16 Top-Rated Beaches in Virginia

Virginia is a state with a long coastline and a variety of beaches to choose from, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Chesapeake Bay. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed vacation, Virginia’s beaches have something to offer for everyone. From wide, sandy beaches to secluded coves, the state is home to some of the best beaches in the East Coast. The beaches in Virginia offer a wide range of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, fishing, boating, and much more. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best beaches in the state of Virginia. From family-friendly spots to secluded getaways, these beaches have something for everyone.

1. Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a popular beach destination located on the Atlantic coast of Virginia. It is known for its wide, sandy beaches, clear waters, and wide range of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, as well as fishing, boating, and water sports such as surfing and paddleboarding. The beach also has a three-mile-long boardwalk that offers visitors a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

The beach is also home to several state parks, such as First Landing State Park, which offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area, including hiking and biking trails, fishing and boating, and camping. The area is also home to a number of historical sites, such as the Military Aviation Museum and the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center.

Virginia Beach is a great spot for those who enjoy a wide range of beach activities, as well as outdoor activities and historical sites. The beach is clean and well-maintained, and the area offers a variety of amenities. Some people have complained about the high cost of lodging and the limited number of parking spots.

Overall, Virginia Beach is a great destination for those who enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, as well as fishing, boating, and water sports. The beach also offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, as well as natural beauty and historical sites.

2. Sandbridge Beach

Sandbridge Beach is located in the southern part of Virginia Beach, Virginia. It is known for its wide stretches of sandy beach and its natural dunes, which provide a more secluded and peaceful experience than the more crowded beaches in the area. The beach is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and surf fishing. It is also a great spot for beachcombing and bird watching, as the area is home to a variety of migratory birds.

Sandbridge Beach is also home to several vacation rental properties, including beach houses and cottages, which offer a more private and comfortable experience than a traditional hotel. The area also features several local restaurants and shops, and it is a short drive away from the larger tourist destinations in Virginia Beach.

Sandbridge Beach is a great option for visitors who are looking for a more secluded and less crowded beach experience, with a mix of natural beauty and recreational activities, as well as a comfortable vacation rental option. It is a popular spot for families and people who are looking for a relaxing beach getaway.

3. Colonial Beach

Colonial Beach is a town located in Westmoreland County, Virginia, on the Potomac River. It is known for its long sandy beach, boardwalk, and marina. The town is a popular destination for water sports such as swimming, boating, and fishing. The beach offers a variety of recreational activities, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing. Visitors can also take a stroll on the boardwalk and enjoy the views of the Potomac River.

The town is also home to several historical sites and monuments, such as the George Washington Birthplace National Monument, which commemorates the birthplace of the first US President. The town also features several restaurants and shops, as well as accommodations such as hotels and vacation rentals.

The town is also known for its annual events, such as the Beachcomber Festival, which features live music, arts and crafts vendors, and a parade. Colonial Beach is a great destination for visitors who are looking for a relaxing beach getaway, with a mix of natural beauty, historic sites, and recreational activities.

4. Assateague Island National Seashore

Assateague Island National Seashore is a 37-mile long barrier island located off the coast of Virginia and Maryland. The island is known for its wild horses, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy activities such as camping, swimming, hiking, and bird watching. The island is also home to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, which is a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers.

5. Cape Charles Beach

Cape Charles Beach is a public beach located in the town of Cape Charles, Virginia on the Eastern Shore of the Chesapeake Bay. The beach offers a wide range of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, fishing and shell collecting. The beach is also a great spot for bird watching, as the area is home to a wide variety of bird species. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby Cape Charles Historic District, which features a variety of Victorian-era homes and buildings.

6. Buckroe Beach

Buckroe Beach is a popular destination in Hampton, Virginia. It is known for its wide, sandy beach and clear waters, making it a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach also has a playground, picnic areas, and a boardwalk for strolling. However, some people have complained about the beach being overcrowded during the summer, and parking can be difficult to find. Additionally, the beach is adjacent to a commercial area, which can be a bit noisy. Overall, Buckroe Beach is a decent spot for a day at the beach, but it may not be the best option for those looking for a more secluded and peaceful experience.

