Unwind and Explore: Virginia’s Best Beaches for Sun, Sand, and Scenic Beauty
When the warm weather hits, it’s hard to beat a day filled with sand and surf. Fortunately for those living in Virginia, plenty of beaches offer serene coastal beauty and ample opportunities to relax and enjoy the warm sunshine.
Whether you’re looking to build sandcastles all afternoon or just basking in breathtaking sunsets, Virginia’s best beaches provide something special for everyone.
From charming spots and nearby city centers to remote hideaways on barrier islands and pristine beaches —discover what this beautiful state has to offer! Read on for some of Virginia’s top beaches for sun, sand, and scenic beauty.
Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is a popular destination for travelers looking to experience the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay. Located in Virginia, this coastal city offers plenty of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. From amusement parks to deep-sea fishing, boat rides, sightseeing, fine dining, and more, there’s something for everyone in Virginia Beach.
The heart of Virginia Beach is a stretch of the Atlantic shore from Cape Henry south to Rudee Inlet that has been a popular summertime destination for decades. Here you’ll find miles of sandy beaches, boardwalks, and piers perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Take a stroll along the 3-mile-long boardwalk lined with restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, or explore First Landing State Park, where history meets nature. First Landing State Park is a beautiful 2,888-acre park located in Virginia Beach. With 19 miles of trails, woods, and water make, this park a perfect place to explore nature.
Besides, you can visit False Cape State Park, located at the southernmost tip of Virginia Beach, just a few miles from North Carolina. This park offers a unique combination of beach and wetlands, with over 4,300 acres of pristine nature for visitors to explore.
If you’re looking to stay in Virginia Beach, there are plenty of vacation rentals available on the beach that offer private swimming pools as well as hotels located near the boardwalk. The Virginia Beach Visitor Information Center is also available to answer any questions about local attractions or events taking place during your visit!
Bethel Beach Natural Area
Bethel Beach Natural Area Preserve, nestled near the Chesapeake Bay in Mathews County, Virginia, is a perfect getaway for nature and outdoor lovers alike. This 105-acre wonderland of lush natural beauty awaits your exploration!
Winter Harbor’s eastern coastline is a picturesque paradise, with sandy shores and low dunes stretching alongside salt marsh habitats that separate it from the Chesapeake Bay. Undoubtedly one of the prettiest beaches in existence, this preserve offers visitors an unbeatable experience.
The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. You can also explore the area on foot or by kayak. There is plenty of wildlife to observe, including birds, turtles, crabs, and fish. The beach is also a great spot for bird watching, as many species call this area home.
Whether you’re after a day of relaxation on the beach, or an adventurous exploration by kayak and foot, Bethel Beach Natural Area Preserve offers something unique for all. So come visit us and experience nature’s beauty up close. We guarantee that your time here will be truly unforgettable!
Ocean View Beach
Craving a beach holiday that you and your family will remember for years to come? Look no further than Ocean View Beach Park in Norfolk, Virginia! This 6.5-acre park is filled with amazing views and activities perfect for everyone – from lounging on the sandy shoreline to joining in fun games or even partaking in fishing adventures right off the pier.
Unwind in the sun on a beach lounger or engage in fun water sports at this gorgeous park. Enjoy music from the nearby band shell while you create memories with your loved ones, and make sure to take advantage of all that this vibrant waterfront has to offer!
The gentle waters of Ocean View make it great for children and adults alike who want to enjoy swimming, kayaking, floating, or just sitting at the water’s edge or building sand castles. The level and continuous beach make it easy to find your spot and soak up some sun.
When you need a break from the sun and sand, head over to the band shell where you can watch performances or even dance along with live music. There are also plenty of other attractions nearby, such as indoor skydiving and seafood restaurants, that will make your trip even more enjoyable.
Sandbridge Beach
Sandbridge Beach is a secluded beach hideaway located in the U.S. state of Virginia. It is situated 15 miles south of the Resort Area of Virginia Beach and stretches for 5 miles along the coastline on the Currituck Banks Peninsula.
The area boasts pristine sand dunes and dancing sea oats, making it a perfect destination for relaxing getaways. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, kayaking, and other water activities at this beautiful beach.
Plenty of vacation rentals are available for those who want to stay longer and explore the area more thoroughly.
Little Island Park is another popular attraction in Sandbridge Beach, offering visitors a pier open between sunrise and sunset daily as well as lifeguards on duty during certain hours. The park also features picnic areas with grills, playgrounds, and restrooms, making it an ideal spot for families to spend time together outdoors.
