6 Epic Waterfront Road Trips in Virginia for Your Ultimate WanderLove Adventure
In Virginia, wanderlust evolves into WanderLove—a profound passion for exploration. As travel rebounds, an epic road trip offers a safe, immersive way to discover the Commonwealth's stunning landscapes, from pristine beaches to the winding curves of its historic mountains.
On those sweltering summer days, beat the heat with a refreshing plunge at Virginia's premier waterfront spots, whether sandy coastal shores or serene river and lake banks.
To inspire your journey, we've curated six Waterfront WanderLove road trips that promise unforgettable summer memories across Virginia.
Road Trip: Norfolk to the Eastern Shore
Embark on a coastal escape spanning the Chesapeake Bay. Start in Norfolk with a scenic bike ride along the Elizabeth River Trail. Drive Route 13 across the iconic Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel to Virginia's Eastern Shore. In charming Cape Charles, savor local seafood like fresh Virginia oysters, browse boutique shops featuring artisan goods such as unique fish-leather jewelry, and relax on the bayfront beach with its ocean-themed Virginia LOVEwork. Continue north to Chincoteague for wild pony sightings and breathtaking Atlantic sunrises.
Read The Full Road Trip Guide
Road Trip: Fredericksburg to the Northern Neck
For a blend of history, adventure, and Chesapeake Bay seafood, travel from historic Fredericksburg—just an hour south of Washington, D.C.—to coastal Irvington in the Northern Neck's River Realm. Indulge at luxury spots like the waterfront Tides Inn, offering sunset boat tours, an Oyster Academy with Virginia wine pairings, and activities from lakeside golf to dockside fishing and crabbing.
Stroll shops in Kilmarnock and Irvington, then ferry from Reedville to Tangier Island for a unique encounter with its Elizabethan-accented community, preserved by centuries of isolation.
Read The Full Road Trip Guide
Road Trip: Williamsburg to Norfolk
From Virginia's Historic Triangle, follow the Colonial Parkway from Williamsburg to Yorktown, then Route 17 to Smithfield and Norfolk (extend to the Eastern Shore for an epic coastal odyssey). Dive into early American history at Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown. Sample Smithfield's famed peanuts and country ham along the Salty Southern Route, then thrill in Norfolk with paddling in Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge or skydiving with Skydive Suffolk.
Read The Full Road Trip Guide
Road Trip: A Refreshing Lake Retreat
Virginia’s lakes offer accessible alternatives to ocean beaches, perfect for short drives from anywhere in the Commonwealth—be it Southwest Virginia's mountains or Northern Virginia's suburbs. Discover serene lakefront escapes for your inland waterfront adventure.
Find More Road Trip Ideas to Virginia’s Lakes
Road Trip: Exploring Virginia’s Beaches
Virginia Beach draws crowds with its vibrant dining (see our Virginia Beach Dining Guide), Boardwalk shops, and historic resorts hosting stars like Jimmy Buffett. Yet hidden gems like Buggs Island, Cape Charles Beach, and Chic's Beach offer tranquil retreats for your summer road trip.
Find More Road Trip Ideas to Virginia’s Hidden Beaches
Road Trip: Cooling Off at Virginia’s Rivers
Trace the James River from Botetourt County through Lynchburg, Richmond, and Norfolk for tubing and waterfront dining, or follow the Potomac for wineries and breweries. Our Dan River Guide leads from Meadows of Dan to South Boston and Kerr Reservoir; the New River Guide winds through Galax, Pulaski, and Blacksburg, with paddling at Claytor Lake State Park and rich musical heritage.
Find More Road Trips Ideas to Virginia’s Rivers
