Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum, Virginia Beach

Located along the bustling oceanfront, the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum stands as a tribute to the heroic history of lifesaving along the Atlantic coast. Housed in the historic Seatack Lifesaving Station, built in 1903 to replace an earlier facility, the museum captures the transition from the United States Lifesaving Service to what is known today as the United States Coast Guard, a change that took place in 1915. This building's inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 underscores its historical significance and its enduring role in the narrative of maritime safety.

The Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum is rich with artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the perilous waters along the Graveyard of the Atlantic, where many ships met their tragic end. Among its most poignant displays are artifacts from the shipwreck of the Norwegian barque Dictator, whose remnants washed ashore in 1891. The tragedy of the Dictator is a central piece of the museum's collection, bringing to life the dangers faced by maritime voyagers and the lifesavers who responded to their distress calls. Alongside these artifacts, the museum showcases a variety of historical lifesaving equipment, demonstrating the evolution of rescue techniques and technology over the decades.

In addition to its historical exhibits, the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum offers a range of educational programs aimed at furthering public understanding of the region’s maritime history and the critical role of rescue services. These programs, designed for audiences of all ages, emphasize the importance of safety and preparedness at sea, and celebrate the brave individuals who have dedicated their lives to saving others.