The nearby Marina - adjacent to the beach
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Yorktown Beach Virginia

4.6
·2k reviews·, United States

Yorktown Beach offers a blend of coastal charm, rich history, and relaxing riverside ambiance along the York River.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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The nearby Marina - adjacent to the beach

Yorktown Beach Virginia

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Yorktown Beach offers a blend of coastal charm, rich history, and relaxing riverside ambiance along the York River.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"A beautiful, quiet beach for a nice easy day with free parking and waterfront restaurants."

Vertical photo
TIP

☕ Grab a Coffee on the Waterfront

Coast Thirst Beach Deli offers coffee and snacks right on the riverfront.

🍦 Don't Miss Ben & Jerry's

A popular spot for ice cream, perfect for a sweet treat after a beach walk.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Riverwalk Landing

Riverwalk Landing

Waterfront area

Charming brick paths with shops, restaurants, and scenic river views. Perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Yorktown Beach

Yorktown Beach

Along the York River

A peaceful stretch of sand offering relaxation, fishing pier access, and beautiful water views.

Historic Yorktown

Historic Yorktown

Adjacent to the beach

Immerse yourself in Revolutionary War history with preserved sites and museums.

Pirate Excursions

Pirate Excursions

Schooner Alliance

A fun, family-friendly adventure on the water, highly recommended for kids.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

While Yorktown Beach offers charm year-round, consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds, especially if you're seeking a peaceful beach day. Summer brings warmer waters, but also more visitors. Check for local events like farmers' markets or festivals, which can add to the atmosphere but also impact parking availability.

Navigating Yorktown's Charm and History

Yorktown Beach is more than just sand; it's steeped in history. Plan to explore Riverwalk Landing's shops and eateries, and consider a pirate excursion if traveling with kids.Instagram Remember that while the beach is relaxing, the water can be cool and occasionally have jellyfish.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warmer water for swimming
Crowd
Medium
When
Event days
Why
Lively atmosphere, local culture
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Things to do in Yorktown, VA: Day Itinerary for Yorktown, VA in @Visit Williamsburg ☀️Yorktown is a place known for both its waterfront charm and its famous battles. Stroll through the boutiques, antiques, and fine art shops, and admire the 18th-century architecture. Wander along the York River’s sandy beaches, fishing pier, and public docks. The town is highly walkable, especially after parking ...
@charlottemama_
135 likes • 14.1K views

☕ Grab a Coffee on the Waterfront

Coast Thirst Beach Deli offers coffee and snacks right on the riverfront. TikTok

🍦 Don't Miss Ben & Jerry's

A popular spot for ice cream, perfect for a sweet treat after a beach walk. TikTokInstagram

Days like this are right around the corner. ☀️ @Beatriz Lange #visitwilliamsburg #yorktownva #summertravel #traveltok
@visitwilliamsburg
71 likes • 5K views
Yorktown, Virginia was a blast. We love a beach day, but this pirate excursion was so fun. If you have kiddos, it is a must! We booked our tickets online with Schooner Alliance and arrived on the dock a little before our schooner boarded. While we waited we watched jellyfish and crabs swim. It was one of our favorite days that entire week. . . #yorktown #yorktownva #schooner #schooneralliance #sa...
smoresandcaviar
13 likes • 804 views

🚶‍♀️ Enjoy Scenic Walks

Stroll along the beach or the historic town for beautiful views and fresh air. TikTokInstagram

🎣 Cast a Line from the Pier

The fishing pier is a great spot for anglers to enjoy the water. Reddit

Yorktown Beach 🏝️ @visityorktown #yorktown #virginia #beach #drone #dronelife #dronecrew #dji #skyraptor #beachlife #reels
skyraptordrones
24 likes • 925 views

Tips

from all over the internet

☕ Grab a Coffee on the Waterfront

Coast Thirst Beach Deli offers coffee and snacks right on the riverfront. TikTok

🍦 Don't Miss Ben & Jerry's

A popular spot for ice cream, perfect for a sweet treat after a beach walk. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Enjoy Scenic Walks

Stroll along the beach or the historic town for beautiful views and fresh air. TikTokInstagram

🎣 Cast a Line from the Pier

The fishing pier is a great spot for anglers to enjoy the water. Reddit

🚗 Free Parking Available

Parking is generally free in designated lots and the parking garage. Instagram

🛥️ Consider a Sailing Tour

Experience the York River from the water with available sailing tours. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Yorktown Beach is praised for its charming waterfront, historical significance, and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors enjoy the scenic river views, boutique shops, and dining options at Riverwalk Landing. While the beach offers a peaceful retreat, some note the water can be cool and occasionally have jellyfish, making it less ideal for swimming but still great for relaxation and boat excursions.

