Content Produced in Partnership with Visit Virginia Beach
Whether you fly into Norfolk International Airport or driving through the iconic Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, you'll see Virginia Beach is home to some of the prettiest beachfront in the country. Nestled at the crossroads of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, the area claims dibs on numerous hiking trails and waterways, including Back Bay, Broad Bay and the Lynnhaven River, giving visitors access to both salt and freshwater fun. The 35-mile coastline that collectively makes up Virginia Beach is actually three different beachfronts: the Oceanfront, Chesapeake Bay Beach, and Sandbridge Beach. Like the freshwater areas, each of these three beaches have unique personalities, offering various adventures and appealing to different travelers as a result. Interested in checking it out? Consider this your guide to navigating the waters of Virginia Beach.
For the Busy Bee - The Oceanfront
Closest to some of the area’s most popular dining and nightlife with the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop, the Oceanfront is the place to see and be seen in Virginia Beach. Throughout the day, locals and visitors of all ages can be spotted strolling along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk or riding the ferris wheel at the Atlantic Fun Park. Before you leave, don't forget to snap a picture with the most famous guy in Virginia Beach: King Neptune.
For the Family - Sandbridge Beach
Situated outside the Oceanfront District, Sandbridge Beach is the perfect beach for multigenerational family trips and visitors looking for a laid-back beach escape. Flanked on either side by the Atlantic Ocean and Back Bay, the colorful beach condos are located on some of the most private beachfront in the area, giving visitors full access to enjoy the sand dunes and beachfront to enjoy at their leisure.
For the Active Explorer - Chesapeake Bay Beach
Affectionally known as Chic's Beach by the locals, it's here where crowds tend to be slimmer — even in the heat of summer — and where you're likely to find locals and visitors enjoying a range of activities, including volleyball, fishing and stand-up paddleboarding. Rental options are available from numerous outfitters in the area, like Tula Adventure Sports, who offer paddleboards, kayaks and even wakeboard charters.
For a Bit of Everything - First Landing State Park
The English settlers that eventually settled Jamestown first made landfall on the banks of what is now First Landing State Park back in 1607. Today, modern-day explorers frequent the area by bike or foot to enjoy the state park's 1.25 miles of beachfront and another 19 miles of hiking trails. Open throughout the year, First Landing State Park is considered the state's busiest and most visited state park.
Find Your Beach
Press play on the video below, then use your mouse to click around and experience all Virginia Beach in full 360 video.
