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This high-profile property was once being considered for a large waterfront development, but with the help of The Trust for Public Land, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, and the surrounding community, the City has preserved one of the largest undeveloped parcels of land on the Lynnhaven River for generations to come. The natural area is located at 3957 Marlin Bay Drive.
Part of the Pleasure House Point Wetlands Restoration Project includes closing a portion of the southern trail for improvements and to install a new pedestrian bridge over the existing waterway that will connect to the new restoration area.
Work is scheduled to begin the week of April 28, 2025 and is expected to take two months, weather permitting. The installation of the pedestrian bridge includes some minor dredging of the existing waterway to provide better tidal flow into and out of the new Pleasure House Point Wetlands Restoration Area.
The improved trail is anticipated to open to the public by July 1, 2025.
Pleasure House Point Natural Area is open to the public from dawn to dusk.
Parallel parking is available on Marlin Bay Drive. You can enter the natural area from several soft trail access points.
Due to the sensitive ecosystem of Pleasure House Point, bikes and motorized vehicles are not permitted in the natural area.
Dogs are welcome but must remain on a leash at all times.
Non-motorized watercraft are permitted in the waterways of Pleasure House Point. Kayaks/canoes can be launched from the beach or from the Lynnhaven Boat Ramp & Beach Facility; please do not launch from raised berms. Motorized boats are not permitted in any of the canals on the property, but are allowed in the larger surrounding creeks.
*Note: Ample parking is available along Marlin Bay Drive. From Marlin Bay Drive you will need to transport your canoe/kayak approximately 1/4 mile on a sandy trail to the beach area. Kayak launch at nearby Lynnhaven Boat Ramp gives access to Lynnhaven River & Crab Creek as well. Launching from there is suggested.
Pleasure House Point Natural Area is part of several water trails, including:
Fishing from land and water is permitted with a Virginia Saltwater Fishing License. Please do not walk through the maritime forests or beach grasses to access fishing areas. Virginia Marine Resources Commission regulations apply.
Enjoy the designated trails, but please do not walk through the maritime forests or beach grasses. Dogs are welcome but must remain on a leash. Bikes are not permitted.
The tidal wetlands of the property provide a habitat for the iconic Chesapeake Bay blue crab, diamondback terrapin, and the Lynnhaven oyster, and act as nurseries for mollusks, crabs, and fish. They also provide food and habitat to many bird, reptile, and amphibian species. Please respect the wildlife during your visit; take care not to disturb nests or eggs and do not approach or feed the wildlife
