You've probably heard of Virginia Beach, and you may know some other popular beaches in the state. But if you want to avoid the crowds and have a relaxing beach day, we're letting you in on our favorite beaches that we'd consider hidden gems in Virginia. 

Travel like a local and find a little piece of paradise when you visit these hidden gem beaches in Virginia.

Want more lesser-known spots for a summer vacation in Virginia? Here are our best kept secrets, from mountain getaways to historic adventures. 
 

JUMP TO: Bay Beaches | River Beaches | Lake Beaches | State Park Beaches
 

BAY BEACHES

Road by the beach at Cape Charles

Cape Charles

Finding the perfect bay beach can be a game changer for your Virginia vacation. Bay waters tend to be calmer and access can be way easier (think more parking and fewer people) compared to oceanfront beaches.

  • Cape Charles Beach is a free public beach on the bay side of the Eastern Shore of Virginia. The walkable main street area and calm bay waves make this an ideal beach for families. 
  • Chesapeake Bay Beach, known as Chic's Beach to locals, is the real if you know, you know spot in Virginia Beach. Bayside, the waves are minimal and the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel dominates the landscape.
  • Grandview Beach is within Grandview Nature Preserve in Hampton. Park on State Park Drive; the preserve is open and free to enter from sunrise to sunset. Leashed pets are welcome in the off-season (mid-September–March).
  • Ocean View Beach Park is the local spot to cool off in Norfolk. The 6.5-acre park is free, public access is easy to find, restrooms are tidy, and food is nearby.
  • Outlook Beach can be found on the Chesapeake Bay at Fort Monroe, and is perhaps Hampton's best kept secret. Summer lifeguards are on duty. Leashed pets are allowed in the off-season (mid-September–mid-May). 

RIVER BEACHES

Belle Isle Pedestrian Bridge, James River

Belle Isle Pedestrian Bridge, James River

Photo Credit: Sam Dean @sdeanphotos

Beaches on the James River

It's amazing how few people know about Jamestown Beach. Located next door to Jamestown Settlement, this large beach park offers concessions, shaded picnic areas with charcoal grills, and an observation pier.

In Richmond, there are some sandy spots to chill in the James River Park System. Wear personal floatation devices and close-toed shoes when in the water at spots like Texas Beach, Pony Pasture, and Huguenot Flatwater. 

Beaches on the Rappahannock River

Historic Port of Falmouth Park in Stafford County has a popular beach area. Parking is available, as are picnic tables and portable toilets. Swimming is at your own risk; be aware of high water and slippery rocks. Wear shoes when swimming. 

LAKE BEACHES

Buggs Island Lake

Buggs Island Lake

Photo Credit: Trevor Smith @smalltowndesign_co

Buggs Island Lake

Buggs Island Lake, also known as John H. Kerr Reservoir, is Virginia's largest lake and offers many opportunities for beach-goers.

  • Buffalo Park - North side of the lake off Route 58
  • Ivy Hill Park - South side of the lake off Route 825; picnic areas, portable toilets and day-use fee
  • Longwood Park - South side of the lake off Route 15
  • North Bend Park - North side of the lake off Route 4
  • Palmer Point Park - South side of the lake off Route 4; picnic areas, portable toilets and day-use fee
  • Rudds Creek - North side of the lake off Route 58; picnic areas, flushing toilets and day-use fee

Sherando Lake

There are two lakes at Sherando, but only one is for swimming. Spread out on the warm sand and take a dip when you get too toasty. You can also camp, picnic, fish, kayak, or hike at this U.S. Forest Service-managed area.

Philpott Lake

Philpott Lake has 100 miles of shoreline, so there's plenty of beach space to explore. These locations charge a day-use fee for non-campers.

  • Goose Point - South side of the lake
  • Horseshoe Point - North side of the lake
  • Salthouse Branch - North side of the lake

STATE PARK BEACHES

First Landing State Park at sunset

First Landing State Park

Virginia's State Parks are riddled with lakes, including the big ones like Smith Mountain Lake. Between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day, guarded beach swimming is available at lake state parks for a fee. There are also a few state parks located right on the Chesapeake Bay, although swimming is at your own risk in these designated areas.  

  • State Parks with Small Lakes: Bear Creek Lake, Douthat, Fairy Stone, Holliday Lake, Hungry Mother, Twin Lakes
  • State Parks on Large Lakes: Claytor Lake, Lake Anna, Smith Mountain Lake 
  • State Parks on the Chesapeake Bay: First Landing, Kiptopeke

Find more information on swimming at Virginia State Parks.