Audio Guide of First Landing State Park

The park generally opens every day from 8:00 a.m. until sunset, offering access to both the beach area and the trails. You can check alerts and specific Visitor Center hours on the official Virginia State Parks website before your arrival.

Access to the park has a per-vehicle fee ranging from $7 to $10 depending on whether it is a weekday or weekend. You can pay at the entrance booths or use the automatic machines if you arrive outside of staffed hours.

To enjoy a walk along the famous 'Bald Cypress' trail and relax a bit on the beach, we recommend setting aside between 3 and 4 hours. If you plan to have a picnic or hike the long trail through the park, you could easily spend the whole day.

This park marks the exact site where English colonists first landed in 1607 before settling at Jamestown. It is a fundamental milestone that combines nature with the origin of the colonial history of the United States.

Spring and fall are ideal to avoid the humid heat and insects typical of Virginia summers. We advise going early in the morning, especially on weekends, to secure parking and see the local wildlife at its most active.

Yes, the main 'Cape Henry Trail' is wide and flat, suitable for bicycles and wheelchairs along much of its route. There are also wooden boardwalks that allow visitors to easily enjoy views of the marsh and the beach.

Right next door is the military base that houses the historic Cape Henry Lighthouse (ID required for entry). You are also just a few minutes by car from the famous Virginia Beach Boardwalk.

It is essential to bring strong insect repellent if you plan to walk the forest trails, as it is a marshland area. Also bring plenty of water and comfortable footwear, as the terrain varies between beach sand and packed earth.