Like most states Virginia is a large state with many different regions, beach, mountains, city. Virginia Beach is a nice area to visit and some of the living areas are quite nice, there are problem areas also. Personally I do not like living too close to the beach as it is a huge tourist area and traffic/overcrowding are issues I do not like to deal with. We lived in the Chesapeake VA area instead. This allowed us to visit the beach as often as we wished but it was a much calmer area to live with quality schools and decent housing.
I am from Charlottesville, VA and I love Virginia. It truly is the transition state from the south to the north. Every area in VA is different. Virginia beach is a great city (it is the largest in VA) but traffic is a big issue there and Newport News is not the best area to be around in certain areas. Virginia beach has a decent night life if you like to go out and yet you are close to historical sites such as Yorktown and Williamsburg if you like history. You can travel to the blue ridge mountains if you so desire on a weekend or come to Charlottesville (the BEST city in VA) to visit Monticello. There is a reason they say Virginia is for lovers and you will see what I am talking about if you do move here.
I lived in VA for 4 years and loved it. If we had to go back there for a job I would be very happy to return.Virginia Beach is a long straight beach with warm Atlantic waters.I say this because in CA our beaches are more rocky and cold at 55 degrees year round.
I live in Virginia and its a good state. However, I have never been to VA beach but I ve had friends who ve gone and said its great. The beach I normally go to is Ocean City which is in Maryland and is only a few hours away and its awesomee.