We know that Virginia isn’t technically a tropical destination. But when you’re craving emerald water, white sandy beaches, and a laid-back atmosphere, you might just be surprised by how many places in the Old Dominion can check off those boxes. From coastal retreats to festive restaurants, the following is a list of destinations throughout Virginia that will surely remind you of a Caribbean paradise. But don’t take our word for it – get out and experience paradise in Virginia for yourself!

1. Sandbridge Beach
Sandbridge Beach, Virginia Beach, VA, USA
Chaloemphon Suriyalangka / EyeEm / Getty Images
WHL / Getty Images
Located at the southern end of Virginia Beach, Sandbridge is a lesser-crowded destination with some of the most beautiful ocean views in the state. The shoreline is dotted with seashells, and you'll love the feel of sand between your toes. Learn more about what makes Sandbridge one of the best beaches in Virginia.
2. Devil's Bathtub
Devil's Bathtub, Devils Fork Loop Trail, Duffield, VA 24244, USA
Jason Turnpin / AllTrails
Samantha Dalton / AllTrails
Can you believe that water this blue is hiding in the woods of Virginia? To reach Devil's Bathtub, you'll need to embark on a lengthy hiking adventure. Rest assured, though, the vision of this emerald green lagoon is worth the trip! Learn more about why Devil's Bathtub is one of Virginia's best hidden gems.

Related Stories

You'll Never Look At Donuts The Same Way After Trying Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken In Virginia

You'll Never Look At Donuts The Same Way After Trying Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken In Virginia

 The Brewery In Virginia That Features 63 Acres And A Playground For The Kids

The Brewery In Virginia That Features 63 Acres And A Playground For The Kids

 This Enchanting Garden Restaurant In Virginia Will Transport You To Another World

This Enchanting Garden Restaurant In Virginia Will Transport You To Another World
3. Cape Charles
Cape Charles, VA 23310, USA
Moelyn Photos / Getty Images
The beach at Cape Charles is a free public beach that features gentle waves and soft, white sand. Compared to the rough waves of the Atlantic, these Chesapeake Bay waters are more still, offering a giant wading pool for little ones. Whether you're frolicking in the water or enjoying a stroll along the surf, you'll quickly fall in love with the beach at Cape Charles.
4. Carib Shack
Carib Shack - Caribbean Food Virginia Beach, 2272 W Great Neck Rd suite 2242, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, USA
Carib Shack / Facebook
Carib Shack / Facebook
Did you realize you could enjoy delicious Caribbean-inspired food right here in Virginia? Look no further than Carib Shack in Virginia Beach, a famous eatery that's been featured in Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. It's your go-to spot for Jerk Chicken and Rum Cake, but also all kinds of creatively inspired tropical dishes. To learn more, you can visit the official Carib Shack website.
5. Lake Phoenix
Lake Shore, Phoenix, AZ 85029, USA
Joshua Sheffield / Google
Last but not least on our list of places that feel like paradise in Virginia is the unsuspecting Lake Phoenix. It's here that scuba divers can practice their diving skills in a fun environment. Swimming with the fish under these lake waters, you can easily imagine that you're exploring the tropical waters of the Caribbean. Learn more about what makes Lake Phoenix such a unique summer destination in Virginia.

What are your favorite places that remind you of paradise in Virginia? Are there any Caribbean-inspired places that you’d add to the list? Be sure to tell us in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

paradise in Virginia

Beth C. | May 06, 2022

What are the best beaches in Virginia?

One of the best parts about living in Virginia is the abundance of beautiful coastlines. Whether you're looking for a day spent out on the Chesapeake Bay or the Atlantic, you'll find there's no shortage of beaches in Virginia. Wondering about the best beaches in Virginia? Well, you've come to the right place! To start, you might check out our hidden beaches in Virginia road trip that will take you to some of the little-known coastal spots throughout the state. Some of the stops along the way include Cape Charles Beach, Kiptopeke State Park, Chesapeake Beach, Outlook Beach in Fort Monroe, Grandview Nature Preserve, and Jamestown Beach.

Are there any state parks in Virginia with beaches?

If you love the idea of spending the day inside a beautiful state park with a beach, we'd recommend visiting First Landing State Park. Located just outside of Virginia Beach, this sprawling park is actually the most popular in the state -- and for good reason! Nestled along the coastline, this park is characterized by meandering boardwalk trails and a beautiful sandy beach. Some notable natural features of First Landing State Park include Spanish moss and a bald cypress swamp. Learn more about visiting one of the most remarkable state parks in Virginia.

How many miles of Virginia coastline are there?

The coastal zone of Virginia includes no fewer than 5,000 miles! That gives way to all kinds of unique landscapes including tidal rivers, bays, and watersheds. One of the best ways to explore Virginia's coast is to visit all of the state parks located along the coastline. We put together a road trip that will take you to four coastal state parks in Virginia.

Related Articles