"Yorktown’s waterfront at Riverwalk Landing blends coastal charm, rich history, and relaxing riverside ambiance. With breezy strolls, peaceful beaches, scenic dining like Water Street Grille and Riverwalk Restaurant, and a dash of Revolutionary War heritage, it's an ideal mix of relaxation and discovery."

Saad Sigma

"It's a nice place to visit and relax. It is a rich place in history and a a lot to see and learn, but if you want to play in the water is not one of your best choice, cold, in some seasons has jelly fish and some times smells lightly fish. But it's still a great place to have a boat hides. Boats are available to go as groups during several times a day by the small cute beach. It's an amazing experience.
."

fernanda saunders

"Beautiful quiet beach for nice easy day. Free parking & waterfront restaurants plus plenty of small shops."

Minn

What People Like

Charming waterfront ambiance
Rich historical sites
Relaxing river views

What People Dislike

Cool water temperatures
Occasional jellyfish

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Yorktown Beach is located in Yorktown, Virginia. It's accessible by car, with free parking available at Riverwalk Landing and nearby lots.Instagram For those coming from Richmond, it's about a 45-minute drive.Instagram It's also a scenic drive from Williamsburg.TikTok

Yes, Yorktown Beach is part of the Historic Triangle, making it close to Williamsburg and Jamestown. It's also a relatively short drive to Virginia Beach.TikTok+1

Walking is ideal for exploring Riverwalk Landing and the immediate beach area. Bike rentals are also available for a more extensive exploration of the town and trails.Instagram

Public transportation options directly to Yorktown Beach are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient method for most visitors.

The general address for the Riverwalk Landing area, which includes Yorktown Beach, is 425 Water St, Yorktown, VA 23690.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yorktown Beach is a public beach and generally does not have an entrance fee for access. Parking is also typically free.Instagram

As a public beach, Yorktown Beach is accessible during daylight hours. Specific amenities like shops and restaurants have their own operating hours, which can vary.TikTok

While beach access is free, activities like pirate excursions or sailing tours often require advance booking, especially during peak season.Instagram

General beach rules apply. Be mindful of the water temperature, which can be cool, and occasional jellyfish.Reddit Check local advisories for any specific seasonal conditions.

The @Visit Williamsburg and @Visit Yorktown social media accounts, as well as local tourism websites, often announce upcoming events, markets, and festivals held at Riverwalk Landing.Instagram

🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience

You can relax on the beach, fish from the pier, enjoy waterfront dining, explore boutique shops, and take historical tours. Family-friendly pirate excursions are also a highlight.TikTokInstagram

The water at Yorktown Beach is on the York River and can be cooler than the ocean. Some visitors find it suitable for wading, while others note it can be cold and occasionally have jellyfish.TikTokReddit

Yes, Riverwalk Landing offers several dining options, including waterfront restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops like Ben & Jerry's.TikTokInstagram+1

Bike rentals are often available, allowing you to explore the town and nearby trails.Instagram

Absolutely! It's considered a family-friendly destination with activities like pirate excursions and a relaxed atmosphere.Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the York River, the historic architecture along Riverwalk Landing, and sunset views.TikTokInstagram The fishing pier also offers great perspectives.

