Being one of the most well-known beach vacation destinations in the state, Virginia Beach on the Atlantic Ocean’s shores comes to mind when you think of beaches in the state. In addition to its beautiful Atlantic Ocean coastline, Virginia also has sandy beaches along its numerous smaller beaches and the Chesapeake Bay.
Along with public beaches located inland in state parks and recreational areas, Virginia also has top-notch beaches all along its Eastern Shore coastline. There are many different kinds of beaches in Virginia, from big to small, ocean to freshwater, and some even offer the excitement of nearby small-town restaurants or a pet-friendly day at the shore.
With our list of the Best Beaches In Virginia, you can discover the best destinations for a day in the sun.
1. Beaches In Virginia: Virginia Beach
The most well-known beach in the state is Virginia Beach. Tourists love having access to the Atlantic Ocean. There are more dining establishments and activities besides building sandcastles in the area because of its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay.
The variety of water and land experiences Virginia Beach offers is one of the reasons it is so popular with both locals and out-of-towners. Sit by the shore and watch a surfing competition. Attend a game of sand volleyball or go see a live performance.
Learn to snorkel to stay active, or rent a bike to ride the Back Bay National Refuge’s trails. Be sure to visit the many shops and restaurants that line the main drag and take a stroll along the three-mile boardwalk while listening to the waves crash into the shoreline.
2. Beaches in Virginia: Sandbridge Beach
A 4-mile-long Virginia beach is called Sandbridge. Although it is a part of Virginia Beach, it is a little further away. A fishing pier and another sizable beach can be found on Little Island, which is close to Sandbridge Park.
The city of Virginia Beach manages both Little Island Park and Sandbridge Beach as public parks. Because dogs must be on leashes before 10 am and after 6 am, this beach is well-liked by dog owners.
There are lots of fun activities in and around the park. Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or speedboat and explore the coast for outdoor recreation. There are picnic areas, restrooms, and outdoor showers in the park.
3. Beaches In Virginia: Colonial Beach
Between the Potomac River and Monroe Bay, in Northern Virginia, is a beach called Colonial Beach. Thanks to the abundance of marinas in the region, you can plan a full beach itinerary with a variety of activities during your visit, from swimming and water sports to boating and fishing.
Pets are welcome on Colonial Beach from October 1 through March 31 as long as they are on a leash. Colonial Beach, the only remaining seaport town on the Potomac River in the area, is charming and historically significant.
4. Cape Charles Beach
Between the Potomac River and Monroe Bay, in Northern Virginia, is a beach called Colonial Beach. Thanks to the abundance of marinas in the region, you can plan a full beach itinerary with a variety of activities during your visit, from swimming and water sports to boating and fishing.
Pets are welcome on Colonial Beach from October 1 through March 31 as long as they are on a leash. Colonial Beach, the only remaining seaport town on the Potomac River in the area, is charming and historically significant.
5. Buckroe Beach
Buckroe Beach is situated in Hampton, Virginia on the Chesapeake Bay. This location is fantastic for a day trip and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Compared to many of the other top beaches in Virginia, Buckroe Beach is less congested.
One of Virginia’s best beaches for families, Buckroe Beach has plenty of room for swimming and playing. If necessary, it also offers simple wheelchair access. There are beach activities, food trucks, and vendors, as well as free parking.
An entire neighborhood, Buckroe Beach offers a wide range of recreational opportunities. Paddleboards, jet skis, and kayaks are all available for rent. Additionally, you can go to nearby parks and play tennis there.
6. Belle Isle Beach
The best place to go in Virginia for a truly distinctive “beach” experience is Belle Isle Beach in Richmond. Because there are flat, naturally occurring rocks there that the locals enjoy using for sunbathing instead of sand and ocean waves, it is classified as an urban beach.
Swimming is not advised due to the fast-moving rapids, but it’s a great option if you just want to be near water and cool off by dipping your feet in. Cliffs and small, serene, shallow pools of water can be found in the area around Belle Isle Beach.
Belle Isle Beach is located in the middle of Richmond’s Belle Isle Historic Park. This is a nice substitute if you don’t have the time to spend the day driving to the ocean.
7. Jamestown Beach
Jamestown Beach, near the historic Jamestown Settlement, is one of Virginia’s best-kept beach secrets. A beachfront park with concessions, a pier, picnic areas, restrooms, and shaded areas is available. When you need some time away from the sun, there are lagoons and a nice park at this family-friendly beach.
If you’re already at Historic Jamestowne or Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Jamestown Beach is an excellent addition. Non-residents must pay a small day fee to enter the park.
8. Bethel Beach
If you want to smell the salty air and feel the ocean breeze, Bethel Beach has it all. It’s in the Bethel Beach Natural Area Preserve, which is surrounded by sandy dunes and a narrow stretch of coastline.
This coastline is unique in that it changes constantly due to the winds that blow through the area. The pristine beach is designated as a preservation area, so while you will find ideal beach conditions by the water and protected habitats, there will be no restrooms, trash cans, or changing areas.
9. Smith Mountain Lake Beach
Smith Mountain Lake Beach in Huddleston, Virginia is off the beaten path. Instead of being on the Atlantic Coast, this beach is hidden within Virginia’s largest state park. Smith Mountain Lake, a large and beautiful inland lake near Roanoke, is home to the beach. Take advantage of the beach, mountains, or forest.
Concessions, a picnic area, and a playground are available at the beach. Throughout the summer, lifeguards are on duty, and a boat ramp and rentals are available for visitors. Campsites and cabins can also be rented. Hiking, biking, and nature observation are also available at the state park.
10. First Landing State Park Beach
First Landing State Park provides one of the few public access points to the beach on the Chesapeake Bay. This beach is ideal for families or anyone looking for a day at the beach without the surf of the Atlantic Ocean. This beach is also less crowded than other Virginia beaches.
The beach at First Landing State Park is more naturally scenic than the hotel-lined coastlines found along Virginia’s Atlantic Ocean beaches. Sand dunes, maritime forest, and natural vegetation such as shrubs line the coastline here. Because of the more natural elements at this beach, it is more prone to insects, so bring insect repellant with you.
