I must say after coming here....I have a renewed love for Virginia Beaches! Located a short drive, 30 minutes south of the "ever popular and crowded" Virginia Beach District, is Sandbridge Beach. This beach is unique gem. I almost didn't want to write this review because I wanted to keep it a secret to myself and share with no one. lol This beach is everything...and provides all one needs for a relaxing beach getaway. It is a secluded beach hideaway of pristine waters, sand dunes and sea oats whispering in the wind...in which if you are quiet enough...it almost sounds like waves, wind and sea are all having a conversation with themselves -- you excluded. It is a quiet, relaxing and peaceful community where you can truly slow down and unwind on your vacation. The beaches are clean and the waters are perfect...no kelp, debris or rocks. The Memorial Day Holiday weekend was my first visit to this beach and I am forever hooked! It was just what I need. I came here with a group of friends. We rented one of the many "Baller" beach house rentals and had the best of times...without the need for anything but us and the beach. If you are looking to get outdoors and have a more scenic beach vacation...Sanbridge Beach is your place. The marshes and open waters of Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park make for great kayaking, hiking, and fishing. Or,.....just call it a day become a beach bum on the beach without being bothered by anyone but you and the crashing waves. After coming here....I don't think I will ever go to Virginia Beach again. Besides, being a short ride from Sandbridge Beach...we found it really cool to head into Virginia Beach for the nightlife but stay overall in Sandbridge. There are a couple of pizza-bar spots, shops and local business to meet your needs where you literally don't have to leave. In all, we couldn't have stumbled on a better beach. Sandbridge Beach is by far, one of my favorites and best beaches surrounding all of the DMV -- DC/Maryland/Virginia! I am literally online....checking for properties, pizza delivery boy/bartender jobs and trying to figure out how I can trade in the hustle n' bustle of the city and my corporate grind....for a piece of life at this place! Most definitely will be back!! read more

See all

Sandbridge Beach is a bit of an oasis. If you've been to the Outer Banks of NC it has a similar feel. It has rental homes, second homes and condos. The beach and city come alive in the Summer. Parking has never been an issue at Sandbridge Beach. Locate Little Island Park where there is a massive amount of space. The area boast shelters, restrooms and a playground. The beach is kept clean and very family friendly. The wave action to surf is hit or miss. I'm not a surfer, so I only hear this from friends that it's a good area to learn surfing. Swimming is permitted, however guards work the Memorial Day to Labor Day span with shoulder months depending on the weather. The pier to fish off of is one of the most popular locations for locals. Bring your own equipment and bait. There is no where to launch a boat from at the park. There are a few restaurants and even food trucks, but not much at all with regards to eating out. Your only 15-20 minutes from many food options. This goes for shopping of merchandise and groceries. There are small mom and pop shops only. Simply Steamed has been a recent favorite. There are so many reasons why Virginia Beach residents feel as though they live in paradise. Our beaches point blank rock and few would dispute that the city knows how to take excellent care of them for our tourist and locals alike. Just because the kids are back in school does not mean you cannot take advantage. Get out and enjoy all there is to offer at Little Island Park and the surrounding area. read more

See all

This is my first full summer in Virginia, and I've finally made it to the beach. A local friend suggested Sandbridge for a low-key alternative to Virginia Beach. I had never been to either, but I did really like Sandbridge. It's south of Virginia Beach, so it's a bit farther from Richmond (a little over two hours) -- but it wasn't a terrible drive. My friend and I parked in the southern lot near a playground. It was $5 for the day and right on the beach, which was totally reasonable. I agreed it was an awesome spot to perch for a day trip, especially since the grounds had nice bathrooms with changing rooms and faucets to wash sand off. The beach wasn't obnoxiously long, either, which was nice. The beachfront itself was clean and orderly; folks were spaced out well. It seemed clean, as there weren't many sea gulls stalking us. We encountered a ton of dead (I hope?) jellyfish and shells, which made the ocean portion a little unsavory, but hanging on the beach itself was enjoyable. I'd return; I might choose a river or lake closer to Richmond first...but it seemed like a fun, chill spot to keep in mind for every now and again. read more

See all

Who doesnt love a nice relaxing day at the beach??!! Sandbridge is this hidden little treasure that host a locals only vibe. The beach is clean and spacious. The homes for rent are a stone skip away from the water which is ideally if your vacationing down there. However if you are day tripping like we did then parking is going to be a problem. They only have a few parking lots and most of them are at capacity by 10am. If you are arriving to the beach during peak season anytime after 10am you're really rolling the dice on finding a parking space. We were fortunate enough to find a space in the market parking lot which is located right next to a public outdoor shower station to rinse the sand off from the beach. This little area also has a public restroom as well. Over all this beach is gorgeous and a must see place to visit while in Virginia beach!! read more

Sandbridge Yoga - The view on Sandbridge beach!! Perfect beach day - Yoga Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

Everyone who has been to Virginia (especially former Norfolk navy peeps) would tell me that the Oceanfront where it is at-- but I disagree! If you want something relaxing, quiet, and avoid the tourist crowd-- the beach at Sandbridge is where it is at! There is so much tranquility here. I had the chance to be invited to stay at one of the vacation beach homes at Sandfiddler road (thank you Miss Pam & Miss Ging!) and we could see the ocean from there. It is a super short walk by the beach. The sand is gorgeous and the ocean isn't very cold during the humid summer. The beach wasn't crowded at all which I appreciate. There is so much room to walk and swim in. There is so much space in between families who are just relaxing, sun bathing, or playing catch by the shore. One of the best beaches I've been to! I hope to come back! read more

Sandbridge Yoga - Yoga Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

See all

I'm so glad I stumbled across this place. So nice and clean and quiet. I went with my family for a start to our end of the summer vacation and am so happy we came. The girls enjoyed playing in the very clean sand and water. We even saw dolphin! They were swimming not so far out from the beach. That was a pleasant surprise .. Well once we realized the fins we were looking at were not from sharks. Than they began jumping out of the water and you could clearly see what they were. I am anxious to come back and stay for a longer visit. The parking was 5 for non residents. There is a small store across from the parking lot which sells beach goods you may have left behind.. read more

Sandbridge Yoga - Yoga Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

"Just" 4 hours driving from DC is a quiet community with endless beaches. It is located only 12 miles north of North Caroline border line. Hundreds of the rental houses and about 1,000SF of beach space per person is a winner for this family oriented place where families play volleyball on the beach or dip in the ocean while dolphins jump and pelicans fly nearby. No bugs, no obnoxious people - just sand and water. It was unfortunate that a great white shark was photographed last week just 2 miles off Sandbridge, so I understand why people did not swim afar but sharks could not take away sun and shallow waters hence it is all well that ends well. To run away from bad news or commercialized world you will find a haven in Sandbridge to meet the goal, read more

See all

I found this beach to be a quiet little getaway from the traffic and people of Virginia Beach. It seems to be tucked away so the tourists can't find it and only locals come to. The sand is fine, rockless, and clean of debris. The water is clean, kelp free, and surprisingly warm. I love this beach. read more

Sandbridge Yoga - Yoga Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

I frequent Sandbridge and Pungo Beaches when I lived in Virginia Beach with my parents and siblings a long time ago, and so, each time I visit Virginia Beach, I make a point of coming to Sandbridge. My oldest sister Yolly once had a timeshare or a membership in Pungo Beach resort adjacent to Sandbridge when I was younger and both beaches are really nice. Locals or vacation home owners come here as oppose to the Oceanfront Virginia Beach where the sculpture of Neptune was located and all the touristy hotels. But if you like the ferris wheels and other fair rides, summer concerts and variety of beachwear stores and bar/restaurants, then you might want to go to Oceanfront. Usually, around Labor weekend is the busiest for the half marathon and summer concerts are going on then. Oh, if you are going to stay at Oceanfront, there is a long boardwalk where you can ride bikes, roller blades and stroll along the shores, you must go Hilton! It's the most central location with King Neptune nearby! BUT, if you like a more tranquil surrounding or as locals prefer - Sandbridge or [sister] Pungo beaches are the way to go. There are lines of vacation houses and rentals although with limited street parking during peak seasons. For me, it's really a timing thing (or come early and prepared) if you do not have a rental or own a property here. The beach has a long sandy shores, more private, and away from the touristy stores and restaurants. Thus, be sure to come prepared, bring all the necessary beach stuff and picnic basket, beach umbrellas and chairs to ensure a great beach experience. Go Sandbridge! For this visit, we took my Tucker Boy and he had the most fun running away from the waves rushing in or digging for clams or crabs, and simply strolling on the sandy shores. It's always fun at Sandbridge! read more

