A recipe for a Creamsicle Crush inspired by our time in Virginia Beach Oceanfront! This fun and refreshing cocktail has a blend of orange juice, vanilla vodka, and orange liqueur.
Disclaimer: Consume alcoholic beverages at your own risk and liability. This recipe is intended only for those over the age of 21 (in the United States). Please drink responsibly.
Virginia Beach
Evan’s birthday happened to be during spring break this year, so he heavily assisted in the planning on where we would go and what we would do.
His overall request was that he wanted to wake up on the morning he turned 13 and see the ocean. After narrowing down a few ideas, we ultimately decided on Virginia Beach.
Virginia Beach is a coastal city situated along the Atlantic Ocean at the entrance to the Chesapeake Bay. It is home to a diverse assortment of both coastal cuisine and some incredible international restaurants, coffee shops, markets, parks, and a boardwalk on the beach. It also happens to be the most populous city of Virginia.
Our spring break was mid-April this year. Not quite to peak season (Memorial Day to Labor Day), temperatures can vary wildly and be very unpredictable during this time. I actually enjoyed this as crowds weren’t as high as they can be during the summer and it was a bit more quiet around our resort.
Temperatures for us ranged between 55-70˚F (13-21˚C). The kids have been used to the cooler temperatures of the Pacific Ocean from our time living in the South Bay, so this didn’t deter them from the beach or even the outdoor pool at all. Of course, it was warmer the week prior and shortly after.
Today, I will be covering some of the spots we visited along the Virginia Beach Oceanfront with another post soon of the areas inland.
Getting to Virginia Beach
We drove to Virginia Beach from Northern Virginia and it took around 3 1/2 hours with minimal traffic. From Washington DC, Virginia Beach is roughly 210 miles (338 kilometers) south. It is 60 miles (97 kilometers) southeast of Williamsburg and 107 miles (172 kilometers) from Richmond.
If arriving by air, Norfolk International Airport (ORF) is 18 miles (29 kilometers) to the west and Newport News-Williamsburg International Airport (PHF) is 44 miles (71 kilometers) northwest.
Cape Henry Lighthouse
We arrived a bit early for check in while trying to avoid traffic, so we first stopped by Cape Henry Lighthouse just to the north of our hotel.
Cape Henry Lighthouse is located on Joint Expeditionary Base Fort Story at 583 Atlantic Avenue. Built in 1792 at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, this historic structure was actually the very first federal funded public works project authorized by George Washington and the newly formed United States.
A newer black and white-striped lighthouse was built in 1881 after cracks were discovered in the original structure. It can be seen from a distance across the street, but it remains closed to the public.
Renovations were ongoing on the day of our visit, so we were unable to climb to the top of the lighthouse (Claire was actually very happy to hear this since she was grumbling about the possibility of stairs). To climb the 191 winding steps, visitors must be 42 inches (107 centimeters) tall and adults are not allowed to carry children.
If the temperature inside reaches 125˚F (52˚C) on especially hot days or during thunderstorms, the tower will be closed to the public.
If you have an authorized DoD/Military ID, you can park in the lot directly next to the lighthouse visitor center. Otherwise, you need a valid Real ID (for those in the car 16 and older), vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and be able to pass a background check to park in the visitor center and take a shuttle to the lighthouse. Parking may be limited during peak hours.
Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort
For our week in Virginia Beach, I booked a 2 Queen Ocean View Guest Room at Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort.
Situated at the northern end of Virginia Beach at 4201 Atlantic Avenue, the location was perfect for us and just one block north of the boardwalk.
A part of the historic Cavalier Resort, this hotel has 305 guest rooms and suites, restaurants, a 24-hour fitness center, indoor and outdoor pool, corn hole, bocce ball, daily resort activities and entertainment, fire pits, and a gift shop. My daughter especially enjoyed the sand art and making her own stuffed animal as memorable souvenirs.
There is an attached parking garage onsite (for a fee). Resort guests can get a card with a QR code at check in to use while entering and exiting the garage or use the valet option.
