15 Best Beaches in Virginia

Imagine a coastline where historic charm meets pristine natural beauty, where the gentle lapping of bay waters contrasts with the spirited crash of Atlantic waves. Welcome to Virginia, a state often overlooked for its beaches but boasting some of the East Coast’s most diverse and captivating shores. From the tranquil, fossil-rich banks of the Chesapeake Bay to the lively, iconic boardwalks of Virginia Beach, and even the wild, untamed islands where ponies roam free, Virginia’s beaches offer an unparalleled escape.

You will discover serene retreats perfect for quiet contemplation, bustling hubs of activity ideal for family fun, and hidden gems waiting to be explored by the adventurous spirit. To truly savor the experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons—late spring (April-May) or early fall (September-October)—when the weather is delightfully mild, the crowds are thinner, and the natural beauty shines brightest. Get ready to dip your toes into history, nature, and pure relaxation as we uncover the 15 best beaches Virginia has to offer.

Bethel Beach, Mathews County

Tucked away in Mathews County, Bethel Beach is a true hidden gem, offering a serene escape from the crowds. This undeveloped, pristine stretch of sand and marshland is a nature lover’s paradise, primarily a protected natural area managed by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. What makes it unique is its untouched beauty and incredible biodiversity, making it a prime spot for birdwatching, particularly during migration seasons. You can expect to see a variety of shorebirds, waterfowl, and even raptors.

The calm, shallow waters of the Chesapeake Bay are perfect for wading, kayaking, or paddleboarding, offering a tranquil experience far removed from the typical bustling beach scene. The beach itself is narrow, backed by dunes and marsh, providing a sense of quiet solitude. It’s ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat, nature photography, or simply a place to unwind and reconnect with the natural world. Families with very young children might find the lack of facilities challenging, but those with a love for the outdoors will cherish its unspoiled charm. There’s no major history here, just the timeless beauty of the Bay.

Chesapeake Beach, Chesapeake City

Chesapeake Beach, often affectionately called “Chic’s Beach” by locals, is a relaxed, family-friendly stretch of sand nestled along the Chesapeake Bay in Chesapeake City. What sets it apart is its calm, shallow waters, which are perfect for young children and those who prefer gentle waves over crashing ocean surf. The beach offers a laid-back vibe, making it a favorite among residents and a pleasant alternative to the more crowded Virginia Beach oceanfront.

You can spend your day building sandcastles, swimming in the placid bay, or simply lounging under the sun. Fishing and crabbing are popular activities from the shore or nearby piers. The beach is lined with residential homes, giving it a neighborhood feel, and you’ll find several casual eateries and bars within walking distance, adding to its local charm. It’s an ideal spot for families seeking a safe, calm environment for their kids, couples looking for a quiet beach day, or anyone wanting to experience a slice of local Virginia beach life without the tourist bustle.

Westmoreland State Park, Westmoreland County

Westmoreland State Park, perched atop cliffs overlooking the historic Potomac River, offers a unique blend of beach access, outdoor adventure, and a fascinating journey into the past. Unlike typical ocean beaches, this park boasts a small, quiet beach renowned for fossil hunting. You can spend hours sifting through the sand and gravel, discovering ancient shark teeth, fossilized shells, and other marine artifacts from millions of years ago.

The park’s dramatic cliffs, part of the Calvert Cliffs formation, provide a stunning backdrop and are home to nesting bald eagles, making it a fantastic spot for birdwatching. Beyond the beach, the park features miles of hiking trails winding through diverse ecosystems, a fishing pier, and cabins for overnight stays. It’s perfect for adventurous families, amateur paleontologists, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a beach experience that goes beyond just sunbathing. The park also holds historical significance as part of the Northern Neck, a region rich in colonial history.

Colonial Beach, Westmoreland County

Colonial Beach, nestled on the Northern Neck of Virginia, offers a charming blend of history, small-town appeal, and a delightful riverfront beach experience. As the second-largest public beach in Virginia, it stretches along the Potomac River, providing expansive views and gentle waves. What makes Colonial Beach special is its unique boardwalk, harkening back to a bygone era of seaside resorts, and its designation as a golf cart friendly town, allowing for leisurely exploration.

You can stroll along the boardwalk, enjoy the calm waters perfect for swimming and paddleboarding, or try your hand at fishing from one of the piers. The town itself is steeped in history, with many historic homes and a vibrant arts scene. It’s a fantastic destination for families seeking a relaxed beach vacation, couples looking for a romantic getaway with a touch of nostalgia, and history buffs eager to explore a charming riverside community. Don’t miss the chance to explore the local shops and eateries that line the streets.