Sandbridge Yoga - Yoga Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

Came here on a cloudy and windy day. The beach was empty, nobody ever walking on it. It didn't leave the most inviting feeling to come back too. I've been on many other beaches in same weather and people still enjoyed it by walking and strolling with kids or dogs. I did enjoy the local market though!! read more

I've never had a good impression of Virginia Beach until I attended a wedding in the Sandbridge area. Mostly residential, there is miles upon miles of uncrowded sand dunes, lapping waves, and even the occasional dolphin sighting or two! Nearby are several side BBQ pits, crab shacks and pick your own strawberry stands which in my opinion is the best way to spend a quiet weekend getaway in Virginia! Who would have thought?! read more

"My only worry is if the tide is gonna reach my chair." As a resident of VA Beach you learn the different atmospheres/vibe of the areas beaches. I live in the Ocean Lakes area so I have a choice of going to Sandbridge or Croatan. I personally love Sandbridge for its low key surroundings. Very clean. Families usually and no riff raff. Dogs are welcome year round as long as they play well with others and for heavens sake, scoop the poop! I travel down a bit to get away from the crowd. Usually near Pike Ln. I like this spot particularly because there is a small board walk that helps in the summer when it's 90+ degrees. Plenty of trash cans and a dog station with "poop" bags. Only complaint is that I wish it had a rinse off shower area....Plenty of free on street parking which is hit or miss. I love that I can come here with a book and just recharge my "batteries". Who can be unhappy @ the beach?! read more

Sandbridge Yoga - 81 degrees today and windy! Barkley doesn't mind though... - Yoga Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

I absolutely love Sandbridge beach. What a gem! I really don't want to write how amazing it is because I don't want too many people to know about it and come ruin it. But I suppose I'll share a little of what I know.... since I am a Yelper and all.... share and share alike! Sandbridge is beautiful - a local friend brought me many years ago when my ex-husband and I first moved here. We enjoyed it but I was turned off by the fact there was very little parking so I didn't come back for many many years (like 5). Once I got more familiar with the Red Mill and surrounding area I came back. I easily found parking in the city lot right beside the convenience store and across from the two beach gift shops. There is also parking at the park further down the road for a small fee - $3. Sandbridge is beautiful because it's not commercial and it's rarely really crowded (except for peak beach holiday times of course). Even when all the beach houses are booked up - the beach is still preferable to the VAB oceanfront. Sandbridge doesn't boast huge hotels or lots of stores and ice cream parlors and restaurants. Nope - it's just plain old beach as far as the eye can see. Locals love it - I take my poochie walking some nights around sunset. I also stop in a few times a week for a walk along the beach after a long day at work to relax and re-energize. It's usually cleared out by then and there are only a few people still outside fishing or walking like I am. In the city lot there is a public bathroom with two outdoor showerheads to wash the sand off yourself before you get in your car. Convenient and well-maintained. It's beautiful. Stop in and enjoy. But if you're looking for commercial - you won't find it here. read more

Like all the other reviews state, this is a perfect alternative to the hustle and bustle of the touristy VA Beach Oceanfront. Less people and a more clean and relaxed vibe is what you'll get here. If just coming for the day bring a cooler, a couple of brews, towel and umbrella. Not much is need for an enjoyable experience. There aren't bars and a bunch of restaurants like a lot of the other beaches in the area so a couple of snacks would be helpful too if you're going to be making a whole day out of it. Beautiful beach with soft white sand. ENJOY! read more

Beautiful natural beach not built up at all there are no large chain hotels! Perfect family atmosphere. I wish we would have started coming here sooner. read more

