Get ready to explore Virginia Beach by bike. With more than 200 miles of bikeways and trails, and new ones being added all the time, you’re sure to find an adventure that fits your style.
Explore the seven distinct ecosystems at First Landing State Park. Bike 19 miles of interpretive trails through protected habitats like the maritime forest community. At 7.5 miles, the Cape Henry Trail is the longest in the park. Pass by old neighborhoods, wildlife, and secluded beaches before the trail connects with the boardwalk.
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk was built for cyclists. Separate biking and pedestrian paths allow riders to cruise along the coast unimpeded by cars and people. Rent one of the four-wheel surrey bikes from one of several stations easily accessible right off the beach. Cherie’s Bike and Blade Rentals has a bike for everyone along the entire oceanfront, including tandems, in-line skates and beach umbrellas.
Bike all the way to the North Carolina border from the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park. You can escape the city and noise in this secluded environment, one of the last undeveloped areas on the East Coast. Pass by marshes, swamps, and wildlife as you ride to the beach, inaccessible by car. Experienced riders will enjoy the challenge of the Sand Ridge Trail, the longest in the park.
If you prefer riding pavement, there are several options available in the area. The Lynnhaven Parkway Trail is perfect for beginners looking for an easy ride. At six miles in length, you can stretch your legs without turning your ride into an all-day event. Extend your ride as you connect with other pathways in the area. The Independence Boulevard Trail will take you south to the scenic Stumpy Lake Natural Area with raised overlooks of the water.
Check out the Pungo Loop Trail, a local favorite for its unbeatable views of vineyards, strawberry fields, and waterways. At just under 20 miles, this loop is perfect for road riders of all kinds. While you’re in the area, stop at one of the many farms to pick your own produce.
Explore the culture of Coastal Virginia on the Bike, Brew, and Arts Trail or the Bike, Brew, and History Trail. These two long distance rides will take you through the city to where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. Stop at restaurants, breweries, the Cape Henry Lighthouse, and more along the way. Those with little ones will enjoy the Family Fun Trail. This shorter ride will take you past a water park with slides, and adventure park with ziplining, and the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center.
Try a ride with an ocean view when you take to the sandy beaches with a fat tire bike. Check out Surf and Adventure Company or Ocean Rentals LTD for bikes made for riding on wet sand. Back Bay Getaways offers guided mountain bike tours and daily rentals. Paddle the bay or take an overnight trip into False Cape State Park.
Prefer riding with a group? Join one of the free morning rides Fat Frogs Bike and Fitness offers seven days a week. A variety of pace and distance offerings allows riders of all abilities to join in on the fun through the Pungo Area. All rides depart at 7:30 in the morning and include free bagels and coffee.
At the end of the day, dine by the water and spend the night at one of the many lodging options in the area. No matter your speed, you can enjoy all of this, and more, when you visit Virginia Beach.
