A Guide to the 5 Best Beaches Near Richmond, Virginia
When the summer heat settles on Richmond, the call of the coast is hard to resist. While the city itself is landlocked, a beautiful array of sandy shores—from the wild barrier islands of the Atlantic to the calm waters of historic rivers and lakes—are all just a day trip away. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of amenities, a natural escape to observe wildlife, or a historic spot to relax by the water, you don't have to travel far. Here is an updated and optimized guide to the five best beach destinations near Richmond.
1. Virginia Beach: The Classic Oceanfront Experience
No list of Virginia beaches is complete without the iconic Virginia Beach. Just a two-hour drive from Richmond, it offers a quintessential beach vacation experience for every type of traveler.
- The Vibe: The three-mile boardwalk is the heart of the action, bustling with energy, restaurants, and shops. While it can be lively, the wide, sandy shores provide plenty of space to spread out. For a quieter experience, head to the North End beaches or the local-favorite Sandbridge area.
- What to Do: Beyond sunbathing and swimming, Virginia Beach is a hub for activities. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the oceanfront, which is known for being family-friendly. In certain designated areas, you can even have a bonfire on the beach, a perfect way to end the day.
- Fun Fact: The Virginia Beach boardwalk was originally built in 1888 and is a staggering 28 feet wide, making it perfect for a scenic bike ride or stroll.
2. Assateague Island National Seashore: A Wild Natural Paradise
For a truly unforgettable and wild beach experience, Assateague Island is well worth the drive. This stunning 37-mile-long barrier island is world-famous for the herds of wild horses that roam its beaches and marshes.
- The Vibe: This is a protected National Wildlife Refuge, offering a serene and natural escape. The beaches are pristine and undeveloped, providing a perfect backdrop for wildlife photography, bird watching, and simply connecting with nature.
- What to Do: Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, beachcombing, and fishing. The calmer bay side of the island is perfect for kayaking and clamming. The island is managed by the National Park Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and there are visitor centers to help you learn about the unique ecosystem.
- Fun Fact: The famous wild horses of Assateague are feral animals, meaning they are descendants of domesticated horses that have reverted to a wild state. Local legend claims they are the survivors of a Spanish galleon that wrecked off the coast centuries ago.
3. Jamestown Beach Event Park: History Meets the River
Located on the historic James River, just a short drive from Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown Beach offers a unique combination of recreation and history.
- The Vibe: This is an incredibly family-friendly and accessible park with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. With over 1,300 feet of sandy shoreline and plenty of shade trees, it's a perfect spot for a family picnic.
- What to Do: The calm river water is ideal for swimming, and there's an observation pier perfect for fishing or wildlife watching. The park is fully ADA accessible and offers picnic areas with charcoal grills, restrooms, and kayak rentals. It's also a dog-friendly beach.
- Don't Miss: The nearby Jamestown Settlement and Historic Jamestowne offer a deep dive into the history of America's first permanent English colony. You can also take the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry across the river for a beautiful and free scenic ride.
4. Buckroe Beach: A Chesapeake Bay Gem
Nestled along the Chesapeake Bay in Hampton, Buckroe Beach is a beautiful and family-friendly destination with a classic American beach town feel.
- The Vibe: With three-quarters of a mile of clean, sandy beach and a spacious boardwalk, Buckroe offers a more relaxed and less crowded alternative to the Atlantic oceanfront.
- What to Do: The gentle surf of the Chesapeake Bay makes it a great spot for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The park features a large playground, picnic shelters, and a waterfront pavilion that hosts free outdoor concerts and family movies during the summer. Lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
- Fun Fact: Buckroe Beach was once the site of a popular amusement park from the late 19th to the late 20th century, and it continues its legacy as a hub for community entertainment.
5. Lake Anna State Park: A Freshwater Oasis
For those who prefer fresh water, Lake Anna State Park is a fantastic getaway located just over an hour from Richmond.
- The Vibe: Centered around one of Virginia's largest freshwater reservoirs, this park offers a beautiful sandy beach and a large grassy area perfect for picnicking and relaxing. It's a very popular spot for families, especially on summer weekends.
- What to Do: The guarded swimming beach is the main attraction, with shallow sections perfect for younger children. The lake is also a renowned destination for fishing, boating, and waterskiing, with boat ramps and rentals available. The park also features over 15 miles of hiking trails.
- Fun Fact: Before it was a lake, the land was a major gold mining area in the 19th century. The park's visitor center has exhibits that trace the history of the area's "gold coast."
