Virginia Coastal Plains Overview

Virginia’s Coastal Plain—often described through the Tidewater and Hampton Roads areas—covers the low-lying landscape between the Fall Line and the Atlantic Ocean. It is defined by broad estuaries, barrier beaches, and the expansive Chesapeake Bay watershed, where rivers widen into tidal waters before meeting the sea. This geography supported early colonial settlement and continues to shape life through maritime industries, military installations, and a strong tourism profile.

Economy

The Coastal Plain economy is deeply connected to water and transportation. Port activity, shipbuilding, logistics, and a large defense presence create a substantial base of skilled industrial and technical jobs, while tourism and hospitality play major roles in coastal cities and resort communities. Commercial fishing, aquaculture, and agriculture remain important in more rural counties, alongside energy and environmental services focused on coastal resilience, wetlands, and watershed management.

Education

Education in the Coastal Plain includes large public school divisions as well as notable colleges and universities serving the Hampton Roads region. Institutions such as Old Dominion University, Norfolk State University, and regional community colleges support engineering, maritime studies, business, and healthcare pipelines that match local employer needs. K–12 systems frequently partner with shipyards, ports, hospitals, and military-related employers on career academies and credential programs in skilled trades, information technology, and aviation.

Culture

Culturally, Tidewater Virginia blends coastal traditions with some of the nation’s most concentrated historic resources. Colonial-era sites, military history, and African American heritage are central themes, and coastal communities sustain distinctive music and foodways shaped by seafood, agriculture, and global influences brought through ports and bases. Local arts scenes include waterfront festivals, museums, and performing arts venues that serve both residents and visitors, especially in the larger Hampton Roads cities.

Travel and Entertainment

Travel and entertainment are naturally oriented toward the coast: beach time, boating, and waterfront dining are staples. Visitors also explore the Historic Triangle and nearby military and maritime museums, while nature lovers seek out refuges, kayaking routes, and birding along bays, rivers, and marshlands. Seasonal events, boardwalks, and family attractions complement year-round cultural touring, making the Coastal Plain a flexible destination for weekend getaways and longer vacations.