The Hidden Beaches Road Trip That Will Show You Virginia Like Never Before
Virginia’s gorgeous coastline and waterfront destinations make for the perfect getaway any time of year. Yet sometimes, the busy season, traffic, and crowds can be something of a deterrent in our trip planning. With that in mind, we’ve created a road trip that hits some of Virginia’s lesser-known beaches to ensure you’ve got that shoreline all to yourself — or at least without massive crowds. In our humble opinion, it’s these underrated spots that might just be some of the best beaches in Virginia. So pack up the car with sunscreen, towels, plenty of good music, and get ready to appreciate Virginia like never before! For an interactive map, click here.
Note: Many of these beaches don’t have the facilities that other public beaches in the state do, so be sure to take home all of your belongings and be especially mindful about trash clean-up. The golden rule of leaving it better than you found it definitely applies here!
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The road trip to access some of Virginia's more secret beaches will take approximately three hours of driving. Here's a suggested route:
Our road trip begins with some gems along the Chesapeake Bay, starting with Cape Charles Beach. This beach is free to the public and features a gorgeous strip of sand. It's a great spot for little ones, with shallow pools of water and soft waves ideal for wading into. Cape Charles Beach in Virginia almost makes for a great day-trip destination because of the local shops and restaurants nearby. Don't forget to treat yourself to some delicious seafood!
With a swimming beach and a bathhouse, the waterfront at Kiptopeke State Park is a beautiful place to explore. The soft sands that lead into the Chesapeake Bay make the perfect spot for a picnic. Visitors can also camp here or opt to stay in one of the park's charming cabins. In addition to being one of the best beaches in Virginia. this spot is also known for its birding and biking opportunities. For more information on what makes this beach such a hidden gem in Virginia, click here.
Also known as "Chick's Beach," Chesapeake Beach isn't necessarily a secret. It is, however, significantly less crowded than the nearby Virginia Beach, especially if you visit during the week. This spot is where locals head to admire a breathtaking sunset, a quick dip, and enjoy the atmosphere of what's considered to be the best sandy beach in Virginia. The nearby 17-mile Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel is a memorable part of the landscape.
Situated near Fort Monroe, Outlook Beach is a hidden gem in the Hampton Area. With lifeguards on duty during the summer, this spot is an especially family-friendly beach. While there's plenty of shoreline near Fort Monroe, Outlook Beach is the only public beach.
The secluded Grandview Nature Preserve beach in Virginia features soft sand, gorgeous water, and pristine wildlife to admire. As this area is a nature preserve, it's important to remember that there are no on-site facilities. After you've spent time relaxing along the beach, be sure to pack up everything with you.
The Jamestown Beach is relatively unknown compared to the nearby Jamestown Settlement. Along the beach, visitors will find concession stands, shaded areas to lounge in, and even an observation pier. This large park is the perfect place to end your road trip with a sunset view and a picnic.
This list covers only a handful of some of the best beaches in Virginia, so be sure to share some of your favorites with us if they missed the list!
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Beaches In Virginia
June 07, 2019
Beth Copenhaver
What are the prettiest beaches in Virginia?
Virginia boasts some of the most beautiful beaches you’ll find on the East Coast. With thousands upon thousands of miles to choose from, it can seem a bit overwhelming to narrow down the best beach in Virginia. Some are on the coast, some are riverfront, lakefront, or even on the bay, and each one is marked by an abundance of natural beauty. Those that stand out as the prettiest beaches in Virginia include Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, Assateague Island National Seashore, Cape Charles, Buckroe Beach, Colonial Beach, First Landing State Park, Chincoteague Island, and Bethel Beach.
What are the best beach towns in Virginia?
If you’re looking for a laid-back vibe, plenty of history, culture, and friendliness that you can only expect here in Virginia, head to any one of Virginia’s lively beach towns. Virginia Beach is perhaps the most well-known, with its famous 3-mile boardwalk and countless restaurants and attractions along the way. Head to Cape Charles, Onancock, or Chincoteague to skip the crowds and enjoy a quiet retreat on the Eastern Shore of Virginia.
What beaches have the clearest water in Virginia?
Virginia Beach is popular for its lively wave activity, but if it’s clear water you’re after, you may want to continue north and dip your toes in the water at Buckroe Beach. Hampton is a resort town that offers beautiful places to stay and a beautiful beach to enjoy. The beach is much smaller than what you’ll find at Virginia Beach, but the water is wonderfully swimmable, and visitors love looking for sea glass here. Buckroe Beach in Virginia is a great option if you plan on going with kids.
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A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Alexandria. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
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