Virginia Beach is a beautiful coastal city located in the southeastern United States. The city is known for its stunning beaches, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Virginia Beach is also a great place to enjoy fishing, kayaking, and windsurfing.
If you and your partner are looking for the best beaches in Virginia Beach to visit, here are five to consider, in order:
Chic’s Beach
Lookout Rd.
Looking for a swimming spot that’s a little bit off the beaten path? Chic’s Beach, also known as “Chix” or “Chick’s”, is perfect for a refreshing swim or a lazy day floating in a tube.
This section of 2 mile long beach is located on the Chesapeake Bay and is popular with locals who appreciate its calmer waters. It’s also great for fishing and crabbing. You can even walk right under the bridge! However, on weekends and holidays during the summer months, it can get pretty crowded.
Parking
There are numerous public beach access points located within residential neighborhoods. Free parking is typically along the street with a few lots. Pay close attention to No Parking signs.
Food & Drinks
There are numerous locally owned restaurants located along Shore Dr. within driving and walking distance of the beaches. You can also find fast food and convenience stores for snacks and drinks.
Amenities
Unfortunately, this beach does not offer any amenities other than trash receptacles. If you must “go,” you’ll have to go in the water.
The Narrows
64th St. – First Landing State Park Entrance
A little-known hidden gem that locals love, The Narrows is a small strip of beach located inside First Landing State Park. The water here connects Broad Bay with Linkhorn Bay, which all leads to the Chesapeake Bay. You’ll enjoy an untouched area away from the noise, little-to-no waves, and miles of beautiful wooded trails.
Parking
Paid parking is available in the lot located within First Landing State Park. You can also park on any residential street nearby that does not have a No Parking sign and walk in. Just note that you still must pay the entrance fee and the walk to the actual beach from the entrance is close to 1 mile.
Food & Drinks
You should pack a cooler and bring your own lunch. Outside of the park, the Virginia Beach Oceanfront is within driving distance for more options.
Amenities
The park features public restrooms, water fountains, and trash receptacles.
First Landing Beach
Shore Dr.
This 1.5 mile long beach is located at the site of the first landing of the English colonists in 1607. The beach is located inside First Landing State Park and is relatively uncrowded. This makes it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge/Tunnel over the Chesapeake Bay.
Parking
Paid parking is available in the lot at the main entrance.
Food & Drinks
There are numerous locally owned restaurants located along Shore Dr. outside of the park. It is highly recommended to bring food with you so you don’t have to leave the parking lot.
Amenities
Attached to a campground, this beaches feature many convenient amenities like showers, bathrooms, water fountains, boardwalks, and informational centers.
Virginia Beach Oceanfront & North End Beach
Atlantic Ave. from 1st-85th St.
The Virginia Beach Oceanfront is a must-visit for any beach lover. The Boardwalk is 3 miles long, running from 1st-40th St., and features beautiful views of the Atlantic ocean. From swimming and sunbathing to surfing and fishing, there’s plenty to enjoy here. You might even see some dolphins in the horizon!
To avoid tourists, locals tend to visit the higher street numbers, from 40th-82nd. It offers a more secluded experience, tucked within historic residential neighborhoods.
Parking
Free and paid parking is available in various lots, garages, and along the street. For a list of municipal parking, click here.
Food & Drinks
There are a plethora of restaurants, bars, convenience stores, and food carts located within walking, biking, and driving distance. You can find just about any cuisine style from 1st-45th St., starting on Atlantic Ave. all the way back to Cypress Ave.
Amenities
There are numerous public restrooms, showers, water fountains, and trash receptacles located all along the oceanfront and boardwalk.
Croatan Beach
S. Atlantic Ave.
Croatan Beach is located on the south end of Virginia Beach and is a little known place to relax and enjoy the quiet atmosphere. The beach is also great for fishing, kayaking, and windsurfing.
It is a favorite among local surfers because of its two designated surfing areas and quarter-mile stretch from Rudee Inlet to Camp Pendleton. Lifeguard services are available in season for both swimmers and surfers, making it a safe place to enjoy the waves.
Parking
The City of Virginia Beach operates a large parking lot year-round, making it easy to access the beach. Some additional parking is available in the neighborhood, and parking hours are clearly marked.
Food & Drinks
There are a plethora of restaurants, bars, convenience stores, and food carts located within driving distance. Otherwise, it is recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks.
Amenities
Unfortunately, this beach does not offer any amenities other than trash receptacles. If you must “go,” you’ll have to go in the water.
Sandbridge Beach
Sandfiddler Rd.
Sandbridge beach is a secluded beach hideaway just 15 miles south of the bustling resort area of Virginia Beach. Here, you’ll find 5 miles of pristine sand dunes and sea oats hidden within a residential neighborhood, providing a relaxing and peaceful setting for your vacation.
Swim the Atlantic Ocean or for those craving even more of the great outdoors, the marshes and open waters of Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park nearby make for great kayaking, hiking, and fishing.
Parking
Parking is located along the streets and in some public parking lots.
Food & Drinks
There are several great restaurants and convenience stores within driving distance that are perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner.
Amenities
There are some public restrooms, showers, water fountains, and trash receptacles located in certain areas along the beach.
Summary
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy the sun and the waves, Virginia Beach is the perfect destination. With its five best beaches, you’ll find the perfect spot to relax or have some fun. So what are you waiting for? Explore our blog for more ideas on where to go and what to do while you’re in Virginia Beach.
