Stopped at the beach while I'm the area for a conference. Absolutely unprepared. Rented a tent and chairs, bought a couple waters and had a nice relaxing time for what it's worth. Parking was free and close to the beach. Bring your bug spray. Dogs are allowed, there is a playground and bathrooms are nearby. read more

You've come a Long way baby! WOW! I used to come here as a kid and it was nothing like it is now! Talk about a glow up! The beaches were pristine and even had a buggy driving on the beach picking up bits of debris, but mostly you didnt see any trash on the beach or in the park. The pavilions were clean too! There's a huge playground for the kiddies with plenty of shade! There were lifeguard stations at regular intervals, as well as emt & police patrols making this a safe haven for beach goers! We checked out the lighthouse in the center of the park, the historical marker. There were regular benches and lounge benches at various spots so you could chill if you forgot your beach chairs. Speaking of which, there was a stand/kiosk that rented beachy items - umbrellas, tents water activities, etc. and also sold sunscreen, sunglasses, and other sundries and necessities. Also, we found a sweet swing set near the boardwalk where you can just melt away into the horizon. The beach wasn't crowded and the water was calm and beautiful. Such a relaxing vibe. We will definitely come back to this beach, way more chill than VA beach and cleaner than colonial beach. Plenty of parking too, come during the week if you can! Saturdays get pretty packed. It's only about 1 1/2 hours from Richmond. We saw a couple girls with a big dog on the beach, I think it was a boxer or a Rottweiler- a lifeguard nicely told them that dogs weren't allowed. They were compliant. I appreciated the way that was handled. The park was lovely with picnic tables, lots of trash receptacles to keep the area clean. Great family spot! read more

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This is a great beach with plenty of parking and lots of beach space. They also have a children's playground a couple piers a nice boardwalk. We have been twice and enjoyed it both times. If you are nearby I would definitely check it out. read more

Buckroe Beach and Park - At the beach. - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

My husband and I spent a week in Hampton, VA for a vacation and really enjoyed the beach! We had arrived on a Saturday and got quite nervous as the beach was overrun with visitors and there was barely any parking available and the traffic was crazy. We tried again on Sunday and the beach was fairly quiet with ample room and parking! The rest of the week on Tuesday through Friday was excellent! Yhe water was a steady 80° all week in the beginning of July and fairly quiet during the week! We are happy it turned out this way, but watch our for the weekends as it gets packed in the high season! read more

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This beach is charming. It is less than a mile long. Three hour parking is free. There aren't many food options. There are a few vendors with snacks. An ice cream truck stays parked by the beach entrance. The police patrol the area and stay on the property. If kids forget toys or shovels, all the lost and found items are available in a box. The bathrooms are clean. We saw at least one rinse station. It was nice walking around. read more

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My family visited Buckroe Beach on many occasions when I was growing up. My parents loved going there because my mother's sister and her family lived in the Hampton Roads area. My mom, her sister, and extended family members were very close, which is what made it so special. During that time, this area had beaches where African Americans could come to enjoy themselves with family and friends. As a child, I was always excited to go to the beach with my parents and sisters. Looking back, I realize my family was part of a larger tradition. During the segregation era, while Buckroe Beach was reserved for white patrons, the nearby Bay Shore Beach was founded by African American entrepreneurs and served as a vibrant resort community for Black families. For decades, this area became an important destination for African Americans in the Mid-Atlantic region, creating beautiful memories together. We were continuing something that had deep meaning for our community, a legacy of families gathering in this area when it held such significance for Black families. Now when I come home to visit my parents, if possible, I make it my business to carve out time to visit the beach mid-week to enjoy the sun and watch the waves. The smell of the salt water is what I truly remember and what brings back the fondest memories. The beach has been beautifully refreshed and is absolutely gorgeous and clean. The improvements include better parking and free too, more areas for people to gather (i.e. family reunion time!), and spaces where kids can play beyond the beachfront. There's also a fantastic, spacious pier stretching out into the Chesapeake Bay where visitors can go sightseeing, fishing, wildlife watching, or take leisurely walks--one of my personal favs. It's excellent for solo trips, love birds, family outings, or just chilling with some friends. Buckroe Beach is in the heart of an older part of Hampton filled with homes and a few small shops, which brings back fond memories of the community feel this place has always had. Just like any other public beach, be mindful where you are and please supervise your kids. Pro tip: Plan ahead by checking the website and follow the beach rules regarding what's allowed and what's not. There are several grocery stores a few miles away for any items you might need. Like any beach area, use normal safety precautions, especially in the evening. This is so much more than just a beach to me - it's a piece of my family's story and a connection to my community's history. Plus, you can't beat the fresh, delicious seafood in the Hampton Roads area! Trust me, a day at Buckroe Beach with beach chairs, blankets, food, drink followed by some local seafood makes for the perfect combination. Someone once said, 'We don't remember days, we remember moments.' Buckroe Beach has given my family and other families countless moments worth remembering. read more

