We checked out the best low-key spots on Virginia’s Eastern Shore that boast big charm, so you don’t have to socially distance your family from the fun. Grab your crew and head to seaside spots packed with family-friendly fun without being so, well, packed!

Kiptopeke State Park

We were so blown away by this gorgeous park and beach that we decided to visit two days in a row. We had our own (pretty big) piece of the beach, and our kids couldn’t get enough of all the fun to be had. They found colossal hermit and ghost crabs that kept them entertained most of the day. My daughter discovered a tiny Eastern Mud Snail, and I spent the afternoon learning about the Concrete Fleet.

There are ginormous concrete ships from WWII that were sunk to create a water break. We want to come back and take a kayak out to see them up close.

We didn’t camp at the park this year, but we definitely scoped out the campground for a future stay.

Cape Charles

I was concerned about this beach but ended up pleasantly surprised by the space to spread out. We did visit on a weekday, and I’m sure it is more crowded on the weekends. Either way, it is worth a try. Cape Charles is the perfect beach for little kids. They can walk out really far and still touch the ground. I’ve heard it is a great spot to find sea glass, but we didn’t have any luck.

Virginia Landing RV Campground

We called this picturesque campground our home away from home for the week. It is part of the Thousand Trails network, and we’ll continue to buy an annual camping pass so that we can go back to this spot. It is very remote, but that is what we loved about it.

The kids caught tiny crabs near the shoreline. We walked out to see the gorgeous sunset every night, and we enjoyed the wide-open spaces together. Every time we drove back from a day full of adventure, we saw lots of wildlife too.

Assateague Island National Seashore

Okay, so our stop here wasn’t as uncrowded as we hoped, but there are parts worth seeing. We saw a small herd of wild ponies just off the road, and that was thrilling for me. We also took the short hike to the lighthouse, and it was very cool to see it up close. But beware! The mosquitos are out of control in this area. We were eaten alive in a very short period. I recommend a bug spray shower before you head out.

The seashore itself was kind of crowded. We were able to carve out our 10 feet or so, but my mom decided to stay in the van. I’m glad we went because it is a beautiful beach, and my kids loved splashing in the waves together.

Whether we’re all still concerned about crowds next year or not, Virginia’s Eastern Shore is a fantastic family getaway. We’ll be back, for sure!