Best Beaches in Virginia

There are plenty of beautiful beaches in Virginia, but sometimes it can be hard to know where to start looking. We’ve done the research so you don’t have to – here are our recommendations for the best beaches in Virginia!

Chesapeake Bay Beaches

There’s no denying that Virginia has plenty of beaches along the ocean, but one thing makes Virginia beach options stand out: Chesapeake Bay! Fishing and boating are some of the top activities here, and you can even take a cruise if that’s your idea of fun.

However, all this activity means that it might be difficult to find a peaceful spot to relax on the sand; if you’re looking for some peace and quiet then head out during the weekdays since weekends and holidays tend to be packed (especially around Memorial Day).

Cape Henry Beach at First Landing State Park

This state park has almost two miles of shoreline and offers some beautiful views, especially at sunset. The beach here is very fine sand, making it perfect for sunbathing or running. There are also special events hosted here throughout the year such as concerts, festivals, and even amateur drag races! In addition to all this, there are also bike trails for those who want to explore before getting down on the sand.

Located in Virginia Beach near Rudee Inlet, it does get crowded – but then again most beaches do during peak season! Fortunately, there are some areas where you can find your own space and enjoy the view in peace.

Croatan Beach

Located just south of Kite’s Beach on Bogue Banks near Morehead City, this wide stretch of sand provides some excellent opportunities for swimming and surfing. There are lifeguards on duty here between 9:30 AM and 5:30 PM, but when the lifeguards go home the beach is still an excellent spot for sunbathing and exploring. There are some great views of Bogue Sound here and it’s a lovely place to spend an afternoon.

Chippokes Plantation

This plantation is actually a state park on the James River in Surry, VA near historic Jamestown. Chippokes Plantation is nothing like most beaches, but it definitely deserves a spot on this list! Why? Because it’s an excellent place to visit if you want something totally different from the usual beach scene. There’s no drowning your sorrows at a bar or worrying about crowds here. Instead, you can explore nature and history. During the summer months, there are concerts and plays held here so visitors can enjoy various forms of entertainment without leaving the plantation grounds.

False Cape State Park

False Cape State Park is located on Virginia’s Atlantic coast, near the North Carolina border. If you’re looking for some privacy this may be your spot since it can get pretty empty here despite being a state park! Plus there are trails along the water where you can spend time exploring nature.

False Cape is also home to an old Coast Guard station that offers visitors the chance to see history up close, and various forms of entertainment can be found in the Tricities area. There are also fishing tours available during the summer months so if you want to try your hand at reeling in some seafood then head out with a guide!

Belle Isle

While Belle Isle is home to various attractions, including a popular restaurant and bed & breakfast, it’s best known for its serenity. It’s not crowded at all so you can enjoy hours of peace and quiet on the island’s North Point Beach while enjoying views of the James River.

There aren’t any lifeguards here but there are plenty of trails ideal for walking or biking; plus this location offers canoeing and kayaking tours that go out onto James River! If you’re looking for a serene spot then head out here with your family during summer weekends since that’s when it tends to be less busy.