Rudee Inlet is located about six miles south of Cape Henry in the city of Virginia Beach - Virginia’s largest beach resort. Rudee Inlet is home to the largest concentration of sport-fishing vessels in Virginia and for good reason - the gulf stream runs close to shore here, and a variety of ocean gamefish can be taken within a reasonable distance from shore.

Inside the inlet itself there are many marinas that cater to both transient visitors and local fishing boats. Most are well equipped and a couple can assist you with most marine repairs including engine work. Once you have tucked in at one of the local marinas, all the activities that the area has to offer are at within your reach.

Use NOAA Chart 12205.

From the Atlantic Ocean, red and white Morse (A) buoy "RI" marks the initial approach toward Rudee Inlet. From red and white Morse (A) buoy "RI," flashing green buoy "1" and flashing red buoy "2" mark the entrance to the inlet. Green daybeacon "5" and flashing red "4" mark the south and north breakwaters, respectively. Rudee Inlet is constantly dredged to provide sand for a beach replenishment project, but be aware that spring tides and occasional storms can shift the channel quickly. If you are in doubt, call ahead to one of the local marinas for advance local knowledge.

Local Notices to Mariners are now exclusively available online from the U.S. Coast Guard.

The Virginia Beach area prides itself on being a destination with lots of things to do, no matter what you have a penchant for. If you are into fishing, check out the hundreds of fishing charters that depart the Lake Rudee area every morning for the warm waters of the Gulf Stream. If laying on the beach is more your style, Virginia Beach has miles of warm sand to spread out on. See the “Helpful Links” section below for a detailed calendar of events.

Local public transportation is provided by Hampton Roads Transit, which runs on regular schedules in and around around the area, and also into Norfolk and the Norfolk International Airport.

The Norfolk International Airport features regularly scheduled major air service with connecting service to larger locations. Shuttle and taxi service to and from the facility is available by making arrangements with the airport. For transit schedules and shuttle service to the airport, see the “Helpful Links” section below for more details.

City of Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau

Virginia Beach Calendar of Events

Virginia Beach Calendar of Events

Hampton Roads Transit

Norfolk International Airport