Memorial Weekend is just around the corner, and that means summer is officially about to launch. Summer in Virginia means lots of outdoor activity, especially on the beaches. Luckily, we don't have to travel too far to enjoy the sand and waves. You might remember an article we featured last year about some of our most beautiful beaches. This time, we'll try to focus on some lesser-known areas where you can truly escape. While Virginia Beach is always worth the trip (and even worth the traffic), these beaches are a bit smaller and should be less crowded. It's time to pack up your sunscreen and hit the beach!

1. False Cape State Park

False Cape State Park is an Atlantic Ocean oasis. It's one of very few remaining undeveloped beaches in the area. What's unique about this state park beach is that it can only be accessed by means of foot, bike, tram, boat, or beach transporter. That means no cars, buses, or diesel smells to interrupt this pristine vision. The park is just 5 miles from Sandbridge, and reservations for transportation can be arranged ahead of time. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for some incredible (and adorable) wildlife viewings!

2. Kiptopeke State Park

Kiptopeke State Park is a beautiful treasure of Virginia's Eastern Shore. If you're looking for a summer getaway camping experience that involves the beach, this is the place. The park has recently added five cabins that can each sleep 16, a yurt, and ample spots for pitching a tent. During the day visitors can enjoy hiking the trails, setting up a picnic, or admiring the famous LoveWorks beach chairs.

3. Cape Charles Beach

Cape Charles Beach could very well be the most breathtaking sunset viewing point in the state. It's also an ideal spot for little ones because its waters are shallow and there are hardly any waves. The beach can be accessed by the town of Cape Charles, which is the most southern town in the Eastern Shore. The access points are two walkovers as well as the Fun Pier. Another bonus: Cape Charles is the only public beach on the Eastern Shore that does not require a parking fee or entrance fee.

4. Ocean View Beach Park

Ocean View Beach is only 15 miles west of Virginia Beach in Norfolk. The shoreline stretches for 8 beautiful miles, providing incredible views of the ocean. This beach won't necessarily be crowd-free, especially during the summer, but can be a nice change of pace from the main stretches of Virginia Beach. Starting May 29th, Saturday night at Ocean View means Big Bands on the Bay, a weekly festival of dancing and live music.

5. The Beach at Douthat Lake

Just because it's a manmade beach doesn't mean it's not every bit as relaxing as the real deal. The lake at Douthat State Park in Millboro has just about every outdoor activity you could hope for. The beach area is especially popular and has a guarded swimming area for anyone who wants to take a quick dip. The accommodations here are perfect for a family or group camping trip.

6. Colonial Beach

Not only is Colonial Beach the northernmost beach in the state, but it just happens to be the birthplace of George Washington. The town and small beach are located on the Potomac River. The river town is a fascinating one to visit, not only for its historical value but also because there's a lot going on here. It would make for the perfect summer day trip.

7. Grandview Nature Preserve

This is one of the more pristine beaches you'll find in the state, considering the fact that it is a nature preserve. "Leave no trace" is especially important to this Hampton beach. The Ocean View Beaches are quite popular among the Norfolk crowd. Visitors enjoy great dining options nearby as well as the clean bathrooms. Scenic trails meander through the marshlands and offer visitors a chance to observe some of the wildlife.

8. Outlook Beach

Another spot located in Hampton, Outlook Beach is a public beach of Fort Monroe. This Chesapeake Bay gem is a relatively well-kept secret, where visitors can enjoy fun in the sun while avoiding the big crowds. It's an especially great spot for nature lovers, with nearly 90 different species of birds to observe. The two nearby beaches, North Beach and Paradise Ocean Club, are closed to the public.

9. Jamestown Beach

The Jamestown Beach is located just next to the Jamestown Settlement. The water is relatively shallow, and parents can keep a good eye out for their little ones in this rather uncrowded spot. The park also offers showers for rinsing off as well as picnic areas with grills. From the outlook pier, visitors will have a unique view of the coast as the original settlers would have seen.

These 9 sandy spots are just some of a larger group of beautiful beaches in Virginia. Have you visited any of these places? If not, which do you plan on seeing this summer? We'd love to hear about your plans!