Virginia Beach Official Visitors Guide - 2025/2026
CHESAPEAKE BAY
2025-09-30 09:32:15
For beachgoers looking for kinder, gentler waves, refuge can be found along the calm waters of the Chesapeake Bay in the community known affectionately to locals as Chic’s Beach. From swimming and building sand castles to dolphin watching and volleyball, all the traditional beach rituals are here in a setting that has a decidedly laid-back vibe.
A Day in Chesapeake Bay
10 A.M. - Start your day with a honey-cinnamon latte and the morning hash at American Brew, located just steps away from the new Lesner Bridge and “The Canoes” sculpture.
11 A.M. - Head east down Shore Drive to First Landing State Park for a morning hike through preserved marshland dotted with towering bald cypress trees adorned with Spanish moss. After your hike, head across the street to Fort Story Military Base to climb the steps of the historical Cape Henry Lighthouse.
The climb to the top can be a doozy, but the 360-degree views of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean are well worth it.
2 P.M. - Refuel with a pit stop at Commonwealth Brewing Company, where they serve up mouthwatering craft creations in a former firehouse.
With ample outdoor patio space, lawn games and food trucks, this is a great place to spend an afternoon outside.
3:30 P.M. - Head back across the Lesner Bridge to Tula Paddle Sports, where you can rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for an afternoon exploring the creeks and waterways of Broad Bay, including First Landing State Park, which is only a half-mile from where you’ll launch.
5:30 P.M. - A day of hiking and paddling your way through the bay area can really build up an appetite. Mermaid Winery, the first urban winery in the state of Virginia, offers over 800 wines from around the world and a menu featuring fresh local ingredients.
7 P.M. - Head down to Pleasure House Road for a walk along the Chesapeake Bay at Chic’s Beach. After a busy day, you can’t beat relaxing by the water’s edge at sunset, as the last rays of the day sparkle on the water.
9 P.M. - Close the night out by catching a show at HK on the Bay, just a couple of blocks off the water. The intimate setting puts you right in the middle of the action for some of the best live music around. Enjoy local beers on tap and dance the night away to some of our favorite local bands.
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