7. Belle Isle Beach

Belle Isle State Park is located in Lancaster County, Virginia, on the Northern Neck peninsula. It is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking. The beach is sandy and clean, with lifeguard on duty during the summer season. It also has picnic areas, a playground and a boat launch for visitors. The park also offers camping and cabin rentals for those who want to spend more time on the island. Belle Isle is a great place for family-friendly activities and a peaceful retreat, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Some people have complained about the limited amenities in the park and the high price of camping. Overall, Belle Isle Beach is a great spot for swimming and boating, with a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful scenery.

8. Ocean View Beach

Ocean View Beach is a public beach located in Norfolk, Virginia. It is known for its wide, sandy beach and its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay. The beach offers visitors a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and beach volleyball. It also has picnic areas and a playground for children.
Ocean View Beach Park is a great spot for those who want to enjoy a day at the beach while still being close to the city. The beach is clean and well-maintained and lifeguards are on duty during the summer.
Some people have complained about the beach being overcrowded on weekends, and parking can be difficult to find. Overall, Ocean View Beach is a good option for those looking for a day of fun in the sun with a wide range of activities and close proximity to the city.

9. Jamestown Beach

Jamestown Beach is a public beach located in James City County, Virginia. It is known for its wide, sandy beach and its proximity to the historic Jamestown Settlement. The beach offers visitors a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and beach volleyball. It also has picnic areas, playgrounds and a playground for children.
The beach also features a large fishing pier, boat ramp and a campground. Some people have complained about the beach being overcrowded on weekends, and parking can be difficult to find.
Overall, Jamestown Beach is a great option for those looking to combine a day at the beach with a visit to the historic Jamestown Settlement or for those who enjoy fishing, boating and camping.

10. Kerr Lake

Kerr Lake is a large reservoir located in the southern Piedmont region of Virginia and North Carolina, the lake is also known as Buggs Island Lake. It is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and camping. The lake is known for its abundance of fish species such as bass, catfish, crappie, and sunfish.
The lake is surrounded by State Parks on both sides of the border, offering a variety of recreational activities like hiking, camping, picnicking and swimming. The parks also have boat ramps and marinas, as well as rental boats, kayaks, and canoes.
Kerr Lake is a great spot for those who enjoy water sports and outdoor activities, The lake is large and clean, making it perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating. The parks around the lake are well-maintained and offer a variety of amenities. Some people have complained about the high cost of camping and the limited number of campsites.
Overall, Kerr Lake is a great destination for those who enjoy water sports, fishing, and outdoor activities.

11. Bethel Beach Natural Area Preserve

Bethel Beach Natural Area Preserve is a protected area located in Lancaster County, Virginia, on the Northern Neck peninsula. It is known for its coastal salt marsh, tidal creeks, and unique wildlife habitat. The preserve is popular among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, as it is home to a variety of migratory birds, such as ospreys, great blue herons, and green herons. The preserve also features hiking trails, boardwalks, and observation decks that provide visitors with the opportunity to explore the area’s unique natural features.

Bethel Beach Natural Area Preserve is a great spot for those who enjoy nature and wildlife. The preserve is well-maintained and provides visitors with a sense of tranquility and peace. However, the preserve is not suitable for swimming and beach activities, it is mostly for hiking and birdwatching. Some people have complained about the limited facilities and the lack of shade on the trails.

Overall, Bethel Beach Natural Area Preserve is a great destination for those who enjoy nature and birdwatching, but it is not a beach in the traditional sense, and it is not suitable for swimming or sunbathing.

12. Smith Mountain Lake Beach

Smith Mountain Lake is a large man-made lake located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. The lake is popular for recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. There are several public beaches around the lake that offer visitors a place to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Some of the popular beaches include:

• Beach at Smith Mountain Lake State Park
• Mitchell’s Point Marina & Beach
• SML Westlake Towne Center Beach

These beaches offer visitors a variety of amenities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, and boat ramps. The lake is known for its clear waters, and the beaches are generally clean and well-maintained.

