Beaches in Virginia – Chesapeake Bay Beauty, Atlantic Coastlines & Family-Friendly Shores

Virginia’s coastline blends Atlantic Ocean beaches, Chesapeake Bay shorelines, vibrant boardwalks, peaceful nature preserves, and miles of sandy coastline perfect for swimming, fishing, and family vacations. From the iconic Virginia Beach Oceanfront to the wild shores of Assateague Island and the calm Chesapeake Bay beaches, the beaches in Virginia offer a style of beach for every traveler.

Whether you’re looking for lively boardwalk energy, family-friendly waters, kayaking spots, or quiet natural beaches, Virginia’s coast is full of beautiful shoreline experiences.

Why Visit Beaches in Virginia?

  • Wide sandy beaches with warm summer water
  • Boardwalk attractions, restaurants & entertainment
  • Nature beaches with wild horses (Assateague)
  • Calm Chesapeake Bay beaches perfect for kids
  • Rich wildlife, dunes & natural areas
  • Easy access from Washington DC, Maryland & NC

Best Beaches in Virginia

Here are the best beaches across Virginia, from lively resort areas to peaceful nature escapes:

Virginia Beach Oceanfront

The state’s most iconic beach — a long boardwalk, shops, events, restaurants, and endless summer activity.

Sandbridge Beach

Quiet, peaceful, and surrounded by nature — perfect for beach rentals, kayaking, and sunsets.

Assateague Island / Chincoteague NWR

Wild horses, dunes, quiet beaches, birdwatching, and one of the most beautiful stretches of untouched shoreline on the East Coast.

Buckroe Beach (Hampton)

A calm Chesapeake Bay beach with gentle waves, playgrounds, fishing piers, and family activities.

Colonial Beach

Virginia’s largest river beach — great for walking, boating, and relaxed summer days.

Things to Do at Virginia Beaches

Whether you’re visiting the lively Virginia Beach Oceanfront or the quiet Eastern Shore, here are some of the top coastal activities you can enjoy:

  • Walk or bike the Virginia Beach Boardwalk
  • Go on a dolphin or whale-watching cruise (seasonal)
  • Explore the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
  • Kayak, canoe, or paddleboard at Back Bay & Sandbridge
  • Visit First Landing State Park for coastal hiking trails
  • Experience wild ponies and wildlife at Assateague Island
  • Fish from piers or book a charter boat
  • Enjoy live music events and festivals at the Oceanfront
  • Watch sunrises on the Atlantic & sunsets on the Chesapeake Bay

Where to Stay Near Virginia’s Best Beaches

Virginia Beach Oceanfront

  • Large beachfront hotels & resorts along the boardwalk
  • Perfect for families, couples & nightlife

Sandbridge Beach

  • Quiet beach houses & rental homes
  • Best for peaceful coastal stays

Chincoteague / Assateague Island

  • Boutique inns & cozy lodges
  • Perfect for wildlife & nature lovers

Hampton & Chesapeake Bay

  • Family-friendly waterfront hotels
  • Great access to calmer bay beaches

Best Time to Visit Virginia Beaches

Season Highlights
Summer (June–Aug) Warmest water, best swimming & events
Fall (Sept–Oct) Warm water, fewer crowds, perfect sunsets
Spring (Apr–May) Mild temps, flowers, great hiking
Winter Quiet, peaceful, budget-friendly

🌡️ Virginia Beach Water Temperatures

  • Summer: 73–80°F
  • Fall: 68–74°F
  • Spring: 58–70°F
  • Winter: 45–55°F

🚗 How to Get to Virginia’s Beaches

✈️ By Air

  • Norfolk International Airport — closest to VA Beach
  • Newport News/Williamsburg Airport
  • Richmond International Airport (for Chesapeake beaches)

🚗 By Car

  • I-64 → Virginia Beach
  • US-13 → Chincoteague & Eastern Shore
  • I-264 → Oceanfront access

🐶 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Virginia

  • Virginia Beach: dogs allowed offseason & evenings
  • Sandbridge Beach: dog-friendly during off-season
  • Assateague (VA side): limited dog areas — check local rules
  • Buckroe Beach: dog-friendly in off-season months

What to Pack for Virginia Beaches

  • Sunscreen & sunglasses
  • Beach umbrella or canopy
  • Bug spray (important for marsh areas)
  • Cooler with drinks
  • Light beachwear & flip-flops

⭐ Best Virginia Beaches by Category

Best for Families

  • Virginia Beach Oceanfront
  • Buckroe Beach
  • Colonial Beach

Best for Nature Lovers

  • Assateague Island
  • Sandbridge Beach

Best for Peace & Quiet

  • Sandbridge
  • Chesapeake Bay beaches

FAQs About Virginia Beaches

What is the nicest beach in Virginia?

Virginia Beach is the most famous, Sandbridge is the most peaceful, and Assateague is the most scenic.

Is Virginia Beach good for swimming?

Yes — summer water temperatures are warm and perfect for swimming.

Does Virginia have clear water beaches?

Sandbridge and Assateague often have the clearest water in the state.

Are there wild horses in Virginia?

Yes — the Chincoteague ponies roam freely on Assateague Island.

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