VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) -- As Virginia Beach Oceanfront businesses carry on St. Patrick's Day festivities, some are already prepped and planning for spring break. In 2023, Virginia Beach reached a record-breaking $3.8 billion in tourism. City leaders said it solidified tourism as one of the ci ty's largest economic drivers. It was a relatively small increase from $3.7 billion in 2022. On average, experts share visitors collectively spend around $7 million a day."We opened October 6," said Stephanie Askins, a co-owner of Get Lost Hawaiian Shave Ice. "We serve Hawaiian Shave Ice. It's really unique to the area." Food and beverages accounted for about 42% of the money brought into the city. Askins shared they get creative during the off season, but when spring break and summertime arrives, the Oceanfront is the spot to be. "Summertime is hands down, can't beat it. We're in a central area. In the ViBe District, it's amazing," said Askins. The ViBe District is made up of small and larger businesses — all mostly native to Virginia Beach. They’re just one part of Virginia Beach near the Oceanfront that benefits from the warm weather crowd. "We're looking forward to the warmer weather. You can tell out in town too," she said. "There's a lot more people coming out." Even when the colder months hit, that's when Askins said she takes advantage of the slight down time and plans for spring break to roll in. "One thing the colder weather has done for us is we can do a lot more planning for the summertime season," added Askins. Stay with WAVY.com for more local news, weather and traffic. ...read more read less