The 4 BEST Beaches to Visit From Williamsburg, VA, to Virginia Beach

Jan 06, 2026

The 4 BEST Beaches to Visit From Williamsburg, VA, to Virginia Beach
By Samantha Mills

Beaches to Visit From Williamsburg to Virginia Beach

You're immersed in the rich tapestry of American history in Williamsburg, walking the cobblestone streets and imagining life in the 18th century. But as the Virginia sun warms your skin, the call of the coast becomes undeniable.

While many travelers focus solely on the historical attractions when planning their Williamsburg itinerary, the Big Island of colonial history delivers its own spectacular fashion of adventure when paired with a coastal escape. A day trip to the beach offers the perfect complement to your historical explorations and ranks among the best things to do in Williamsburg with kids who need a break from museums and want to splash in the waves after touring colonial sites.

After exploring the diverse landscapes of America's founding, you'll understand why travelers return year after year to stay at exceptional Williamsburg resorts that provide a perfect home-away-from-home. This guide showcases the 4 absolute best beach destinations that capture the region's unique spirit and natural magnificence.

Best Nearby Beaches and Coastal Escapes

1. Yorktown Beach

For those short on time or seeking a quick and convenient dose of sand and water, Yorktown Beach is the ideal choice. Located on the banks of the York River, this charming beach offers calm waters perfect for families. It is uniquely situated within the historic town of Yorktown, allowing visitors to seamlessly blend a relaxing beach day with a visit to the American Revolution Museum or a stroll along the scenic Riverwalk lined with shops and cafes.

Pro Tip: Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the beach, then have dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants as the sun sets over the river. Parking is free in the lots at the corners of Water and Ballard Streets.

WHERE: 425 Water St, Yorktown, VA 23690 | WHO: (757) 890-3500

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2. First Landing State Park

Immerse yourself in both nature and history at First Landing State Park, the site where English colonists first arrived in 1607. The park features a beautiful, serene beach on the Chesapeake Bay, where the calmer waters are ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, especially for families with young children. Beyond the beach, the park boasts over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through a rare maritime forest of cypress swamps and Spanish moss.

Pro Tip: Pay the park entrance fee and drive to the Chesapeake Bay side for beach access. The 64th street entrance provides the easiest access to the main beach area and facilities. Bring bug spray for the hiking trails.

WHERE: 2500 Shore Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23451 | WHO: (757) 412-2300

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3. Virginia Beach Oceanfront

For the quintessential American beach experience, the Virginia Beach Oceanfront is the ultimate destination. This bustling, energetic area features a three-mile-long boardwalk, a wide sandy beach, and an endless array of activities. Enjoy live music at one of the boardwalk stages, rent a surrey bike for a family ride, or simply relax on the sand and people-watch. With hundreds of restaurants, shops, and attractions, there is something here for everyone.

Pro Tip: Instead of searching for street parking, head directly to one of the municipal parking garages on 9th, 19th, or 31st Street. They offer affordable all-day rates and are just a short walk from the boardwalk.

WHERE: Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451 | WHO: (800) 822-3224

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4. Sandbridge Beach

If you're seeking a more tranquil and secluded coastal experience, drive a few miles south of the main Oceanfront to Sandbridge Beach. This peaceful, residential community offers a five-mile stretch of pristine dunes and wide-open beaches that feel a world away from the crowds. It's the perfect spot for visitors who want to unwind with a good book, take long walks along the shore, and simply enjoy the sound of the Atlantic waves.

Pro Tip: Sandbridge has very few public facilities or restaurants. Pack a cooler with lunch, drinks, and snacks for the day. Public parking is available at the Sandbridge Market lot and Little Island Park at the southern end.

WHERE: Sandbridge Beach, Virginia Beach, VA 23456 | WHO: N/A

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Where to Stay: Your Home Base for History and the Coast

When planning your Williamsburg escape, choosing the right accommodation sets the tone for your entire vacation. Westgate Historic Williamsburg Resort stands out as the premier choice for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and a touch of colonial charm.

Nestled just a mile from Colonial Williamsburg, this beautiful resort offers spacious, fully furnished villas that provide a true home-away-from-home experience. After a long day exploring battlefields or sunbathing at the beach, return to your villa to relax in a large living space, prepare a meal in your own kitchen, and unwind in comfort.

With an outdoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center, Westgate Historic Williamsburg Resort provides the perfect launching point for exploring the region's historical wonders and its beautiful coastline.

Frequently Asked Questions About a Williamsburg Beach Trip

The closest beach is Yorktown Beach, located on the York River. It's only about a 20–25-minute drive from Williamsburg and offers a calm, family-friendly atmosphere right in the heart of a historic town.

The drive to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront typically takes between 1 hour and 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending heavily on traffic. The main bottleneck is often the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT), so it's wise to check a traffic app like Waze or Google Maps before you depart, especially on summer weekends.

Absolutely. A beach day trip provides a wonderful contrast to the historical sites of Williamsburg. It allows you to experience two very different sides of Virginia in a single vacation, combining educational immersion with coastal relaxation for a well-rounded and memorable trip.

