Traveling coastal virginia

Vacation Like a Local in Coastal Virginia

Sandbridge Beach

Sandbridge Beach is around 5 miles long a short drive south of the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.  A very unique strip of land surrounded on one end by the Atlantic Ocean, and back bay on the other side.  At the southern end of Sandbridge, you’ll find Little Island Park, a fantastic place to go for the solo traveler or people traveling with their family. There is plenty of parking here, restrooms, picnic tables and a playground for the kiddos!

sandbridge beach

There are a number of lifeguards in certain parts of the beach and there are four stands at Market Place at the north end and ten at Little Island Beach to the south. The lifeguards remain on the stand throughout most of the day (9am until 5 or 6pm) during the summer peak tourism.

The area is often referred to as the “Outer Banks of Virginia” due to its similar landscape and location. There are no hotels in Sandbridge, mostly beach rental houses and condos. There are a few options to grab a bite to eat, such as Little Island Pizza and Baja restaurant on the bay.  Sandbridge Beach is the perfect low key “locals” beach of Virgnia.

First Landing State Park

First Landing State Park is an interesting place for all visitors, especially those interested in American history. It’s the first state park in Virginia and where English settlers landed as they first arrived to North America.

first landing state park

This state park is known for its history, beautiful camping and rainbow swamps. You can visit First Landing State Park and enjoy the seaside. There are many trails to walk and you will find little sandy beaches along the way.  There is a public boat launch located here that will lead to many watersports and waterfront restaurants such as Chick’s Oyster Bar.

The beach at First Landing is located on the Chesapeake Bay beach right on the cusp of the Atlantic and the North End Beaches. It starts at the northern end of Virginia Beach Oceanfront, and meanders around to the Chesapeake Bay toward Shore Drive.  First Landing is a local’s favorite hangout in the summertime.

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