Best Dog Beaches in Virginia

Buckroe Beach, located in Hampton, Virginia, is a historic and scenic beachfront area on the Chesapeake Bay. It offers a mix of recreational activities and historical significance, having been one of the oldest recreational regions in Virginia. The beach is approximately 3,670 feet long and features a four-foot high concrete seawall, eight jetties, and a pier. It has undergone several beach replenishment projects to maintain its sandy shores. Buckroe Beach is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and has been revitalized with amenities like a mile-long boardwalk, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
The area has a rich history, dating back to the early 17th century when it was used by English settlers. It later became a popular resort area, especially for African Americans during the segregation era, with the Bay Shore Beach and Resort. Today, Buckroe Beach is integrated and offers a variety of activities for visitors.
The beach is owned by the City of Hampton and serves as a public recreation area, providing opportunities for swimming, fishing, and sailing. Its proximity to Fort Monroe and other historical sites adds to its appeal as a tourist destination.

Cape Charles Public Beach, located on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, is a tranquil haven offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historic charm. It is the only public beach in the area that does not charge an entrance or parking fee, making it accessible to all. The beach is renowned for its calm, shallow waters and pristine sands, perfect for relaxation and family activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. The nearby town offers a charming downtown area with shops, restaurants, and galleries, creating a complete vacation experience.
The beach is situated along Bay Avenue, with access points at every block, providing easy entry for visitors. It also features wooden beach access points with view platforms and benches, ideal for taking in the stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay and its spectacular sunsets.
Cape Charles has seen significant growth in recent years, attracting new residents and visitors alike with its quaint, small-town feel and scenic beauty.

Aquia Landing Park is a picturesque 32-acre park located in Stafford, Virginia, offering a serene blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Situated on a peninsula where Aquia Creek meets the Potomac River, it provides a tranquil setting for activities like swimming, fishing, and birdwatching. The park is known for its dog-friendly policy and accessible facilities, making it a welcoming spot for families and individuals alike. Its historical importance includes being a site for the Underground Railroad and a pivotal location during the Civil War, adding depth to its recreational appeal.

The park's diverse landscape includes marshes, woods, and wetlands, attracting a variety of wildlife such as songbirds, waterfowl, and marsh birds. Visitors can enjoy picnics, hiking, and kayaking amidst the scenic backdrop of the Potomac River. Despite its natural charm, some areas of the park require maintenance to enhance the visitor experience.

Aquia Landing Park is a short drive from Washington D.C. via I-95, making it an accessible day-trip destination for those seeking a mix of nature and history.

Chris Greene Lake Park is a serene 239-acre park located just north of Charlottesville, Virginia. It features 53 water acres and 2 beach acres, offering a peaceful lakeside experience rather than a traditional oceanic beach. The park is surrounded by lush greenery and provides several recreational amenities, including a 1-acre fenced dog park, 2 reservable picnic shelters, a playground, and 3 miles of trails. Visitors can enjoy swimming within designated areas, fishing, and picnicking with family and friends. The park is open from 7 AM to 9 PM, making it a perfect spot for both daytime and early evening activities.
The park's proximity to Charlottesville Airport and its natural beauty make it an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor activities and relaxation. Despite its serene atmosphere, the park has limited amenities, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Chris Greene Lake Park is a great place for nature lovers and those looking for a tranquil escape from urban life.

Haven Beach, located in Diggs, Virginia, offers a serene and unspoiled beach experience. It is known for its pristine sand and tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for activities like strolling, picnicking, and bird watching. The beach is larger than it initially appears, with plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the surroundings. It hosts various social events and allows fishing and shell collecting, making it a great spot for those who enjoy people-watching alongside beach activities.

The beach's natural beauty is enhanced by its lack of commercialization, providing a peaceful experience for visitors. However, it lacks amenities like lifeguards, restrooms, and dog access, which contributes to its serene and undisturbed environment.

Visitors often appreciate the opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the simple pleasures of a beach day without the hustle and bustle of more crowded destinations.

Little Island Beach North is part of the larger Little Island Park, a 122-acre recreational area located in Sandbridge, Virginia Beach. The park features two beaches: a 775-foot beach north of the Little Island Fishing Pier, ideal for surfing, and a 2,000-foot beach south of the pier, perfect for swimming and fishing. The area is also known for its proximity to Back Bay, offering excellent fishing and crabbing opportunities. The park provides a variety of amenities, including picnic shelters, tennis courts, and a playground, making it a popular spot for both relaxation and outdoor activities.

The beach itself is part of the Sandbridge Beach, known for its light brown sand and scenic views. Visitors can enjoy water sports like kayaking or simply relax on the beach. The area is also close to several dining options and accommodations, making it a convenient choice for travelers.

