Top Virginia Beaches, Lakes, Parks To Visit During Summer

ALEXANDRIA, VA — The summer holidays are over, but there's still plenty of time to get some sun or catch a wave.

In Virginia, you don’t have to take a long trip to get to a state park or the beaches. Whether you want to feel the ocean breeze, chill lakeside or explore the wilderness, there's a variety of options in the Old Dominion. (Sign up for real time alerts and a newsletter. iPhone users can download the Patch app in the App Store.)

Here is a list of the some of the top vacation destinations in the state, in no particular order, according to Virginia's tourism bureau:

• Virginia Beach: Virginia's most populous city is a coastal gem. Visitors can relax along the oceanfront, wildlife areas and other attractions around the city. Don't miss the American Music Festival during Labor Day weekend, which boasts the title of the largest outdoor festival on the East Coast.
• Kiptopeke State Park: Just a few miles north of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel on the Eastern Shore sits this gorgeous state park. Visitors can swim or observe migratory birds in their natural habitat. Plus, there's hiking trails and camping areas so you can enjoy nature all day and night. You'll want to return in October for the Eastern Shore Birding and Wildlife Festival.
• Chincoteague Island: The only resort island in Virginia, Chincoteague Island is arguably one of the Eastern Shore's best beaches and places to observe nature. The island is located just south of Assateague National Seashore that stretches into Maryland. Explore the island's wild horses, oyster beds, clam shoals and other natural treasures. Plus, the annual Pony Swim and Auction is Wednesday, July 26 and Thursday, July 27.
• Lake Anna State Park: For Northern Virginians looking for a shorter drive, Lake Anna is a popular spot to swimmers. The lake has a swimming area, boating, hiking and more.
• Colonial Beach: This is one of the only remaining beachfronts on the Potomac River. While visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, crabbing and more, people are drawn to Colonial Beach's historical roots. George Washington's birthplace is nearby, as well as Robert E. Lee's childhood home.

What is your go-to vacation spot in Virginia? Let us know in the comments.

Image via gargola87/Flickr, used under Creative Commons