Enjoy serene, safe Fort Monroe Beach!

Fort Monroe Beach is our favorite for a beach day trip! I love this beach because it is not crowded, so I can always see my children, and I don't have to worry about finding a space large enough to accomodate all we have to haul to the beach! It's also a wonderful beach day trip because there is much less traffic, as it is the last exit on I-64 before the Virginia Beach tunnel. When you arrive, there are lots of options for parking. We typically park in front of the Casemate Museum for free or pay to park at the Paradise Ocean Club. These both have parking lots. Day passes are available for the Paradise Ocean Club if you would like. Where you can rent a cabana, swim in the Olympic-sized swimming pool, and enjoy food and drink from their restaurant.

I love that there are no huge waves at Fort Monroe, so I don't worry (as much) about my little swimmers. This beach is dog-friendly, so bring your four-legged friends, too! I also recommend packing a kite, sunscreen, sand toys, wet wipes, towels, beach chairs. The disadvantage to this beach not being as touristy as others are that some amenities are lacking. There are no spray fountains to wash the sand off your feet, and the restroom options are pretty limited. There are portapotties along the boardwalk and a public restroom at the Casemate Museum.

We love to spend hours playing in the sand and water and always pack plenty of snacks! We typically head to Firehouse 1881 after the beach. It is a former firehouse-turned coffee shop. It has outdoor seating and a menu that includes yummy sandwiches, ice cream, and even firetrucks to play with!