At Sandbridge, there are no huge hotels or restaurants or fancy boardwalks lining the oceanfront, just residential housing and miles and miles of beautiful, clean, not-crowded beach! Come here for a relaxing time at the beach, perfect if you don't want to fight the summertime crowds over in Virginia Beach proper. Try to park on one of the sidestreets, otherwise there are parking lots you can pay a small fee for to park in during your time here. read more

See all

Really nice beach. Good rates for parking and plenty of space on and around the beach. Clean, seems like good distribution of life guards. They have some play areas and showers further down the beach and seems to be less crowded. Nice beach all in all. We went at the end of May so it was considered "off season" but it was 90 and humid for us so good beach weather. Water was cold but I'm from New England so it was nice compared to what we are used to. We've been a few times now and will go back every time we come no matter what time of year, it's just a really nice, accessible beach. read more

Sandbridge Yoga - View from the beach. - Yoga Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

See all

We love it here. Peaceful and pretty and in September, you have it to yourself. Our annual vacation choice. Good food nearby and everything Virginia Beach has to offer close by read more

Gorgeous beach. I stayed in a beach house that had a gorgeous view of Sandbridge Beach. Definitely enjoyed my stay and will definitely be coming back. I love how it's more secluded compared to VA beach oceanfront and not cluttered with all of the hotels and retail shops. read more

See all

A beautiful beach that's not overcrowded. Friends and I rented two homes for a beach retreat. The water was still warm enough to swim in mid September. I caught a cloudy yet still beautiful sunrise. If you love the ocean and the beach, but want to avoid big crowds, this is the beach for you. read more

See all

There's something about this beach that compels young, well-muscled men to rip off their shirts and engage in bro-bonding beach games with each other. I think it's lovely that it's still socially acceptable for them to do so. I hope that one day, I should be so lucky as well. Lots of happy dogs and families seem to enjoy the sand and the peaceful views. There was tons of space to spread out, it was clean, and I could have easily spent the rest of the day half buried in the sand, soaking up enough sun to make new tan lines... and quietly wishing that I could joyously bear my chest like the bros. read more

I don't mind the oceanfront but being local you hear people praise it here. We came years ago and I didn't like the large buildup waves that happen b/c of the sharp slope into the water. But we tried it anyway. Parked at Little Island. CROWDED. Tons of large groups having picnics in the shelters. There are bathrooms here and changing rooms and a food truck was there as well. Sand was HOT and it's a haul down to the water from the parking lot. There is a pier. However, it was so crowded with people just standing at the edge of the water. No one getting in b/c it was COLD. It's July, it's hot, but the water actually hurt to stay in too long. Kids can't bodysurf with that many people standing on the edge of the water. We didn't stay too long. There weren't any waves?? And now my son has sand flea bites..... I actually think the main resort area is better. Water doesn't feel as cold, there are real waves, bathrooms available, food available, and it's not as crowded. read more

This is the Locals beach far more than the VAB strip.. That said the rentals are a much calmer crowd than you will find along Atlantic Ave... I enjoy Sandbridge and back bay for more of a Carolina beach experience than a "Party!!!! and Kegger!!!" of the strip.. come for a walk or a week you will love it! read more

We come from RVA at least a few times a month to sandbridge to hang out. We used to go to VB but it's so crowded you can't find a spot to just relax. Sandbridge is the place to be if you want to relax. Please keep this place a secret though! Clean beaches, warm water, little tourists, relaxing atmosphere. read more

Sandbridge Yoga - Just a great place to relax wth loved ones! - Yoga Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

See all

I loved this beach. We were staying in Chesapeake, VA on vacation and this was the only beach we went to because we had no desire to try another. There is parking right across the street, if you aren't a VA resident parking cost $5. There is lifeguards on duty, and they do pay attention. They warn you with a flag regarding water conditions and the person you pay when you drive in was nice enough to tell us it was very windy one day and it was at red flag so no boogie boards, etc. You can only go in up to your knees. It was quiet and not crowded, it wasn't far from our chairs to the water so we can easily watch our children, and it was a 3 min walk from the car to the beach, literally right across the street. If we were to go back to VA I would go back here to this beach again. read more