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Buckroe Beach is an underrated beach with plenty of parking and space to breathe. Came here recently with a friend to get some rays in before the summer fully concluded and was pleasantly surprised. The boardwalks were well-kept, the beach is clean, and there is plenty of space. In fairness, we did go on a Monday, so it may be busier other days of the week, though the area certainly had a lot of capacity. The parking lot was big (and free), with plenty of room for overflow too. That said, the beach is basically all you get: no other businesses you might associate with the beach like food or games. Hampton in general is a bit split: some of it is quite nice and some of it seems run down. Thankfully Buckroe Beach belongs to the nice side of that, aided by a police car that seems to hang out most of the day. At the same time, while we felt perfectly safe here in the daylight hours, I would not voluntarily linger for long after sunset. I am hoping that in the long run Hampton finds its footing and becomes the travel destination it deserves to be. Buckroe Beach is a great free beach to enjoy during the day if your sole aim is to enjoy the sun. If you're looking for more activities, particularly nightlife, you'll have to travel further south to Virginia Beach for that (and pay the price!) Overall: 4.0 stars ---- Pros: - Nice free beach! - Plenty of free parking. - Area is clean and not overflowing with people but... Cons: - ...the area has safety challenges it is working through. Fine during the day but ill-advised to linger after dark. - No beach-adjacent businesses are around to give you a more holistic experience (i.e. food, souvenirs, games, bars, etc.) read more

Buckroe Beach and Park - Beautiful (and mostly empty) beach! - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

The views. I like this beach because it has access to activities and views without the congestion of the bigger beaches.

I've never been to Buckroe Beach though I have heard about it from friends in the area and some folks who play beach volleyball here. It was very very crowded with tons of traffic and little parking when we visited at around 4pm. We did snag a spot and walked over to the pavilion and cute little lighthouse (which I though was real until we arrived). It's a cute, small local's beach for the folks around and the pavilion was nice for shows and festivals it's very large. Probably wouldn't drive over from Virginia Beach though if a day at the beach is what I had in mind. read more

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Been here twice, liking it better this time around. Maybe because it's an hour before dark, there's just less cars parked, gives more to the serene vibe of beach chilling. Clean area, even trash cans are aluminum colored that still had the "new" luster. There are cute benches, those that even are like loungers by the pool and oh what a neat idea to have swings! There are two fishing piers, a central covered "stage" ( I can imagine where in peak of summer they'd be bands playing)...there's even the novelty lighthouse replica. There is ample parking within steps away from the beach. read more

Buckroe Beach and Park - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

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Great location. Not far from the beach Went there when I was a kid it was a hidden gem but now it's pretty packed

I was only here briefly, killing time before I checked out of my hotel. It was mid-April, so it was not the peak of the season. This is a beautiful and clean beach. Both the water and the sand was clean. There were a few families and singletons lying on blankets on the beach, also a handful of fisherpeople on the pier. The water was cold and pretty calm. Even so, there was a handful of people splashing in the water. If I had more time, I would have been one of them enjoying the water. read more

Buckroe Beach and Park - A view of the public side of the beach from the pier - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

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Nice place to visit. Not crowded. Had police on site. Has life guards. Nice play park also. Clean. I like this beach. I believe it's my third visit. Will be going again. read more

The area had old town beach vibe with beautiful grass areas for kids to run around along with the playground. Came while the "Farmers Market" which was a pleasant surprise. Lots of parking, clean facilities, and the beaches well maintained. Fishing pier was nice, too! read more

Sand is clean and the people are nice. I'd have a celebration here if it were easier to get in contact with the recreation/city

What a great beach! We visited here for the first time in summer 2019. My husband wanted to stay near a smaller / less crowded beach and this fit the bill. We stayed on South 24th Street and could have easily walked to the beach. We opted to drive due to the amount of stuff we had to shlep with two kids. Parking is free and ample. Contrary to what many of the reviews said about this beach, there is chair and umbrella rental available at the main beach entrance, and a small spot to buy beach balls, buckets and toys, etc. this area also has bathrooms, play area, grassy area, picnic shelters, and spray down spots. We liked that this beach was not at all busy, and was very visually appealing - rocks, clean water, and boats out in the distance. There are also multiple sightings per day of military planes and helicopters. There are life guards here, and two nice piers. We will certainly be back. read more