Cape Charles Beach, Chesapeake Bay

Cape Charles Beach, situated on the tranquil Eastern Shore of Virginia overlooking the Chesapeake Bay, is renowned for its incredibly calm, shallow waters and spectacular sunsets. This beach is truly unique because it’s one of the few on the Bay where the sun actually sets over the water, creating breathtaking evening spectacles. The absence of strong currents or waves makes it an ideal spot for families with young children, who can splash and play safely in the gentle bay.

You can spend your day swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing on the soft sand. Beyond the beach, the charming historic town of Cape Charles offers a delightful array of boutique shops, art galleries, and farm-to-table restaurants, all easily walkable from the shore. It’s perfect for families seeking a safe and peaceful beach experience, couples looking for romantic sunsets, and anyone desiring a laid-back vacation with small-town charm. The town itself boasts a rich history as a planned railroad town from the late 19th century.

Croatan Beach, Virginia Beach

Croatan Beach, located just south of the bustling Virginia Beach Oceanfront, offers a distinctly local and laid-back vibe, making it a favorite among surfers and residents. What sets Croatan apart is its reputation as Virginia Beach’s primary surfing beach, thanks to its consistent waves. It’s less crowded and more residential than its famous neighbor, providing a more authentic local experience.

You can expect to see surfers catching waves, families enjoying the wide sandy expanse, and locals walking their dogs (during permissible hours). It’s an ideal spot to learn to surf, enjoy a quieter beach day, or simply soak in the sun without the high energy of the boardwalk. This beach is best suited for surfers, those interested in learning, and visitors who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere away from the main tourist drag. While it doesn’t have a specific historical landmark, it embodies the surf culture that has grown in Virginia Beach over decades.

Chincoteague Beach, Chincoteague Island

Chincoteague Beach, the gateway to the wild wonders of Assateague Island National Seashore, is famous worldwide for its wild ponies. What makes this beach unique is that it’s not just a place to swim and sunbathe, but an opportunity to witness nature in its purest form, often with the iconic ponies roaming freely in the distance. The beach itself is a wide, expansive stretch of Atlantic coastline, offering crashing waves perfect for boogie boarding and swimming.

Beyond the immediate beach, you can explore miles of undeveloped shoreline, hike through maritime forests, and observe a myriad of bird species. It’s an unparalleled destination for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, families seeking an adventurous and educational beach trip, and anyone who dreams of seeing wild horses. The island’s history is deeply intertwined with the annual Pony Swim, a tradition dating back to the 17th century, where the ponies are herded across the channel.

First Landing State Park, Cape Henry

First Landing State Park, located at Cape Henry in Virginia Beach, holds immense historical significance as the site where English colonists first landed in 1607 before establishing Jamestown. This remarkable park offers much more than just a beach; it’s a diverse ecosystem featuring 1.25 miles of Chesapeake Bay shoreline, cypress swamps, maritime forests, and over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails. What makes it unique is this combination of historical importance, diverse natural habitats, and tranquil bay beaches.

You can relax on the calm bay beach, explore the intricate trail system, kayak through the cypress swamps, or visit the historic landing site marker. The park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature photographers, offering glimpses of various wildlife. It’s an ideal destination for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, active travelers, and families seeking a beach experience blended with educational and recreational opportunities.

Buckroe Beach, Chesapeake Bay

Buckroe Beach, located in Hampton on the Chesapeake Bay, offers a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere with a rich history as a former amusement park destination. While the amusement park is long gone, its legacy lives on in the lively, welcoming spirit of the beach. What makes Buckroe unique is its wide, crescent-shaped sandy shore and calm bay waters, perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking.

You can enjoy the spacious beach, utilize the playground, or cast a line from the fishing pier. The beach also hosts various events, concerts, and fireworks throughout the summer, adding to its festive appeal. It’s an excellent choice for families with young children due to the gentle waves and amenities, as well as anyone looking for a community-oriented beach experience with a touch of nostalgia. Its history as a popular entertainment spot in the early to mid-20th century adds a layer of charm.

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach, the undisputed queen of Virginia’s coastlines, is an iconic destination renowned for its vibrant energy, expansive sandy shores, and lively three-mile boardwalk. What makes Virginia Beach truly unique is its ability to cater to every type of beachgoer, from thrill-seekers to relaxation enthusiasts. You can spend your days sunbathing, swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, or trying your hand at surfing.

The boardwalk is a hub of activity, perfect for biking, rollerblading, or simply strolling, with a myriad of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Beyond the beach, you’ll find attractions like the Virginia Aquarium, Ocean Breeze Waterpark, and numerous golf courses. It’s the ultimate destination for families seeking endless entertainment, groups of friends looking for a lively vacation, and anyone who loves a bustling, amenity-rich beach experience. Its history as a popular resort town dates back to the late 19th century.

