Paddling Broad Bay: A Calm-Day Escape from Virginia Beach
Accessible Broad Bay paddles—hourly rentals from First Landing State Park
The morning opens on Broad Bay like a promise. Low tide exposes a ribbon of salt marsh that smells faintly of iron and seaweed; sun slices through a thin coastal haze and turns the water a soft pewter. You shoulder a dry bag, settle into a sit-on-top kayak at Narrows Beach inside First Landing State Park, and push off. The city’s hum falls away; osprey wheel over the flats and a heron, deliberate as a monk, moves like a punctuation mark at the water’s edge. For the next hour, the bay sets the pace.
Trail Wisdom
Time your tide
Plan shorter outings on an incoming tide for easier returns; check local tide charts before launching.
Sun protection matters
Bring a wide-brim hat, SPF 30+ sunscreen, and polarized sunglasses to cut glare and protect skin.
Dress for splash
Wear quick-drying layers and water shoes—paddling here often involves shallow wading to get in and out.
Watch for wildlife
Keep distance from nesting birds and avoid pushing through submerged grasses to protect habitat.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Paddle the narrow back channels near the marsh edges at low tide for close shorebird viewing
- •Lunch or sunset on a small sandy spit revealed at low tide—pack out all trash
Wildlife
Osprey, Great Blue Heron
Conservation Note
Broad Bay is part of the Chesapeake Bay watershed—stay out of submerged grasses, avoid disturbing shorebird nesting areas, and pack out all waste.
First Landing State Park commemorates one of the earliest English landings in 1607 prior to the settlement at Jamestown.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Migratory birds, Mild water temperatures
Challenges: Unpredictable winds, Cool mornings
Spring brings migrating waterfowl and active shorebirds; dress in layers for chilly starts and watch for gusty afternoons.
summer
Best for: Warm water paddling, Family outings, Long daylight hours
Challenges: Higher temperatures, Crowds on weekends
Summer is peak paddling season—expect warm water and more people; early mornings or late afternoons feel most peaceful.
fall
Best for: Lower humidity, Calmer winds, Wildlife viewing
Challenges: Shorter daylight, Cooler evenings
Fall offers crisp air and excellent bird activity; plan for shorter days and bring an extra layer for post-paddle cooling.
winter
Best for: Solitude, Clear light for photography
Challenges: Cold water hazards, Limited services
Winter paddles are quiet and starkly beautiful but require cold-water preparedness and fewer onshore services—only for experienced, well-equipped paddlers.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
PFD (Life Jacket)Essential
Essential for safety; ensure a proper fit for adults and children.
Dry BagEssential
Keeps phone, keys, and snacks dry during splashes and short wades.
Polarized Sunglasses
Reduce glare and help spot submerged grasses and marine life.
Lightweight Rain Shell
Wind- and water-resistant layer for unexpected showers or chilly winds.
Common Questions
What ages can kayak with Narrows Beach Kayak Rentals?
Children age 3 and older may ride with an adult; check staff policies for solo paddling age limits and required life jacket sizes.
How long are rental periods and what do they cost?
Single kayaks are offered for 1, 2, or 8 hours (starting at $31.80 for 1 hour); double kayak rates are roughly double single pricing—confirm current rates when booking.
Do rentals include life jackets and paddles?
Basic safety gear is typically provided, but confirm during booking so you can bring properly fitting personal flotation devices if needed.
Is prior kayaking experience required?
No; Broad Bay’s sheltered water makes this suitable for beginners, though basic paddling balance and willingness to get a little wet help.
Are pets allowed on rentals?
Policies vary—ask the rental operator directly about pets on double kayaks and any additional fees or restrictions.
What should I do about tides and currents?
Check the local tide chart before you go and plan to return with ample time; incoming tides generally make returns easier but can change channel conditions.
What to Pack
PFD/life jacket (safety); water bottle (hydration); sunscreen & sunglasses (sun protection); dry bag for phone and keys (keep gear dry)
Did You Know
First Landing State Park marks the spot where English colonists first set foot in the area in 1607 on their way to Jamestown—the park preserves maritime forests and dunes that have supported people for centuries.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Book morning slots to avoid afternoon winds. 2) Park at First Landing State Park and follow signs to Narrows Beach. 3) Bring cash or card for park entrance/parking fees. 4) Check tide charts and plan return times accordingly.
Local Flavor
After a paddle, head to the ViBe Creative District for coffee and local art, then try local seafood at Waterman’s Surfside Grille or a beachside craft brew nearby—Virginia Beach blends coastal cuisine with a laid-back nightlife that's easy to reach from First Landing.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Norfolk International Airport (ORF) • Launch: Narrows Beach, First Landing State Park • Driving from Virginia Beach: 10–20 minutes from central Virginia Beach • Cell service: Good near beachfront, spotty inside park trails • Permits/fees: State park entrance/parking fees apply—check First Landing State Park for current rates
Sustainability Note
This estuary feeds into the Chesapeake Bay—minimize impact by staying out of submerged grasses, using established launch points, and packing out all trash.