Queen Ocean View Guest Room
Our 2 Queen Ocean View Balcony Room was perfect for our family of four. Evan said that he wanted to wake up on his birthday and see the ocean. This was definitely the way to do it.
The room is 380sq ft (34 sq meters) with a two comfortable queen beds, a sitting area, desk, coffee/tea maker, and balcony with small table and two chairs.
The bathroom had a tub and shower, plus plenty of counter space for our toiletries.
We Scream Ice Cream
The kids were especially excited to learn that there was an ice cream shop on the ground level of the hotel.
We Scream Ice Cream is open daily with rotating ice cream flavors along with Starbucks coffee.
Tulu Seaside Bar and Grill
Tulu Seaside Bar & Grill is also located on the ground level of the resort. The restaurant can be found next to the pools with views of the ocean.
We never actually ate inside the restaurant, but did get take-out once for the room with the Tuna Poke Tostada (crisp corn tortilla, avocado, charred pineapple, wakame, toasted sesame seeds, ginger soy dressing, wasabi crema), Grilled Chicken Kale Caesar Wrap (grilled chicken breast, chopped kale, shaved parmesan cheese, caesar dressing, sun-dried tomato wrap), Kid’s Grilled Cheeseburger, and Kid’s Crisp Chicken Fingers.
Chad and I also took turns trying a handful of the drinks at the bar while at the pool. The cocktail menu was quite extensive along with local highlights such as the Orange Crush and more fun specialties. My personal favorites were the Lavender Margarita and The Gilded Hive (honey butter washed redemption bourbon, vanilla bean infused Demerara sugar, black walnut bitters).
Orion’s Roof
To celebrate Evan’s 13th birthday, we had lunch reservations at Orion’s Roof on the 23rd floor of the resort.
Situated 183 ft (56 meters) above the Atlantic Ocean, Orion‘s Roof pairs amazing panoramic views with refined Asian-fusion cuisine. They are open daily for lunch and dinner with brunch on the weekends. Reservations are highly recommended and available via their website and OpenTable.
We enjoyed the following:
- Japanese Old Fashioned- Suntory Toki, ginger, Demerara, Angostura, Japanese chili lime bitters.
- House of the Rising Sun- Tito‘s vodka, lychee, lemon, blood orange.
- 7 Spiced Ahi- pressed sushi rice, spicy tuna, Serrano, cilantro, black tobiko, spicy mayo, honey wasabi aioli, eel sauce.
- Pork Potstickers with Spicy Sesame Oil and Rice Wine Soy Vinegar.
- Peruvian Roll- tempura shrimp, avocado, tuna, fried Japanese sweet potatoes, green onions, Peruvian citrus sauce.
- Korean Beef Bowl- shaved beef, sautéed onions, over easy egg, kimchi, green onions, bulgogi sauce, over rice.
- Seared Salmon- cauliflower steak, forbidden rice, pickled cucumbers, sautéed beets, sweet chili glaze, pickled red onion, scallions.
- Chef‘s Special Ramen- pork belly.
The Green Cat
Smoothies from The Green Cat were a perfect afternoon treat after a walk up and down the boardwalk. The café was also just 1/3 mile (536 meter) south of the resort at 3801 Pacific Avenue.
The Green Cat Juice Bar & Market is a small, locally owned shop with a 100% plant-based and gluten-free menu.
They feature an assortment of smoothies, bottled and made to order juices, immunity shots, smooth bowls, coffee, tea, and light meals. Easy online ordering is available through their website.
We picked the Facelift Smoothie (banana, coffee, coconut oil, vanilla protein), French Kiss (strawberry, blueberry, almond butter, almond milk, agave), and Post Workout (blueberry, banana, vanilla protein, peanut butter, almond milk, agave).
Virginia Beach Boardwalk
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is a 3 mile (4.8 kilometer) long oceanfront path with dedicated walking and bicycle sections (though be careful, because we often didn’t see them adhered to).
It stretches from 2nd Street all the way north to 40th Street. Along the path are multiple restaurants, shops, outdoor seating, play areas, museums, beach access, and seasonal entertainment.
Neptune’s Park
On the boardwalk between 30th and 32nd streets, you will find Neptune’s Park.
It is hard to miss with the massive King Neptune Statue. Created by artist Paul DiPasquale and completed in 2005, this bronze statue rises 34 ft (10 meters) tall.
On the sand behind the statue, there is also a small playground. The Hillier Ignite Fitness Park is just north on the boardwalk at 36th Street. Grommet Island Park is on the southern end of the boardwalk at 2nd Street.
ViBe Creative District
ViBe Creative District is a collection of shops, cafés, bakeries, restaurants, museums, businesses, and entertainment a couple of blocks west of the oceanfront.
The area is filled with vibrant colors and murals. Along the fence on 18th Street, you will even find dozens of paintings donated by local students, artists, and residents.
There are dedicated parking lots for specific businesses and metered street parking throughout the district.
Fathom Coffee
One morning, I stopped by Fathom Coffee for a Roasted Hazelnut and Vanilla Nitro Cold Brew with Sweet Cold Foam.
Fathom Coffee is a cozy coffee shop located in the ViBe Creative District at 1682 Baltic Avenue. They feature specialty beans, pour overs, lattes, nitro cold brew, hot cocoa, and grab and go options.
I was able to find 2 hour street parking in front of the entrance. There is also nearby metered parking. A couple of tables are inside with spacious patio seating in the back.
Java Surf Café and Espresso Bar
While I was at Fathom Coffee, the rest of the family walked to Java Surf Café and Espresso Bar for breakfast.
As the name suggests, Java Surf Café and Espresso Bar is a surf-themed coffeehouse open daily for breakfast and lunch. Their menu has an assortment of coffee, specialty drinks, smoothies, sandwiches, toast, burritos, and sides.
The kids especially loved the ping pong table and customizable breakfast sandwiches.
Get Lost
Another favorite stop in the ViBe Creative District was Get Lost at 510 Virginia Beach Blvd.
Get Lost features Hawaiian inspired shave ice with a fun variety of handcrafted syrups and seasonal flavors. There are a handful of parking spots behind the building along with nearby street parking. Most of the seating is outdoor picnic tables with a couple of seats inside.
We split the Key Lime Pie (shave ice with key lime pie syrup, sno cap, whipped cream, pie crust crumble, plus vanilla ice cream) and the Custom Shave Ice with Strawberry and Vanilla Syrups.
2D Cafe & Eatery
While in Shinjuku, Tokyo, we visited a 2D Cafe that served Korean-style treats. Well in Virginia Beach, there is a 2D Cafe and Eatery with Turkish food!
2D Cafe and Eatery is a small and cozy café tucked away on Atlantic Ave just steps from the beach. They are currently open daily with a large assortment of Turkish favorites, coffee, smoothies, pastries, desserts, larger meals, small bites, and a kids‘ menu.
Both the interior and small outdoor patio are decorated with artistic 2D designs. I especially loved the regional highlights with the drawings of D.C., King Neptune, and the Statue of Liberty. These decorations are a fun contrast to the vivid colors found across the drinks and desserts.
We ordered the following (as a note, the servings were quite large):
- Caramel Kiss Latte.
- Honey Lavender Latte.
- Ocean Smoothie- blueberry, raspberry, and strawberry in a pineapple bowl.
- Bisnutella Pancakes- three fluffy pancakes with Nutella, cookie butter cream, and bananas.
- Manti– homemade lamb dumplings topped with garlic yogurt sauce and butter.
- Sujuk Omelette.
- 2D Wagyu Burger- 8 ounce wagyu, cheddar, caramelized onions, and homemade sauce on a pretzel bun and served with fries and pickles.
Waterman’s Surfside Grille
On our first evening, we had dinner at Waterman’s Surfside Grille.
Waterman‘s Surfside Grille is located towards the southern end of the Virginia Beach Boardwalk with indoor seating and patio views of the ocean. Their menu features Chesapeake seafood and grill options along with cocktails, small bites, salads, burgers, sandwiches, pasta, and a kids‘ menu.
Known for bringing the Orange Crush to Virginia Beach, the drink menu has a long list of flavors and seasonal options. I picked the Creamsicle Crush (vanilla vodka, orange juice, orange liqueur, ginger ale) and Chad went with the Endless Summer Crush (pineapple infused vodka, coconut rum, nectar, lemon and orange juices, sprite). For a non-alcoholic version, the kids’ menu had a Kid’s Orange Crush with Orange Juice and Sprite.
We also enjoyed the Crab Stuffed Fish of the Day with a Lemon Butter Cream Sauce, Cajun Chicken Pasta, Kid’s Grilled Cheese, and Kid’s Pasta with Marinara Sauce.
Availability of reservations vary based on the season. During our visit, there was a waitlist one could keep track of via text.
Due to the tight parking lot, they offer complementary valet in front of the restaurant. There are also metered garages and street parking nearby.
Creamsicle Crush
Inspired by our dinner at Waterman’s Surfside Grille, I wanted to make a Creamsicle Crush for a little taste of summer and the beach boardwalk at home.
Originally from Ocean City, Maryland, the Orange Crush was brought to Virginia Beach by Waterman’s. We came across so many fun varieties and variations at the restaurant and other areas across Virginia Beach.
Ultimately, my personal favorite was the Creamsicle Crush we had on our first evening. I developed this Creamsicle Crush based on the original Orange Crush recipe on the Waterman Spirits website and the ingredients listed on the menu.
Simply shake together freshly squeezed orange juice, vanilla vodka, orange liqueur, and vanilla extract until blended. Pour into a glass filled with crushed ice and top off with a splash of ginger ale.
I garnished the glass with an orange slice and fresh mint sprig. This is completely optional, but adds a bit of color.
Notable Ingredients
If you are in Virginia Beach, there is actually a Waterman Spirits shop a couple of blocks north of the restaurant at 712A Atlantic Avenue (I didn’t get to it this trip, but bookmarking for the future).
Waterman Spirits Organic Vodka and Waterman Spirits Orange Liqueur is available at select Virginia ABC stores here in Northern Virginia.
Another option is to get Waterman Spirits The Perfect Crush for a blend of the vodka and orange liqueur in a single bottle. If using The Perfect Crush, bump up the amount of vanilla extract up to 1/2 teaspoon.
For best results, use freshly squeezed orange juice.
A Few Creamsicle Crush Tips
If you do not have crushed ice available in your freezer, add ice cubes to a blender or food processor and pulse just until crushed.
Some recipes add about 1/4-1/2 ounce half and half or heavy cream to really focus on the creamsicle flavor. I didn’t personally include it since I didn’t taste any dairy product at the restaurant. There is also a chance of the acidity from the orange juice curdling the cream if the drink sits for a bit.
I have also seen some use a marshmallow or whipped cream flavored vodka to get the creamsicle flavor.
Variations
The Original Orange Crush on the restaurant’s menu has a blend of Waterman Spirits The Perfect Crush, fresh orange juice, and a splash of Sprite.
Other flavor variations on the menu included Coconut Lime Crush, Ruby Red Crush (grapefruit vodka and cranberry juice), Caribbean Crush (passion fruit rum), and Mango Chile Crush (mango rum and Tajin rim).
For a non-alcoholic/mocktail version, fill a glass with crushed ice. Pour in enough orange juice to fill the glass 3/4 full, add 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (alcohol free/halal if avoiding all alcohol), and top off with ginger ale or lemon-lime soda.
Creamsicle Crush Recipe
Adapted from Waterman Spirits
Creamsicle Crush
Ingredients
- crushed ice
- 3 ounces (89 milliliters) freshly squeezed orange juice
- 2 ounces (30 milliliters) vanilla vodka
- 1 ounces (15 milliliters) orange liqueur
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ginger ale for topping
- orange slices for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a 15 ounce (444 milliliter) glass or cup 3/4 full with crushed ice. Place in the freezer to chill.
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add the freshly squeezed orange juice, vanilla vodka, orange liqueur, and vanilla extract.
- Shake until well combined, then pour into the chilled glass with the crushed ice.
- Top off the drink with a large splash of ginger ale, garnish with an orange slice, and serve immediately.
Leave a Reply