Day Trips from Richmond
← All Richmond day tripsDay Trips from Richmond: Beaches & Waterfront
The best beaches and waterfront destinations within driving distance of Richmond, 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 Richmond
Chesapeake Beach Park
Virginia Beach, VA 23455
Just 1 hr 38 min from Richmond, rated 4.7 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.
Beach Park
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Just 1 hr 50 min from Richmond, rated 4.7 stars by 145 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.
Little Island Park
Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Just 2 hrs 7 min from Richmond, rated 4.7 stars by 2,203 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.
Yorktown Beach
Yorktown, VA 23690
Just 1 hr 3 min from Richmond, 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.
Jamestown Beach Event Park
Williamsburg, VA 23185
Just 56 min from Richmond, 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.
Buckroe Beach and Park
Hampton, VA 23664
Just 1 hr 18 min from Richmond, 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.
Lake Anna State Park
Spotsylvania Courthouse, VA 22551
Just 1 hr 7 min from Richmond, 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.
Gloucester Point Beach Park
Gloucester Point, VA 23062
Just 1 hr 6 min from Richmond, 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 1 hr 22 min from Richmond, 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.
Community Beach Park
Norfolk, VA 23503
Just 1 hr 23 min from Richmond, rated 4.5 stars by 1,942 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.
Sarah Constant Beach Park
Norfolk, VA 23510
Just 1 hr 22 min from Richmond, rated 4.5 stars by 1,193 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.
Aquia Landing Park
Stafford, VA 22554
Just 1 hr 15 min from Richmond, 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 Richmond
What are the best beaches near Richmond, VA?
The best beaches near Richmond 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 Richmond?
Yes. Several beaches within 1-3 hours of Richmond 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 Richmond?
Late May through September is prime beach season near Richmond. 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 Richmond?
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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