Whether you’re looking for a day of fun in the sun or just a relaxing weekend getaway, there are plenty of beaches near Hampton, Virginia that offer something for everyone.
From swimming and fishing to jet skiing and parasailing, here’s an overview of the best beaches around Hampton, Virginia and why they make great destinations for families and activities.
Yorktown Beach
Located in Yorktown about 40 minutes from Hampton, this beach offers a picturesque view of the York River while providing local swimming and fishing opportunities.
Yorktown Beach is the perfect destination for all kinds of fun. Local families flock to the beach for relaxing dips in the shallow water, fishing trips, and boating adventures on the clear waters.
And when you’re done taking in all nature has to offer, take some time to explore the shops and restaurants at Riverwalk Landing next door.
Just steps away, you can find fantastic shopping experiences, including an ice cream shop and various stores perfect for souvenir shopping. If you don’t want to walk, you can use the free shuttle service that operates throughout the day to the American Revolution Museum, the parking lots and the shops in Yorktown.
As evening falls on Thursday night in the summer, live music emanates from the bandstand as locals and visitors alike come together.
Yorktown Beach is definitely worth a visit!
Buckroe Beach
Buckroe Beach is located in the city of Hampton at the mouth of Chesapeake Bay.
It provides stunning views of both the bay and harbor. And, if the kids want something a bit different, they can play at Buckroe park on the spacious nautical-themed playground at the waterfront park.
Jet ski rentals, parasailing, grills and restrooms available mean that you can really make a day out of your visit to Buckroe Beach.
Buckroe Beach is probably the closest in resemblance to a larger beach directly on the ocean. It gives you stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay opening to the Atlantic Ocean, and feels almost like a “real” beach. It’s everything peachy – sunny, sandy, and salty.
College Creek Beach
Located along the Colonial Parkway in Williamsburg, VA and near the College of William & Mary, College Creek Beach is river-front beach.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t offer a place to swim due to the strong current and safety of the water features. While the mouth of the river is shallow, it quickly drops to over 10 feet deep.
Despite being on a river, College Creek Beach still has a sandy beach feel and is great place to visit for the view or to fish.
Huntington Park Beach
If you’re looking for even more stunning views, Huntington Park Beach is located on Riverview Drive in Newport News right along the James River.
This family friendly beach has lifeguards on duty and open concessions in the summer. Additionally, there is a large playground for children to enjoy.
Not only will visitors be able to take in those amazing views but they can also take advantage of walking/biking trails and catch a few trout while there there (you can purchase a fishing license for VA online or at local sporting goods stores).
First Landing State Park
Located just across the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel in north Virginia Beach area, First Landing State Park park offers miles upon miles of hiking trails that visitors can explore.
If you’re looking for a little beach time, First Landing Beach allows for swimming and sunbathing areas.
Additionally, there are numerous camping sites and cabin rentals if you’re looking to stay overnight.
First Landing State Park is a great choice if you wish to combine camping, hiking and bike rides with your beach mini-vaca.
Outlook Beach
Outlook Beach is a friendly beach at the bottom tip of the Virginia peninsula. While the sand is a little more pebbly than some of the spots on this list, Outlook Beach is one of the best beaches for great views.
The water looks expansive and you can even get some small waves here, despite it being on the Chesapeake Bay beachfront.
Beside the beach runs a long walking/biking trail that runs along a large portion of beach.
Additionally, you’ll find the walls and entrance to Fort Monroe National Monument right adjacent to Outlook Beach. This open fort is a neat destination to drive or walk through, and there is a free museum you can check out if you want a bit of history while visiting the beach.
If you need some refreshment while visiting the beach, be sure to check out Oozlefinch Brewery. They regularly have food trucks, and it is a great place that the whole family can enjoy.
Grandview Nature Preserve
Grandview Nature Preserve, in Hampton, VA, is a gorgeous place for nature lovers to walk along the water.
While there is no on-site parking for the Preserve, you can park on the street at the entrance and walk the half mile walk through the acres of salt marsh.
With some of the best views you’ll find on each side, Grandview Nature Preserve is the perfect place to find blue herons, pelicans and more as you stroll along.
At the end of the walk, the path opens up into a primitive, gorgeous shoreline, which is a fantastic place for long walks.
Paradise Ocean Club
Paradise Ocean Club is located at the Fort Monroe Beaches, in Hampton.
With food and drinks served right on the beach, a restaurant on site, and private beach access, this beach club feels exclusive. One thing to note: Paradise Ocean Club is the only beach on this list that doesn’t have free admission. But, its a special place and worth paying for if you want a more resort-like feel to your beach trip.
Now, before you head here, check to make sure they are open first. Paradise Ocean Club leases the land, and the lease was not renewed for this year – yet. Word on the street is, they’ll be back starting at the end of May. We hope so!
Jamestown Beach
Located a short drive from Hampton, VA, Jamestown Beach offers dog-friendly areas complete with wildflowers and shell-strewn shorelines – ideal for strolling or picnicking.
Jamestown Beach is located on the James River, but still feels pretty beachy despite this. It has a swimming area and kayak rentals.
A bonus to the Jamestown Beach is the immaculate facilities, on-site bathrooms, picnic areas, a nearby playground, a snack bar in the summer, and a short walk to a nearby brewery/marina.
Learn more about Jamestown Beach here.
Virginia Beach
And, finally, Virginia Beach… If you want true ocean view beaches, Virginia Beach is the place to go. The Virginia Beach oceanfront beautiful, and will give you all the salt, sand, and run you are looking for. It’s just a tunnel away but we recommend first giving these local, less often-trod beaches a visit.
With so many beaches near Hampton offering so much fun for families and activities alike it can be difficult choosing which one is best for your next outing!
From Yorktown Beach’s local swimming & fishing opportunities to Grandview Nature Preserve’s long shoreline – no matter what type of adventure you’re looking for there is sure to be something perfect waiting around every corner!
So plan your trip today and head out on your own little journey into paradise!
Happy exploring!