The first British colonists to land in America didn’t arrive on the Mayflower or land on Plymouth Rock. It was at Jamestown where colonists from the Virginia Company first settled in 1607. And the spot where they landed is now First Landing State Park, a National Natural Landmark that is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. There are no manmade vestiges of this history to see here, but visitors can explore the same beaches, waterways and cypress swamps that early colonists encountered on their arrival. Aside from the history, First Landing State Park is also a great spot to enjoy nature, with 1.5 miles of beach, campground, cabins, and nine hiking and biking trails that run for 19 miles through the park’s lagoons, dunes and beachfront.
Practical Info
First Landing State Park is about 15 minutes north of Virginia Beach. In addition to hitting the beach or the trails, visitors can take guided kayak tours to explore the marshes and bays, or join one of the nature or history programs offered at the park office.
Address: 2500 Shore Dr., Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451, USA
Hours: Day-use areas open every day at 8 a.m. and close at dusk.
Admission: Admission costs from $4 to $7 per car, depending on the day and residency.
