There’s no reason to spend a tank full of gas looking for the perfect beach spot this Memorial Day. Instead, stay near home and experience a beach party atmosphere at Buckroe Beach in Hampton, try your hand at saltwater fishing at Gloucester Point Beach or take the more reflective approach at Grandview Beach in Newport News.
To help you find your Peninsula Beach paradise, Here is a list of beaches and their features.
Closest to the Virginia Beach experience — Buckroe Beach, Hampton Virginia. The largest beach on the Peninsula, Buckroe has a small amphitheater and about 3/4 of a mile of shoreline. For those who want a little more action, kayaks and paddle boats are available for rent, and there is a children’s playground nearby. Location: North First Street, Hampton Swimming: Lifeguards are there from: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Public restrooms available Free
Parking on First Street and Pembroke Avenue and two free parking lots on either end of Buckroe Beach park. The lots that were previously paid are now used for special event and overflow parking. Dogs are not allowed on the beach, and the dog park has been closed. Guests hoping to find treasure, however, are now allowed to bring their metal detectors on the beach after watching a short video about how to recognize artillery shells. The construction you’ll see during a visit this summer is a new condo complex.
Best place to spot a fisherman — Gloucester Point Park. With two boat landings and a saltwater fishing pier, this river shore beach is a popular spot for fishermen. You can also take a stroll along the Point Walk, a trail along the York River that tells all about Gloucester’s history. Location: 1255 Greate Road, Gloucester, Virginia, Swimming: Yes No Lifeguards Public restrooms Free Parking A concession stand is currently open on weekends. Beginning June 14, the stand will be open daily. Picnic tables, volleyball nets and a playground are also available for use.
The nature beach — Grandview Beach, Hampton . This “no-service” beach is best for people seeking a quiet atmosphere. Be sure to pack light, though, it’s about a 15-minute walk from the park’s parking lot to the beach area. Location: Once on Fox Hill Road, turn left on Beach Road, and then turn left on Grundland Drive. Swimming is allowed No Lifeguards No Public restrooms Parking: Free parking at the edge of Grandview Nature Preserve. A trail winds through the park to the beach.
Most variety in one spot — Huntington Park, Newport News. If you’re only up for a few minutes of sunbathing, you and the kids can walk to the nearby Fort Fun, a 15,000 square foot wooden playground, or take up a game of tennis or basketball on the nearby courts. To escape, head over to the Rose Garden, which is situated near the Warwick Boulevard entrance. Location: 5500 W. Mercury Blvd., Newport News Swimming: Yes, but the water is shallow. A barrier marks off the swimming area. Lifeguards: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Public restrooms Free Parking You could pack some snacks, or take advantage of the concession stand on site. There’s also a boat ramp available and picnic shelters you can rent.
Historic bathing — Yorktown Beach, Virginia. History buffs need a tan, too, and Yorktown Beach may be just the place where they can have it all. Just a short drive from Yorktown Battlefield and just down the hill from the Yorktown Memorial, the beach’s calm waters are also good for young swimmers. Location: Along Water Street in downtown Yorktown, Virginia right off the Colonial Parkway Swimming is allowed No Lifeguards Public restrooms
Free Parking Bring a cover-up and take advantage of the bars, restaurants and shops along Water Street and Riverwalk Landing
Filed under: General Area Information Hampton Roads Virginia Tagged: | ahmpton, newport news, public beaches, swimming hampton, williamsburg, york county, yorktown
