Lynnhaven Inlet
Scenic inlet offering fishing, family fun on a unique sandbar, and stunning views of the Lesner Bridge, especially at night.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better fishing
Lynnhaven Inlet
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better fishing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Scenic inlet offering fishing, family fun on a unique sandbar, and stunning views of the Lesner Bridge, especially at night.
"Great place to fish or just hangout by the beach with gorgeous views and the beautiful Lesner Bridge."
🎣 Know Your Spots
Research public fishing spots as much is private. The area under the Lesner Bridge offers deep water access.
🚤 Boat Launch Fees
A reasonable fee grants access to launch your boat, offering quick access to the bay and ocean.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lesner Bridge Views
Under the Lesner Bridge
Witness the stunning Lesner Bridge, especially magical when it lights up at night. A unique backdrop for any visit.

Shore Fishing Opportunities
North side under the bridge
Cast your line directly into deeper waters from the shore, offering a convenient fishing experience without a boat.

The Sandbar Playground
Near the Inlet mouth
A vast, shallow sandbar emerges at low tide, perfect for family fun and water play. Disappears at high tide!

Boat Launch Convenience
Designated boat launch area
Easily launch your boat for a quick run to the bay or ocean. Affordable fee for convenient access.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Fishing Access & Regulations
Best Times for Anglers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎣 Know Your Spots
Research public fishing spots as much is private. The area under the Lesner Bridge offers deep water access.
🚤 Boat Launch Fees
A reasonable fee grants access to launch your boat, offering quick access to the bay and ocean.
🏖️ Sandbar Magic
Visit during low tide for a unique sandbar experience, but be aware it submerges at high tide.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking is available and paid for safety. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎣 Know Your Spots
Research public fishing spots as much is private. The area under the Lesner Bridge offers deep water access.
🚤 Boat Launch Fees
A reasonable fee grants access to launch your boat, offering quick access to the bay and ocean.
🏖️ Sandbar Magic
Visit during low tide for a unique sandbar experience, but be aware it submerges at high tide.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking is available and paid for safety. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
💡 Gear for the Inlet
Consider gear suitable for both shore and boat fishing, depending on your chosen method.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Lynnhaven Inlet for its beautiful views, especially the Lesner Bridge at night, and its accessibility for both fishing and family fun. The shallow sandbar is a highlight for kids, and the convenient boat launch is appreciated by boaters. Some find parking can be crowded on weekends.
"Great to place to fish or just hangout by the beach.You will see gorgeous views, and The beautiful Lesner Bridge that lights up underneath it at night. You can watch tugboats come through and Parking is close by as well, Just a short walk."
Virginia Beach Living
"Nice beach for swimming and craving
Nice parking lot with payment for safe parking"
Michael Nguyen
"Very nice set up. Can actually fish in some deep water from the shore under the bridge from the north side"
Ricky Woods
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lynnhaven Inlet is accessible via Shore Drive. Parking is available and paid for safety, with weekday visits being less crowded than weekends.
Yes, there is a nice parking lot with payment for safe parking. It tends to be empty during the week but pretty full on weekends.
Absolutely! There's a convenient boat launch area with a fee, providing a quick run to the bay or ocean.
Yes, it's a great spot for kayaking, with an easy paddle to the sandbar and the mouth of the Inlet to the bay. You can enjoy riding waves in and out.
Finding public fishing spots can be challenging due to private property. The area under the Lesner Bridge on the north side offers deep water access from the shore.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no general admission tickets required to visit Lynnhaven Inlet. However, there is a fee for parking and a fee for boat launching.
Parking is available and paid for safety. The exact cost can vary, but it's considered reasonable for secure parking.
The boat launch fee is approximately $8.00, which is considered a good value for quick access to the bay or ocean.
While specific regulations can change, it's always wise to check local fishing licenses and any posted rules regarding catch limits or seasons for Lynnhaven Inlet.
Yes, you can fish from the shore, particularly from the north side under the Lesner Bridge where you can access deeper water.
🎫 🎣 Fishing & Activities
The area under the Lesner Bridge on the north side is known for deep water shore fishing. Exploring the mouth of the inlet can also be productive.
While specific reports vary, anglers often target species like speckled trout, flounder, and other common bay fish. Checking a local fishing report for Lynnhaven Inlet is recommended.
For shore fishing, consider a medium-action rod with 10-15 lb test line. For boat fishing, adapt your gear to target specific species. Live bait often works well.
Yes, the sandbar area near the inlet mouth offers shallow waters that are great for swimming and playing, especially for families with children.
Families can enjoy the shallow sandbar for water play, swimming, and exploring. The views of the Lesner Bridge and passing tugboats are also entertaining.
📸 📸 Photography
The Lesner Bridge, especially when illuminated at night, provides a stunning photographic subject. The sandbar at low tide and the activity of boats are also great for capturing memorable shots.
Photographing the Lesner Bridge at night when its lights are on offers a dramatic and beautiful scene. Sunset can also provide lovely colors over the water.
The western-facing areas of the inlet can offer beautiful sunset views over the water, with the bridge potentially silhouetted against the sky.
Landscape photography capturing the bridge and water, as well as action shots of boats and people enjoying the inlet, are popular.
Always check local drone regulations before flying. If permitted, drone photography can offer unique aerial perspectives of the inlet, bridge, and surrounding waterways.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parking is available and paid for safety, making access easy. While the inlet is known for fishing, the sandbar offers a fantastic alternative for family fun. Watching the tugboats and the illuminated Lesner Bridge at night can also be a hit with younger visitors.
🎣 Anglers Seeking Action
Consulting a fishing report for Lynnhaven Inlet is highly recommended to find the best fishing spots and target species like speckled trout. Be aware of private property and focus on designated public access areas.
📸 Photographers
Consider visiting during sunset for beautiful light over the water, or during low tide to photograph the unique sandbar landscape. The movement of boats and the natural scenery offer diverse photographic opportunities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Fishing Lynnhaven Inlet: A Comprehensive Guide
When planning your fishing trip, it's crucial to consult a fishing report for Lynnhaven Inlet to understand current conditions and target species. Common catches include speckled trout, flounder, and various other bay fish. Using live bait like shrimp or minnows is often effective. Remember to check local regulations for any specific fishing licenses, catch limits, or seasonal restrictions to ensure compliance.
Beyond the fishing itself, the scenic beauty of Lynnhaven Inlet adds to the experience. The Lesner Bridge is a notable landmark, particularly when illuminated at night. The inlet also provides opportunities for observing marine traffic, including tugboats, adding a dynamic element to your visit.
Family Fun at Lynnhaven Inlet
It's important to note that the sandbar is a tidal feature and will disappear completely at high tide. Therefore, planning your visit around the low tide is essential to maximize the sandbar experience. The parking facilities are convenient and paid for safety, making it easy to access the beach and water. While the inlet is known for fishing, the shallow, calm waters of the sandbar make it a safe and enjoyable alternative for non-anglers and younger children.
Beyond the sandbar, families can enjoy watching the tugboats and other vessels navigate the inlet, adding an element of excitement. The Lesner Bridge itself is an impressive sight, and its nighttime illumination offers a unique visual spectacle. Lynnhaven Inlet provides a blend of natural beauty and accessible recreation for a memorable family outing.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit