Choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as finding the perfect home. Whether you’re relocating to Virginia Beach for military orders, work, or simply seeking a coastal lifestyle, understanding the distinct character of each community will help you make an informed decision. This comprehensive guide explores the best neighborhoods in Virginia Beach, from luxury waterfront estates to family-friendly suburban communities.
Oceanfront & Beach Communities
North End
The North End represents the pinnacle of beachfront living in Virginia Beach. This exclusive neighborhood offers luxury oceanfront homes with direct beach access, set apart from the tourist crowds of the main resort area. Residents enjoy proximity to First Landing State Park, one of Virginia’s most beautiful natural areas, and the convenience of being near Chic’s Beach dining and entertainment. The area is characterized by a mix of charming beach cottages and modern architectural masterpieces.
What to expect:
- Home prices: $800,000 – $3 million+
- Oceanfront and near-ocean properties
- Active civic leagues and a tight-knit community feel
- Access to Cox High School, one of the city’s top-rated schools
Bay Colony
Bay Colony stands out as one of the most prestigious neighborhoods in Virginia Beach. While often mistaken for a gated community due to its exclusivity, it is an open, residential enclave that offers quiet wealth without pretension. It features beautiful homes just minutes from the ocean. The neighborhood’s location provides the perfect balance of coastal access and residential tranquility, tucked away behind the historic Cavalier Hotel.
Key features:
- Price range: $1.5 million – $5 million
- Exclusive residential atmosphere with minimal through-traffic
- Walking and biking distance to the beach
- Mature landscaping and winding streets
- Highly rated Frank W. Cox High School zone
Croatan
Located directly south of the Virginia Beach Oceanfront resort area across Rudee Inlet, Croatan offers an upscale beach lifestyle that feels worlds away from tourist traffic. This neighborhood features both oceanfront properties and waterfront homes along Lake Wesley, where residents enjoy private piers and boat docks. It is a favorite spot for local surfers and families looking for a dedicated beach community.
Neighborhood highlights:
- Mix of oceanfront and lakefront properties
- Quieter alternative to the main resort area
- Water access for boating enthusiasts
- Close to the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
Sandbridge
Sandbridge is Virginia Beach’s “Outer Banks”, a secluded coastal community located south of the main city. This quiet beach neighborhood is perfect for those seeking a more relaxed, vacation-home atmosphere. With the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge nearby, nature lovers find plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities, from kayaking to bird watching.
Community characteristics:
- Home prices: $700,000 – $2 million+
- Strong market for vacation rental investments
- Quiet, uncrowded beaches
- Annual Fourth of July Boat Parade
- Access to Little Island Park and nature trails
Great Neck Area
The Great Neck corridor encompasses several of Virginia Beach’s most desirable neighborhoods, all situated along or near the Chesapeake Bay and Lynnhaven River.
Alanton
Alanton consistently ranks among Virginia Beach’s best neighborhoods for families. This established community features mature trees lining winding roads, creating a peaceful suburban atmosphere. With water views of Broad Bay, The Narrows, and Deary Cove, many homes offer waterfront access and docking facilities.
Why families love Alanton:
- Price range: $400,000 – $1.5 million
- Excellent schools: Alanton Elementary and First Colonial High School
- Alanton-Baycliff Recreation Center with a community pool
- Safe, walkable streets are ideal for families
- Strong community events and activities
Great Neck Point
Great Neck Point and the surrounding Great Neck neighborhoods offer some of the most established communities in Virginia Beach. This area is known for its safe streets, close-knit community feel, and excellent access to both the bay and the ocean.
Area advantages:
- Diverse housing options from $500,000 – $2 million+
- Great Neck Square shopping and dining
- Top-rated schools throughout the area
- Water access and boating opportunities
- Family-oriented community culture
Linkhorn Estates
For those seeking luxury living, Linkhorn Estates represents the top tier of Virginia Beach real estate. This exclusive neighborhood features custom estates on large, wooded lots with exceptional privacy. It attracts executives and families looking for significant square footage and beautifully manicured grounds.
Luxury features:
- Price range: $1 million – $4 million
- Large estate lots with mature landscaping
- High-end custom architecture
- Ocean access nearby
- Prestigious location near Hilltop shopping
Chic’s Beach & Shore Drive
The Chic’s Beach (Chesapeake Beach) area along Shore Drive offers a locals-only beach town vibe. This northern stretch of Virginia Beach features a mix of beach cottages, modern homes, and condominiums, all with easy access to the calmer Chesapeake Bay waters.
