Now that summer has arrived here in Virginia, we've got one thing on our minds: beach trips. Of course, not everyone is a fan of the beach, but the beauty of Virginia's coast is indisputable. In the spirit of appealing to everyone, we've comprised a list of gorgeous beaches that happen to be part of our equally beautiful Virginia State Parks. Hiking trails, fishing piers, shorelines...what's not to love? Here are 10 such places that make for the perfect day-trip destination season at these Virginia state park beaches:
1. Douthat State Park
The beach at Douthat State Park may be man-made, but that doesn't detract from its picturesque appeal. Head out for a hike along any number of this state park's trails and then relax -- or go for a dip -- in Douthat Lake. This is a beautiful Virginia state park beach.
2. First Landing State Park
Located in North Virginia Beach, First Landing State Park is a popular attraction for nature lovers of all kinds. The natural area measures nearly 3,000 acres in size and promises a variety of landscapes, including wooded trails and an expansive stretch of coast for quality beach time. First Landing State Park also makes for a prime camping site and offers over 200 campsites. Beaches in Virginia don’t get much better than this!
3. False Cape State Park
False Cape State Park is situated near Virginia Beach's Little Island City Park. An oasis of natural preserves, this state park offers boardwalks, maritime forest trails, and breathtaking beaches. Photographed directly above is Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, serving as a scenic introduction to False Cape. This is one of the best beaches in Virginia!
4. York River State Park
York River State Park may not have a traditional ocean beach, but it's got sand, shoreline, seashells, and plenty of trails to explore. The York River shoreline is every bit as scenic as one you'd find along the ocean, and it's a wonderful place to learn about this unique estuarine environment. This is a great beach in Virginia.
5. Kiptopeke State Park
With unique accommodations, ample campsites, and even a few cabins, Kiptopeke State Park is a camper's paradise. It's located along Virginia's Eastern Shore and offers visitors a swimming beach, boardwalks, and miles of interpretive hikes. We love this Virginia state park beach.
6. Chippokes Plantation State Park
Chippokes Plantation State Park is a breathtaking area situated across the mighty James River from Jamestown. This working farm offers historic insight into 17th-century Virginia in addition to a gorgeous river shoreline to soak it all in. One of the best state park beaches in Virginia
7. Claytor Lake State Park
Located in Dublin, Claytor Lake is a gorgeous natural area known for fishing and boating. The spot also welcomes swimmers, beachcombers, and anyone interested in a leisurely stroll or bike ride around the 4,500-acre lake. Another gorgeous Virginia beach!
8. Hungry Mother State Park
Hungry Mother State Park offers a little bit of everything: hiking trails, mountain overlooks, and a man-made swimming beach on the lake. This scenic body of water is 108 acres large and the perfect setting to relax after a wooded hike. This is one of the best beaches in Virginia.
9. Westmoreland State Park
Westmoreland State Park is a little slice of paradise along the Potomac River. This 1,300-acre park includes plenty of trails for hiking, gorgeous overlooks of the beach, distinctive cliffs, and plenty of places to swim and kayak. Easily one of our favorite Virginia state park beaches!
10. Fairy Stone State Park
Fairy Stone State Park may be known for its gorgeous wooded hiking trails, but this expansive state park also features a beach that's especially popular among kids. The 168-acre lake meets up with Philpott Reservoir and is just a short drive from the Blue Ridge Parkway. If you’re in Stuart and looking for a "state park beach near me," try Fairy Stone State Park!
Have you visited any of these gorgeous Virginia State Parks beaches? Feel free to share your experiences with us! For a comprehensive list of Virginia's State Parks as well as directions and further information, be sure to visit the official Virginia State Parks website. For related content, read about The Virginia Beach That's Unlike Any Other In The World.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!