Day Trips from Charlottesville
← All Charlottesville day tripsDay Trips from Charlottesville: Beaches & Waterfront
The best beaches and waterfront destinations within driving distance of Charlottesville, VA. Lake beaches, river walks, and coastal parks that make for a perfect warm-weather day trip. Real drive times, ratings, and photos included.
11 beaches near Charlottesville
Bear Creek Lake State Park
Cumberland, VA 23040
Just 1 hr 9 min from Charlottesville, rated 4.7 stars by 986 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 19 min from Charlottesville, 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.
Jamestown Beach Event Park
Williamsburg, VA 23185
Just 1 hr 57 min from Charlottesville, rated 4.6 stars by 1,758 visitors, known for excellent food, drink, and local flavor.
Best time to visit: Year-round, but harvest season (Sep-Oct) is peak for wineries and farm-to-table.
Yorktown Beach
Yorktown, VA 23690
Just 2 hrs 5 min from Charlottesville, rated 4.6 stars by 129 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Smith Mountain Lake Beach
VA 24104, USA
Just 1 hr 59 min from Charlottesville, rated 4.5 stars by 441 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 2 min from Charlottesville, 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.
Ocean View Beach Park
Norfolk, VA 23503
Just 2 hrs 24 min from Charlottesville, 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.
Wake Beach
Wake, VA 23176
Just 2 hrs 15 min from Charlottesville, rated 4.4 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Swim Beach at Lake Anna State Park
VA 22551, USA
Just 1 hr 9 min from Charlottesville, 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.
Aquia Landing Park
Stafford, VA 22554
Just 1 hr 51 min from Charlottesville, 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.
Little Beach - Private Park
Ruther Glen, VA 22546
Just 1 hr 31 min from Charlottesville, 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 Charlottesville
What are the best beaches near Charlottesville, VA?
The best beaches near Charlottesville 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 Charlottesville?
Yes. Several beaches within 1-3 hours of Charlottesville 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 Charlottesville?
Late May through September is prime beach season near Charlottesville. 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 Charlottesville?
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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