who appreciate historical context mixed with ghostly tales.

The tour also emphasizes authenticity—stories are based on credible research and local legends rather than sensationalized horror. For example, tales of undead witches and murderous sirens are recounted with a dash of theatrical flair, yet grounded in local lore.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a group usually kept small, the atmosphere feels personal. The guide’s tone, whether soft-spoken or lively, shapes your experience. Some reviews note that guides can vary—“Justin was excellent,” says one guest—so your experience might depend on who leads your tour. The after-hours setting, combined with the lantern-lit walk, makes for an atmospheric evening that’s perfect for a relaxing, spooky stroll rather than a scream-inducing horror show.

Price and Value

At $24 per person, this tour offers good value for an hour of entertainment that mixes history with ghost stories. The price includes the guided walk, the credible storytelling, and the chance to explore Virginia Beach from a different perspective. Keep in mind that tips for the guide are not included, which is customary and appreciated if you enjoyed the experience.

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Accessibility and Practical Tips

Since the tour is wheelchair accessible and takes place in the evening, it’s suitable for most visitors, provided they can walk about a mile. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather—an outdoor walk along the historic district can be chilly or damp depending on the season.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ghost tour is best suited for history enthusiasts and curious travelers who enjoy storytelling and local legends over pure scares. It’s ideal for small groups, families, or couples looking for a fun, atmospheric way to experience Virginia Beach after dark. However, it’s not recommended for those with mobility issues or anyone seeking a highly frightening experience—this tour leans more toward interesting tales than scream-inducing shocks.

The Sum Up

Buried Beneath the Boardwalk by US Ghost Adventures offers a well-rounded glimpse into Virginia Beach’s haunted corners. It balances credible storytelling with a charming setting, making it a worthwhile activity for those interested in the paranormal, local history, or simply a different way to see the city after sunset. The guide’s knowledge and the authentic stories are the tour’s strongest points, providing genuine value for the modest price.

While it may not satisfy die-hard horror fans or those craving a high-adrenaline scare, this tour is a solid choice for anyone wanting an atmospheric, fun, and spooky stroll through Virginia Beach’s mysterious past. It’s a pleasant, intriguing experience that will leave you with tales to tell—and maybe a ghostly curiosity or two.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour is exactly one hour long, making it a compact but engaging experience perfect for an evening outing.

Where does the tour meet?
All tours meet at the King Neptune Statue on Atlantic Avenue. The guide will be carrying a lantern and wearing a US Ghost Adventures T-shirt, so you should spot them easily.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s focus on ghost stories and historic sites suggests it’s suitable for most ages, though very young children might not find it as engaging.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Since the walk is outdoors, dress for the weather.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is wheelchair accessible. However, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or anyone unable to walk about a mile.

Is tipping the guide expected?
Tips are not included in the price, so if you enjoyed the tour, a tip for the guide is customary but not mandatory.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour available rain or shine?
Yes, the tour runs regardless of weather conditions, so dress accordingly and be prepared for outdoor walking.

Whether you’re a local curious about the city’s darker stories or a visitor seeking a quirky alternative to traditional sightseeing, Buried Beneath the Boardwalk offers an engaging, authentic look into Virginia Beach’s haunted history—no tricks, just stories.