As Virginia’s most visited park, First Landing State Park is a favorite amongst locals and tourists alike and should be added to any Virginia Beach travel itinerary. First Landing State Park rests at the entrance to the Chesapeake Bay and features 1.25 miles of sandy beaches and more than 19 miles of hiking trails that meander throughout the park. The park offers plenty of outdoor recreational activities, educational programs, and scenic viewpoints that consist of a diverse habitat of salt marshes, freshwater ponds, beaches, dunes, and cypress swamp.

Discover below all you need to know about visiting First Landing State Park. 

History

To pay homage to its past, First Landing Sate Park was given its name to reflect the heritage as the first place where English colonists first landed in 1607. Its waterways have paved the way for many Native American canoes, Colonial settlers, and today, modern cargo ships. The park is a national landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Trails

One of the more popular ways to explore the park is through the park’s trail system. The trail system brings visitors through wind-swept dunes, cypress swamps, and dense forests, with distances ranging from 0.3 miles up to six miles long. Use the park trail guide to determine which trail is right for you.

Visit Cape Henry

The longest trail in the park (6 miles long) will take you to the nearby Cape Henry. The highly trafficked trail is wide and well-worn and passes through forests, cypress swamps, and salt marshes. At Cape Henry make sure to plan for some time to explore the Cape Henry Lighthouse with a climb to the top.

Fishing and boating

Crabbing and fishing are popular activities at the park, with a valid fishing license. There is a boat launch located at the end of 64^th street. The most popular fishing and crabbing area is in the area called the narrows.

The Chesapeake Bay Beach

Different from the highly active beaches along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, a quiet stretch of sandy shores is located along Chesapeake Bay within the park. The 1 ¼ mile beach is perfect for a relaxing stroll, evening sunset, and early sunrises. Swimming is allowed, at your own risk as there are no lifeguards. 

Educational programs

The park offers several self-guided and guided programs and tours. Topics range from crabbing, beach walks, junior ranger programs, and environmental education programs. 

Picnic shelters

Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch at the park’s picnic shelters. The area offers drinking water, fire grills, tables and restroom facilities.

Stay at Best Western Plus Sandcastle Beachfront Hotel

After your day of exploring First Landing State Park, rest up at the Best Western Plus Sandcastle Beachfront Hotel. Located in walking distance to the beach and the Boardwalk, our affordable Virginia Beach hotel is in the ideal location. Each room offers oceanfront views with a private balcony, perfect for enjoying those summer nights in Virginia Beach.

Start planning your vacation to Virginia Beach and book your stay with Best Western Plus Sandcastle Beachfront Hotel.