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.
Part of Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, famous for wild ponies and pristine beaches. Features designated swimming areas, bicycle paths, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Entry fee required with limited facilities focused on natural experience.
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.
Public beach on the Chesapeake Bay featuring calm, shallow waters ideal for families with young children. Located in a historic small town with shops and restaurants. Free access with beautiful sunset views and nearby fishing pier.
Hampton’s popular public beach on Chesapeake Bay featuring a fishing pier, playground, picnic shelters, and seasonal lifeguards. Hosts summer concerts and movie nights with food vendors during peak season. Free access with paid parking.
Calvert County park featuring a half-mile of sandy beach on the Chesapeake Bay, fishing pier, and playground. Offers seasonal camping, picnic areas, and nettle nets during jellyfish season. Entry fee required with lifeguards during summer months.
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.
Western Maryland’s largest freshwater beach located on Deep Creek Lake. Features a sandy beach area with designated swimming zone, picnic facilities, and boat rentals. Entry fee required with mountain scenery and seasonal lifeguards.
Quiet Chesapeake Bay beach on Kent Island with panoramic views of the Bay Bridge. Features a separate dog-friendly beach area, fishing pier, and historic clubhouse. Less crowded alternative to Sandy Point with small entry fee.
Five-acre waterfront park on the Chesapeake Bay with 700 feet of shoreline and one of the Bay’s few nettle-free beaches. Features a fishing jetty, gazebo, picnic facilities, and bath house. Free admission with ample parking.