Explore Virginia Beach’s largest state park
By Kelsey Thomas with updates by Julie Matthews
Welcoming visitors from near and far, First Landing State Park is an oasis for nature lovers. Situated on the coastline of the Chesapeake Bay, the park is 2,888 total acres featuring 1.5 miles of beachfront and 20 miles of trails.
Camping: First Landing State Park is a sought-after camping destination with campgrounds, yurts and cabins available for rent. The park has campsites both with and without electric/water hookups and guests can find firewood at the Cape Snack Bar and Gifts.
Beaches: Beautiful stretches of shoreline are found throughout First Landing State Park, but swim at your own risk, as there are no lifeguards in the Chesapeake Bay or at the Narrows. The Chesapeake Bay is your typical beachfront atmosphere, while the Narrows is a hidden gem that locals often take advantage of. With a smaller shoreline and calm waters, the Narrows is a common place to be for jet skiers, boaters and those seeking a more secluded beach experience.
Boating & Fishing: There’s a boat launch at the Narrows for those with motorboats and small crafts. This area is very accessible, as cars can enter through the 64th Street extension, and features include launching ramps, ample parking and restrooms. Fishing and crabbing are also popular activities throughout the park. You must have a valid Virginia saltwater fishing license in order to fish at First Landing State Park.
You can also go kayaking or standup paddleboarding in the tranquil waters at First Landing State Park. Chesapean Outdoors, one of the city’s popular rental and tour companies, offers 2-hour small group guided tours through the park. Or you can rent your own equipment from them and venture out on your own.
Trails: With 10 trails totaling about 20 miles, there are plenty of excursions to set forth on at First Landing State Park. Venture out on your own self-guided tour or follow along trail interpreters and guidebooks. The park is also friendly to bicycling and permits bicycles on the Cape Henry and Live Oak trails. To ensure your safety, be sure stay on the trails and don’t wander off course.
Wildlife: Discover native plants, get a glimpse of land animals in the forest or witness a variety of marine animals like fish and dolphins. As cute and friendly as the animals may seem, please do not feed the wildlife, as this can alter their natural behaviors and cause more harm than good.
First Landing State Park is open every day from 7 a.m. to dusk, with overnight areas accessible 24 hours a day when open.
The park is located at 2500 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA, 23451. Learn more at
DCR.Virginia.Gov/State-Parks/First-Landing.
