Community Beach Park
A serene, local-feeling bay beach with calm waters, abundant wildlife, and convenient amenities, perfect for a relaxed day out.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and secure parking.
Community Beach Park
Best Time
Beat the crowds and secure parking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, local-feeling bay beach with calm waters, abundant wildlife, and convenient amenities, perfect for a relaxed day out.
"This is my favorite 'local' feel beach. It's so relaxing to lay out all day and enjoy the day."
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking lots fill up fast, especially on Saturdays. Aim for before 10 AM for the best chance!
🌊 Enjoy the Mellow Bay
Perfect for families! The bay is calmer and warmer than the oceanfront.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Calm Bay Waters
Bayfront
Gentle waves and shallow depths perfect for wading and relaxed swimming.
Abundant Wildlife
Beach and shallow waters
Spot diverse birdlife and dolphins often seen playing in the bay.
Ample Parking & Restrooms
Near entrances
Convenient parking and well-maintained facilities for a comfortable visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Water Conditions & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking lots fill up fast, especially on Saturdays. Aim for before 10 AM for the best chance!
🌊 Enjoy the Mellow Bay
Perfect for families! The bay is calmer and warmer than the oceanfront.
☀️ Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for dolphins and various bird species in and around the water.
🚽 Restroom Access
Restrooms are typically open from mid-March to October during daylight hours.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking lots fill up fast, especially on Saturdays. Aim for before 10 AM for the best chance!
🌊 Enjoy the Mellow Bay
Perfect for families! The bay is calmer and warmer than the oceanfront.
☀️ Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for dolphins and various bird species in and around the water.
🚽 Restroom Access
Restrooms are typically open from mid-March to October during daylight hours.
🌙 Post-Sunset Vibe Shift
The atmosphere can change after dark; consider leaving by early evening for a family-friendly experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors love Community Beach Park for its relaxed, local atmosphere and calm bay waters, making it ideal for families and those seeking a quieter beach experience. The abundant wildlife and convenient amenities like parking and restrooms are frequently praised. However, some note that the water can be a bit murky and the park's vibe can shift to be less family-friendly after dark.
"This is my favorite "local" feel beach. It's so relaxing to lay out all day and enjoy the day. There is always tons of wildlife flying around and dolphins hangout in the shallow water. There is plenty of parking and the beach is well maintained and has restrooms. The water is very mellow and shallow enough that you can walk out into the water and still only be waist high. The water is a little dirty but what water isn't."
Kristal Biggio
"6/28/25 - Our friend found this spot. Great spot with a decent amount of parking. We got there around 10 on a saturday and still lots of parking but I would definitely suggest getting there earlier than later. When we left around 2pm parking lot looked full. They have bathrooms and lifeguards. The water is much calmer and no waves really. When we went there was a lot of seaweed but mostly right where the water starts to break. Thankfully no jellyfish (but of course that could change). It's a nice chill spot compared to other parts of the oceanfront. There is also more than one entrance to the beach from the parking lot."
Matea L.
"I like coming here because it's never too crowded and it's a good family vibe. However, we never stay pass 6 or 7 pm. It tends to get real loud and that's when the weed and cigarette smokers emerge. It becomes less of a family environment if you ask me. I will just say it becomes a much more urban environment than I would like my children to be introduced to."
Shaunica Graham
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Community Beach Park is located in Norfolk, VA. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, driving is the most common method. The park offers ample parking, but it can fill up quickly on weekends and during peak season.
Yes, there is a decent amount of parking available. However, it's highly recommended to arrive early, especially on Saturdays, as the lot can become full by midday.
For a more relaxed experience, aim for weekday afternoons or weekend mornings before 10 AM. Weekends after 6 or 7 PM can become louder and less family-oriented.
Information on specific accessibility features is limited, but the beach is generally described as having easy access from the parking lot. The shallow bay waters are also a plus for those who prefer to wade.
Specific dog regulations for Community Beach Park are not detailed in the provided information. It's advisable to check local Norfolk Parks and Recreation guidelines for current pet policies.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Community Beach Park is generally a public beach and does not typically require an entrance fee for general access. Parking may be free, but it's always good to check for any posted signs.
While the beach itself is likely accessible during daylight hours, specific park hours are not provided. Restrooms are open seasonally from March 17 to October 1 during daytime hours.
For general beach visits, no advance booking is usually required. However, if you plan to use the picnic shelter for a permitted event, you will likely need to make a reservation.
Yes, lifeguards are present at Community Beach Park, adding an extra layer of safety for swimmers.
The bay water is generally calmer and warmer than the oceanfront. While it can sometimes appear a bit dirty or have seaweed, it's usually suitable for swimming.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can relax on the sandy beach, swim in the calm bay waters, enjoy wildlife spotting (dolphins and birds), and have picnics. It's a great spot for a chill day out.
Yes, it's considered a good family vibe beach due to its calm, shallow waters and well-maintained facilities. However, it can become less family-friendly after dark.
The park offers parking, public restrooms (seasonally), and lifeguards. There's also a picnic shelter available for permitted events.
Visitors often report seeing a lot of wildlife, including various birds and dolphins that frequent the shallow bay waters.
It's known for being less crowded than other parts of the oceanfront, offering a more local feel. However, it can get busy on weekend mornings and afternoons.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Specific food vendors or restaurants directly within Community Beach Park are not mentioned. Visitors often bring their own food for picnics.
While not directly at the park, Norfolk and Virginia Beach have numerous dining options. TikToks mention places like 'Nash & Smashed' in Norfolk for burgers.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. There is a picnic shelter available for permitted events, and visitors often bring their own food to enjoy on the beach.
The area offers a variety of cuisines, with seafood being a local specialty. Casual dining, like burgers, is also popular.
You'll likely find grocery stores in the surrounding Norfolk neighborhoods to stock up on picnic essentials before heading to the beach. Specific store names are not provided.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture serene bay sunrises or sunsets, playful dolphins, diverse birdlife, and the relaxed local beach atmosphere. The calm waters offer great reflections.
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset offer beautiful golden hour light. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant blue of the bay.
The natural beauty of the bay, the shoreline, and the wildlife are the main photographic draws. Look for interesting driftwood or shells along the shore.
It's ideal for landscape, wildlife, and casual lifestyle photography. The calm environment is also great for family portraits.
Drone regulations can vary by location and are subject to FAA rules. It's recommended to check with Norfolk Parks and Recreation for any specific restrictions before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Arrive early to secure convenient parking and a good spot on the sand. While the park has a great family vibe during the day, be mindful that it can become less family-oriented after sunset. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as food vendors are limited, and utilize the seasonal restrooms for convenience.
🏖️ Beach Lovers Seeking Relaxation
Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the frequent sightings of dolphins and various bird species. The beach is well-maintained, and the availability of parking (if you arrive early) and restrooms adds to the convenience for a full day of unwinding.
📸 Photographers
Capture the serene local atmosphere, the diverse birdlife, and the occasional dolphin sightings. The gentle light and tranquil setting make it ideal for capturing peaceful beach scenes and candid moments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Bay vs. Ocean Experience
This calmer environment also attracts a different kind of wildlife. Visitors frequently spot dolphins playing in the shallow waters and a variety of bird species. The bay's proximity means you might also encounter seaweed, especially near the shoreline, but this is a natural part of the ecosystem.
While the bay offers a more tranquil setting, it's important to note that the water can sometimes appear a bit 'dirty' compared to the clearer ocean. However, this is often due to sediment stirred up by the gentle waves and the natural bay environment. The trade-off is a more relaxed and accessible beach experience.
Navigating Crowds and Atmosphere
To maximize your enjoyment and secure a good spot, arriving early is key. Weekends, particularly Saturdays, see the parking lots fill up by midday. Weekday visits offer a more consistently quiet experience.
It's worth noting that the park's atmosphere can shift as the day progresses. While it's a great family spot during daylight hours, some reviews suggest it becomes more 'urban' and potentially louder after 6 or 7 PM, with an increase in smokers. If you're looking for a family-friendly environment, planning your visit to end before dusk is advisable.
Amenities and Practicalities
For those planning a longer stay or a group outing, there's a picnic shelter that can be reserved for permitted events. This makes Community Beach Park a viable option for small gatherings or parties. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks, as dedicated food vendors are not a prominent feature of the park.
Lifeguards are present during operational hours, providing an added layer of safety for swimmers. The beach itself is well-maintained, contributing to the overall pleasant experience for visitors.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit