The Rivah’s Best Beaches

Visions of summer in coastal and rural Virginia include glasses of cold sweet tea, honeysuckles lining dirt roads, driving with the top-down, summertime carnivals, baseball, softball, and the beach. Whether you’re a sun worshiper determined to soak in as many rays as possible, an adventure seeker looking for your next thrill through water sports and boating, or an avid nature lover who enjoys hiking and bird watching, the beaches of the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula are the place for you. As an avid beach goer myself, I hit the road with my boyfriend, Billy, and his dog, Kronos, in search of the best beaches for each kind of beach goer. With the warm weather here to stay, it’s time to get on the beach and play! Whether you’re looking for something right in your own backyard or you’re interested in exploring somewhere new for a day trip, the region offers a variety of sandy stretches on the Chesapeake Bay and tributaries.

WAKE BEACH

Mill Creek Road, Wake

While the sandy spot may be on the smaller side, its picturesque backdrop of the Robert O. Norris Bridge makes Wake Beach more than worthy of a visit. At the end of Mill Creek Road, the scenic drive through Wake leads to a small Rappahannock River-front public beach with a stunning view that left my jaw in the sand. Because of its very limited parking and proximity to private homes, this spot would be best for a quiet, relaxing, solo trip or a trip with just a friend or two. The beach has been kept very clean by attendants and the quiet rolling of the waves gliding along the shore with the moving tide creates the most tranquil atmosphere.

With tall grasses upon entry to the sandy shore, Wake Beach creates a stunning canvas for any photographer or anyone who simply enjoys taking in one-of-a-kind views.

VIR-MAR Beach

Vir Mar Beach Road, Heathsville

Another smaller beach that offers spectacular views of the river is Vir-Mar Beach in Heathsville. At a conjunction of the Potomac River and the Chesapeake Bay, the views from Vir-Mar go as far as the eye can see. Vir-Mar Beach is a nature-lover’s paradise. The abundance of waterfowl, butterflies and deer which can be found near the beach show there is bountiful life at the end of the rural Northumberland County road leading to the waterfront. While en route to Vir-Mar beach, you might start to wonder “did I miss it?” or, “are we there yet?” But not to worry, upon arrival at the sandy spot the remote beach’s beauty makes the trek worth the wait.

Because parking along the roadside leading to the stairs that take you to the sand is ample and accepted, in theory, there are no issues with limited parking. However, the beach itself is small with the opportunity for it to become quickly over crowded. The beach is open from sun-up to sun-down daily.

Gloucester Point Beach

1255 Greate Road, Gloucester Point

Often overlooked and over-shadowed by Yorktown Beach just across the York River, Gloucester Point Beach is a quieter alternative to the hustle and bustle of some other nearby beaches. After driving through the Virginia Institute of Marine Science campus in Gloucester Point, you can expect to enjoy an entire afternoon or day at the wide sandy beach. Along with the roomy beach, a grassy shaded area complete with picnic tables, a picnic area shelter for shade, playground and volleyball net is adjacent to the sandy stretch. The shaded picnic area can be rented for half days or full days through the Gloucester County Parks, Recreation, and Tourism office.

While the beach offers a nice view of the Coleman Bridge and the Yorktown Beach across the river, the most enticing aspect of Gloucester Point Beach is its fishing pier, extending right from the beach. The long pier stretches out into the York with fishing permitted daily except during times of inclement and dangerous weather. Croaker, red drum and striped bass are some of the most commonly caught fish off the pier. A public fishing license is sponsored for the pier, but a registration with the Virginia Fishermen ID Program is needed prior to casting a line.

Additionally, metal detectors are commonly used along the beach for those interested in potentially finding some lost treasure or even some artifacts. The beach’s size makes it one of the best in the area to have your four legged furry friend tag along, too. There is a decent sized parking lot with just one designated handicap space. However, according to some regular beach goers, once summer is here, particularly on the weekends, the lot fills up quickly.

Gloucester Point Beach is definitely a spot friends and family can make an entire day of and the views, amenities, and size alone is enough to keep guests coming back throughout the warmer months.

Yorktown Beach

425 Water Street, Yorktown

Right across from Gloucester Point Beach and just beyond the threshold of the 804 into the 757, Yorktown Beach has a lot to offer. Sun chasers can find a sunny spot to stay along the two-acre beach front right on the York River. When needing to cool off, guests can either walk around the shops of historic Yorktown and get themselves an ice cream cone at Ben & Jerry’s or even a beer at Yorktown Pub just off the beach. Piers along the beach enhance the experience with a variety of vessels coming in and out of the port.

The Schooner Alliance is a 105-foot sailboat that can be booked for guests to enjoy historical cruises along the river. Additionally, there are outlets available to rent kayaks, paddle boards and bicycles to take adventuring the beach and the town to the next level. Coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques and historic buildings adorn the surrounding landscape, allowing for a variety of activities to keep families occupied all day.

Yorktown beach also has a beautiful fishing pier that is ADA accessible. This is additionally one of the only beaches in the area with a Mobi-Mat and Mobi Chair for guests who use wheelchairs. While parking throughout the entire Yorktown area is free, the lots, particularly the ones right on the beach, fill up very quickly which may result in a short walk.

Yorktown Beach is perfect for those who are looking forward to an active day with opportunities to keep the fun going into the night with the surrounding amenities.

Colonial Beach

In the northwest section of Westmoreland County on the Potomac River and Monroe Bay, Colonial Beach is the quintessential beach town. There are several different beaches throughout the town, each with its own flare and attractions. Most popular, Downtown Boardwalk beach is typically the busiest spot with bathhouses, restaurants, opportunity for water sports, a town pier and the photo-friendly LOVE sign on a golf cart lining the boardwalk.

On the southernmost part of town, The Pointe is a small beach that is home to the popular Dockside Restaurant & Tiki Bar as well as the Colonial Beach Yacht Center. North Beach and Irving Avenue Beach are a bit more quiet and secluded to the neighboring stretches of sand while still conveniently close to all of the action. For families with pets and children, a best bet for beach going is Castlewood Beach. Near the beach is Castlewood Park which offers a dog park, restrooms, picnic areas and an impressive playground. It’s also located near the public boat ramp on Monroe Bay.

There is so much to do and see throughout Colonial Beach. It’s the second largest beach in the state and attracts tourists from nearby and beyond. Beach goers should note pets are not allowed on the beaches along with no alcohol, grills, fires, golf carts and other vehicles. Fishing is prohibited between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Colonial Beach is the perfect mini get away for residents throughout the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula. Even if you’re only right up the road, the beach-town vibe is enough to make you feel like you’re in a whole other world.

Windmill Point Beach

Windmill Point Road, White Stone

I can never listen to Kenny Chesney’s song “Pirate Flag” without thinking of driving the seven mile gorgeous stretch of peninsula leading down to Windmill Point Beach (Westland). After “taking it all the way to the end of the line,” those looking to keep the good times going are met with the vibrant Tiki Bar & Grill at Windmill Point adjacent to bustling Windmill Point Marina which is all right next to the beach. While Windmill is not the biggest lot of sand on the Rappahannock, there’s enough room for guests to bring friends, their family and pup. You’ll seldom find yourself alone at Windmill, but the atmosphere is nothing short of good vibes and easy living.

A public boat ramp and kayak launch is available on the property as well. Guests can walk along the docks of the marina to see a variety of sailboats, workboats and power boats. The marina has several events throughout the year, including “Power on the Point,” which rallies speedboat owners from all over for a weekend at Windmill. The tiki bar has bands throughout the summer and often acoustic sessions on Sundays. Beach goers can often find regular beach attendees playing in the water on kayaks, paddle boards, and even wind boarding. Windmill is the spot to go when you’re ready for some time to party and soak in every bit of sunshine and good times.

