10 Totally Unreal Virginia Beaches You Need To See To Believe

This quaint little beach town on the eastern shore will seriously charm your pants off. Luckily, you'll be wearing a bathing suit underneath. And if you get restless sunbathing, visit Chatham Vineyards on a guided kayak tour to swish some primo vinos.

Beach houses and cottages with picture-perfect views on Sandbridge Beach are the ideal escape. Here, you'll have peace and privacy, just south of lively Virginia Beach. You'll also have 8,000 acres of farmland with you-pick farms, farmers markets, and roadside stands for foodies.

Fun fact: First Landing is the site of the settlers' first landing in 1607 and a registered National Landmark. Today, you probably won't see settlers, but there is a quiet, uncrowded beach, dunes, a tidal marsh, a maritime forest, and 19 miles of interpretive hiking trails.

Located on the Potomac River, Westmoreland State Park's beaches are adorned with stunning rocky cliffs. To explore the many hiking trails, rent a cabin and stay for the weekend. That'll also leave you plenty of time to comb the beaches for sharks' teeth.

The calm waters at Chesapeake Bay Beach are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. It's a true local spot in Virginia Beach, only walking distance from the marina and a selection of dockside seafood joints with fantastic sunset views.

Virginia Beach's iconic three-mile boardwalk is bustling with hotels, restaurants, kitschy shops, and live entertainment. It's ideal for jogging, biking, and people-watching. Make sure you stop at Grommet Island Beach Park and the bronze statue of King Neptune.

It's only a short walk across a pedestrian footbridge from downtown Richmond to reach Belle Isle. Between quick dips in the James River, the big, flat rocks surrounding the island are perfect for people-watching and sunbathing with the scenic backdrop of the skyline.