Visit First Landing State Park

Thing To Do Visit First Landing State Park

A visit to First Landing State Park allows you to trade ocean views for forest trails, cypress swamps, and a different stretch of shoreline. Located in northern Virginia Beach, this coastal park is a rewarding day trip from your Sandbridge Beach vacation rental. Spend the morning exploring the woods, bring a picnic, and leave time to enjoy the Chesapeake Bay beach before heading back to Sandbridge.

Getting to First Landing State Park

First Landing State Park is north of Sandbridge, beyond Virginia Beach’s main Oceanfront district. Make sure to check directions from your rental before leaving—travel time depends on traffic and which park entrance you choose, but it should take around 45 minutes.

The park’s main address is 2500 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23451. Choose your destination based on your plans:

  • For the Chesapeake Bay beach: Use the beach-side entrance off Shore Drive.
  • For hiking and picnicking: Head to the Trail Center entrance on the opposite side of Shore Drive.
  • For the Narrows and boat launch: Use the separate entrance at 64th Street.

    • First Landing Beach in Virginia Beach, VA

    Things to Do at First Landing State Park

    Bald Cypress Trail at First Landing State Park

    Explore the Bald Cypress Trail

    The 1.8-mile Bald Cypress Trail is a great introduction to the park’s scenery. This loop includes wooden boardwalks and overlooks where you can take in the freshwater swamp and distinctive cypress trees. Bring your camera and allow time to stop along the way.

    For a longer outing, explore part of the Cape Henry Trail. At approximately 6.1 miles one way, it offers plenty of room to stretch your legs without needing to complete the entire route.

    Go For a Bike Ride

    Bring your bikes for a ride on the designated Cape Henry and Live Oak trails. Bicycles aren’t permitted on every trail, so review the current map and follow posted signs. Plan a route that suits your group and share the trails with walkers.

    Enjoy the Chesapeake Bay Beach

    First Landing has 1.5 miles of sandy Chesapeake Bay shoreline. Take a beach walk, enjoy the views, or pair some time by the water with a morning on the trails. 

    For guests spending most of their vacation on Sandbridge’s Atlantic shoreline, it’s an opportunity to experience another side of coastal Virginia Beach, which is truly breathtaking!

    Beautiful Chesapeake Bay Beach

    Slow Down and Look Around

    First Landing’s maritime forest, wetlands, and shoreline offer plenty to appreciate beyond the mileage. Bring binoculars for birdwatching, pause to photograph the trees, or simply enjoy a quieter walk through the woods. Pack a picnic to turn a short visit into a relaxed afternoon outdoors.

    Know Before You Go

    • Hours: Day-use areas are open from 7 a.m. until dusk.
    • Parking: There is a parking fee. Check the official park website for current rates.
    • What to bring: Pack water, snacks, a towel, sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes.
    • Plan your route: Download the trail map and choose your entrance before leaving Sandbridge.
    • Check conditions: Review park alerts and the weather forecast before your visit.

    For current visitor information, visit the official First Landing State Park website or call 757-412-2300.


    Covered porch at a Sandbridge Beach rental

    Make it Part of Your Sandbridge Vacation

    First Landing State Park is a good choice when your group wants to add hiking, biking, and Chesapeake Bay scenery to your beach getaway. 

    After a day exploring the northern Virginia Beach area, return to your Sandbridge Blue vacation rental for dinner and an evening together.