Fossil Beach – Westmoreland State Park

145 Cliff Road, Montross

Known for its sharks teeth and arrowheads that are often discovered while exploring the sand, Fossil Beach at Westmoreland State Park is a spacious beach surrounded by beautiful cliffs on the Potomac River. After hiking a pristinely-kept and tree-surrounded Big Meadow Trail, which is a little shorter than a mile-long trek, those exploring the park find themselves at a beach unlike any other throughout the Northern Neck thanks to the scenic limestone cliffs. There are typically a number of other beach goers exploring or sunbathing among Fossil Beach, however, because of the beach’s length along with the multitude of other areas to explore amongst the park, the beach is rarely over crowded.

This beach is a great spot to walk your dog and bring your kids. Along the trail, varieties of trees are labeled and described with informative plaques. The boardwalk and observation tower are currently closed for safety concerns. Fishing is permitted and a tackle shop is in the park as well. The same tackle shop also offers paddle boat, paddle board and kayak rentals for those looking for a bit of exercise and adventure during their beach trip. Because the channel of the Potomac is nearly seven miles wide at Fossil Beach, waters can get a little rough, which in turn brings in a mix of fish and replenishes shells and fossils along the shore often. There is a parking fee payable at the park entrance.

The Beach Trail – Westmoreland State Park

145 Cliff Road, Montross

If you want to hang and play on a nice sandy beach without the hike, Westmoreland State Park has another beach near the park’s tackle shop. While this beach is a bit smaller, it allows beach goers to get involved with watersports without the trek up and down Big Meadow Trail carrying heavy gear. There are grassy areas with picnic tables and benches right along the beach as well. This beach is convenient to the park’s rental cabins. Additionally, a fishing pier is available for use as long as you have a valid Virginia fishing license. There is a parking fee payable at the park entrance.

Hughlett Point

Balls Neck Road, Kilmarnock

What was once a “best-kept secret” among Northumberland and Lancaster County residents, Hughlett Point has become a heavily visited Natural Area Preserve on the Chesapeake Bay in recent years. Because of its status as a natural area preserve, swimming is prohibited along with camping and fires. Hughlett Point sits on 204 acres of preserved land with nearly two total miles of easy hiking trails that lead to the primary entry to the long sandy beach as well as several outlooks. Beach goers will see a variety of waterfowl, including American Black Ducks and Tundra Swans, as well as ospreys, egrets and even bald eagles, throughout the duration of their stay on the beach.

When walking through the dreamy loblolly pine-lined trails on the boardwalk leading to the beach, hikers may want to bear in mind the intensity of mosquitos depending on the time of day and year. While hiking along the shore, you’ll also come across some marshes which are vital to the ecosystem. There are 11 parking spaces at Hughlett and towing is very much enforced for those who park along the roadside. Even when the lot is full, because of the size of the beach, guests won’t feel crowded.

Bethel Beach Natural Area Preserve

Bethel Beach Road, Onemo

Situated on 83 acres of sandy beach and protected shoreline in Mathews County, Bethel Beach offers beautiful views of the Chesapeake Bay. While the beach is a bit narrow, it’s rather long, so guests, even when busy will be able to have their own space to explore. Not only was the gorgeous scapes of the Bay enough to draw me in, the drive leading to the beach was something special. The rural country roads leading to the beach including several yards filled with ponies and horses, the tiniest and most charming post office I’ve ever seen, and old fashioned farm homes lining the route was a highlight of the trip in itself.

Just prior to arrival to the beach, a small bridge is in place where you can see the marshes and tall grasses lining the outskirts of the preserve, leaving you feeling you’re in a far-off remote island. Bethel is a birdwatcher or nature photographer’s paradise. With over 185 species of birds, you’re sure to see the small gull-like least terns throughout the premises as well as catching glimpses of ospreys and egrets.