Sunrise Beach Hike. 15 miles.
Details
Rise before the shine folks!
Heading back to False Cape/Back Bay & going further in this time. Let’s watch that sun rise out of the Atlantic Ocean all by ourselves on miles of deserted pristine beach.
15 miles is the estimated distance, which will be my longest trek. If “strong like bull,” come along. 😂
5:54 sunrise
Back Bay should open 30 min prior
to sunrise.
Bathroom available at VC.
5:40 start this hike leaves on time If running late, the .3 mile Seaside Trail is at the north end of the parking lot. Head through the dunes & take a right at the ocean. Follow our footsteps & catch up.
4005 Sandpiper Rd. Southern most part of Sandbridge.
Park at Back Bay visitor center(restrooms available).
$5 to park. I recommend buying parking pass earlier here.
**Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge Site Pass Site Pass in Virginia - Recreation.gov**
Exit gate side was what opened last time so most people didn’t see the QR code at entry.
Short Seaside Trail through the dunes to the beach. 6 miles of beach hiking. 1 mile on the False Cape Landing Trail. 2 miles on the Sand Ridge Trail back to False Cape VC. 6 miles back up whatever dike road is open through the wetlands(hopefully west with more Sand Bay water views) returning to parking lot, totaling an estimated 15 miles.
We’ll pass the False Cape visitor center. Water refill, restrooms & snacks are available. Should be 1-2 other clean maintained outhouses.
We’ll find a good spot for snack break too around halfway point.
Sandals/barefoot an option if you want to get your feet wet along the beach, but trail footwear recommend for the other miles.
As always…
Hike at your own risk.
What you carry in, you carry out.
Snack, water & proper attire recommended.
20ish min/mile pace is what we average.
All trails considered relatively flat & easy/moderate.
No dogs allowed. (Back Bay rule)
Black Cadillac with trunk open is me. Should be parked left of Back Bay visitor center.
Contact me with any questions.
Please do not respond in multiple groups if going