Thoroughgood
Thoroughgood blends historic charm with modern convenience. Located near the historic Thoroughgood House (dating to c. 1719), this neighborhood offers mid-century and waterfront homes with character. Residents enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Chic’s Beach while being close to major employment centers.
Neighborhood perks:
- Mix of historic and contemporary homes
- Chic’s Beach dining and entertainment
- Sidewalks and bike paths
- First Landing State Park is nearby
- Strong sense of community
Birdneck Point
Birdneck Point sits on a peninsula jutting into Linkhorn Bay, with water on three sides and no through traffic. This location provides exceptional privacy while remaining close to Hilltop shopping, the oceanfront, and Interstate 264. It is a haven for boaters and golfers alike.
Notable features:
- Waterfront and near-water properties
- Adjacent to the Cavalier Golf & Yacht Club
- Minutes to the beach and shopping
- Quiet streets with minimal traffic
- Excellent schools in the Cox district
Central Virginia Beach
Kempsville
Kempsville offers accessible, family-oriented living with diverse housing options to fit different budgets. As one of Virginia Beach’s most established suburban communities, Kempsville provides excellent schools, parks, and community amenities. It historically served as the county seat for Princess Anne County.
Family-friendly features:
- Price range: $300,000 – $800,000
- Kempsville High School and area schools
- Numerous parks and recreational facilities
- Community centers and libraries
- Convenient access to major roads
- Active youth sports programs
Red Mill
Red Mill is a well-maintained community in southern-central Virginia Beach known for its colonial-style homes and family-friendly atmosphere. The neighborhood features tree-lined streets and is conveniently located near Princess Anne Road shopping and dining.
Community benefits:
- Affordable to mid-range family homes
- Top-tier schools: Generally zoned for Ocean Lakes or Kellam High School
- Red Mill Recreation Center
- Multiple parks and playgrounds
- Active homeowners association
Southern Virginia Beach
Ashville Park
Ashville Park stands out as one of the newest and largest master-planned communities in southern Virginia Beach. This neighborhood attracts families with its modern homes, open floor plans, and excellent amenities. It offers a “country quiet” feel while still retaining modern conveniences.
Modern community features:
- New construction homes starting at $500,000+
- The Lake House amenity center with a resort-style pool
- Modern designs with open layouts
- Close to Pungo farmlands
- Room for growth and expansion
Finding Your Perfect Neighborhood
When selecting a Virginia Beach neighborhood, consider these essential factors:
- Commute and Location: Hampton Roads traffic can be challenging, especially crossing the tunnels (HRBT and MMMBT). Living close to your workplace can save significant time. Military families should consider proximity to Naval Station Norfolk, Oceana Naval Air Station, or Joint Base Langley-Eustis.
- School Districts: Virginia Beach City Public Schools is highly regarded. Cox, First Colonial, and Kellam high schools consistently rank among the city’s best. The Ocean Lakes and Kempsville districts also offer excellent education options and specialized academies.
- Lifestyle Preferences: Do you prefer oceanfront luxury, quiet suburban streets, or waterfront boating access? Virginia Beach’s diverse neighborhoods accommodate every lifestyle from beach cottage living to formal estate communities.
- Budget: Virginia Beach offers housing at virtually every price point, from condos under $300,000 to oceanfront estates exceeding $5 million. Your budget will help narrow your neighborhood options significantly.
- Future Plans: Consider whether you’re looking for a starter home, a forever home, or an investment property. Some neighborhoods appreciate faster than others, and waterfront properties typically hold value well.
Moving to Virginia Beach
Relocating to Virginia Beach means more than just finding a house; it’s about discovering the right community that matches your lifestyle and values. Each neighborhood has its own distinct personality, from the upscale elegance of Bay Colony to the family-friendly warmth of Alanton, the beach town charm of Chic’s Beach to the modern amenities of Ashville Park.
Whether you’re moving across the country or just across town, understanding Virginia Beach’s neighborhoods helps ensure you find the perfect place to call home. The city’s unique geography, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, the Chesapeake Bay, and interwoven with rivers and creeks, creates distinct communities with their own character and appeal.
As you plan your move to Virginia Beach, research neighborhoods thoroughly, visit in person if possible, and consider working with local professionals who understand the nuances of each community. The right neighborhood will provide not just a house, but a home where you’ll build lasting memories and connections.
Planning a move to Virginia Beach?
Tidal Town Moving has helped hundreds of families relocate to neighborhoods throughout Hampton Roads. Our local expertise and professional moving services make your transition smooth and stress-free. Contact us today for a free moving quote and let us help you settle into your perfect Virginia Beach neighborhood.
