Yorktown Beach
About
Yorktown Beach offers the perfect combination of sandy shores, calm waters, and historical charm for families exploring the Williamsburg area. The gentle waves of the York River make it ideal for young swimmers, while the on-site playground, fishing pier, and expansive picnic areas provide plenty of activities beyond the beach. Parents love that it's a full-service beach destination with beautiful views of the historic waterfront.
Highlights
- ✓Calm, gentle waves perfect for young swimmers and waders
- ✓Large playground area right next to the beach
- ✓Fishing pier where kids can try catching fish
- ✓Shaded picnic pavilions with river views
- ✓Historic Yorktown waterfront and Victory Monument within walking distance
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive before 10am on summer weekends to snag prime parking and picnic pavilion spots near the beach
- 2.Bring water shoes as there can be shells and small rocks along the shoreline
- 3.The fishing pier doesn't require a license if you're under 16, making it perfect for trying out family fishing
- 4.Pack a picnic to enjoy in the shaded pavilions with stunning river views,there's limited food options right on the beach
- 5.Combine your beach day with a walk through historic Yorktown just steps away for an educational bonus
Best Time to Visit
Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the warmest water temperatures. Weekday mornings are least crowded, while summer evenings provide beautiful sunset views. Avoid holiday weekends like Memorial Day and Fourth of July if you prefer a quieter experience.
What to Know
Parking is free along the waterfront and in nearby lots. There are public restrooms and outdoor showers available. Food options are limited directly on the beach, but the historic Yorktown village nearby has several restaurants and cafes within walking distance.
Seasonal Notes
Best beach weather is June through August, though the beach is accessible year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for playground visits and picnics even when water is too cool for swimming. The beach can be breezy in shoulder seasons, so bring layers. Yorktown hosts special events throughout the year, including Fourth of July celebrations.
Nearby Eats
The Riverwalk Restaurant offers casual waterfront dining with a kids menu just steps from the beach. For a quick bite, Yorktown Pub has family-friendly fare including burgers and pizza, located in the historic village area about a 5-minute walk away.
More Activities Near Williamsburg
Freedom Park
Freedom Park is Williamsburg's ultimate family playground, offering an impressive variety of activities that can keep kids entertained for hours. With multiple age-appropriate playgrounds, scenic walking trails around a picturesque lake, and wide-open athletic fields perfect for running off energy, this expansive park has something for every member of the family to enjoy.
Jamestown Settlement
Jamestown Settlement brings 1607 to life with amazing hands-on experiences that transform history from textbook to adventure. Kids can board full-scale replica ships, explore a recreated Powhatan Indian village, try on armor, play colonial games, and watch live demonstrations from costumed historians who make America's first permanent English settlement feel real and relevant.
Virginia Living Museum
The Virginia Living Museum offers families an all-in-one adventure where kids can explore native wildlife through indoor aquarium exhibits, outdoor animal habitats, and winding nature trails,all focused on Virginia's natural ecosystems. With interactive touch tanks, live animal encounters, and a planetarium, this attraction combines the best of a zoo, science center, and nature preserve into one engaging educational experience.
Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park
Go Ape Williamsburg offers an unforgettable treetop adventure where families can soar through the Virginia forest canopy on ziplines and navigate exciting obstacle courses high among the trees. With dedicated junior courses for younger adventurers and family-friendly options that accommodate various skill levels, this outdoor adventure park lets kids (and parents!) challenge themselves while experiencing nature from a thrilling new perspective.