Virginia Beach’s Best 10 Beaches for Sun and Sand
Evening walks along the shoreline captivate her senses.
However, navigating Virginia Beach’s crowded spots can be challenging.
Finding the perfect beach venue that offers serenity amidst the vibrant locale can transform an ordinary day into an extraordinary experience. It necessitates knowing where to go to capture both peace and adventure simultaneously.
Exploring these options is essential.
Virginia Beach Oceanfront
Visitors to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront find the area’s vibrancy and charm truly refreshing.
In May 2023, Travel + Leisure, a notable travel magazine, designated Virginia Beach as one of its top destinations to visit. This accolade speaks to the oceanfront’s appeal and the rich tapestry of attractions and amenities available.
Today, it’s no wonder why this destination’s popularity continues to rise. With an immaculate boardwalk stretching along three miles, visitors can indulge in scenic ocean views, quaint shops, and delectable dining establishments.
The expanse of pristine sandy beaches offers endless recreational opportunities. Families revel in the presence of cultural landmarks, such as the King Neptune statue, while thrill-seekers engage in water sports and beach volleyball.
A visit to this dynamic oceanfront guarantees invigorating activities amidst breathtaking coastal beauty.
Sandbridge Beach
Sandbridge Beach is a hidden gem.
Nestled southwest of the bustling resort area, Sandbridge Beach offers tranquility and a serene escape. This stretch of sand is ideal for those yearning to connect with nature away from the distractions of commercial resorts. Visitors often marvel at the absence of crowds, which allows for sunbathing, picnicking, and beachcombing in a peaceful setting.
They can relish the pristine environment.
The unspoiled shoreline is complemented by the natural beauty of Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. This pristine area, spanning over 9,250 acres, offers an extraordinary backdrop, ideal for bird watching, hiking, and exploring diverse ecosystems.
Sandbridge Beach is the epitome of a family-friendly locale. Contrary to the livelier sections of Virginia Beach, it provides a perfect balance of relaxation and recreational engagement, making it an exemplary retreat for visitors of all ages looking for a harmonious fusion of sun, sand, and natural beauty.
Chesapeake Bay Beach
Chesapeake Bay Beach is absolutely delightful.
Located at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, this beach offers a unique juxtaposition of oceanic and bay waters. Families can find solace in the calmer waves, making it an exceptional destination for swimming and snorkeling under the warming rays of the sun. Adventurers will not be disappointed with the ample opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding.
A treasure trove of beaches.
Gentle waters make it an idyllic spot.
Breathtaking sunset views paint the horizon – often leaving onlookers in awe of the natural splendor presented to them. It’s no wonder that Chesapeake Bay Beach consistently garners top ratings as a must-visit locale.
Ultimately, Chesapeake Bay Beach embodies an environment that combines relaxation with adventure, apt for both mild and enthusiastic beachgoers. Visitors can take advantage of the numerous amenities available, adding layers of comfort and ease to their seaside experiences.
Croatan Beach
Croatan Beach is a hidden gem in Virginia Beach.
Known for its uncrowded sands and perfect surf conditions, Croatan Beach serves as a haven for surfers and sun-seekers alike. This charming locale provides a serene atmosphere distinct from the more bustling beaches in the region.
In 2016, the Croatan Improvement League, a local community group, orchestrated efforts to maintain and enhance the beach’s pristine condition. Through their dedication, Croatan Beach has become a sanctuary where visitors can revel in the natural beauty while enjoying well-kept amenities.
The waves here attract surfers from near and far, challenging them to perfect their techniques against the Atlantic’s rhythm. For families and individuals, the quieter environment promises a peaceful retreat, allowing for tranquil moments by the shoreline or leisurely swims.
Croatan Beach stands as a testament to Virginia Beach’s diverse offerings, appealing to both adventure enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxing escape.
Little Island Park
Little Island Park offers tranquility and recreation.
Spanning an impressive 144 acres along Virginia Beach’s southern shores, this park features amenities that cater to a variety of outdoor interests. From its vast beach area to the fishing pier and picnic shelters, Little Island Park ensures there is something to please every visitor. Athletic courts and a playground further enhance the park’s appeal, making it an inclusive haven for both relaxation and activities.
Families cherish its child-friendly amenities.
Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from the pier or embark on boating adventures from the boat launch. Significantly, every element in the park reflects thoughtful planning, ensuring accessibility and convenience for all guests.
