First Street Jetty
A bustling jetty in Virginia Beach, perfect for fishing, dolphin watching, and observing harbor boat traffic.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better fishing
First Street Jetty
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better fishing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling jetty in Virginia Beach, perfect for fishing, dolphin watching, and observing harbor boat traffic.
"Caught a flounder and some black bass so i cant complain, a ton of area to fish too so you arnt cramped."
🎣 Bait Shop Nearby
A bait shop is conveniently located, but note it primarily sells frozen bait.
🐬 Dolphin Spotting
Head to the end of the jetty for the best chance to see dolphins playing in the water.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dolphin Watching
End of the jetty
Witness playful dolphins leaping and swimming near the shore. A magical sight for all ages!
Fishing Hotspot
Along the jetty
Cast a line and reel in flounder or black bass. Plenty of space to fish without feeling cramped.
Boat Traffic Spectacle
Near the harbor entrance
Watch boats of all sizes navigate in and out of the harbor. A dynamic view for maritime enthusiasts.
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎣 Bait Shop Nearby
A bait shop is conveniently located, but note it primarily sells frozen bait.
🐬 Dolphin Spotting
Head to the end of the jetty for the best chance to see dolphins playing in the water.
🚤 Boat Watching
Great spot to observe boats entering and leaving the harbor.
🌊 Swimming Advisory
Lifeguards may limit swimming beyond the breakers due to boat traffic.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎣 Bait Shop Nearby
A bait shop is conveniently located, but note it primarily sells frozen bait.
🐬 Dolphin Spotting
Head to the end of the jetty for the best chance to see dolphins playing in the water.
🚤 Boat Watching
Great spot to observe boats entering and leaving the harbor.
🌊 Swimming Advisory
Lifeguards may limit swimming beyond the breakers due to boat traffic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
First Street Jetty is a popular public spot offering great opportunities for dolphin watching and fishing, with plenty of space to cast a line. While it can get crowded and swimming beyond the breakers may be restricted due to boat traffic, many visitors find the experience rewarding, especially for the chance to see marine life and harbor activity.
"Super crowded, lots of wake boarding, lifeguards won’t let you swim beyond the breakers. It’s fine but there are so many better beaches within a 15 minute drive…"
Jonathan Maxwell
"The sacred holy grounds of my people"
Joseph Smith
"Caught a flounder and some black bass so i cant complain, a ton of area to fish too so you arnt cramped and a bait shop nearby as well (frozen bait only)"
Jordan L
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
First Street Jetty is located in Virginia Beach, easily accessible by car. Parking is available nearby, though it can fill up quickly during peak times. It's a short walk from the parking area to the jetty itself.
Yes, there is parking available near the jetty. However, it's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends or during summer, as spots can be limited.
Absolutely! It's a pleasant walk from nearby areas, and the jetty itself is a pedestrian-friendly structure.
The jetty is easily accessible on foot from the beach or parking areas. Just follow the signs for First Street Jetty.
The main path of the jetty is generally flat and accessible, making it suitable for strollers and some wheelchairs. However, check for any uneven surfaces.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to access First Street Jetty. It's a public area open for everyone to enjoy.
First Street Jetty is generally open 24/7, as it's an outdoor public space. However, specific facilities like the bait shop will have their own operating hours.
There is no entrance fee to walk on or enjoy the views from First Street Jetty.
Fishing regulations vary. It's recommended to check Virginia's fishing license requirements before you go, as a license may be needed depending on your catch and residency.
While generally open, access might be temporarily restricted due to weather conditions or special events. Always be mindful of posted signs and lifeguard instructions.
🎫 🎣 Fishing & Wildlife
Anglers often report catching flounder and black bass. It's a popular spot for various inshore species.
Yes, there is a bait shop located nearby that offers frozen bait. It's convenient for those looking to fish.
Many visitors report seeing dolphins, especially from the end of the jetty. Early mornings and late afternoons can be good times for sightings.
Absolutely! Bringing your own fishing gear is encouraged. The jetty provides ample space for casting.
While not as common as larger piers, local fishing events or informal tournaments might occur. It's best to check local Virginia Beach fishing forums or community boards for updates.
🎫 🌊 Onsite Experience
First Street Jetty can get quite crowded, particularly during peak seasons and times, due to its popularity for fishing, dolphin watching, and boat viewing.
Swimming is permitted, but lifeguards may enforce restrictions on swimming beyond the breakers due to the active boat traffic in the area.
You can enjoy watching boats, spotting dolphins, taking in the ocean views, and simply enjoying a stroll along the jetty.
It's generally safe, but adult supervision is crucial, especially near the water and around boat traffic. Be mindful of the railings and the edge of the jetty.
The views of the ocean, the coastline, and the boats entering and leaving the harbor are spectacular from the jetty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While swimming is allowed, parents should be extra vigilant due to the boat traffic. Lifeguards are on duty, but it's wise to stay within designated safe areas. The nearby bait shop can also be an interesting point of discovery for curious young minds, even if they aren't fishing themselves.
🎣 Anglers and Fishermen
Consider arriving early to secure a good spot and enjoy the calmer morning conditions. The jetty's location near the harbor entrance can also mean diverse catches depending on the tides and season.
📸 Photography Buffs
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, can offer stunning light for your photography. Be mindful of the active environment and potential for spray from waves or boats when protecting your equipment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Fishing at First Street Jetty
The dynamic environment around the harbor entrance also attracts a variety of marine life, making it an exciting place for both experienced fishermen and beginners. The accessibility of the jetty means you can easily spend a few hours trying your luck without a long trek.
Pro Tip: Arriving early in the morning often yields better fishing results and a more peaceful experience before the crowds and boat traffic pick up.
Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins and More
Beyond dolphins, the jetty provides a vantage point to observe various seabirds and other marine life that frequent the coastal waters. The constant movement of boats also creates a lively ecosystem that attracts different species.
Best Viewing Times: While dolphins can appear at any time, early mornings and late afternoons are often cited as prime times for sightings. The calmer waters during these periods can make them more visible.
Navigating Boat Traffic and Swimming
However, this active boat traffic also influences swimming conditions. Lifeguards are present and may restrict swimming beyond the breakers to ensure safety. Visitors should always heed their instructions and be aware of their surroundings when entering the water.
Safety First: Always maintain awareness of boat movements and follow lifeguard directives for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit