Dreaming of summer trips to the beach? We’ve compiled a list of the best beaches in Virginia!
Here are our eight favorite beaches in Virginia—each with its own unique vibe and charm.
Assateague Island National Seashore | Eastern Shore
Courtesy of Pinterest
Assateague may be famous for its wild ponies, but its pristine beach is worth a visit as well. Technically, most of the national park is in Maryland, but the island can be reached from the Virginia side. It’s one of the nicest beaches in Virginia, virtually untouched by the centuries. The white sands are perfect for sunbathing, strolling, birdwatching, and even camping.
First Landing State Park | Virginia Beach
Courtesy of VisitVirginiaBeach.com
Unlike most beaches in Virginia, First Landing State Park beach has a historical claim to fame. It’s where the first English colonists landed in 1607, and it’s absolutely beautiful. With 1.5 miles of sandy beaches, complete with freshwater cypress swamps and 20 miles of walking trails, there’s plenty for you to explore here. Be sure to check out the Narrows, where legend says Blackbeard and his crew of pirates used to hide.
Colonial Beach | Westmoreland County
Courtesy of colonialbeachva.net
This beach is the quintessential escape from urban life. It’s located in the adorable small town of Colonial Beach, and it offers beaches, boating, fishing, biking, shops, restaurants, and so many other things to do. Once you arrive, you may not want to leave.
Chincoteague | Eastern Shore
Courtesy of Flickr
This is Virginia’s only "resort island," and it’s absolutely gorgeous. It’s most famous for the annual Pony Swim, but Chincoteague has also made a name itself for oysters, fishing, and relaxed tourism. It’s home to one of the most beautiful beaches in Virginia, as well as the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, and has become a haven for tourists and locals alike.
Sandbridge | Virginia Beach
Courtesy of VisitVirginiaBeach.com
It’s technically part of the Virginia Beach coastline, but Sandbridge is a far cry from the busyness of the boardwalk. This is a beautiful and relaxing beach getaway, not a tourist stop.
Buckroe Beach | Hampton
Courtesy of City-Data.com
This is another of the beaches in Virginia with historical significance! Buckroe Beach is one of the oldest recreational areas in the state and was first designated for public use in 1619. Over the years, a public bathhouse, a hotel, a dancing pavilion, a playground, and an amusement park were all added. Most of these additions are gone now, but you can still enjoy performances at the pavilion and have fun at the playground.
Chesapeake Beach | Virginia Beach
Courtesy of falconpointapts.com
Also known as Chicks Beach, this one's a favorite among the locals. This non-touristy beach offers vacation rentals and private homes. It got its nickname from a beachfront shop where visitors could get limeade and ice cream. The shop is long gone, but the name stuck around.
Cape Charles Beach | Cape Charles
Courtesy of shoredailynews.com
Cape Charles is a historic town on the Eastern Shore. The beachfront offers a perfect place for recreation, and it’s the only Eastern Shore beach that offers free parking. There are plenty of amenities like picnic pavilions, benches, and public restrooms. This is one the best beaches in Virginia to spend your day at!
What's your favorite beach in Virginia? Did we miss an obvious one? Tell us in the comments!