Colonial Beach: Sandy Toes & Small-Town Charm

by Fayeruz Regan 09.2026

There’s nothing like social media to remind you that you haven’t been to the beach all summer. And there’s nothing like planning a last-minute vacation to remind you just how limited Virginia’s coastal options are.  

The Chesapeake Bay blocks most of the Virginia shoreline. Even if you cross the bay, much of the Eastern Shore is nature preserves and barrier islands. What’s left? Virginia Beach and Sandbridge, followed by nature preserves all the way to North Carolina. 

You have to be in the mood for Virginia Beach. After working all summer, my aim was relaxation. And the sirens, $30 parking lots, and competing blasts of unwanted music from Bluetooth speakers weren’t the aesthetic. Sandbridge is quieter, but stuffed lot-to-lot with 8-bedroom homes for family gatherings. We’re a twee family of three, so I started looking into the nooks and crannies of Virginia’s waterways, from the Northern Neck to the Eastern Shore. Cape Charles was booked, and I refused to settle for a muddy or rocky waterfront. 

I’ve heard things about Colonial Beach. Apparently, it was hopping in the 60s, then took a downturn. I heard that that biker gangs took over the streets. I also heard there was a solid revitalization. Curious by nature, I booked it. 

I’m happy to report that it was an exceptional weekend. September is still sweltering, and I hear the place is gorgeous in the fall. Let the travel tips commence!

Where to Stay

Magnolia Hall

We lodged above Magnolia Hall, a chic boutique on the main strip, with manicured gardens, café tables, and a fountain out front. It faces the waterfront park, which hosts a full calendar of festivals. As we sat on rocking chairs with our morning coffee on the balcony, we watched antique cars roll in for a car show, as a live band played Skynyrd.

Where to Eat

Orchid Thai Cuisine

Colonial Beach has a substantial Thai population, and this spot served authentic dishes, with homemade hot sauces on every table. When my husband asked for a “Thai hot” dish– the chef seared fresh peppers that got some diners to coughing. The employees? They were used to it.

Pink Poodle Ice Cream

This pink 1950’s-style ice cream stand also serves floats and banana splits. Everyone’s  freshly tanned and looking to cool down. The picnic tables and music make it a neighborhood hub.

Sunflower

Sunflower restaurant sits on a gore, surrounded by herb gardens, a pergola, strung lights, and of course, sunflowers. If that’s not joy-inducing enough, inside featured floor-to ceiling windows, local art, and friendly staff in sunflower aprons. They serve Japanese, French, and Thai cuisine, and it’s the real deal. The flavor and presentation – it’s big-city sophisticated. 

Lenny’s

This old-school breakfast diner had servers calling me “darlin’” and the hash browns were to die for. 

What to do

Golf cart culture

You don’t need to rent a golf cart, but rentals are aplenty and they take over the streets in the summer. Tourists whip around corners with wind in their hair and music blasting.

Sun worship

Though beachgoers are technically on the Potomac, the beaches are sandy with rolling waves. No water shoes needed. We spent hours reading, splashing, and lounging until dinner. Fun fact: Once you step in the water, you technically cross the Maryland state line. 

Thrifting paradise

Thrifting enthusiasts won’t believe some of the deals we found. The secret? Local churches! The Maranatha Thrift Shop sits on church property, and an entire home is stuffed with racks of clothes and books. The two ladies overseeing the operation sip coffee in the kitchen and gossip. Everything costs around $3, and any toys you find on the porch are free! At the St. Mary’s Episcopal Church Thrift Shop, I found high-end kicks for sneakerheads for just a few dollars. Designer finds were hidden in plain sight. Compulsive Cravings Antiques sits in a historic home, and the prices aren’t stuffy. Please note: All of these vendors accept cash only. 

Perk up

Stop by Love Bites for inventive espresso drinks and pastries. Painted pink and glittering with disco balls, this converted home offers plush, colorful furniture to sink into as you lounge and play board games. 

The cultural offerings were beyond what we thought they would be. They host Second Friday Art Walk and Sip & Stroll every month, and the waterfront park holds festivals year-round. Colonial Beach is certainly worth the 1.5 hour drive, even as summer wanes.