Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
Chic's Beach sits where the Chesapeake Bay meets residential Virginia Beach, a strip of sand and grassy parks bracketed by century-old beach cottages and midcentury bungalows. The shore here runs narrow and intimate—no high-rises block the western sky—and the bayside location means flat water that barely ripples on windless mornings. You'll step from sidewalk to sand in seconds, passing neighbors who've claimed the same Adirondack chairs for decades. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel stretches across the horizon like a low concrete ribbon, framing sunsets that turn the water copper and pink. Locals launch kayaks from the public ramps near the Chic's Beach Pier, paddling out toward channel markers while ospreys circle overhead. The sand is coarser than oceanfront beaches, studded with shell fragments, and the water stays shallow for fifty yards—shallow enough that you can walk out and still touch bottom, even at high tide. First Landing State Park sprawls just north, its maritime forest meeting the bay in a tangle of cypress roots and tidal creeks. After swimming, you'll find fish tacos at Shore Drive eateries where ceiling fans spin above vinyl booths, and ice cream shops that close for the season once September fades. This is Virginia Beach without the boardwalk crowds, where the rhythm follows tides instead of tourist calendars.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Chic's Beach.
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Chic's Beach generally offers calmer waters than the main Virginia Beach oceanfront since it sits on the Chesapeake Bay rather than the Atlantic Ocean. The bay's gentler waves make it popular for families with young children. However, Chic's Beach does not have lifeguards on duty, so swimmers should exercise caution and supervise children closely. Water quality can vary, especially after heavy rains, so check local advisories before swimming. The beach's protected location typically means fewer rip currents compared to ocean beaches.
Chic's Beach is accessible year-round, with peak season running Memorial Day through Labor Day when water temperatures are warmest (70-78°F). Summer months offer the best swimming conditions but can be crowded on weekends. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) provide pleasant weather with fewer crowds, ideal for walking, kayaking, and enjoying sunsets. Winter visits are quieter and perfect for beachcombing, though water activities are limited. The bay location means slightly cooler water temperatures than ocean beaches, even in summer.
Chic's Beach is located in the Chic's Beach neighborhood off Shore Drive in northern Virginia Beach. Street parking is available along residential streets near the beach access points, but spaces are limited and primarily reserved for residents with permits during peak season. Visitors should look for non-permit street parking or arrive early during summer weekends. The beach is accessible via Shore Drive (Route 60). There's no dedicated public parking lot, so plan accordingly and respect residential parking restrictions to avoid tickets.
Chic's Beach neighborhood features several popular local restaurants within walking distance, including Chick's Oyster Bar (a neighborhood staple), Bubba's Seafood Restaurant, and various cafes along the nearby Shore Drive corridor. The area has a relaxed, residential feel with limited commercial development directly on the beach. Basic restroom facilities may be limited, so plan ahead. For accommodations, visitors typically stay at hotels along nearby Shore Drive or in the main Virginia Beach resort area, as Chic's Beach itself is primarily a residential neighborhood.
Chic's Beach faces west across the Chesapeake Bay, making it one of the few beaches in Virginia Beach where you can watch the sun set over the water rather than rising from it. This unique orientation creates stunning evening views as the sun dips below the bay's horizon, often painting the sky in vibrant colors. The calm bay waters and low-key atmosphere make it a favorite spot for locals seeking a peaceful sunset experience away from the busier oceanfront tourist areas. Bring a blanket and arrive about 30 minutes before sunset.