For those looking to explore further afield, there are plenty of nearby attractions to discover, including museums, restaurants, and shopping centers. Hotels near Sandbridge Beach provide guests with all the comforts of home in a convenient location close to all these attractions.
Assateague Island
Assateague Island is an incredible stretch of unspoiled nature located off the coast of Virginia. This 37-mile-long barrier island offers some of the most breathtaking views in the entire state. So whether you’re looking for a wild beach vacation or an action-packed outdoor adventure, Assateague has something for everyone.
As one of Virginia’s most popular destinations, there are many activities to enjoy on the island. Visitors can explore miles of coastal forests and marshlands, spot elusive wildlife like wild ponies, swim in the Atlantic Ocean’s gentle waves, or simply relax with a book on one of the many sandy beaches.
For those nature lovers wishing to become even more immersed in nature, Assateague Island National Seashore offers incomparable camping and hiking experience.
From discovering sea caves to birdwatching, there are never-ending opportunities for discovery here. Soothing serenity awaits you on the magnificent island!
Cape Charles Beach
Cape Charles Beach in Virginia is the perfect destination for a family vacation. Located in the historic district of Cape Charles, this free public beach offers shallow waters and a safe environment for families with small children.
This family-friendly beach is just steps away from the charming shops of downtown Cape Charles and an easy walk from almost anywhere in town.
Visitors can also explore other attractions, such as the Cape Charles Museum & Welcome Center, or stroll through this picturesque town’s tree-lined streets.
Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline or partake in some exciting beach activities, Cape Charles Beach has something for everyone – including your four-legged friends! There are several dog-friendly beaches nearby that cater specifically to canines and their owners. So what are you waiting for? Come visit us at Cape Charles Beach today!
Chesapeake Beach (Chic’s Beach)
Escape to the calming and picturesque Chesapeake Beach, otherwise known as Chic’s Beach in Virginia. Nestled between the north and south ramps of the iconic Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, this idyllic destination offers breathtaking vistas of its surrounding areas on one side and a sparkling bay on the other.
If you are searching for serenity near vivid scenery, then look no further than Chic’s Beach!The beach is also known for its abundance of wildlife, including dolphins, seabirds, and other aquatic creatures.
Visitors to Chesapeake beach are spoiled for choice with a range of activities from swimming, fishing and kayaking to paddle boarding. Those in search of delicious seafood need look no further than the local restaurants close by. For those who want to explore further, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel provides access to Virginia Beach and other nearby attractions.
Visitors seeking a remarkable adventure can embark on one of the many boat tours that wind through the tunnel, providing an extraordinary opportunity to view its intricate architecture.
Besides, you can also take advantage of guided tours that provide insight into local history and culture along with breathtaking views from atop the bridge tunnel itself.
Buckroe Beach
Look no further for the ideal getaway – Buckroe Beach in Hampton, Virginia, is your perfect vacation spot! This pristine beach offers three-quarters of a mile of crystal clear sand, lifeguards on duty during the peak season to ensure safety and well-being, and plenty of activities such as swimming and fishing. Savor exceptional views of the Chesapeake Bay while you wind down from everyday stresses.
Buckroe Beach is the perfect place to enjoy a variety of activities, from swimming and sunbathing to unique experiences like beach volleyball, kayaking, or catching some fish from a fishing pier. So whether you’re looking for a relaxing day in the sunshine or an adventurous outing on the waves, there’s something for everyone at this scenic destination!
Fishing from the pier is a brilliant way to spend an afternoon, and if you’re searching for some much-needed respite from the sun, there are plenty of picnic spots available.
Plus, if you ever wanted to take a trip down memory lane with your family or friends, then why not experience our nostalgic carousel with its band organ for an added touch?
For thrill-seekers, the area around Buckroe Beach is full of excitement! Minutes away lies Fort Monroe, a historical and cultural destination. Furthermore, several trails in the vicinity provide breathtaking views of the bay while allowing you to experience nature firsthand. Make unforgettable memories at Buckroe Beach today!
Colonial Beach
Colonial Beach, Virginia (CBVA) is a charming riverfront resort town located in the northwestern part of Westmoreland County on Virginia’s Northern Neck peninsula, making it one of the best beaches in Virginia.
Tucked away in the Northern Neck region, this peaceful retreat on the Potomac River is home to Virginia’s second-longest public beach. Not only does it boast a stunning riverfront setting, but its rich maritime history—spanning 100 years of Oyster Wars from 1865 to 1965—makes it an even more captivating destination.
