Protected natural area featuring 2.5 miles of undeveloped Chesapeake Bay beachfront, salt marshes, and maritime forest. Limited facilities with focus on conservation and natural experience. Free access with 1-mile walk from parking area to beach.
Small community beach on historic Gwynn’s Island in Mathews County. Limited facilities with emphasis on local use rather than tourism. Free access with boat ramp and fishing opportunities in relatively undiscovered area.
Beach located on Dam Neck Military Base with restricted access primarily for military personnel and their families. Features well-maintained beach areas and facilities. Valid military ID required for access with security checkpoints.
Remote undeveloped beach between Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and the North Carolina border. Accessible only by foot, bicycle, beach transport, or boat. Features primitive camping, 6 miles of beaches, and diverse habitats. Entry fee required.
Local favorite on Chesapeake Bay featuring calmer waters than oceanfront beaches. Known for laid-back atmosphere, paddleboarding, kayaking, and waterfront restaurants. Free public access with limited parking primarily in residential areas.
Small beach area on Hampton Roads harbor in historic southeast community of Newport News. Features fishing pier, community center, playground, and basketball courts. Free access with focus on community recreation.
Two-acre beachfront along the York River in historic Yorktown. Features swimming area, fishing pier, and waterfront restaurants. Free access with nearby Revolutionary War battlefield sites, museums, and shopping. Hosts special events and concerts.
Norfolk’s public beach on Chesapeake Bay featuring 7.5 miles of shoreline, fishing pier, and several beach parks including Community Beach Park and Sarah Constant Beach Park. Free access with playgrounds, picnic areas, and seasonal events.
Second-longest public beach in Virginia located on the Potomac River. Features historic small town with golf cart culture, marina, fishing pier, and boardwalk. Free access with nearby restaurants, shops, and water activities.
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. Visiting Facts below come from the linked official pages, checked in October 2026. Anything not listed was not found on an official […]