Get Away to Back Bay
© 1998 By Brian Wasson
It's another beautiful summer weekend in Hampton Roads. How about getting out and exploring a little-known natural area while working on your tan at the same time? Grab the sunglasses and suntan lotion and go kayaking for a couple of hours on Back Bay!
Back Bay is a large, calm bay easily accessible from the Sandbridge section of Virginia Beach. It's ideal for kayaking because it's fairly shallow in most areas, which keeps away most power boats. Back Bay is perfect for an introduction to kayaking; even the most water-shy person will likely feel at ease on its placid waters.
Now, I know what you are thinking: "kayaking is too much work -- what if I tip over? -- I can't do it with my family." The modern sit-on-top kayaks that most outfitters rent are nothing like the tipsy whitewater kayaks you see on TV. You merely sit comfortably in a molded seat (some even have backrests and cupholders!) and leisurely explore the calm waters of Back Bay. You'll have to really try to tip one of these over, and if you do, just climb back on. There are several kayak rental agencies located in Virginia Beach and Sandbridge, and all rent these extremely stable kayaks in one- or two-person models. According to Eddie Hill, a guide with Tidewater Adventures, some of their kayaks even have an available child seat that will hold a child in-between two adults.
Depending on your confidence level, you can either rent a kayak on your own or join one of several guided tours that introduce you to the basics of kayaking and provide a trained guide to point out interesting features and wildlife on the bay. If you've never done it before, it's a great way to "get your feet wet!" Tours last from 2 1/2 hours to overnight, and usually spend most of their time in the National Wildlife Refuge. If you feel more comfortable on the water, outfitters will rent you a boat by the hour, half day, or full day so you can paddle and explore the bay on your own.
Much of the bay is part of Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, and as such is fairly unspoiled. Few buildings are visible from the water, and wildlife abounds. On a recent trip I saw turtles, deer, lots of waterfowl (Osprey, Herons, etc.) and even an Otter! Consider bringing a disposable waterproof camera for a fun record of your adventure.
After kayaking a few times on the bay, some people graduate to paddling in the ocean. Many outfitters also offer guided "dolphin tours" in the ocean, where you can paddle along with these playful creatures. On a recent trip I was in the midst of eight dolphins who were as interested in me as I was in them. It was quite an experience!
Although kayaking is a fairly low-risk activity, there are some things you'll want to keep in mind. First, you'll probably get wet; water may drip off your paddle, you may engage in an impromptu water fight with a friend, or you may not be able to resist swimming in the warm waters of Back Bay. Second, you'll be out on the water fully exposed to the sun -- consider wearing a hat, make sure you wear appropriate waterproof sunscreen, and bring a water bottle to keep from getting dehydrated. Third, always wear your life preserver while on the water. Conditions on the Bay are changeable, so be sure to check with an outfitter or a park official before you put your boat in the Bay. Finally, bring a sense of adventure and have fun!
Particulars:
Outfitters: There are several kayak outfitters in Virginia Beach offering rentals and guided "eco-tours." All prices quoted are per person.
-Back Bay Outfitters is located on the south end of Sandbridge, across from Little Island Park, with direct access to Back Bay. Their guided tours range from $55 for a half-day to $95 for a full day. You can rent a kayak to do your own exploring for $20-25 half-day to $40-50/day (single-double). Phone: 757-426-7788.
-Tidewater Adventures has 2 1/2 hour ($35), 4 hour ($50), or all-day ($80) guided trips to Back Bay. They also rent boats for $10-16/hour to $55-80/day (single-double). Phone: 757-480-1999.
Directions: To get to Sandbridge take General Booth Blvd. south from the Virginia Beach resort area. Turn left on Princess Anne Road (7-11 store on the corner), go to the next light and turn left on Sandbridge Road. Go to the stop sign and turn left again. Follow this road to Sandbridge. In Sandbridge, turn right on Sandpiper Road and drive about 4 miles south to the entrance of Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is at the south end of Sandbridge. Entrance fees are $4/car or $12/annual pass. They have a canoe/kayak launch area, restrooms, and a visitor center. Phone: 757-721-2412.
Little Island Park is just before the wildlife refuge. It has a boat launch for the bay , as well as restroom and showers. Parking fees are $3-4/day, $1/day for those with Virginia Beach city stickers. Phone: 757-426-7200.
Some outfitters may offer free parking with tours or rentals. Ask when you call to make your reservation.
###