Visitors to Colonial Beach will find plenty to do and see. In addition, the beach itself is a great place to relax or enjoy activities like swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking.
There are also many attractions, such as museums, historic sites, galleries, and shops to explore. Visitors can also tour the area’s wineries or visit nearby towns for more shopping and dining options.
The Town of Colonial Beach offers many events yearly, including festivals, concerts, art shows, and more. There are also plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking trails, birdwatching spots, and parks for visitors to enjoy.
Chincoteague Beach
If you’re dreaming of an idyllic beach escape that will whisk you away from the frenzied pulse of the city, look no further than Chincoteague Island in Virginia.
This serene small island offers travelers a truly extraordinary experience with its picture-perfect beaches, wildlife refuge, and charming local attractions. A visit to the Eastern Shore promises pure relaxation combined with unforgettable moments spent exploring this hidden gem.
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is an extraordinary destination for visitors of all ages – with miles of lovely beaches and trails. You can find something here to suit your interests. Not only will you get to bask in the sun on the shore or explore nature by bike or foot, but you will also witness magnificent wildlife, such as wild horses and deer!
If a soothing beach day or exhilarating exploration through untouched landscapes sounds like your ideal vacation, look no further than this idyllic refuge in Virginia.
Reap the benefits of Chincoteague’s attraction-filled landscape, with fishing charters and kayaking tours that give you a unique look at its natural beauty. Whether seeking thrills or trying something new, this island offers an array of activities to suit every interest.
There are also several restaurants and shops in town where you can find delicious seafood dishes and unique souvenirs.
Smith Mountain Lake Beach
Resting on the second-largest freshwater lake in Virginia, Smith Mountain Lake Beach offers an idyllic destination for any water sports enthusiast. With its lush surroundings and myriad activity options, visitors are sure to have a memorable experience enjoying this paradise.
From swimming and kayaking to fishing and hiking, there’s something for everyone at this beautiful beach.
The park’s 500-foot beach opened in 1989 and is Smith Mountain Lake’s only public swimming beach. It can accommodate up to 1,000 people and features a roped-off swimming area for safety. Visitors can also rent boats and launch their own vessels from the nearby ramps.
For those who prefer to stay dry, there are plenty of other activities to explore at Smith Mountain Lake State Park.
Hiking trails wind through the woods offering views of the lake and surrounding countryside. There is also a grilling area where visitors can cook up some delicious food while enjoying the scenery.
If you’re looking for an adventure, head over to Smith Mountain Lake Community Park, which offers even more recreational opportunities, such as fishing piers, kayak/canoe launches, and picnic areas. No matter your interests, you’ll find something fun to do at this amazing beach destination!
Westmoreland State Park
Westmoreland State Park, located in Montross, Virginia, is one of the oldest state parks in the great state of Virginia. There are numerous activities available for guests who visit this scenic location to partake in, such as hiking and camping trails, boat rentals, and a beautiful swimming area with majestic views!
Discover the majesty of Virginia’s landscape with a visit to Westmoreland State Park. Covering 1,321 acres along an impressive stretch of over one and a half miles on the Potomac River, this is the ideal destination for outdoor adventurers seeking adventure and beauty in equal measure.
During the summer months, visitors to the park can take advantage of all it has to offer, with its Olympic-sized swimming pool featuring a beach area and bathhouse. In addition, hikers will love exploring trails ranging from easy strolls through nature to more challenging terrain.
For those looking for an aquatic adventure, boat and kayak rentals are available, as well as designated areas where you can try your luck at fishing or crabbing!
For those who prefer camping, Westmoreland State Park has both tent sites and cabins available for rent year-round. The campgrounds have tight roads with many trees, making it a great spot for fall camping trips. All campsites include picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms and showers.
Bottom Line
Virginia is an ideal spot for vacationers who seek a one-of-a-kind and remarkable getaway. From the magical shores of Chincoteague to Smith Mountain Lake Beach and Westmoreland State Park, Virginia beaches offer something special waiting around every corner!
Pack your bags and head to Virginia for an incredible journey filled with breathtaking beaches, thrilling outdoor activities, and unforgettable experiences. Virginia offers something unique for beach lovers, from awe-inspiring views of the Atlantic Ocean to majestic mountain excursions!
So don’t wait any longer, and let yourself be captivated by this beautiful state’s allure today!