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We love Buckroe Beach. It is a great place to spend the day without being too crowded. There is free parking and there are bathrooms available. There is a pier, some "porch swings" towards the walkway, and there are lifeguards posted sporadically. The waves are existent but small enough that younger children can play in the water. The beach closes to the public at sunset, so make sure to pack up a little before. read more

Buckroe Beach and Park - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

Beautiful, relaxing beach in Hampton, VA! Had a wonderful time with my niece today. Bathrooms available, food truck style concession stand, playground, walking path, piers to walk out on - endless fun. Plenty of free parking! Highly recommend! Conveniently located to restaurants if you care to go out afterwards, too! read more

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Clean peaceful perfect! Littlehidden beach close to Hampton University. I have visited the beach many times throughout the past 16 years and it is always a pleasure full of happy memories. read more

Buckroe Beach and Park - Beach - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

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Went on the last day of summer, and it was perfect! Hardly anyone there, nice warm water, seagulls and pigeons, rocks, piers. All the usual beachy stuff, but it's great when it's a less popular place. Very chill. read more

Nice beach in Hampton. Peaceful. Great boardwalk to stroll and pier to fish. You should stop by one day!

Had a Great Time! Nice people of all colors shapes and sizes. I attend in a festival. I enjoyed it Better than Virginia Beach!

The beach was peaceful and clean we went in the evening after dinner . The beach also has a play ground for kids which I thought was nice to have at a beach . The area had nice homes around it and we went when the crowds were gone so it was Nice to walk and collect sea shells . read more

Buckroe Beach and Park - Enjoyed Buckroe beach - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

Hubby & I, wasn't aware of this place until this Weekend. We were recommended this beach & park. It's small but we enjoyed ourselves both days we attended. On Saturdays they have flea market. On Sunday they have ice cream trucks. The place is clean and you'll enjoy it better if you go early because parking fills up fast. I highly recommend this cozy beach. We'll be back read more

Buckroe Beach and Park - The beach - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

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We went in March. Empty beach. Very peaceful. No services on beach (as expected). Dogs are allowed on the beach during the off season. Pooch had a great time frolicking on the beach. Beach closes at duck. read more

"Do I love you? My God, if your love were a grain of sand, mine would be a universe of beaches." ~From "The Princess Bride" - Wesley to Buttercup There is something about the sand that makes people crave for it every summer. We want to put our toes in it, take long walks on it, and let our children build castles with it. I have lived in Hampton Roads for six years, and I just discovered Buckroe Beach (BB) in Hampton last year. It is now my newest beach spot, and I will tell you why. I used to go to Fort Story and Dam Neck, but BB is quicker for me since I live in Suffolk. Parking can be packed on the weekends, but as long as you arrive before 11 a.m., you're good to go. The restrooms are pretty decent, and they have outside showers to clean off the sand. According to the website, the restrooms are only open May 15th - September 15th and the hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. The beach is ¾ mile long and is located on the Chesapeake Bay. Because of that, the water is calm compared to the Atlantic, and warmer as well. If you're looking for those big waves, I suggest you drive to Virginia Beach. If you have little ones, BB is a fun way for the kids to splash in the water without getting trampled by the waves. There are lifeguards for your peace of mind. Right next the beach is a nice looking children's playground, but my boys have never actually played on it. There are three picnic shelters with grills, and a pavilion for community events and open space. Just up the beach a smidge is the Buckroe Fishing Pier (http://www.hampton.gov/Facilities/Facility/Details/47). Cons: * I've never seen a dolphin at BB, whereas I always do at Fort Story, Dam Neck, and Oceanfront. * The beach is kind of small compared to the others. * My niece was stung by a jellyfish last year, but that can happen at any beach. * No dogs are allowed on the beach during May 15th - September 15th. If you're looking for a clean, safe beach to take your kids to this summer, and want to stay away from the crazy traffic at Virginia Beach, I recommend you try BB. When you're done making sandcastles and swimming, go check out The Barking Dog (http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-barking-dog-hampton). The beach and hot dogs--sounds like a perfect combo to me. read more

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We are so glad that the city of Hampton decided to update this hidden gem. Beautiful beach.

We were visiting Norfolk for Thanksgiving, and I was undecided whether to take an Airbnb near Buckroe, or one closer to VA beach. We ended up at the other, so I wanted to make a special stop here to see the area. I'm so glad we didn't pick the one near Buckroe ...because the beach was closed! They had snow fencing up and wouldn't allow anyone on the sand. We were able to go out on the pier, but that was it. I would have been so, so disappointed if we had booked that location because beach walking is our major love and we would not have been able to do anything! We did drive down the road that runs parallel to the beach and it wasn't until the very end did the snow fencing end and we found a parking spot that allowed us on the public beach in that area. We did a little walking down there, as well as some shell collecting, so it wasn't all bad, but we were really sad that we couldn't go on the main beach. Oh well - maybe some other visit! read more

I haven't been to Buckroe Beach in years but I'm glad we came back to check it out. We usually go to Virginia Beach which can get pretty crowded, so we decided to head to Buckroe instead. We got there around 9am and there were plenty of parking spaces available (was full by 12ish). Parking is free so that's a major plus! They have bathrooms but they weren't very clean. There's a playground for the kids, although I really don't know if it was closed off due to covid. They also have jet ski rentals and a pier for fishing. I didn't see any food trucks but luckily we brought our lunch. The water was really nice and the waves were small, perfect for kids. I didn't expect it to be as busy as it was on Sunday because the times I've been there before it wasn't packed at all. I'm guessing it was busy because it was a Sunday and father's day. Either way I enjoyed my beach day. I'll be back! read more

Buckroe Beach and Park - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

Very clean beach with tons of space to keep distance from others. The area had clean restrooms and plenty of parking. A great place to get your ocean beach experience and avoid the tourist crowds down the road at VA Beach. read more

Buckroe Beach and Park - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

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This is a great beach to sit & relax it has 2 fishing piers, a large gazebo & outdoor playground. read more

Buckroe Beach and Park - 1 of 2 piers - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

Clean beaches, large bath house, three or four shelters for rent. Family friendly. The concession trailer has snacks and rentals for fun on the water. No pets allowed in the summer, no littering. Police patrolled. read more

Visited here with friends who lived nearby, and it was a very pleasant experience. Even though we went in January, it was still almost 70 degrees outside, and a great day to walk on the beach. We walked along the shore, picking up shells and taking pictures of the sea and the rocks. Very clean beach, not a lot of people, free parking and large pier. I'm sure it is amazing to visit during the summer. Will have to come back then to truly enjoy all that the beach has to offer. read more

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What a beautiful beach! We went on a Wednesday and it was not very crowded. Lots of space for our stuff. The whole area was clean and attractive with swings and other seating, and a playground for little ones! I like that there are lifeguards on duty, makes you feel more when you have kids with you. We did have to leave after about an hour as there was a storm coming and lifeguard had everyone vacate the water. read more

Buckroe has to be my new favorite beach in VA. Its quieter and less crowded than Virginia Beach. I also like how parking is so much easier and free. It was clean compared to other beaches. My friend who lives in Newport News took us here for the first time July 4th weekend and I'm mad he didn't bother to bring us here during our other visits. Beach days for me are all about relaxation and I feel Buckroe is quiet and less busy enough to relax. read more

This is a nice quiet beach, but in the summer seems to have a lot of jelly fish. We spent a week there and ended up with multiple stings.

Great local beach. Not crowded at all during weekends. The water is ok, not very clean but swimmable. The beach is clean. There are official lifeguards. There are bathrooms as well. Parking might be difficult when it's super busy but mostly it's possible to find a spot. Nothing bad about this beach. A+. read more

Here's the skinny on Buckroe Beach... - Clean - Laid back & family friendly - It's a no-fee beach - Free parking - Attentive life guards - Picnic shelters, water crafts, and grills are available to rent - Small play area for kids - Pets are NOT allowed during peak summer months I've been there during the height of Summer and this beach has about 25% of the people that sit in traffic to go to Virginia Beach. I'm able to easily pick my spot, not feel cramped, pull out a chair or blanket, lunch, and soak up some sun. I consider Buckroe one of Hampton's best kept secrets. read more

just to update on previous reviews-- they have food and ice cream trucks now. there's also a new bathroom center! love this place. quiet and private in the early morning. i prefer Buckroe to Va Beach because there's less people traffic. summer sundays have live music. there's a bike and walking path parallel to the beach. huge playground for kids. read more

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Small and cute local beach. I went here for a beach volleyball tournament Memorial Day weekend and although it was busy, it was far from the crowds I face when I go down to Oceanfront in Virginia Beach. Good place for families and runners. Pros: Plenty of lifeguards Clean Free parking Cons: No grilling or pets No food or drinks for sale (I couldn't even find a water fountain to fill up my bottle!) Smoking Besides my volleyball tournament, I have not seen many events at this beach. There is a summer volleyball league. There were kayak available to rent over Memorial Day weekend, but I'm not sure if it's a regular thing. You probably don't want to come here if you're looking for anything besides beach time- there are no restaurants, shops, etc. read more

Buckroe Beach and Park - Welcome to Buckroe! - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia