 The resort initially depended on railroad and electric trolley service . The completion of Virginia Beach Boulevard in 1922 , which extended from Norfolk to the oceanfront , opened the route for automobiles , buses , and trucks . The passenger rail service to the oceanfront was eventually discontinued as traffic increased by vehicle . The growing resort of Virginia Beach became an incorporated town in 1906 . Over the next 45 years , Virginia Beach continued to grow in popularity as a seasonal vacation spot . The casinos were replaced by amusement parks and family @-@ oriented attractions . In 1927 The Cavalier Hotel opened and became a popular vacation spot . 
