Virginia’s most popular beach destination, Virginia Beach, has multiple beach outlets within the city featuring different identities and features. National coastline, state parks, and residential beaches offer various options between the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay’s waterfront.
From rocky beach fronts to sandy shores, there’s a beach to suit every family’s needs over the summer, making Virginia Beach a top vacation spot for military families stationed in Hampton Roads.
1. Virginia Beach Oceanfront
If this is your first visit to Virginia Beach, your #1 stop should be the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. Historic and traditional, this beach is where the quintessential beach action takes place.
Touristy (in the best way) and loaded with shopping and dining options, the oceanfront checks all the boxes for the complete getaway to the sand and sea. Try relaxing in the sun and waves, then later, stop at one of the many seafood restaurants and shops on Atlantic Avenue and the boardwalk.
2. North End Beach
North of the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, North End Beach has a different feel than its neighbor. Fewer people head this way because the beach is in a residential area. The seclusion offers quiet days and plenty of beach space to spread out and play. If you feel the urge to explore, the nature area around North End Beach is the perfect place to hike or bike.
3. Grommet Island Park
Grommet Island Park, south of the Virginia Beach boardwalk, is ideal for a quick beach trip because the shorefront is a manageable 15,000-foot beach. Families love the playground with unique features like a sensory board, hand-operated sand scoop, and raised sand tables.
4. Sandbridge Beach
Visit Sandbridge Beach, south of Virginia Beach Oceanfront, if you're seeking a calmer pace. Seclusion is this beach’s best quality, and visitors relish the views of the Atlantic Ocean and dunes.
Stop at the pier for a quick family photo session, and you’ll capture some of the best views in the area. You’ll find that Sandbridge Beach lies near Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park.
5. Little Island Park
In Sandbridge, Little Island Park offers fun in the sun with picnic tables, grills, sports courts, and the option to swim and fish from the 400-foot pier. If you own a kayak or canoe, bring it along. You can launch from the beach.
6. Chesapeake Bay, Known Locally as Chic’s Beach
Parents love the smooth water at Chic's Beach for easy and safe play, and the calm bay water is perfect for swimming and paddleboards. This spot is two miles of fun for locals and tourists alike.
7. First Landing State Park
For an adventurous day on the beach, head to Virginia's first planned state park, First Landing in the Seashore State Park Historic District. Add a history lesson to the vacation day with a trip to the Chesapeake Bay Center.
Beyond the beach, you’ll find nearly 20 miles of hiking trails highlighting impressive cypress trees and lagoons. If swimming is on the agenda, take advantage of the park's access to the Chesapeake Bay Beach.
What’s a beach trip without snacks? Check out Virginia Beach’s entry in the 7 Best Doughnut Shops in Hampton Roads.
Photo by Elizabeth Moira Curland from Getty Images via Canva.com
8. Croatan Beach
Surfers unite and head to Croatan Beach! Are you a wanna-be surfer? Take lessons the day you arrive. With lifeguards on duty and secluded locations, surfers won’t have a difficult time dodging the crowds. Near Rudee Inlet, Croatan is in a residential area frequented by locals.
9. False Cape State Park
Does your perfect beach trip include camping? Head to False State Park for a primitive camping experience. During the day, the park has activities that outdoor adventurists crave. From hiking and biking to guided kayak tours, there’s an activity for everyone, even boating trips. You’ll find False Cape State Park between the Atlantic Ocean and Back Bay.
Dogs on the Beach
To answer the question at the top of every dog owner's mind: yes, your furry friend can enjoy a day in the sun with you.
In the spring, fall, and winter (before Memorial Day and after Labor Day), leashed dogs are allowed on public beaches anytime. Virginia Beach asks that your dog be trained with reliable voice commands and recall to be off-leash, and owners must pick up and dispose of waste properly.
Dogs are restricted in the following areas during peak season:
- Beaches: before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m. Pets are limited to the north end of Virginia Beach, above 42nd Street, and the south end of Virginia Beach in the Sandbridge area.
- Boardwalk: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. only.
There’s a reason (well, maybe more than one reason!) military families love a duty station near Virginia Beach. Year-round adventures await, and you’ll never have to ask more than once for your family and friends to come and visit!
Ready to find a place to call home at this exciting duty station? Head to MilitaryByOwner to view Virginia Beach rentals and homes for sale.
