As the name suggests, Virginia Beach is not short of a beautiful beach or two. Below are five of the best that comprise the beloved sun and sea getaway, each of which offer completely different yet equally enjoyable experiences of the same shoreline.
Sandbridge Beach
Native Virginians know Sandbridge Beach as the state’s best-kept secret. With so many shorelines to choose from, beachgoers from out of town tend to crowd the beaches closest to the boardwalk: we’re here to tell you not to make the same mistake. Sandbridge Beach is almost never crowded and the waves are much calmer, which means you can truly relax by the oceanfront or walk far out into the Atlantic without being swallowed by massive waves or knocked over by frenetic children.
Address: Sandfiddler Rd., Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Chicks Beach
No rip currents here at Chicks Beach – just calm waves and warm sun. Watch as the ocean dips and ebbs at your toes and enjoy the peace and quiet; Chicks Beach is the epitome of ‘off the beaten path’. Though not the easiest beach to find, hidden in the brush of Chesapeake Bay, it’s truly worth the trek to find it. There are no vendors, no lifeguards: you’ll feel like you’ve washed up on a tropical paradise all of your own.
Address and telephone number: 2500 Shore Dr., Virginia Beach, VA 23451 +1 (757) 412-2300
First Landing State Park
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First Landing State Park
Virginia’s First Landing State Park is one of the oceanfront city’s most popular attractions. Not only does it allow you to access Cape Henry, home to the beautifully preserved Cape Henry Lighthouse, it boasts ample biking and hiking trails you can conquer with friends or pets. There is also an abundance of campgrounds for a fun and unique overnight experience at Virginia Beach.
Address and telephone number: 64th St., Virginia Beach, VA 23454 +1 (757) 412-2300
Croatan Beach
Though Croatan Beach is mostly unheard of, if you’re not already familiar with Virginia Beach, it’s one of the least frenzied, most unpretentious beaches you will ever come across. Hailed as a surfer’s paradise, Croatan Beach offers surfing lessons and wave board rentals at decent prices. It’s also one of the more low-key beaches, given its proximity to the Rudee Inlet. With amenities like outdoor showers and clean bathrooms, it’s probably the cheapest beach in Virginia: just five dollars will buy you all-day parking.
Address and telephone number: S Atlantic Ave., Virginia Beach, VA 23451 +1 (757) 471-5436
False Cape State Park
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False Cape State Park
For a beach experience that rivals the likes of Steve Irwin’s outdoors adventures, head to False Cape State Park for the weekend. Located less than five miles out from Virginia Beach, False Cape is accessible only by kayak, bicycle, motorboat or shuttle. It’s the perfect getaway for those who want a hybrid between camping and beaching, given its abundance of hiking trails and soft, sandy shoreline. It’s one of the only places in Virginia Beach you’ll encounter extensive wildlife like snakes, deer, sea rays, dolphins, ospray and turtles.
Address and telephone number: 4001 Sandpiper Rd., Virginia Beach, VA 23456 +1 (757) 426-7128