Sandbridge Yoga - Yoga Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

See all

What a wonderful place to relax in the cool breezes from the ocean! The view of the ocean is spectacular. The water is shallow enough that people can walk quite a distance out to catch the waves. The beach homes along the strip provide the perfect vacation spot. A few are for sale. There are also shops along the strip and a few places to eat. There is even a grocery market. This is a beach I would definitely visit to wind down. Bring your small tents, umbrellas, coolers and lawn chairs. You will love it! read more

Virginia's beaches are beautiful and this one was no exception. We heard about it from some locals. I only wish I could have stayed longer, but there will definitely be a next time. Convenient and affordable parking is right there next to the beach. No crowds when we were there. Doesn't get much better than that! read more

What a beautiful, peaceful and amazing place! We had a wonderful and relaxing vacation.

We were tiring of the drive to Ocracoke and happened upon this place. MUCH closer and not too crowded. Just what the Dr. ordered.

Great family beach. Every grocery and restaurant known to mankind only minutes away. Dog friendly beaches. Sanctuary condos awesome.

Oh my God, what a hidden gem !!!! The folks in and around Sandbridge sure have a great place seashore get away. Will add this to places to list of visit again... read more

Beach is okay. Came to vacation with family, downfall is this part of the beach is about 30 plus mins away from everything. Overall a nice quiet place and our condo we rented was very nice. read more

Nice and a relaxing beach! Not too crowded. Highly recommended for family. People are nice and welcoming.

I enjoyed this beach way more than the oceanfront. I actually loath the oceanfront. It's entirely too crowded. I took my kids today and it was just right. Not crowded at all until after 6 when soccer nets started being set up. That seemed random, but whatever . I love that there was a little lifeguard. That's one thing I dislike about Ft Monroe. They had nice, clean bathrooms. There was a lot store on the corner that was very convenient that sold a mean sub sandwich. Be prepared for the 5$ parking fee. I wasn't bc I'd only ever been there during the off season. read more

Great beach! This is laid back and local. Clean sand, good waves for boogie board and a little surfing. Worth the trip. Surrounded by fruit stands and local family businesses! read more

I lived on Sanbridge for approximately seven months in 2013. I lived in a beach house actually called Beach Therapy on Sandpiper Drive. It was one of the most remarkable times in my life as I would probably never have a chance to live on The beach again. Being a California girl, I ventured across to Virginia for approximately a year and fell in love with it. The opportunity arose when we heard they want to rent big beach houses up during the off-season. It was very affordable and I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants a change of pace for a little while. Check out the off-season beach rentals on Sanbridge reality. Enjoy Virginia beach as well as it is only about 25 minutes down the road. One of the best speeches ever! Lots to do read more

Like Chick's Beach, Sandbridge beach is just that: A Beach. Although it's a major tourist attraction in the area, it's not over developed, over crowed or over done. It is simply a beach. With a few lovely beach houses close by, Sandbridge is a great place to have a quiet relaxing day with family and friends and not have to walk miles to the ocean, fight traffic and eek out a spot for your beach blanket amongst hoards of other beach-goers. Parking is close and cheap and the best part is you can actually bring your surfboard, body board and other toys to the water (unlike the Oceanfront beach on which surfing, skin-boarding and body boarding are only allowed in very limited areas). If I go to the beach and I just want to swim or layout (yes, I know I'm black but I still like to lay out--I need my B vitamins) I choose Sandbridge Beach. read more

Hidden gem would be the best way to describe this beach. We went down in April and it was pretty cool out so we didn't go in the water, but we parked on the street and walked right on to this beautiful beach. We didn't have to pay for parking and this beach is much nicer than Virginia Beach (boardwalk area). read more

beautiful !!!! the beaches down here , just 20 minutes from Virginia beach are awesome. lifeguards are on duty very family oriented relaxing atmospherre quiet family oriented read more

A charming, small beach with noting much more than ocean waves and sun to offer. No boardwalk here! There is a couple of ice cream shops, t-shirt and souvenir shops and a general store with groceries. It's a lovely place to take your family. If you like it really quiet, the north-end of the island is more desirable for renting a condo (Sandbridge Dunes condos) or homes due to less public parking. You won't be disappointed! Simply beautiful! read more