2026-02-10 05:16:47
Whether you love nature, active adventures, or easygoing leisure time, you’ll find enticing outdoor pursuits in the area’s scenic woodlands, wetlands, rivers, and lakes.
PADDLING, BOATING & FISHING
At York River State Park, take a guided canoe or kayak trip through a pristine coastal estuary where freshwater and saltwater meet. Anglers can catch everything from bluegill and largemouth bass to catfish and white perch. Or, explore the York River and Chesapeake Bay tidewaters with Yorktown Sailing Charters, which offers a sightseeing sail, sunset sail, and even a pirate ship adventure sail. Keep an eye out for dolphins and osprey.
Near Jamestown, Powhatan Creek is one of the state’s most biodiverse waterways. Powhatan Creek Park & Blueway offers a convenient put-in spot for paddling and fishing. At James City County Marina, rent kayaks, canoes, or standup paddleboards to explore Powhatan Creek, or sit back and enjoy a pontoon boat tour.
HIKING, RUNNING & BIKING
In Historic Jamestowne, walk or bike Island Loop Drive for views of the James River, marshlands, and regenerating forests home to majestic eagles. Or, go cruising along the Yorktown riverfront. For a longer adventure, cover a section of the Virginia Capital Trail, which runs more than 50 miles from Jamestown to Richmond. Williamsburg on Wheels offers e-bike tours on the Virginia Capital Trail, Jamestown Island Nature Loop, and Powhatan Creek Trail.
BEACHES
Soak up the sun at Yorktown Beach, a riverside retreat with soft sand, views of the expansive York River, and charming coastal ambiance. On the James River, Jamestown Beach offers a serene sandy shore with beautiful river views and tree-shaded picnic spots.
Golf Paradise
Designed by legends like Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, Williamsburg’s 12 scenic courses offer challenging play on impeccable fairways. The Golden Horseshoe Golf Club and Kingsmill Resort are home to some of Virginia’s most acclaimed courses, but each one is memorable.
• Golden Horseshoe Golf Club – Gold Course, Green Course, The Shoe
• Kingsmill Resort – River Course, Woods Course, Plantation Course
• Williamsburg National Golf Club – Jamestown Course, Yorktown Course
• Fords Colony Country Club – Blackheath Course, Blue Heron Course, Marsh Hawk Course
• Colonial Heritage Golf Club
• Kiskiack Golf Club
EXPLORE MORE
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