Written by Donna C. Gregory
Looking for a great place to throw down your beach towel this summer? Enjoy the sand
and surf at one of the following destinations.
Cape Charles Beach
The shallow, no-wave waters of the Chesapeake Bay make Cape Charles an excellent choice for families with small children. While the kids build sandcastles and splash in the water, Dad can cast a line from the town’s municipal saltwater fishing pier. Main Street is lined with B&Bs, restaurants and shops, making it a quiet destination for a weekend getaway. capecharles.org
Chincoteague and Assateague islands
Chincoteague is best known for its annual pony swim and auction in July and the much-loved children’s book, “Misty of Chincoteague,” which was inspired by the wild ponies that live on nearby Assateague Island.
Both islands are also popular for their pristine beaches and the many species of birds, sea creatures and wildlife that call Chincoteague and Assateague home. Visitors can explore the islands’ unique wildlife habitats on foot, bike or boat. Beach-goers can even catch their own dinner of blue crabs and clams! chincoteague.com, nps.gov/asis/index.htm, fws.gov/northeast/chinco/
Kiptopeke State Park
Located on the Eastern Shore, Kiptopeke State Park is another option for sun-lovers seeking the calmer waters of the Chesapeake. Kiptopeke’s northern beach stretches nearly one-half mile along the bay, offering an unguarded area for swimming. Several sunken World War II concrete ships provide an excellent underwater habitat for marine life and lead to some of the state’s finest fishing. Millions of migratory birds pass through Kiptopeke, making it a good place for bird-watching. In late summer through the fall, the Coastal Virginia Wildlife Observatory conducts bird population studies there. It’s also home to the Virginia state park system’s only yurt, a cross between a tent and a cabin. The yurt is available for rent and offers a stunning view of the bay. dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/kip.shtml
Smith Mountain Lake State Park
Smith Mountain Lake State Park combines two travel destinations into one—the mountains and the beach! The park’s 500-foot beach is one of only two public swimming areas situated on Virginia’s second largest body of fresh water. Water enthusiasts can enjoy swimming, fishing and boating amid the beautiful backdrop of Smith Mountain. Picnic areas are conveniently located next to the beach for bring-your-own meals. Rental cabins and camp sites give vacationers the option of spending several days getting back to nature. dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/smi.shtml
Virginia Beach
No surprise here: Virginia Beach is always a favorite destination for summertime day trips and vacations to the shore. The three-mile boardwalk is close to fantastic seafood restaurants, touristy surf shops and nightly live entertainment. If the sun is too sweltering, there are many visitors’ attractions nearby, including the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. vbgov.org
Buckroe Beach
Grab your dancing shoes and head to Hampton’s Buckroe Beach on Sunday nights through Aug. 5 for the Groovin’ by the Bay concert series. During the day, families will enjoy Buckroe’s eight-acre beach, playground, picnic shelters and trails. Plentiful parking and paddle-craft rentals make this beach super convenient. When beach boredom sets in, head to the nearby Virginia Air & Space Center, where visitors can launch a rocket, see a moon rock and board a World War II bomber. hampton.gov/parks