The Beaches of Mathews County, VA

Discover the Beaches of Mathews County, VA: Your Perfect Weekend Getaway and Rivah House Destination

If you're seeking a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Northern Virginia, Charlottesville, or Richmond, look no further than Mathews County, VA. Nestled on the Middle Peninsula, this charming county offers a delightful blend of coastal beauty, rich history, and small-town charm. With its stunning beaches and inviting community, Mathews County is the ideal location for your weekend retreat or a summer getaway. Let’s explore some of the best beaches Mathews County has to offer and why this picturesque area should be on your radar.

Bethel Beach: A Natural Haven

Bethel Beach is one of the favorites for locals and visitors alike, offering a perfect blend of romance, bird watching, and stunning sunsets. Located in Port Haywood, only minutes away from our bed and breakfast, you can take a car or complimentary bike down a stunning back road lined by sea grasses and marshy land. Within these grasses, you can see narrow carved-out waterways for you to explore with your kayak. Then, going over a short one-way bridge (only one of the two in the town!), you come upon a gravel parking area for you to leave behind your material possessions.

Walking down beautiful Bethel Beach, you'll experience the tranquil beauty of the shoreline as you curve around the bend, witnessing the Wolf Trap Lighthouse and the further expanse of the beach. Towards the very end, you can wade in the shallow waters. This beach is located on Bethel Beach Natural Area Preserve, making it a great place for bird watching, and sections of it are marked off during mating season.

Bethel Beach is the perfect spot to watch the sun rise or fall and to enjoy the total tranquility of the waves hitting the shoreline. While not ideal for swimming or beach games, it's perfect for exploring, sun tanning, fishing, or a picnic. Remember to respect the preserve's sensitive natural communities by staying on designated paths and leaving no trace behind.

Aarons Beach: A Secluded Paradise

For those who crave solitude and seclusion, Aarons Beach is a perfect choice. This lesser-known beach offers a serene escape where you can relax and recharge away from the crowds. The calm, shallow waters make it ideal for wading and exploring the shoreline. It's a fantastic spot for kayaking, fishing, and simply soaking up the sun. Aarons Beach provides the perfect setting for a family picnic or a romantic sunset stroll.

Hallieford Beach: A Coastal Delight

This tiny beach is hiding away in Hallieford—the kind of spot you find on accident from making a wrong turn. It is sectioned off between two private properties, but Hallieford beach is great for taking a quick dip or walk in the shallow waters. The sand is particularly soft and enjoyable on this beach. Hallieford is great for monitoring kids in shallow water and also for those who don’t like to be exposed to the sun or heat for too long, as the trees provide shady areas for you to relax. So pull up a chair where the water meets the sand and enjoy the calm water coming in from the Piankatank River.

To reach Hallieford Beach, you take Hallieford Rd and make a left on Godfrey Bay Rd and go all the way to the end. There is a porta-potty, limited parking, and lots of shade—providing all the essentials for a comfortable beach day. Enjoy the tranquility and serenity of Hallieford Beach as you immerse yourself in its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.

Haven Beach: A Family-Friendly Escape

Haven Beach is also popular for opposite reasons to Bethel. This is the only beach to have a public restroom, making it great for a day-trip with family or friends. As you journey to Haven Beach, you'll be treated to a breathtaking drive, passing large beach grasses twice the height of your car lining the sandy driveway in. The beach is protected by large pilings of rock that can be climbed and explored by little ones (carefully!). There are great pockets of deep water for swimming and plenty of sand for beach games or tanning. Sometimes, Haven acquires seaweed along its shores, but it is harmless!

With its convenient amenities and picturesque surroundings, Haven Beach is the perfect destination for a fun-filled day by the water. Whether you're building sandcastles, exploring the rock formations, or simply soaking up the sun, Haven Beach offers something for everyone to enjoy. Pack a picnic, gather your loved ones, and make lasting memories at this beautiful beach on the Chesapeake Bay.

Mathews County Charm

Beyond its beautiful beaches, Mathews County is a treasure trove of charm and hospitality. The Mathews Main Street, with its historic buildings and quaint shops, invites you to take a leisurely stroll and explore the local boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. Don't miss the Mathews Farmers Market, held every Saturday from spring to fall, where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious local treats. It's a wonderful way to experience the community spirit and support local vendors.

Living in Mathews County means being surrounded by the breathtaking coastal features of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, including the Piankatank River, East River, North River, and Mobjack Bay. These waterways offer endless opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports. Imagine having your own Rivah House, a weekend or summer retreat where you can escape the city and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of this idyllic area.

New Point Comfort Beach: A Secluded Oasis

Unless it is a holiday or weekend with beautiful weather, you can find seclusion at many of Mathews’ beaches. New Point Comfort Beach, once connected to New Point Comfort Lighthouse, is found on the southern-most tip of the peninsula. This beach is known as “The Island” by the locals and can be found on numerous artisan crafts as the icon of Mathews County.

New Point Comfort is especially popular on the weekends, offering white sands, sand dunes, and great swimming areas. You can enjoy an ice-cold beverage and maybe even some overnight camping if you dare! If you are into the party scene, you can anchor your boat amongst the locals and roll with the tides, especially on Sundays or holidays!

New Point Comfort Beach provides the perfect escape for those seeking solitude or adventure. Whether you're lounging on the sand, exploring the sand dunes, or enjoying water activities, this beach offers something for everyone to enjoy. Soak up the sun, take a refreshing swim, or simply relax and unwind in the serene surroundings of New Point Comfort Beach.

Why Mathews County?

Mathews County offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and a welcoming community. It's a place where you can truly unwind and enjoy a slower pace of life. Whether you're looking to buy or build a Rivah House, Mathews County provides the perfect setting for your dream getaway. As a local real estate expert and resident, I can help you find the ideal property that meets your needs and preferences.

If you're ready to explore the charm and beauty of Mathews County, contact me, Raquel Ott, your Mathews VA realtor. Let me guide you through the process of finding your perfect Rivah House and start making your dream of a weekend or summer retreat a reality. Mathews County awaits you with open arms, inviting you to discover its pristine beaches, vibrant community, and coastal charm. Don't wait—begin your journey to a more serene and fulfilling life today.