A Perfect Fall Day in Sandbridge

While Sandbridge Beach is a favorite for long summer days by the water, fall brings a different kind of magic to this laid-back coastal community. Just south of the lively Oceanfront, Sandbridge offers 4.5 miles of secluded shoreline, windswept dunes and sea oats, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the peaceful waters of Back Bay nearby.

Mild temperatures and fewer crowds make fall an ideal time to slow down and explore it all. From sunrise walks and wildlife watching to kayaking, biking and fresh local seafood, here’s how we’d spend a perfect fall day in Sandbridge. 

Morning

Sunrise Walk

Start the day with a walk along Sandbridge Beach, where fewer crowds and miles of shoreline make it easy to settle into the slower pace of fall. Get an early start to watch the sun rise over the Atlantic, then stroll the waterline and keep an eye out for seashells that have washed ashore overnight. With cooler temperatures and plenty of room to roam, it’s one of the simplest — and best — ways to experience Sandbridge in autumn.

Breakfast at Margie & Ray’s

After your walk, head to Margie & Ray’s Seafood Restaurant for a hearty breakfast. This longtime local favorite has been part of the Sandbridge community since 1964 and is known for its casual, hometown feel and seafood-forward menu. Try the Back Bay Benedict with a cup of coffee before setting out for the day’s adventures.

Afternoon

Explore Sandbridge by Bike or Kayak

Trade four wheels for two — or grab a paddle — for a closer look at Sandbridge. Rent a fat-tire bike from Surf & Adventure Co. and cruise along the beach, or head out by kayak to explore the calm waterways surrounding the community. Fall’s comfortable temperatures make it a particularly inviting time to spend a few hours outside, whether you’re pedaling along the coast or paddling through the peaceful waters near Back Bay.

Go Wild at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Continue south to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, a 9,108-acre protected landscape of barrier islands, dunes, maritime forests, freshwater marshes and beaches. More than 300 wildlife species have been recorded here, making the refuge an especially rewarding stop for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

Explore the refuge’s hiking trails and boardwalks while keeping watch for migrating birds and other local wildlife. The quieter fall season makes it an especially peaceful time to take in this wilder side of Virginia Beach.

Slow Down at Little Island Park

After exploring Back Bay, make your way to nearby Little Island Park for a laid-back afternoon by the ocean. Stretch out on the sand with a good book, pack a picnic or take a walk out on the fishing pier for another view of the Atlantic. The park also has picnic shelters, a playground and plenty of space to enjoy a sunny fall afternoon. Beach days aren’t just for summer, after all!

Evening

End With a Back Bay Sunset

Wrap up your fall day with dinner at Baja Restaurant on the south side of Sandbridge. Grab a seat on the back patio overlooking Back Bay and time your meal with sunset, when the sky lights up over the water. Order the fresh fish of the day, sip a BajaRita and settle in for one last dose of Sandbridge’s laid-back coastal atmosphere.

After starting the day with sunrise over the Atlantic, there’s no better way to bring it full circle than with sunset over Back Bay.