Colonial Beach

Colonial Beach offers a diverse range of dining options. The Dockside Restaurant & Tiki Bar is a favorite for seafood lovers, providing casual fine dining with a lively atmosphere and live music. Another popular spot is Drift Seafood + Bar, known for its fast service and great cocktails. For those seeking traditional seafood, Wilkerson's Seafood Restaurant is a riverfront fixture offering lunch specials and down-to-earth decor. If you prefer international cuisine, Orchid Thai Cuisine offers delicious Thai dishes with vegan and vegetarian options. Lastly, Ledo Pizza Colonial Beach is a local favorite for unique pizzas.

Visitors to Colonial Beach have several accommodation options. The Riverview Inn offers a relaxed, vintage vibe with cozy cottage-style rooms and free Wi-Fi. The Tides Inn of CB provides a quaint Victorian setting with traditional rooms and suites, along with a restaurant and garden. For a more straightforward stay, the River Edge Inn offers low-key rooms with minifridges and microwaves, plus free Wi-Fi and breakfast.

Colonial Beach provides a range of amenities for visitors. The beach area includes restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, making it suitable for family outings. There are also rental options for kayaks, paddleboards, and bicycles, allowing visitors to explore the town and its waterways. Additionally, the town features a municipal fishing pier and a public boat ramp, catering to boaters and anglers alike. For those looking to relax, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes along the waterfront, offering everything from seafood to international cuisine.

Colonial Beach offers a variety of activities for all interests. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing from the municipal pier. The town's scenic views make it perfect for bird watching, with bald eagles frequently spotted. Visitors can also explore the local art scene, attend live music events, or participate in the numerous festivals held throughout the year. For thrill-seekers, the nearby Colonial Beach Dragway provides racing action. Additionally, the area is rich in history, with sites like the George Washington Birthplace National Monument nearby.

Colonial Beach strives to be accessible for all visitors. Many restaurants and hotels offer wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking lots, restrooms, and seating areas. The beach itself has accessible paths and facilities, though specific amenities like wheelchair rentals may not be readily available. Visitors with disabilities can enjoy the town's scenic views, dining options, and historical sites with relative ease, though it's advisable to check with specific venues for detailed accessibility information.

Parking in Colonial Beach is generally convenient, with free parking lots and street parking available near the beach and main attractions. Many restaurants and hotels also offer free parking for their guests. The town's layout allows for easy access to most locations on foot or by bike, making parking less of a concern for those staying in central areas. However, during peak season or special events, parking spaces may fill up quickly, so arriving early is advisable.

Colonial Beach has a fascinating history as a popular resort town in the early 20th century. It was once known as the 'Playground on the Potomac' and was frequented by notable figures like Alexander Graham Bell, who maintained a summer home there. The town played a strategic role during the Civil War as a Union supply base. Today, it is recognized for its natural beauty and wildlife, including bald eagles. Colonial Beach was also named the 'Nicest Place in Virginia' in 2019 by Reader's Digest.

Colonial Beach is surrounded by historical and natural attractions. The George Washington Birthplace National Monument and the James Monroe Family Home Site are nearby, offering insights into American history. The town itself is steeped in history, having been a Union supply base during the Civil War, with several historic markers commemorating this period. For nature lovers, the area is great for bird watching, with bald eagles and other species frequently seen. Additionally, the Potomac River provides opportunities for boating and fishing.