11 Things To Do In Colonial Beach That Make It Special

Colonial Beach, Virginia, is a hidden gem along the Potomac River, offering a blend of rich history, small-town charm, and scenic waterfront beauty. Once a thriving resort destination for Washington D.C.’s elite, this quaint river town still holds onto its old-world allure while welcoming modern-day travelers with diverse activities and attractions.

From strolling along sandy shores to exploring fascinating museums and historic landmarks, Colonial Beach is a destination that captivates history buffs, outdoor adventurers, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat by the water. Whether you're interested in stepping back in time or simply soaking in the laid-back coastal atmosphere, there's something here for everyone.

Here are 11 must-do experiences that showcase the magic of this charming Virginia town.

Historic Attractions

As one of the oldest settlements in Virginia, Colonial Beach boasts over three centuries of history, reflected in its museums, landmarks, and preserved sites. A walk through the town is like stepping back in time, with echoes of its colonial roots, steamboat era, and mid-century resort heyday still visible today.

1. Colonial Beach Museum

Housed in a restored 1912 schoolhouse, the Colonial Beach Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s past. Its exhibits tell the story of how this quiet riverside community evolved—from its Native American roots to its days as a booming Victorian resort town.

Inside, artifacts, photographs, and historical relics bring different eras to life. You’ll find exhibits dedicated to the Doeg and Patawomeck tribes, early European settlers, and the golden age of steamboat travel, when grand paddlewheelers would ferry vacationers to Colonial Beach’s shores. Among the most intriguing pieces are delicate china and crystal tableware used aboard these elegant steamboats, reflecting the opulence of early 20th-century leisure travel.

A scaled model of Colonial Beach from the 1920s and 1930s provides a nostalgic look at the town’s bustling boardwalk, riverside parks, and grand hotels. It’s easy to picture the streets lined with classic cars, beachgoers in vintage swimwear, and lively social gatherings along the waterfront.

One particularly charming highlight? A colonial-era outhouse exhibit, a quirky but fun peek into the past. Before leaving, be sure to visit the museum’s small gift shop, where you can find locally written history books and unique souvenirs that capture the essence of Colonial Beach.

2. Westmoreland State Park

Spanning 1,300 acres along the Potomac River, Westmoreland State Park is a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Established in the 1930s, this park preserves both the region’s natural beauty and its deep historical roots.

Walking its scenic trails, you’ll encounter remnants of early Native American encampments, where tribes fished these abundant waters for thousands of years. Hidden within the woods are traces of early European settlements, including foundations of Swedish-built structures dating back to the late 1600s—some of the first colonial establishments along the Potomac.

For breathtaking panoramic views, make your way to Horsehead Cliffs, where sandstone bluffs rise more than 100 feet above the river. From this vantage point, you can gaze across the shimmering water, watch for passing boats, and even catch a glimpse of eagles soaring overhead.

Westmoreland State Park isn’t just for history buffs—it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, too. The park offers:

Camping & Cabins – Stay overnight in cozy rental cabins or pitch a tent beneath the towering trees.

Fishing & Boating – Cast a line into the river, where catfish, bass, and perch are plentiful.

Hiking & Wildlife Watching – Spot deer, foxes, and migratory birds as you wander the park’s trails.

Plumb Point Nature Center – Learn about the local ecosystem, fossils, and wildlife through interactive exhibits.

This park blends history, adventure, and relaxation, making it a must-visit during your Colonial Beach trip.

Beach & Riverfront Activities

With over a mile of sandy shoreline hugging the Potomac River, Colonial Beach offers the perfect setting for waterfront relaxation and recreation. Whether you want to unwind under the sun, take a refreshing dip in the calm waters, or enjoy the lively atmosphere of the town’s beloved boardwalk, this charming riverside retreat delivers a quintessential beach experience with a unique small-town feel.

3. Colonial Beach Boardwalk & Beach

Colonial Beach Boardwalk is the heart of the town’s coastal charm, blending classic seaside amusements with the tranquil beauty of the Potomac River. Strolling along the wooden planks, you’ll feel an instant sense of nostalgia—imagine an old-fashioned beach town where life moves a little slower, laughter fills the air, and the salty river breeze makes every moment feel like a summer vacation.