Pack essentials to ensure a comfortable day. This includes reef-safe sunscreen, towels, swimwear, a change of clothes, hats, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle. For more secluded beaches like Sandbridge, it's also a good idea to bring a cooler with food and drinks.

Williamsburg is approximately 45-60 miles from the nearest beaches, depending on which beach you choose. Virginia Beach is about 60 miles (1 hour drive), Yorktown Beach is 25 miles (35 minutes), and Jamestown Beach is even closer at 15 miles (25 minutes). This makes day trips very feasible during your Williamsburg vacation.

Jamestown Beach is the closest beach to Colonial Williamsburg at just 15 miles away (about 25 minutes). However, it's a smaller, quieter beach on the James River. For ocean beaches, Yorktown Beach is approximately 25 miles away, offering a charming historic waterfront with a sandy beach and nearby attractions.

Yes! Virginia Beach is easily accessible from Williamsburg, just an hour's drive away. The beach offers excellent swimming conditions from late May through September, with lifeguards on duty during summer months. The water is warmest in July and August, reaching temperatures of 75-80°F.

Both destinations excel for families but offer different experiences. Williamsburg provides immersive history, theme parks (Busch Gardens, Water Country USA), and educational attractions. Virginia Beach offers classic seaside fun with swimming, boardwalk activities, and water sports. The ideal family vacation combines both—stay in Williamsburg and take day trips to the beach.

Between Williamsburg and Virginia Beach, you'll find First Landing State Park Beach (in Virginia Beach), Chick's Beach (also in Virginia Beach), and various access points along Shore Drive. Yorktown Beach and Jamestown Beach are northwest of Williamsburg along the Colonial Parkway, offering river beaches with historical significance.

Most beaches near Williamsburg are free to access. Yorktown Beach, Jamestown Beach, and many Virginia Beach access points have free entry, though parking may require fees during peak season. Virginia Beach Resort area metered parking costs $2-3 per hour, while some lots charge $10-20 per day in summer.

The best time for beach visits is late May through early September when water temperatures are warmest and facilities are fully operational. June offers great weather with fewer crowds than July-August. For pleasant weather with minimal crowds, visit in May or September, though water may be cooler (65-70°F).

Yes! Many families successfully combine both. Start early with Colonial Williamsburg or other attractions in the morning, then head to the beach by early afternoon for swimming and relaxation. Alternatively, enjoy the beach in the morning and return to Williamsburg for evening dining and shopping.

Williamsburg itself doesn't have a boardwalk, but Virginia Beach features a famous 3-mile oceanfront boardwalk just an hour away. The boardwalk includes restaurants, shops, entertainment, a bike path, and beach access. Yorktown also has a smaller historic waterfront walkway with shops and dining overlooking the beach.

Pack sunscreen, beach towels, swimsuits, change of clothes, cooler with snacks and drinks, beach chairs or blankets, umbrella for shade, water shoes (some beaches have rocks or shells), beach toys for kids, and cash for parking meters. Don't forget to bring your hotel key and leave valuables secured.

Virginia Beach has lifeguards on duty from late May through early September (typically 10am-6pm) along the resort beach area. Yorktown Beach and Jamestown Beach generally do not have lifeguard services, so swimming is at your own risk. Always check local conditions and posted warnings before entering the water.

Yes! Virginia Beach offers numerous rental shops for beach chairs, umbrellas, surfboards, kayaks, paddleboards, and bikes along the boardwalk and oceanfront area. Prices typically range from $10-30 per day depending on equipment. Yorktown has limited rentals but offers kayak and paddleboard options through local outfitters.

Water temperatures at Virginia Beach vary by season: May (60-65°F), June (68-72°F), July-August (75-80°F), September (72-75°F), and October (65-68°F). The warmest and most comfortable swimming conditions occur from mid-June through mid-September.

Dog policies vary by beach. Virginia Beach allows dogs on the oceanfront boardwalk and beach only between Labor Day and Memorial Day (off-season). First Landing State Park allows leashed dogs year-round on designated trails and beach areas. Yorktown Beach typically allows leashed dogs. Always check current regulations before bringing pets.

Your Perfect Williamsburg Vacation Awaits

The Williamsburg area offers an extraordinary range of experiences that showcase America's rich history and Virginia's natural beauty. From walking in the footsteps of patriots to feeling the sand between your toes, the region delivers unforgettable moments for every interest level.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, these four beach destinations represent the area's finest coastal offerings. Take time to immerse yourself in the local culture, respect the historical significance of the land, and embrace the spirit of discovery that makes this part of Virginia so special. Your journey through history and to the coast promises to create memories that will last a lifetime.

For more travel guides to exploring Williamsburg, visit the Westgate Resorts Travel Blog.


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At Westgate Resorts, when you Check-In, there’s a LOT to Check-Out! Your vacation awaits! Start planning your next vacation today or talk with a vacation planner at 888-852-2959 or 407-355-2690.

* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.

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