Little Island Park stands as a symbol of the perfect getaway, combining natural beauty with top-tier facilities. The park’s well-maintained environment and myriad of recreational options make it a standout destination, offering unforgettable experiences under the Virginia Beach sun.
First Landing State Park Beach
First Landing State Park Beach, nestled within a historical state park, offers a unique blend of natural splendor and historical intrigue.
With its serene ambiance, the beach at First Landing State Park provides a tranquil retreat away from the bustling city, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and reflection. Visitors can bask in the sun, explore the scenic trails, or learn about the area’s rich history through interpretive programs available at the park.
Importantly, this beach serves as a picturesque destination for families and solo adventurers alike. Its pristine shoreline and lush surroundings create the perfect backdrop for unforgettable beach days filled with exploration and discovery.
Above all, First Landing State Park Beach exemplifies the harmonious integration of historical significance and natural beauty. As one steps onto this beach, they are greeted with endless opportunities for wonder and relaxation, ensuring every visit is both memorable and inspiring.
North End Beach
Known for its tranquil environment.
North End Beach captivates visitors with its unspoiled beauty. This hidden gem is known for attracting those who seek an escape from the more crowded shores, allowing for a peaceful experience unlike any other. Stretched along Virginia Beach’s coastline, North End Beach offers an unparalleled retreat that is both serene and stimulating.
Perfect for long walks.
Stroll along the shoreline and take in the calming atmosphere.
Adventurers and nature lovers will appreciate North End Beach’s uncrowded space – this is the ideal place for peaceful beachcombing or to simply watch the waves – as well as the nearby homes showcasing turn-of-the-century architecture.
The community’s dedication to preserving its pristine environment adds to the beach’s unique charm, ensuring that North End Beach remains an aspirational destination for those looking to experience the best of Virginia Beach in 2023 and beyond. Those who visit will undoubtedly discover a serene haven perfect for rejuvenation and relaxation amid stunning coastal views.
False Cape State Park
False Cape State Park is an adventurer’s dream destination. With its untouched wilderness and diverse habitats, this park offers an immersive experience like no other.
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Back Bay, False Cape State Park boasts over six miles of unspoiled beaches. Outdoor enthusiasts can revel in the abundance of recreational activities available, from hiking and biking to bird-watching and kayaking. Its remote location ensures an extraordinary escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Visitors are treated to a spectacular showcase of native flora and fauna. The park’s rich biodiversity makes it a haven for wildlife photographers and ecologists alike, providing ample opportunity to observe creatures in their natural habitat.
Considered one of Virginia Beach’s hidden treasures, False Cape State Park is accessible only by foot, boat, or bike, adding to its allure. This park exemplifies tranquility and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking solace and inspiration amidst the serene landscapes of Virginia Beach.
Grommet Island Park
Grommet Island Park is an inclusive beach.
This unique beach park, known for its accessibility, offers fun for all. The park stands out as one of the few beachfront destinations in Virginia Beach designed to accommodate children and adults with disabilities. Remarkably, Grommet Island Park is fully equipped with wheelchair-accessible pathways and amenities.
Families can enjoy an array of activities together.
From sandcastle building to oceanfront playgrounds, this park ensures that everyone, regardless of physical ability, can experience the joy of the beach. Its innovative design features include special beach wheelchairs, making the sandy shores accessible to every visitor.
With breathtaking views and compassionate planning, Grommet Island Park exemplifies forward-thinking community values. Recognized as one of the best beaches of 2023, the park continues to shine as a beacon of inclusivity. By prioritizing accessibility and family-friendly experiences, it sets a high standard for other coastal destinations to follow.
Dam Neck Beach
Dam Neck Beach is a hidden gem.
Located within the jurisdiction of the U.S. Navy, this secluded beach is less crowded than many other Virginia Beach locales. Its tranquil waters and pristine sands provide a serene backdrop for relaxing sunbathing or tranquil walks along the shore. Unsurprisingly, visitors find it an ideal spot for unwinding away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
This beach also offers ample free parking.
Given its limited public access, those lucky enough to visit appreciate the sense of exclusivity. It’s a unique environment that appeals to both adventurers and those seeking solitude.
Visitors to Dam Neck Beach can enjoy spectacular sunset views, marine life sightings, and beautiful natural landscapes. Its unique setting within a military base adds an extra layer of security, ensuring guests can relax and soak in their surroundings without any worries. Dam Neck Beach is truly a treasure for those fortunate enough to experience its quiet beauty.