Smith Mountain Lake is a great spot for those who enjoy water sports and outdoor activities. The lake is large and clean, making it perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating. The state park and marinas around the lake offer a variety of amenities and services. Some people have complained about the high cost of boat rentals and the limited number of parking spots.

Overall, Smith Mountain Lake and its beaches are a great destination for those who enjoy water sports, fishing, and outdoor activities. The clear waters and the beautiful scenery make it a perfect spot for a summer vacation.

13. Lake Anna

Lake Anna is a large man-made lake located in the Piedmont region of Virginia. The lake is popular for recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. There are several public beaches around the lake that offer visitors a place to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Some of the popular beaches include:

• Lake Anna State Park Beach
• High Point Beach
• Beach at the Wilderness

These beaches offer visitors a variety of amenities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, and boat ramps. The lake is known for its clear waters and the beaches are generally clean and well-maintained.

Lake Anna is a great spot for those who enjoy water sports and outdoor activities. The lake is large and clean, making it perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating. The state park and marinas around the lake offer a variety of amenities and services. Some people have complained about the high cost of boat rentals and the limited number of parking spots.

Overall, Lake Anna and its beaches are a great destination for those who enjoy water sports, fishing, and outdoor activities. The clear waters and the beautiful scenery make it a perfect spot for a summer vacation.

14. Yorktown Beach

Yorktown Beach is a public beach located in Yorktown, Virginia. It is situated on the York River and is known for its beautiful views of the Chesapeake Bay and the York River. The beach offers visitors a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and picnicking. It also has playgrounds and picnic areas, as well as a boat launch and a fishing pier.

The beach is part of the Yorktown Battlefield Park and is a great spot for those who want to combine a day at the beach with a visit to the historic Yorktown Battlefield. Visitors can learn about the American Revolution and the importance of Yorktown in American history.

Some people have complained about the beach being overcrowded on weekends, and parking can be difficult to find. Overall, Yorktown Beach is a good option for those looking for a day of fun in the sun with a wide range of activities, beautiful views and historic sites nearby.

15. First Landing State Park Beach

First Landing State Park is located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The park is known for its wide, sandy beach and clear waters, making it a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The park also offers visitors a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. It also has picnic areas, playgrounds, and a campground.

The park is named after the spot where the first English settlers, led by Captain Christopher Newport, landed on April 26, 1607, on their voyage to establish the first permanent English colony in the New World. The park has a history center that tells the story of the first English settlers and the native people they encountered.

First Landing State Park is a great spot for those who want to combine a day at the beach with outdoor activities and a historical experience. The park is well-maintained and offers a variety of amenities. Some people have complained about the high cost of camping and the limited number of campsites.

Overall, First Landing State Park is a great destination for those who enjoy swimming, hiking, fishing, and boating, with a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful scenery. Additionally, the park is also a great spot for those who want to learn about the history of the first English settlers in America.

16. Chincoteague Island

Chincoteague Island is a small island located off the coast of Virginia, known for its wild ponies, beautiful beaches, and rich wildlife. The island is home to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, which is a popular spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. The refuge is home to over 350 species of birds and is a major stopover point for migratory birds. Visitors can take a guided tour of the refuge or hike the many nature trails.

The island is also known for its beaches, such as Assateague Island National Seashore. The beach offers visitors swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the island and learn about the history of the wild ponies.

Chincoteague Island is a great spot for those who enjoy birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities. The island is clean and well-maintained, and the wildlife refuge and national seashore offer a variety of amenities. Some people have complained about the high cost of lodging and the limited number of parking spots.

Overall, Chincoteague Island is a great destination for those who enjoy birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities, with a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful scenery. The island is also a great spot for those who want to learn about the history of the wild ponies and the island.