Many beaches can be discovered lining Virginia up and down the Rappahannock and Potomac Rivers. River water is more brackish than the ocean and not as deep for swimming. But the river beaches are popular with fishermen, crabbers and can be used for swimming and relaxing. 

 

Many of the beaches along the river are private. But there are a few public beaches, especially in the Northern Neck between the Rappahannock and Potomac Rivers. 

Chippokes Plantation State Park: You’ll find 2 miles of beach along the James River at the Chippokes Plantation State Park, which is mainted for fishing. Amerities at the park also include a swimming pool, picnic areas, cabins and campsites. 695 Chippokes Park Road, Surrey. (757) 294-3625, www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/chi.shtml

 

Westmoreland State Park: Located one and a half miles along the Potomac River, Westmoreland State Park neighbors the former homes of George Washington and Robert E. Lee. The park’s Horsehead Cliffs provide visitors with a spectacular view of the Potomac River. In addition to the scenic beauty at Westmoreland, the park offers hiking, camping, cabins, fishing, boating, a sandy beach and swimming. 1650 State Park Rd. Montross, www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/wes.shtml

 

Colonial Beach: Located at the northern tip of Virginia's Northern Neck, the town of Colonial Beach is nestled between the Potomac River and Monroe Bay. Its sandy beaches and marinas on Monroe Bay are ideal for swimming, sailing, boating, fishing, and crabbing. 6 N Irving Ave, Colonial Beach.

 

Hughlett’s Point Natural Area: Sandy beach on the Chesapeake Bay at Dividing Creek. State-maintained nature preserve with a lovely view of the Chesapeake Bay. End of Rt. 605 off Rt. 200, North of Kilmarnock. (804) 462-5030.

 

VirMar Beach: State-maintained beach on the Potomac River. Off Route 643 in Northumberland County.