Day Trips from Alexandria
← All Alexandria day tripsDay Trips from Alexandria: Beaches & Waterfront
The best beaches and waterfront destinations within driving distance of Alexandria, VA. Lake beaches, river walks, and coastal parks that make for a perfect warm-weather day trip. Real drive times, ratings, and photos included.
12 beaches near Alexandria
Myrtle Point Park Beach
California, MD 20619
Just 1 hr 18 min from Alexandria, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Codorus State Park
Hanover, PA 17331
Just 1 hr 47 min from Alexandria, rated 4.7 stars by 4,414 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Jonas Green Park Beach
Annapolis, MD 21409
Just 47 min from Alexandria, rated 4.6 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Elk Neck State Park
North East, MD 21901
Just 1 hr 54 min from Alexandria, rated 4.6 stars by 2,480 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Buckroe Beach and Park
Hampton, VA 23664
Just 2 hrs 47 min from Alexandria, rated 4.6 stars by 8,724 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Terrapin Nature Park
Stevensville, MD 21666
Just 59 min from Alexandria, rated 4.6 stars by 1,524 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Gloucester Point Beach Park
Gloucester Point, VA 23062
Just 2 hrs 35 min from Alexandria, rated 4.5 stars by 661 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Ocean View Beach Park
Norfolk, VA 23503
Just 2 hrs 52 min from Alexandria, rated 4.5 stars by 3,148 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lake Anna State Park
Spotsylvania Courthouse, VA 22551
Just 1 hr 25 min from Alexandria, rated 4.5 stars by 2,403 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Vir-Mar Beach
Heathsville, VA 22473
Just 2 hrs 29 min from Alexandria, rated 4.5 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Flounder Pavilion Beach Front - Sandy Point State Park
MD 21409, USA
Just 55 min from Alexandria, rated 4.5 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Sandy Point State Park
Annapolis, MD 21409
Just 51 min from Alexandria, rated 4.4 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beaches Day Trips from Alexandria
What are the best beaches near Alexandria, VA?
The best beaches near Alexandria include lake beaches, state park swimming areas, and waterfront parks. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable beaches within driving distance of Alexandria?
Yes. Several beaches within 1-3 hours of Alexandria have designated swimming areas with lifeguards during summer months. State park beaches are often the cleanest and best-maintained options.
When is the best time to visit beaches near Alexandria?
Late May through September is prime beach season near Alexandria. June and July offer the warmest water temperatures. Shoulder months (May, September) have fewer crowds and are great for walking and photography.
What should I bring for a beach day trip from Alexandria?
Pack sunscreen, towels, a cooler with drinks and snacks, and water shoes for rocky shorelines. Some state park beaches charge a vehicle entry fee ($5-$15), so bring cash. Arrive early on weekends to secure parking.
Don't know where to go?
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