Known as "Virginia's Outer Banks," secluded Sandbridge Beach remains a mystery to many people. Here are some Frequently Asked Questions - and answers - about this serene coastal haven.
Is Sandbridge Beach part of Virginia Beach?
Technically the answer is "yes." But that's misleading. Sandbridge is a little more than 15 miles south of the Virginia Beach Boardwalk. That means it's nearly a half-hour drive from all the traffic, crowds, and noise. No wonder it seems like an enchanted world apart!
Is Sandbridge Beach part of the mainland?
Yes. But, again, that's a bit misleading. Sandbridge juts out from the rest of the coast, forming a narrow spit of land between two bodies of water: the Atlantic Ocean to the east and Back Bay to the west.
It's not an island. It just feels like one.
How do you get to Sandbridge Beach?
The only public entrance into Sandbridge is via Sandbridge Road, a two-lane road running south and east from Virginia Beach's Princess Anne area.
Are there hotels at Sandbridge Beach?
No. But there are accommodations - comfortable houses and condos you can rent for a week or a weekend. These private rentals offer luxury amenities you won't find at a typical hotel - everything from game rooms and theater rooms to indoor hot tubs and fully stocked kitchens.
Many rentals are right on the ocean, just steps from the white-sand beach. And even those that sit farther back - say, in the 3rd or 4th row - give you convenient beach access via public pathways.
What watersports are popular at Sandbridge Beach?
Almost anything you can think of! Swimming, surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, jet-skiing, sailing, boating, parasailing, you name it.
Back Bay's calm, shallow waters are especially good for kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and SUP (stand-up paddleboarding).
Can you fish at Sandbridge Beach?
Yes. In fact, many locals and visitors consider it an angler's paradise.
If you're surf fishing, you'll need a Virginia Saltwater License. For fishing in fresh and/or brackish waters - for instance, Back Bay and its tributary creeks - you'll need a Virginia Freshwater License.
If you like, you can obtain a combo freshwater/saltwater license. Plus, you can get 1-day, 5-day, and 10-day licenses, as well as a special license for tidal boat sport fishing. Fees vary depending on whether you're a Virginia resident or nonresident, but overall they're quite reasonable.
You can purchase your license online, by phone, or in person at numerous places throughout Virginia, including marinas, bait-and-tackle shops, sporting goods stores, supermarkets, and even Walmart super-stores.
Is there any Sandbridge fishing spot where you don't need a license?
Yes. Little Island Pier at Little Island District Park lets you fish all day - or all week - for a modest charge. Stretching 400 feet out into the ocean, this popular pier is the perfect place to cast your line for Atlantic sport fish like mackerel, croaker, drum, and flounder.
Best of all, the pier has its own blanket fishing license, so you won't need one of your own.
Are dogs allowed on the beach?
Yes, at certain times. During the season - Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend - you can take your pooch out for a beachfront romp before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m. Off-season - winter and early spring - your pup is welcome on the beach anytime.
All year-round, though, leash laws are in effect, so be sure to keep Fido safely leashed whenever you're strolling by the shore.
And, before all else, make sure your Sandbridge vacation rental permits pets. Many do, but some don't. You'll want to specify "pet-friendly" when you make your reservation.
Can you build a bonfire on Sandbridge Beach?
No. Bonfires and fireworks are strictly forbidden. But there are plenty of perfectly legal ways to have a blast on the beach, so we don't think you'll miss the (illegal) pyrotechnics.
Can you drive on the beach?
Short answer: No. No cars, trucks, SUVs, all-terrain vehicles, or motorcycles are allowed on the beach itself per city ordinance.
Are there lifeguards at the beach?
From Memorial Day through Labor Day, between 9:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily, lifeguards are on duty at two Sandbridge Beach locations: across from Sandbridge Market and at Little Island District Park.
At regular times throughout the day, lifeguards also drive dune buggies to patrol the rest of the beach.
Are there hiking and cycling trails near Sandbridge Beach?
We're glad you asked! Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge (4005 Sandpiper Road) offers more than eight miles of gorgeous trails through a wide range of coastal habitats, from sand dunes to marshland to maritime forest. Depending on the time of year, you can spot all sorts of colorful wildlife - including migratory waterfowl like geese, ducks, and tundra swans.
Are there nice restaurants at Sandbridge Beach?
You bet! Whether you prefer casual noshing or classic fine dining, you'll find something here to tickle your taste buds. Several restaurants are situated right on Back Bay, so you can savor spectacular sunsets along with your scrumptious meal.
Have any more questions?
Ask us anytime. We're always here to help... and ready to book your Sandbridge Beach reservation.
