Features Bear Island, a 3-mile-long barrier island accessible by ferry or kayak. Offers pristine beaches with limited development, primitive camping, and excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and stargazing.
A vibrant beach town with crystal-clear waters and spacious shores. Popular with surfers, paddleboarders, and families. Features a scenic harbor, beach volleyball, and a lively downtown with restaurants and shops.
A family-oriented beach with a small-town feel, known for being one of North Carolina’s least-developed barrier islands. Features 8 miles of south-facing beaches, fishing pier, boat ramp access, and turtle watching.
Protected coastal habitat featuring undeveloped beaches, salt marshes, and maritime forests. Limited facilities with focus on conservation and wildlife observation. Free access with important shorebird nesting areas and pristine natural setting.
Small beach park on the James River near historic Jamestown featuring swimming areas, picnic shelters, and kayak launches. Offers historic setting with views of Jamestown Island. Parking fee required during peak season.
State park on the Chesapeake Bay featuring a mainland area with campground and small beach plus the uninhabited Janes Island accessible by boat. Offers kayak trails, fishing opportunities, and primitive beaches on the island portion. Entry fee required.
St. Mary’s County park on the Patuxent River featuring a small beach area, historic manor house, and equestrian facilities. Offers kayak launches, hiking trails, and fishing opportunities. Entry fee required with limited beach facilities.
Known as “The Outer Banks of Virginia,” featuring 5 miles of secluded beaches away from the main tourist area. Primarily residential with vacation rentals, limited commercial development, and quieter atmosphere. Adjacent to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
Virginia’s most visited state park where English colonists first landed in 1607. Features 1.5 miles of beachfront on Chesapeake Bay, 20 miles of hiking trails, and diverse coastal habitats. Entry fee required with campground and cabin rentals available.
Popular swimming beach on the Gunpowder River with 1,500 feet of shoreline and designated swimming area. Features picnic facilities, playgrounds, canoe/kayak rentals, and hiking trails. Entry fee required with seasonal lifeguards.