Kiptopeke State Park, Chesapeake Bay

Kiptopeke State Park, located on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and exceptional recreational opportunities on the Chesapeake Bay. Its standout feature is the concrete ships, a fleet of nine surplus concrete vessels sunk offshore during World War II to form a breakwater and fishing pier. These ghostly ships now serve as a thriving artificial reef, attracting diverse marine life and making it an unparalleled spot for fishing, crabbing, and birdwatching.

You can fish from the pier, launch a kayak to explore the bay, hike the park’s trails, or enjoy the tranquil Bay beach. The park is a major stopover point for migratory birds, especially raptors in the fall, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. It’s an ideal destination for anglers, birdwatchers, kayakers, and families seeking a peaceful beach experience with unique points of interest and rich natural exploration.

Ocean View Beach, Norfolk

Ocean View Beach in Norfolk is a beloved local secret, offering miles of tranquil Chesapeake Bay shoreline far removed from the hustle and bustle of Virginia Beach. What makes Ocean View unique is its laid-back, community-oriented atmosphere and exceptionally calm, shallow waters, making it perfect for families with young children and those seeking a peaceful retreat. You can enjoy sunbathing on the wide sandy beach, swimming in the gentle bay, or fishing from one of the three public piers.

The area around Ocean View also boasts a rich naval history, being home to Naval Station Norfolk, the world’s largest naval base. It’s an ideal spot for families, seniors, and anyone who prefers a quiet, less commercialized beach experience with ample space to relax. The numerous local parks and playgrounds along the waterfront add to its family-friendly appeal.

North End Beach, Virginia Beach

North End Beach, located at the northernmost stretch of Virginia Beach, offers a refreshing contrast to the lively resort area just a few miles south. What makes it unique is its quieter, more residential feel, providing a peaceful escape while still offering the same beautiful Atlantic Ocean waves. Here, you’ll find fewer crowds, less commercial development, and a more relaxed atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and those seeking tranquility.

You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, long walks along the expansive shoreline, or even a bit of surfing without the intense competition for waves. It’s an ideal choice for couples looking for a romantic stroll, families who prefer a calm beach day, or solo travelers seeking quiet contemplation by the ocean. While it lacks major historical landmarks, its history is tied to the gradual development of Virginia Beach, maintaining its residential charm.

Assateague Island National Seashore, Chincoteague

Assateague Island National Seashore, primarily accessed from Chincoteague Island, is a truly wild and untamed barrier island famous for its herds of wild ponies and pristine natural beauty. While Chincoteague Beach is the immediate access point, Assateague offers miles of undeveloped, protected shoreline and diverse habitats. What makes it unique is the raw, untouched wilderness and the unforgettable sight of wild ponies roaming freely on the beach and in the marshes.

You can spend your day swimming in the invigorating Atlantic surf, exploring the vast dunes, birdwatching (it’s a major migratory bird pathway), or hiking through the maritime forests. The island offers a primitive camping experience for the truly adventurous. It’s an unparalleled destination for wildlife photographers, nature enthusiasts, serious birdwatchers, and families who want a truly immersive outdoor experience away from commercialism. The ponies themselves are descendants of horses that survived a shipwreck centuries ago, adding a mythical quality to the landscape.

Sandbridge, Virginia Beach

Sandbridge, often referred to as “Virginia Beach’s Outer Banks,” is a serene, residential community located south of the main Virginia Beach resort area. What makes Sandbridge truly unique is its secluded, natural beauty, characterized by sprawling dunes, wide beaches, and a distinct absence of commercial development. It offers a peaceful, uncrowded alternative for those seeking a tranquil beach vacation.

You can spend your days surfing (it’s known for good waves), fishing, crabbing, or simply relaxing on the unblemished sand. The nearby Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park offer opportunities for kayaking, birdwatching, and exploring unspoiled natural habitats. It’s the perfect destination for families who desire a quiet, self-contained beach trip, nature lovers, and surfers looking for less crowded breaks. Its history is one of gradual, low-impact development, preserving its natural charm.

Plan Your Visit

As you can see, Virginia’s coastline is a tapestry of diverse experiences, offering far more than just sand and surf. From the tranquil, fossil-strewn shores of the Chesapeake Bay to the lively, iconic boardwalks of the Atlantic, you will discover a beach perfectly suited to your travel style. Whether you dream of spotting wild ponies on Assateague, uncovering ancient shark teeth at Westmoreland State Park, or simply unwinding amidst the vibrant energy of Virginia Beach, the Old Dominion promises unforgettable memories.

Each beach holds its own unique charm, inviting you to explore, relax, and connect with nature or history. With a little planning and the cost insights provided, you can tailor your visit to fit any budget, from a serene, budget-friendly escape to a luxurious, amenity-rich adventure. So, what are you waiting for? Start packing your bags and prepare to be enchanted by the unparalleled beauty and rich diversity of Virginia’s best beaches. Your perfect coastal getaway awaits!