In the wise words of Ferris Bueller, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” And, let’s be honest, these days life moves at warp speed. Between the constant ping of notifications, overflowing inboxes and the endless scroll of social media, finding a moment to truly unplug can feel impossible. But here’s the thing: the busier life gets, the more essential it becomes to hit pause.
Thankfully, Virginia Beach is the perfect place to do just that. Sure, this coastal city has its bustling spots, but when you need a reset, Virginia Beach delivers in ways that might surprise you. With more than 7,000 acres of green spaces—including parks, natural areas and wildlife refuges—plus nearly 80 miles of scenic waterways, the opportunities to disconnect and recharge are practically endless.
Whether you’re craving the serenity of a secluded beach, a forested trail or a quiet lakefront, Virginia Beach has a spot that’s right for you. Here are our favorite places to step away from the noise and reconnect with nature, with yourself and with the joy of being in the moment. To help you make the most of your escape, we’ve even suggested a quiet activity to help you unplug and slow down.
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Activity: Walk the dunes at sunrise and listen to the crashing waves.
Spanning more than 9,200 acres, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for both wildlife and those in need of a little peace and quiet. Set on a narrow barrier island, this refuge boasts a breathtaking landscape of rolling dunes, freshwater marshes, maritime forests and sandy beaches, making it one of the most serene spots in Virginia Beach.
Arrive just before dawn and take a slow, mindful walk along the dunes. Breathe in the salty air and focus on the rhythmic crash of the waves as the sky transforms into a canvas of fiery oranges, soft pinks and golden hues. Watch as shorebirds dart along the water’s edge. You may even catch a glimpse of dolphins playing just beyond the breakers. Allow yourself to experience a sense of calm and connection.
First Landing State Park
Activity: Hike the Bald Cypress Trail and take in the beauty of the swamp.
First Landing State Park sits where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. This 2,888-acre park is home to 20 miles of nature trails that wind through cypress swamps, sand dunes, saltwater marshes and coastal forests.
For an unforgettable, even other-worldly, escape, take a gentle hike along the Bald Cypress Trail. Notice the striking bald cypress trees with their gnarled “knees” that seem to sprout out of the brackish waters. The atmosphere feels almost magical, with the sounds of chirping tree frogs and rustling leaves. Along the trail, quiet benches and scenic overlooks allow for moments of reflection.
False Cape State Park
Activity: Pedal across maritime forest and watch for wildlife.
For true solitude, False Cape State Park is the place to go. With no private car access, the only ways in are on foot, by bike or by boat, making it one of the most unspoiled places in Virginia Beach. Here, the only footprints you see may be your own.
Pack a lunch and bring your bike to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, where your journey to tranquility begins with a four-mile bike ride to False Cape State Park. You can rent bikes at Ocean Rentals Ltd in Sandbridge, but be prepared to tack a few extra miles onto your ride. As you pedal, keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife and bird species like snow geese, razorbills and ruby-crowned kinglets.
Mount Trashmore Park
Activity: Grab a book and a blanket and read by the lake.
Mount Trashmore Park may have once been a landfill, but today it’s a beautiful testament to the transformative power of nature. Spanning 165 acres, this scenic park features two man-made mountains, two lakes, playgrounds and miles of easy walking trails.
Bring a book and a blanket to toss down on the shores of Lake Windsor or Lake Trashmore. Or, head to the top of Mount Trashmore for panoramas across the park. Get lost in a great story or flip over on your back to watch colorful kites dance on a warm, breezy day. Let your mind wander and your body recharge.
Cape Henry Lighthouse
Activity: Climb to the top and soak in the views.
See life from a whole new perspective after climbing 191 steps to the top of the Cape Henry Lighthouse. As the first lighthouse commissioned by the U.S. government in 1792, this historic landmark offers a glimpse into the past while treating you to some of the best views in Virginia Beach.
The climb itself can be a meditative escape. With each step, you may feel further from the stresses of daily life. Once at the observation deck, pause for a deep breath and soak up the stunning coastal panoramas that serve as a reminder of the vast world beyond our screens.
Before visiting Cape Henry Lighthouse, be sure to read additional information on location, arrival, and rules and regulations.
Sandbridge
Activity: Pack a picnic and enjoy a screen-free afternoon on the sand.
Sandbridge is known for its relaxed and peaceful vibes, rewarding with pristine beaches, sweeping dunes and rolling waves. Located just south of the bustling Virginia Beach Oceanfront, it’s got a beachfront made for an escape.
Spend an unplugged afternoon on the beach. Pack a picnic or swing by Zero’s Subs in Sandbridge for an oven-baked sub, chips and a drink. Leave your phone in the car and embrace the simple pleasures, like salty sea breezes and the sounds of seagulls soaring overhead. Both are practically guaranteed to clear your mind and help you unplug.
Stumpy Lake Natural Area
Activity: Bring a journal and reflect by the water.
Stumpy Lake Natural Area is a quiet oasis perfect for introspection. With its 278-acre cypress-lined lake and more than 1,000 acres of surrounding maritime forest, this tranquil spot provides the perfect backdrop when you want to slow down.
Pack a journal and a folding chair, then settle in by the water’s edge to enjoy lake views. Let your thoughts stream freely onto the page, whether you’re jotting down goals, reflecting on life or simply finding your flow. Reset and find calm in nature’s embrace.
Red Wing Park
Activity: Stroll through the gardens and slowly breathe in the fresh air.
Red Wing Park is a gem, celebrated for its lush, beautifully-maintained gardens, including the Miyazaki Japanese Garden and the Reba S. McClanan Fragrance Garden. Every spring, show-stopping cherry blossoms take center stage, adding a pop of color to the landscape.
Enjoy a slow, meditative stroll through the gardens, breathing deeply and intentionally. The sweet scents of blooming flowers and the fresh greenery can help ground you in the present. Revel in a quiet pause on one of the wooden benches along the paved and gravel paths.
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- Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
- First Landing State Park
- Hiking
Written by Erin Gifford
Erin Gifford is a Virginia-based travel and outdoors writer. She especially enjoys writing about road trips, outdoor recreation and national parks. Her credits include Parents, The Washington Post, Thrillist, TIME and AFAR.com. She has written three hiking guidebooks for Falcon Guides and has created a hiking website, GoHikeVirginia.com. She also runs half marathons and is working toward completing one in all 50 states (so far, she has checked off 36 states).
