Back Bay Full Throttle: Jet Ski the Quiet Waters of Virginia Beach
$10 fee for passenger •16+ to drive • 18+ to rent • Passengers ages 6+ • 350 lb. limit
The sun has just cleared the low sand ridge that separates the ocean from the Back Bay, and the water lies between them like a mirror that’s been dared to move. You climb aboard a Yamaha Ex Sport Waverunner, the engine hums to life, and the guide gives a brief nod—permission to write your own line across the glass. For 40 minutes the bay refuses to lie still: wakes stitch the surface, reeds lean like old friends waving, and the marshes at the rim of Sandbridge seem to breathe as you slice past. It is fast, tactile, and immediate—an intimate way to read the coast’s contours without losing the human heartbeat at its center.
Trail Wisdom
Arrive Early
Check in 30 minutes before departure to complete waivers and safety orientation without rush.
Bring ID
A government-issued photo ID is required for drivers and rental paperwork.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect skin and the fragile marsh ecosystem by choosing reef-safe sunscreen.
Practice Re-boarding
If you’re heavier, ask the guide for boarding tips—self-recovery is key if you fall.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Paddle the quieter coves off the main riding zone at low tide for birdwatching
- •Walk the nearby Sandbridge shoreline at sunset for starfish and quiet dunes
Wildlife
Great blue heron, Snowy egret
Conservation Note
Riders should stay within marked zones to protect nesting birds and eelgrass beds; use reef-safe sunscreen and pack out all trash.
The Back Bay area was historically used by Native peoples and later local oystermen; the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1938 to protect migratory birds and marsh habitat.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Migratory birdwatching, Cool, calm rides, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Unpredictable weather, Cooler water temperatures
Spring brings migrating shorebirds and mild conditions, but be prepared for variable winds and cooler air and water.
summer
Best for: Warm water, Long daylight hours, Family outings
Challenges: Peak crowds, Higher heat and sun exposure
Summer is ideal for warm-water rides and family-friendly sessions—book early and bring sun protection.
fall
Best for: Calmer winds, Fewer tourists, Crisp light for photos
Challenges: Shortening days, Cooler mornings
Fall balances good riding conditions with thinner crowds; mornings can be cool, so layer up.
winter
Best for: Quiet shorelines, Off-season pricing (if offered)
Challenges: Cold water and air, Limited operating days
Winter rides are rare and bracing—expect cold temperatures and potential service limitations.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Reef-safe SunscreenEssential
Protects skin without harming marsh and marine life.
Towel and Quick-Dry LayerEssential
Warm-up and dry off quickly after the ride; layers help in cooler weather.
Government Photo IDEssential
Required to operate a jet ski and complete check-in.
Waterproof Bottle
Stay hydrated on hot days; refill at shore before launching.
Common Questions
How old do I have to be to operate a jet ski?
Drivers must be at least 16 to operate; you must present a government-issued photo ID at check-in. Renters often need to be 18+ depending on booking rules.
Can two people ride on the same jet ski?
Yes—you can have a driver and one passenger as long as the combined weight does not exceed 350 lbs.
Is previous experience required?
No, this guided rental accommodates beginners and experienced riders; a safety orientation is provided before launch.
Are phones and cameras allowed on the jet skis?
No—phones and cameras are typically not allowed on the craft to prevent distractions and loss; ask staff about shore or guide-shot photos.
What happens if I fall off?
Guides brief re-boarding procedures; you are responsible for re-boarding, but staff will assist if needed. Practice in shallow water is part of the orientation.
Do I need to worry about tides or wildlife?
Yes—the riding zone is designed with tides and sensitive habitats in mind; stay inside designated areas to avoid disturbing wildlife and shallow sandbars.
What to Pack
ID, reef-safe sunscreen, towel, water bottle — for check-in, skin protection, drying off, and hydration
Did You Know
The Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1938 to protect vital migratory bird habitat and coastal marshes.
Quick Travel Tips
Fly into ORF (Norfolk) and drive ~30–40 minutes; arrive 30 minutes early; expect spotty cell service in Sandbridge; book weekends in advance during summer
Local Flavor
After your ride, head into Sandbridge for casual seafood shacks and locally brewed beer on tap—nearby Virginia Beach has several craft breweries and waterfront eateries where you can swap stories and rinse off salt.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Norfolk International (ORF) ~30–40 min drive; Meeting point: 3713 Sandpiper Road, Virginia Beach, VA; Driving from Virginia Beach Oceanfront: ~25–35 min; Cell service: patchy in Sandbridge and parts of the bay; Permits: none required, life jackets mandatory.
Sustainability Note
This ride takes place adjacent to protected marshland—pack out all trash, keep to designated zones to avoid nesting birds, and use reef-safe sunscreen to reduce chemical runoff.