Drone usage may be subject to local regulations. It's always best to check with local authorities or the @Visit Yorktown tourism board for specific guidelines.Instagram

Sunrise offers a serene start to the day with beautiful light,TikTok while sunset provides dramatic colors over the water.TikTok

Consider capturing the historic ships, the charming shops, or the lively atmosphere during local events and markets.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive river views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details in the historic town. A polarizing filter can enhance water and sky colors.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Yorktown Beach is a fantastic family-friendly destination. The pirate excursions are a huge hit, offering an interactive and exciting adventure on the water.Instagram The beach itself provides a safe space for kids to play and build sandcastles, and the nearby shops like Ben & Jerry's offer sweet treats to delight little ones.TikTokInstagram

Consider visiting during a weekday to avoid larger crowds. The relaxed atmosphere of Riverwalk Landing also makes it easy to manage with children. Don't forget to explore the historical aspects of Yorktown, which can be made engaging for kids through the American Revolution Museum or by imagining life in the 18th century.

💰 Budget Travelers

Yorktown Beach is a great option for budget-conscious travelers. Access to the beach is generally free, and parking is also complimentary.Instagram You can pack your own picnic to enjoy by the river, saving on dining costs. While there are shops and restaurants, focusing on the natural beauty and historical sites can provide a fulfilling experience without significant expense.

Many of the historical sites in Yorktown offer affordable entry or are free to explore from the outside. Walking and enjoying the scenery are excellent free activities. Look out for local events like farmers' markets, which can offer affordable local produce and crafts.

couples

For couples, Yorktown Beach offers a charming and romantic escape. Enjoy leisurely walks along the riverfront at sunset,TikTok share an ice cream from Ben & Jerry's,TikTok or dine at one of the waterfront restaurants with scenic views. The historic ambiance of Yorktown adds a unique touch to a romantic getaway.

Consider a sailing tour for a memorable experience on the water, or simply find a quiet spot on the beach to relax and enjoy each other's company. The blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue makes Yorktown a picturesque setting for couples.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Riverwalk Landing

Riverwalk Landing is the heart of Yorktown's waterfront experience, offering a delightful blend of shops, eateries, and scenic beauty. Visitors can stroll along charming brick paths, browse unique boutiques and antique stores, and enjoy a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to waterfront restaurants.Instagram It's a place where history meets modern coastal charm, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon.

This area is known for its vibrant atmosphere, often hosting events, farmers' markets, and festivals, adding to its appeal. The proximity to the beach and the fishing pier makes it a central hub for activities. Whether you're grabbing an ice cream from Ben & Jerry's TikTok or enjoying a meal with a view, Riverwalk Landing provides a picturesque setting for relaxation and exploration.

Key attractions at Riverwalk Landing include the diverse shops, the variety of restaurants like Water Street Grille and Riverwalk Restaurant, and the general ambiance of a bustling yet relaxed waterfront. It's a must-visit for anyone exploring Yorktown Beach, offering a taste of local life and stunning river vistas.Instagram

The Yorktown Beach Experience

Yorktown Beach, situated along the York River, offers a more tranquil beach experience compared to its oceanfront counterparts. While it may not be ideal for extensive swimming due to cooler water temperatures and occasional jellyfish,Reddit it's a wonderful spot for relaxation, sunbathing, and enjoying the gentle river breeze. The sandy shore provides a pleasant place to unwind and take in the scenic views.

For those who enjoy fishing, the fishing pier is a popular amenity, offering a great vantage point to cast a line and enjoy the coastal environment.Reddit The beach also serves as a departure point for unique activities like pirate excursions, which are a hit with families.Instagram The overall vibe is peaceful and picturesque, making it a great escape for a quiet day by the water.

Tips for enjoying Yorktown Beach: Pack a picnic, bring a good book, and be prepared for potentially cooler water. It's a place to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the simpler pleasures of a riverside beach day.TikTok

Historical Significance of Yorktown

Yorktown holds immense historical importance as the site of the decisive Siege of Yorktown in 1781, which led to the end of the American Revolutionary War. Visitors can explore numerous historic sites that preserve this pivotal moment in American history. The Yorktown Battlefield, now part of the Colonial National Historical Park, allows you to walk the grounds where history was made.

Beyond the battlefield, the town itself retains much of its 18th-century character. Strolling through the historic streets offers a glimpse into colonial life. The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown provides immersive exhibits and living-history demonstrations that bring the era to life, making it an educational and engaging experience for all ages.

Combining a visit to Yorktown Beach with an exploration of its rich history offers a well-rounded travel experience. It’s a chance to relax by the water and then step back in time to learn about the foundations of the United States.TikTok

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