 Virginia Beach is best known for its tourism but the military and agribusiness sectors contribute to the city 's economy . The city 's economy also contains a large retail component at places such as Lynnhaven Mall . Major companies headquartered in Virginia Beach include Amerigroup , the Christian Broadcasting Network , Operation Blessing International , and Stihl ( American headquarters ) . Other major employers include GEICO , VT and Navy Exchange Service Command . Virginia Beach was ranked at number 45 on Forbes list of best places for business and careers . 
