Half Moon Beach: A Mini Resort in the Virginia Mountains

If you love both outdoorsy and beach vacations, you might be interested in a beach hidden away not that far from the Washington D.C. area where you can enjoy a bit of both.

Half Moon Beach is an old quarry tucked away in Strasburg, VA, about an hour and a half from D.C., which has been turned into a mini resort.

Activities at Half Moon Beach

With 5 acres of white sand you can relax in your chair, go play volleyball, or watch the kids make sand castles. The concession stand can handle your snack needs and there is a small shower/bathroom area. Out in the water there are two platforms that you can lounge on or dive from. Past the platforms, the swimming area stops and the rest of the lake is only for scuba divers or canoes.

Within walking distance from the beach you can play mini golf, rent a canoe, or try the batting cages. The canoe gives you a great chance to explore the lake. Scuba divers will be interested to know that there is a man-made cave under the water, as well as several sunken boats to check out.

Accommodations and Directions to Half Moon Beach

If Half Moon Beach is too far away for a day trip, or you just want a little vacation from home, they do have cabin rentals as well as spaces for some tent camping. Be advised that except for the concession stand and a McDonalds right before you turn down the road to the beach there are not a lot of choices for food in the area. If you're going to be there for a bit, bring in food.

Also, be sure to get directions. There is only one sign off the main road pointing the way, and the trip consists of a fair drive into the woods. When you park and only see the admissions booth, you may not believe that there is a beach, but just walk down the hill and suddenly you're on white sand. Since it is so secluded, you can go down and look at the beach before deciding if you want to pay.

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