First Landing State Park Beach occupies 1.5 miles of Chesapeake Bay shoreline at the northeastern edge of Virginia Beach, within one of Virginia's most ecologically and historically significant state parks. Unlike the Atlantic ocean beaches to the south, First Landing faces the Chesapeake Bay, offering substantially calmer and shallower water that is particularly suitable for young children, beginner kayakers, and those who prefer gentler swimming conditions. The sand is fine and light-colored with a compact texture near the waterline, and the water carries the characteristic greenish-brown tint of Chesapeake Bay water due to natural sediment rather than pollution.
The park takes its name from the April 1607 landing of English settlers who would go on to establish Jamestown, and the site holds significant historical importance for the story of early colonial Virginia. The surrounding parkland encompasses 19 miles of hiking and cycling trails through a rare mid-Atlantic coastal environment, combining bald cypress swamps, Spanish moss-draped live oaks, and maritime forest with subtropical character unusual this far north. A kayak launch and fishing pier provide on-water recreation directly from the park, and designated picnic areas with covered pavilions are spread throughout the grounds.
Entry to the park requires a vehicle fee of $5-7 USD depending on the day and season. The beach has no lifeguards, and swimming is at the visitor's own risk; rangers recommend staying within the designated swimming area marked by buoys in the bay. Restroom facilities are located near the main beach access point. A park campground with tent and RV sites makes First Landing a viable base for multi-day visitors to the Virginia Beach area. The park entrance is located on US-60 approximately five miles north of the main resort strip.
Amenities
- Kayak Launch
- Hiking Trails
- Fishing Pier
- Picnic Areas
- Campground
Good to know
- Best for
- families, swimmers, wildlife-watchers, photographers, beachcombers
Location
2500 Shore Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
36.9178, -76.0388 View on map
Highlights
- 1.5 miles of sheltered Chesapeake Bay beach with calm, shallow water ideal for young swimmers
- 19 miles of hiking and cycling trails through rare coastal plain swamp and maritime forest
- Historic landing site of English settlers in 1607 before founding Jamestown
- Kayak launch and fishing pier with direct Chesapeake Bay access
- On-site campground with tent and RV sites for extended stays
Tips for visiting
- Arrive at the park entrance by 9am on summer weekends; the park occasionally closes to new vehicles after reaching capacity by mid-morning in peak season
- Bay-side water at First Landing is calmer and shallower than Atlantic beaches, making it better suited for families with very young children or non-swimmers
- The 19-mile trail network is best walked before 10am in summer before heat peaks; carry water as no mid-trail water sources are available
- Fishing from the pier requires a Virginia saltwater recreational fishing license for anglers over 16, available online through the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources
- The $5-7 vehicle entry fee covers the full day including beach, trails, and picnic areas; America the Beautiful and Virginia State Parks annual passes are accepted
When to visit
May through September is the primary season, with June and September offering full park amenities and lighter crowds. The Chesapeake Bay water warms more slowly than the Atlantic in spring but remains comfortable for swimming into early October, extending the pleasant beach season.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a lifeguard at First Landing State Park Beach?
No lifeguards are on duty at First Landing State Park Beach. The beach is on the Chesapeake Bay with calm, shallow water, but swimming is entirely at the visitor's own risk. Staying within the buoyed swimming area is strongly recommended.
What is the vehicle entry fee for First Landing State Park?
Entry fees are typically $5 on weekdays and $7 on weekends and holidays during peak season. Virginia State Parks annual passes and America the Beautiful passes are accepted at the gate.
Can visitors camp at First Landing State Park?
Yes, the park has a campground with both tent and RV sites. Reservations are strongly recommended for summer weekends and can be made through the Virginia State Parks online reservation system.
Why is the water at First Landing murky compared to Atlantic beaches?
First Landing faces the Chesapeake Bay rather than the open Atlantic Ocean. Bay water naturally carries more sediment and organic matter, producing a greenish or brownish tint that is normal for this environment and is not an indicator of pollution.
How far is First Landing State Park from the Virginia Beach Oceanfront?
The park is approximately 5 miles north of the main resort strip along US-60, about a 10-15 minute drive in normal traffic conditions.