The boardwalk stretches alongside the beach, offering stunning views of the shimmering water. Watch sailboats and fishing vessels drift by, or simply take in the sight of the sun casting golden hues over the river. The breeze carries the scent of salty air mixed with the tempting aroma of boardwalk snacks—a sign that it’s time to indulge in some classic beachside treats.

Visitors can stop at charming local shops to pick up boogie boards, sun hats, and beach gear before heading to the sand. Snack bars along the way serve up all the favorites—crispy fries, juicy grilled burgers, and refreshing frozen custard. There’s nothing quite like enjoying an ice-cold treat while perched on one of the shaded benches, gazing out over the water as the world slows down for a while.

The boardwalk leads down to the public beach, where soft golden sand meets the gentle waves of the Potomac. Unlike ocean beaches, the waters here are calm and shallow, making it an excellent choice for families, casual swimmers, and those simply looking to wade in and cool off. Beachgoers can stretch out on lounge chairs, build elaborate sandcastles, or collect unique river-washed shells along the shore.

For the perfect beach day, bring along an umbrella for shade, a book to enjoy by the water, and a carefree attitude. The relaxed ambiance of Colonial Beach makes it easy to unwind, whether you're floating in the refreshing river, listening to the waves lap at the shore, or watching the vibrant sunset paint the sky in shades of pink and orange.

Colonial Beach Boardwalk and Beach capture the essence of a timeless waterfront escape—where simple pleasures reign supreme, and every visit feels like a step back to the golden days of summer.

4. Colonial Beach Fishing Pier

The long timber Colonial Beach Fishing Pier, stretching somewhat 600 feet over the Potomac River, is ranked among the prime locations in the area for attempting to fish for striped bass, croaker, perch, and other species. Generations of anglers have come to cast lines from this wooden pier that reaches out into the river.

Stopping at the pier's bait and tackle shop near its entrance, for some fresh bait, as well as whatever gear and supplies you require, is always a good idea. All set to fish? Claim your space anywhere along the pier's length. Find a quiet corner at sunrise, or join the friendly chaos on bustling weekends. Lights ensure that the pier remains accessible throughout the night for anglers.

Spend some time enjoying the view of the Potomac, bustling with sailboats, kayakers, cruise ships, and waterbirds, while this pier is also a great spot for waiting for a bite. Should you get too captivated by the views and scenery, the tug on your line shall remind you of why you are there. The fishing here provides plenty of fun for family and novice anglers alike.

Reel in and release, or bag up for dinner a few within the legal limits. Amenities, lights, fishes, and a long stretch guarantee that the Colonial Beach Fishing Pier is a prized location for shore fishermen.

Historic Downtown

Downtown Colonial Beach brings you back in time with its quaint shops and eateries housed within historic early 20th-century buildings.

5. Riverboat on the Potomac

Stopping at the pier's bait and tackle shop, near its entrance, for some fresh bait, as well as whatever gear and supplies you require, is always a good idea. All set to fish? Claim your space anywhere along the pier's length. Find a quiet corner at sunrise, or join the friendly chaos on bustling weekends. Lights ensure that the pier remains accessible throughout the night for anglers.

6. Colonial Beach Brewery & Hotel

The Colonial Beach Brewery localizes much of its liveliness within the premises of an early 1900s rambling hotel. The brewery rolls out signature beers and casual wood-fired pizzas in its busy brewery-lifestyle design. The old building itself charms inviting patrons to sample their latest brews.

Settle at the bar's polished wood counter, or stick your chair right in the high-ceiling taproom lined with large fermenters. Choose from some of their flagships such as their floral Hibiscus Saison or malty Rivah Red Ales. They also have a rotating summer beer option infused with fresh peach and watermelon, seizing on local flavors.

There's more to our house, such as wood oven pizzas like 'SMokehouse', filled with BBQ chicken, or 'Cheesy River', concealing crab imperial. From oyster shooters, sandwiches to appetizers such as beer-battered soft pretzels, the list is just endless. There's also a weekend tour running behind the scenes in the brewery.

Then go to your room in the Colonial Hotel up at their second floor, where most of it recalls history from past periods back to 'the 1800s'. Tap into the old-world atmosphere of creaking hardwood floors, very high windows, antique furnishings, and clawfoot tubs.

7. New Orleans-Style Boardwalk

From bright lights lining the downtown boardwalk of Colonial Beach, it is New Orleans where the lively music scene comes alive in a whole new world for tourists. The bright failure of zydeco, Dixieland jazz, blues, and rock makes for inciting of a flavor of Cajun/Crelian specialties.

Stroll the wooden boardwalk and follow your ears to find balconies, patios, and verandas inspired by the great French Quarter, all generously spilling sounds of energetic live music. Have a Hurricane and nibble on some powdered sugar-dusted beignets, tapping your toes along to bluesy jazz trios, energetic zydeco jams, and good old rock and roll.

Highlights: Bourbon Street Pub's exciting Mardi Gras, crawfish etouffee, po'boys, and vegan red beans and rice at Magnolia's Cafe. Get some pralines from Angie's Sugar Shack and enjoy sampling Southern sweets. That busy broad walk makes the 7 New Orleans Style Boardwalk seem quite similar in flavor to the New Orleans popular Bourbon Street itself. But that small-town charm, combined with beautiful riverfront views, makes it quintessential Colonial Beach. Laissez les bon temps rouler!-let the good times roll!

Museums & Historic Sites

Beyond the historic charm of Colonial Beach’s downtown, several nearby museums and landmarks offer deeper insight into the area’s rich past. From early Native American settlements to colonial life and even a presidential birthplace, these sites paint a vivid picture of the region’s heritage.

8. Westmoreland County Museum

Located in the quaint town of Montross, just a short drive from Colonial Beach, the Westmoreland County Museum provides a fascinating look into Virginia’s storied past. Housed in one of the area's historic schoolhouses, this charming museum offers a collection of artifacts that span centuries—from Native American tools and colonial-era furniture to Victorian household items and relics from a 1940s grocery store.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the museum’s dedication to preserving local heritage, with exhibits that highlight everything from early settlements to the evolution of daily life in Westmoreland County. A particular standout is the collection of vintage fire trucks, which add a nostalgic touch to the experience. The museum also features rotating exhibits and community events, making each visit unique. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about the region’s past, the Westmoreland County Museum provides an intimate and engaging glimpse into the stories that shaped this part of Virginia.

9. George Washington Birthplace National Monument

Just 20 minutes from Colonial Beach, this beautifully preserved site marks the birthplace of the nation’s first president. The George Washington Birthplace National Monument offers visitors the chance to step back in time and explore the environment where young George Washington spent his early years.

While the original Washington family home no longer stands, a Memorial House, constructed in the 1930s, provides an authentic representation of an 18th-century plantation home. Surrounding structures, including a colonial-era kitchen, blacksmith shop, and smokehouse, showcase what life was like during Washington’s boyhood. Visitors can walk the scenic Heritage Trail, which traces the outline of the original home, while park rangers share captivating stories about the Washington family and colonial Virginia.

The site’s serene setting, with its sweeping views of Pope’s Creek and the surrounding countryside, makes it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment of reflection on America’s early history. Whether you’re a history lover or simply looking to explore a lesser-known national monument, this visit is a rewarding experience.

10. Ingleside Winery

Nestled in Virginia’s Northern Neck wine country, Ingleside Vineyards is one of the oldest and most acclaimed wineries in the region. Situated on 130 acres of sandy loam soil, this family-owned vineyard has been producing award-winning wines for generations.

A tour of the winery takes visitors through the vineyards, where European grape varieties like Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Viognier thrive in the region’s mild climate. The tour also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process, from grape harvesting to barrel aging. Afterward, guests can indulge in a guided tasting session, sampling a variety of handcrafted wines while learning about the unique characteristics of each vintage.

On select days, the vineyard comes alive with live music, food trucks, and special events, creating a lively and social atmosphere. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or a casual sipper, Ingleside Winery offers a delightful experience that pairs Virginia’s history with its flourishing wine culture.

11. Westmoreland State Park Horseback Riding

For those who want to experience the natural beauty of Westmoreland State Park in a unique way, guided horseback trail rides offer a memorable adventure. Riders of all experience levels can embark on a peaceful journey through the park’s diverse landscapes, which include marshes, meadows, wooded areas, and historic sites.

As you ride along these scenic trails, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Potomac River and the towering cliffs that line the shoreline. The slow, steady pace of the ride allows ample time to appreciate the tranquil surroundings, making it an ideal activity for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

For younger visitors or those looking for a different kind of experience, the park also offers carriage rides, providing a relaxing way to take in the scenery. Horseback riding at Westmoreland State Park is a fantastic way to connect with nature while enjoying the serenity of one of Virginia’s most picturesque landscapes.

Conclusion

Colonial Beach is more than just a charming riverside retreat—it’s a destination rich in history, natural beauty, and small-town warmth. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beachside escape, an immersive historical experience, or a scenic outdoor adventure, this unique town offers something for every traveler.

Spend your days basking in the sun along the peaceful Potomac shoreline, where gentle waves and soft sand create the perfect setting for a quintessential beach getaway. For history lovers, the region’s many museums and landmarks offer a fascinating glimpse into centuries past. At the Colonial Beach Museum, uncover artifacts from Native American tribes and early European settlers, while a visit to Westmoreland State Park reveals traces of a 17th-century Swedish settlement and an ancient Native fishing village. Take a short drive to Stratford Hall, the birthplace of Robert E. Lee, to explore the grandeur of an 18th-century Virginia plantation and learn about the area’s complex colonial past.

Beyond its historical allure, Colonial Beach also boasts a thriving local wine scene. Just outside town, Ingleside Vineyards invites visitors to sip award-winning vintages crafted from Virginia’s unique sandy soil. On special occasions, you can pair your wine tasting with live music or attend Stratford Hall’s renowned annual wine festival, where top wineries from across the state gather to showcase their finest blends.

With its perfect mix of beachside relaxation, historical depth, and regional flavors, Colonial Beach is a destination worth discovering. Whether you're planning a quiet weekend getaway or an extended stay, this hidden gem on the Potomac promises a memorable escape.

Book your favorite vacation rental in Colonial Beach now!

FAQ

1. Can you find shark teeth along the shores of Colonial Beach?

Yes! While Colonial Beach itself isn’t as well-known for fossil hunting as nearby Westmoreland State Park, it’s still possible to find fossilized shark teeth, particularly after storms or during low tide. The Potomac River has been home to sharks for millions of years, and their fossilized teeth occasionally wash up along the shoreline. For the best chances, head to Stratford Cliffs within Westmoreland State Park, just a short drive away.

2. Why is Colonial Beach sometimes called "the Playground of Presidents"?

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Colonial Beach became a popular vacation spot for Washington, D.C.’s elite, including politicians and even U.S. presidents. Its proximity to the capital made it an easy escape for those looking to enjoy fishing, boating, and beachside relaxation. While it may no longer be a political hotspot, the town still retains its vintage resort charm.

3. Is Colonial Beach a good destination for birdwatching?

Absolutely! Colonial Beach and the surrounding Westmoreland County area are home to diverse bird species, making it a fantastic spot for birdwatching. Along the Potomac River and within Westmoreland State Park, you might spot bald eagles, great blue herons, ospreys, and migratory shorebirds. The region's mix of wetlands, forests, and waterfront habitats attracts a variety of birdlife throughout the year.

4. What’s the best time of year to visit Colonial Beach for local festivals?

Colonial Beach hosts several unique festivals throughout the year. The Colonial Beach Waterfest in August is a must-see, featuring boat parades, fireworks, and family-friendly activities celebrating the town’s waterfront culture. Wine lovers should plan for Stratford Hall’s Wine & Oyster Festival in September, where Virginia wineries and seafood vendors come together for a gourmet experience. Spring and fall are also great times to visit for events like the Boardwalk Arts & Crafts Festival and the Colonial Beach Bikefest, which draws motorcycle enthusiasts from all over.

5. What makes the Potomac River at Colonial Beach different from other parts of the river?

Unlike the narrower, more industrialized sections of the Potomac closer to Washington, D.C., the river at Colonial Beach stretches over a mile wide, giving it a distinct coastal feel. The water here is also brackish (a mix of fresh and saltwater), which influences the local marine life, making it a unique habitat for both freshwater and saltwater species. This blend of ecosystems contributes to excellent fishing, boating, and wildlife spotting opportunities in the area.