Paradise Ocean Club in Fort Monroe reopens after year closure

HAMPTON, Va. (WAVY) – It’s the return of the popular private beach venue in Hampton’s Fort Monroe.

Paradise Ocean Club reopens to the public at 11 a.m.

The owner Baxter Simmons said they will not be selling alcoholic beverages but the full restaurant menu is available for guests.

There is also a cheaper admission fee for reopening day.

Paradise Ocean Club returning to Fort Monroe this summer with changes, owner says

The club has a maximum capacity of 1,000 people. Previously there was no capacity limit. Cabana rentals are available and there will also be live band performances. There will also no longer be access for boats from the bay.

Paradise Ocean Club at Fort Monroe to close permanently after National Park Service ends lease renewal negotiations

Back in 2022, the National Park Service ended the lease with the club which forced it to close.
This was after a nearby non-deadly shooting, and complaints from neighbors.

Emails reveal NPS discontinued lease negotiations with Paradise Ocean Club more than a month before notifying them

Looking toward the future the owner wants the club to be a family-friendly environment.

“We have run a good business that has a ton of support. Obviously, people want us to be here,” said Simmons in 2023.

However, a neighbor who’s lived in the area for 30 years said no matter the changes the owner makes, he won’t be a fan of the venue.

“Trouble in the making,” said Carlos Sheppard. “I mean, I don’t see it being too much different from the previous year that it was open. It’s like you get a bunch of people together with alcohol and heat. You’re going to have problems.”

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com.