Explore Our Parks Whether you’re into invigorating hikes, adventurous trails or scenic routes, the natural areas have you covered in Virginia Beach. At First Landing State Park , you can hike through seven distinct ecosystems. In fact, this registered Natural Landmark was the site of the European settlers’ first landing in 1607 and has since become Virginia’s most visited state park. Walk along 1.5 miles of beachfront to take in the beauty of dunes and tidal marsh. Or follow 20 miles of interpretive hiking, running and biking trails through protected habitats, including one of the most endangered types in the world — the maritime forest. Along each trail you’ll encounter a different scene, from freshwater ponds and Spanish moss to stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay. Farther south in Sandbridge, the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge provides incredible scenic hikes along several trails through dunes, woodland, marshes and ocean beaches. Given its remote location, the park has become a haven for loggerhead sea turtles, peregrine falcons and bald eagles, all of which you’ll have the opportunity to encounter as you explore the refuge — a local favorite! Feeling extra adventurous? Hike through the refuge to reach False Cape State Park , accessible only by foot or boat. Featuring 6 miles of pristine beaches, False Cape is a wildlife watcher’s delight and a destination for more than 300 species of birds, including a snow-goose population of 10,000. VisitVirginiaBeach.com 51
Virginia Beach Official Visitors Guide 2025/2026: Page 51