Little Island Park is open from sunrise to sunset, offering a serene and natural environment for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Kiptopeke State Park, located on Virginia's Eastern Shore, offers a serene beach experience with access to the Chesapeake Bay. The park is renowned for its migratory bird habitat along the Atlantic Flyway, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, fishing, and hiking along the park's 5.1 miles of trails. The park also features unique attractions like the nine 1944 concrete ships resting in the bay. With its diverse wildlife and scenic views, Kiptopeke State Park provides a tranquil getaway for nature lovers.
The park's proximity to Cape Charles allows visitors to explore additional attractions and amenities in the area, such as local restaurants and shops. The park itself offers cabins, lodges, and camping facilities for those looking to stay overnight.
Overall, Kiptopeke State Park combines natural beauty with recreational opportunities, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing coastal experience.

Ocean View Beach Park, located in Norfolk, Virginia, is a vibrant 6.5-acre beachfront destination that offers a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Situated on the Chesapeake Bay, it provides stunning views and a variety of amenities, including a large band shell for presentations and dancing, a beach with lifeguards during the summer, a boardwalk, and plenty of open green space. The park is known as the jewel of Ocean View and hosts numerous community events and festivals throughout the year, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
The area has a rich history, dating back to its development as a resort town in the late 19th century, with attractions like the historic Ocean View Fishing Pier and the nearby East Beach neighborhood, which underwent significant urban renewal in the 1990s. This transformation included the creation of a new urbanist waterfront community with upscale homes, shops, and restaurants.
Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, kayaking, and fishing, while also exploring the nearby First Landing State Park for hiking and biking opportunities. The park's scenic coastal walks and breathtaking sunsets make it an ideal location for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Texas Beach in Richmond, Virginia, is a scenic riverside area located within the James River Park System. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm, featuring a 4.8-mile hiking trail with access to several river beaches. The area is named after Texas Avenue, which originally led to this recreational spot. Today, visitors can enjoy hiking, dog walking, and exploring the riverfront, all while being surrounded by vibrant murals and lush greenery. The beach is open from sunrise to sunset, making it an ideal spot for both morning and afternoon adventures.

One of the highlights of Texas Beach is its proximity to other Richmond attractions, such as Maymont and Hollywood Cemetery. The area is also known for its skatepark and mountain bike trails, offering something for everyone. Despite its urban setting, Texas Beach provides a tranquil escape from city life, with its natural scenery and wildlife.

The journey to Texas Beach involves a scenic hike down steep stairs and across a bridge over train tracks, which are adorned with colorful murals. Once at the beach, visitors can enjoy secluded spots, rock scrambles, and picturesque views of the James River.

Colonial Beach, Virginia, is a charming river and beach town located on the Northern Neck peninsula, bounded by the Potomac River and Monroe Bay. It boasts Virginia's second-longest public beach and offers a family-friendly atmosphere, making it a popular destination for those seeking a relaxing coastal getaway. The town has a rich history, having been a popular resort in the early 20th century and featuring notable landmarks like the Bell House, once a summer home for Alexander Graham Bell. Today, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including water sports, fishing, and exploring the local art scene.
Colonial Beach is about 65 miles from Washington, D.C., and 70 miles from Richmond, making it an accessible weekend retreat. The town hosts numerous events throughout the year, including live music performances and festivals. With its blend of history, natural beauty, and vibrant community, Colonial Beach is an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure.
The area is also known for its wildlife, including bald eagles, and offers opportunities for bird watching. Visitors can explore historic sites, enjoy local cuisine, and take part in water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding.

Widewater State Park is located on a 1,100-acre peninsula in Stafford County, Virginia, where the Potomac River and Aquia Creek converge. This scenic park offers stunning water views, fishing, and recreational access to both bodies of water. It is a relatively new addition to the Virginia State Park system, having opened in 2019. The park is known for its historical significance, including early flight experiments by Samuel P. Langley. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, kayaking, and exploring the park's trails and waterways.
The park's development is ongoing, with plans for future amenities like cabins and campgrounds. Currently, it provides picnic shelters, playgrounds, and a visitor center. Widewater State Park is a great day-trip destination from the Washington D.C. area, offering a peaceful escape from urban life.
The park's proximity to other attractions like the Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary adds to its appeal, providing opportunities to explore historical sites and unique natural environments.

Leesylvania State Park, located in Woodbridge, Virginia, is a scenic destination along the Potomac River. It offers a variety of activities such as hiking, picnicking, fishing, and boating. The park features a universally accessible fishing pier, playground, boat launch, and a 20-station fitness trail. Visitors can enjoy the park's natural beauty and historical sites, including a Civil War Confederate gun battery at Freestone Point. The park is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and relaxation in a beautiful natural setting.

The park's proximity to the Potomac River makes it a great spot for water activities and offers stunning views of the river. Leesylvania State Park is also known for its rich historical significance, with remnants of the past visible throughout the area.

Overall, Leesylvania State Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Located in the coastal city of Virginia Beach in southeastern Virginia, First Landing Beach – also called First Landing State Park Beach and First Landing State Park Chesapeake Bay Beach – is a one-and-a-quarter mile long beach that has light brown sand and a few wooden pilings.  First Landing Beach is a part of a larger state park named First Landing State Park.

First Landing Beach is open between 7 am to dusk.