While the coronavirus may have shut down beaches for a little while, they are starting to open throughout Virginia again. If you’re ready to get outside, enjoy some time near the water, and get some much-needed vitamin D, choosing one of the Northern Virginia beaches will make a difference.

According to an article from PilotOnline.com, Northern Virginia beaches were able to reopen on May 29th.

If you’re itching to get outside, a trip to the beach might be the perfect option. Just make sure to follow the posted guidelines as you enjoy some time outside.

Northern Virginia Beaches: The Best 10 Options

1. Chesapeake Beach

One of the top Northern Virginia beaches is found between the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel and the Lynnhaven Inlet, Chesapeake Beach offers one of the best options in Northern Virginian. It’s known as Chic’s Beach by locals and attracts plenty of people when the weather is good.

Enjoy jet skiing, paddle boarding, and plenty of other activities here. You can even enjoy a long walk or take a bike ride throughout the area.

2. Bethany Beach

While it’s actually in Delaware, those living in Northern Virginia can enjoy Bethany Beach. It’s a family-friendly beach with plenty of amenities throughout. It’s not one of the Northern Virginia beaches, but it’s close enough to enjoy some sand and sun at Bethany Beach.

3. Dewey Beach & Rehoboth Beach

Two more options in Delaware, Dewey Beach and Rehoboth Beach offer great choices for families. Rehoboth provides a mile-long boardwalk with plenty of entertainment, food, and shopping. Dewey Beach is found next to Rehoboth Beach and offers plenty of beautiful areas for skimboarding, catamaran sailing, and more.

4. Ocean City

While Ocean City is actually in Maryland, it’s a very popular choice for those living anywhere near Washington D.C. Ocean City provides about 10 miles of white sand beaches with areas for swimming, kite flying, surfing and so much more. It’s filled with things to do from mini-golf to shopping to arcade games.

If you want to enjoy a great time for the entire family, Ocean City offers plenty of options. The three-mile boardwalk provides go-kart tracks, an amusement park, restaurants, nightclubs, and much more.

5. Chincoteague Island

Those looking for more than just a place to lay out in the sun will love Chincoteague Island. The island offers biking, hiking, swimming, fishing, boating, and so much more. You can enjoy the beach, but you can also enjoy plenty more when you head to this popular island.

6. Virginia Beach

A Virginia Beach not found in Northern Virginia, but worth mentioning, Virginia Beach is very popular. It’s the most popular beach in the state with plenty of things to do, dining options, and so much more. While it may be a bit of a drive, it’s worth it if you’re looking to take a weekend trip.

7. Colonial Beach

About 2.5 miles of sand await at Colonial Beach. It’s one of the most popular beaches near Washington D.C. and offers plenty of history, as well.

Enjoy a walk on the boardwalk or head out for fun sailing on the water. There are plenty of dining options, great views, and so much more to enjoy here.

8. Westmoreland State Park

Offering 1.5 miles of shoreline on the Potomac River, the Westmoreland State Park is a unique spot for beach fun. You can enjoy laying out or hit the hiking trails. If you’re into fishing, you can enjoy plenty of good fishing and there are even cabins for rent here.

With more than 1,300 acres to enjoy, there’s something for anybody trying to get outside at the Westmoreland State Park

9. Lake Anna

Another option for a weekend trip, Lake Anna offers 200 miles of shoreline with beaches. It’s one of the best lakes in the state for fishing and offers plenty of things to do for those willing to make the drive.

Enjoy water sports, such as waterskiing and boating with plenty of from for fun. Many marinas and outfitters are found on the lake if you need gear for your time at the beach or out on the water.

10. Assateague Island National Seashore

Maryland offers the beautiful Assateague Island National Seashore for those in Northern Virginia to enjoy, as well. You may need to take a weekend trip to really enjoy all the hiking, fishing, bird watching, clamming, swimming, and seashell collecting offered here.

Of course, the main draw is the more than 300 wild ponies you will find wandering the beaches. If you want one of the most memorable beach trips, head to the Assateague Island National Seashore.

There are plenty of great Northern Virginia beaches and others nearby. If you’re ready to get outside and enjoy plenty of fun in the sun this summer, choose one of these beaches, pack up the family, and go have some fun!