A Family-Friendly Colonial Beach Day Trip
Nestled along the Potomac River in Virginia’s Northern Neck region, Colonial Beach is a charming town perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway. With its scenic beach, quaint downtown, charming golf carts everywhere, and proximity to outdoor adventures, a Colonial Beach day trip offers something for everyone.
While our family was living in Northern VA for nine months, I often found myself missing the beach. I’m so glad a neighbor recommended a visit to Colonia Beach. It is the perfect one day beach trip or as we did on our second visit, overnight adventure. Here are some tips to help you plan your own adventure to Colonial Beach.Virginia.
Why Colonial Beach?
As parents of little ones who don’t exactly love long car rides, Colonial Beach caught our attention as a manageable drive from the D.C. area. Located about two hours south of Arlington, VA, it’s close enough for a day trip from Northern VA, but offers plenty of reasons to extend your stay overnight.
We’ve visited twice—once as a day trip and once with an overnight stay. After our second trip, we’re convinced that spending the night is the way to go. Not only does it give you more time to explore at a relaxed pace, but it also makes the drive more enjoyable with opportunities for stretch breaks or naps along the way.
Where We Stayed
Our home base for this trip was a cozy cottage just a short walk from the beach and the town pier. This central location made it easy to stroll to nearby restaurants, enjoy sunset walks along the shore, and soak up the laid-back vibe of Colonial Beach.
The accommodations were simple but perfect for our family’s needs—a comfy bed for the grown-ups, space for the kids to sprawl out, and easy access to all the town’s highlights. After busy days of adventuring, it was wonderful to have a cozy spot to rest and recharge.
Digging for Fossils at Westmoreland State Park
The highlight of our trip was spending a day at Westmoreland State Park, about a 20-minute drive from Colonial Beach. Known for its fossil-filled beaches, this park offers a hands-on, kid-friendly experience that feels like a treasure hunt.
We spent hours scouring the sand for fossilized shark teeth at Westmoreland State Park Fossil Beach. My oldest was completely mesmerized, and it was nearly impossible to pull him away from the shore.
In addition to fossil hunting, the park boasts hiking trails, picnic spots, and breathtaking views from the cliffs overlooking the Potomac River. It’s a must-visit for families who love nature and outdoor adventures.
Pro Tip: Plan to bring snacks, water, and sunscreen, as there aren’t many amenities near the beach areas. I’ve written up all our tips and suggestions for finding shark teeth here.
Kid-Approved Eats
Colonial Beach may be a small town, but it’s packed with delicious dining options. Our kids’ favorite stop? The Pink Poodle, a charming little ice cream shop where we indulged in huge scoops of creamy goodness. My choice, a caramel turtle ice cream, was delicious, and very very sweet, filled with caramel filled chocolate turtles.
For dinner, we discovered a family-friendly gem, Raven’s Point, with outdoor seating and games like ping pong and Connect Four to keep the kids entertained while we waited for our food. The laid-back atmosphere and tasty menu made it a hit for all of us.
One evening, we stopped at a Dockside Restaurant and Tiki Bar known for its bustling vibe and water view. The noise level and wait time were a bit much for our little ones. If you’re traveling with young kids, I’d recommend sticking to quieter spots with plenty of space to play.
Evening Strolls and Sunset Magic
After dinner, we loved taking a leisurely walk along the beach and town pier. There were a ton of birds flying around picking at crumbs left over from family picnics. It was a peaceful way to wind down after a busy day of fossil hunting and even though we had spent the whole day at the beach, it was still hard to peel my child away from the beach.
Tips for Traveling with Kids
If you’re planning a trip to Colonial Beach with little ones, here are a few tips based on our experience:
- Break Up the Drive: The roads to Colonial Beach are winding, with limited options for rest stops. If you’re coming from Arlington or the D.C. area, consider stopping in Richmond or another midway point for a stretch break. We found that planning nap time for the drive made a big difference.
- Pack for the Beach: Don’t forget sand toys, towels, and plenty of sunscreen. Even if you’re not visiting during peak summer season, the beach is a major draw for kids who love to dig, splash, and explore.
- Extend Your Stay: While Colonial Beach can be done as a day trip, we highly recommend spending the night. Having extra time allowed us to relax, explore more thoroughly, and avoid the stress of rushing home after a long day.
A Little History
Colonial Beach isn’t just a beautiful spot—it’s also steeped in history. In the early 20th century, it was a popular vacation destination known as the “Playground on the Potomac.” Visitors flocked to the area for its beaches, boardwalk, and vibrant social scene.
The town retains much of its vintage charm today, with quaint cottages, small businesses, and a slower pace that feels like stepping back in time. History buffs will also appreciate the proximity to George Washington’s Birthplace National Monument, just a short drive away.
Colonial Beach Day Trip Final Reflections
Colonial Beach is proof that you don’t have to travel far to find a family-friendly beach adventure. With its mix of outdoor activities, charming downtown, and rich history, it’s an ideal destination for parents looking for beach vacations in Virginia.
Whether you’re digging for fossils at Westmoreland State Park, enjoying an ice cream cone, or simply watching the sunset over the Potomac, Colonial Beach offers a mix of relaxation and fun moments that your family will cherish.
