Virginia Beach: Sunset Dolphin Kayak Tour Chesapeake Bay

Summary

Paddle Chesapeake Bay as dolphins surface and the sky shifts gold

You’ll paddle out from First Landing State Park into Chesapeake Bay as evening falls, guided by a local who knows where dolphins swim near Virginia Beach. Watch wild bottlenose dolphins surface close by your kayak, catch views of Cape Henry Lighthouses glowing in sunset light, and feel that salty breeze as you glide back to shore with tired arms but a full heart.

What’s the experience like?

We dragged our kayaks over the sand at First Landing State Park, toes already gritty and a little nervous laughter bubbling up. Our guide — I think his name was Marcus — gave a quick rundown on how not to tip over (which, honestly, I needed more than I’d admit). The sun was still hanging above the water when we pushed off, but you could already smell that briny Chesapeake Bay air and hear gulls arguing somewhere behind us. The whole group was quiet for a bit, just getting used to paddling and the way the kayak rocked with every small wave.

I didn’t expect how close we’d get to the dolphins. One minute Marcus is pointing out the Cape Henry Lighthouses glowing in the distance, and then suddenly there’s this soft huff — like someone blowing through a straw — right beside my paddle. Two bottlenose dolphins surfaced so close I could see their scars and little notches on their fins. Everyone just kind of froze, grinning like idiots. The water caught some orange from the sky and it felt weirdly peaceful, even though my arms were starting to burn a bit (kayaking is no joke if you’re out of practice).

We drifted along the shoreline, passing birds skimming low over the water and catching glimpses of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel stretching off like a toy set in the hazy light. Marcus told us about dolphin migration — apparently they’ve been running these dolphin kayak tours since ‘96 — but honestly I only half-listened because I was watching a pelican try (and fail) to land gracefully nearby. At some point I lost track of time; everything slowed down except for my heartbeat when another dolphin popped up maybe ten feet away. So yeah, sunset crept up on us while we were still out there, painting everything gold and pink and making it hard to leave.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset dolphin kayak tour in Virginia Beach

• Meet guides at First Landing State Park
• Receive safety and kayak briefing
• Launch kayaks into Chesapeake Bay
• Kayak with Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins
• Paddle along historic Cape Henry
• View Cape Henry Lighthouses and landmarks
• Watch sunset over Chesapeake Bay

Top questions

How long is the sunset dolphin kayak tour in Virginia Beach?

The guided tour lasts about 2 hours along the Chesapeake Bay shoreline.

Do I need kayaking experience for this dolphin tour?

No experience is necessary; guides provide instruction before launching.

Where does the dolphin kayak tour start?

The group meets at First Landing State Park’s main entrance beach in Virginia Beach.

Are dolphins guaranteed on every trip?

Sightings are very likely during summer migration but can’t be guaranteed.

What landmarks will we see during the tour?

You’ll paddle past Cape Henry Lighthouses and see the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel lit by sunset.

Is hotel pickup included for this kayak tour?

No, participants meet directly at First Landing State Park beach entrance.

What should I wear for kayaking in Chesapeake Bay?

Dress for weather conditions; quick-dry clothing is recommended as you may get wet.

Are there weight or health restrictions?

If you weigh over 250 lbs or have poor cardiovascular health, contact organizers before booking.

What’s included

Your evening includes all kayaking equipment, guidance from a local expert who helps launch and navigate along Virginia Beach’s coast, plus all taxes and fees covered so you can focus on spotting dolphins as you paddle back under sunset skies.