5 Best Neighborhoods in Virginia Beach for Families

Virginia Beach is a beautiful, thriving coastal city located in Virginia, USA. This famous coastal city has miles of sandy beaches, beautiful natural scenery, and several bustling urban centers with plenty of shops and restaurants. Virginia Beach is an ideal destination for tourists and locals with its golden beaches, miles of boardwalk, and countless family attractions. Whether you’re looking to enjoy some quality time in the great outdoors or experience the vibrant nightlife scene, Virginia Beach has something for everyone. The city’s scenic coastline is renowned for its beautiful sunrises and unique wildlife, while the local culture offers plenty to discover through distinctive cuisine and vibrant arts scenes. Whether you’re touring the historical monuments of Virginia’s colonial past or just strolling along the boardwalk with a bag of fresh seafood from one of the city’s many restaurants, Virginia Beach is guaranteed to provide endless opportunities for fun and relaxation. So if you’re looking for an exciting escape from the ordinary, Virginia Beach has it all.

Virginia Beach comprises many unique neighborhoods, each with its character and amenities. However, if you plan to move to Virginia with your family, choosing the right neighborhood that will fit your needs is essential. To help you decide which area is right for you, we’ve compiled a list of families’ best Virginia Beach neighborhoods.

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1. Kempsville

Kempsville is a neighborhood of Virginia Beach, Virginia, located in the independent city of Virginia Beach. Kempsville is one of the seven major population centers in Virginia Beach. The Kempsville area includes the original Kempsville Township, which was annexed by the city of Virginia Beach in 1963. Kempsville was named after John Kemp, who settled in the area in 1654. Kempsville is home to Byrd Middle School, Kempsville High School, and several elementary schools. The neighborhood also contains several parks and recreation centers, including Kempsville Recreation Center and Mount Trashmore Park. Kempsville is a thriving community with something to offer everyone.

Top-Rated Schools

• Kempsville High School
• Kempsville Elementary School
• Tallwood Elementary School

Things to Do In Kempsville

• At Kempsville Greens Golf Course, you may go shooting or play a round of golf with your pals.
• Take a walk on the town’s walking trails and pedestrian bridge, or visit the “Good Game” sculpture in memory of Kempsville Pony Baseball at Kempes Landing Park.
• Canoeing or walking along the lovely half-mile Elizabeth River Virginia Beach Trail are great options.
• Spend a relaxing afternoon at Lake Windsor’s Lakefront Park, where you may kayak, fish, or climb Trashmore Park’s two artificial mountains.
• Lil’ Bit NOLA is a New Orleans-inspired restaurant where you may eat crawfish dishes like the Fried Shrimp Po’Boy, Louisiana Jambalaya, or Crawfish Étouffée.
• At Aloha Hawaiian BBQ, indulge in a plate of authentic Hawaiian dishes like the Chicken Katsu and Kalua Pork.
• At Mesob Cafe, you may try traditional Ethiopian cuisine like the Kitfo, Siga Wot, or Mesob Special Tibs.

• Median Home Price: $318,000
• Median Rent: $1,414
• Crime Rate: (Calculated annually per 100,000 residents)
  • Assault- 61.5
  • Murder – 6.7
  • Robbery – 43.6
  • Burglary – 118.0
  • Theft – 1,513.7
  • Motor Vehicle Theft – 128.9

Also See: Best Places to Move from San Diego | 6 Best Big Cities for First-time Homebuyers

2. Dam Neck

Dam Neck is a neighborhood located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Dam Neck is known for its Dam Neck Naval Air Station, which is a U.S. Navy base. The Dam Neck area was first recorded in the early 1600s. In 1634, the Dam Neck area was granted to Sir John Harvey by the King of England. The Dam Neck area remained farmland until the 1950s when the U.S. Navy began to develop the Dam Neck Naval Air Station. The Dam Neck area is home to several businesses and schools and the Dam Neck Naval Air Station. The Dam Neck community is a close-knit community that takes pride in its history and connection to the military.

Top-Rated Schools

• Ocean Lakes High School
• Virginia Beach Middle School

Things to Do In Dam Neck

• Spend the day at Ocean Breeze Waterpark, where you can go down the Adventure River or enjoy a refreshing dip in Runaway Bay.
• Visit the lovely gardens or compete with your buddies at Red Wing Park to pickleball.
• At Motor World, you can ride go-karts, play Shipwreck Mini Golf, or bring the kids to Kiddie City for some fun.
• Attend events like Sensory-Friendly Mornings or visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center to see marine creatures such as sea turtles and sharks.
• At Adventureworks Wetland Zipline Park, zip through natural wetlands and enjoy spectacular vistas.
• Practice your swing on a quick nine, or go for a full 18 at Red Wing Lake Golf Course.
• At Gino’s Pizzeria by Maurizio, try the Bianca Specialty Pizza or Gino’s Specialty Stromboli. 
• Big Woody’s Bar & Grill serves delectable cuisine, including the B.W. Baja Soft Tacos and the Big Woody Burger. Alternatively, visit Big Sam’s Inlet Cafe & Raw Bar for seaside specialties like the Wave Runner or Fajitas with All the Fixin’s.

• Median Home Price: $246,175
• Median Rent: $882
• Crime Rate: (Calculated annually per 100,000 residents)
  • Assault- 68.4
  • Murder – 7.7
  • Robbery – 50.8
  • Burglary – 127.2
  • Theft – 1,345.8
  • Motor Vehicle Theft – 135.7

Also read: 10 Best Cities for First Time Home Buyers

3. Seatack

Seatack is a neighborhood located in the city of Virginia Beach, Virginia. The community is situated on the city’s south side, near the Seatack neighborhood. The area is home to several businesses and amenities, including Seatack Elementary School, Seatack Park, and Seatack Recreation Center. Seatack is adjacent to the Oceana Naval Air Station and Dam Neck Annex. Seatack Road and Princess Anne Road serve the community. Seatack is a diverse community with a population of over 4,000 people. The area is home to families, retirees, and young professionals. Seatack offers residents a suburban lifestyle with easy access to the beach, schools, parks, and other amenities.

Top-Rated Schools

• McMicken Heights Elementary
• Chinook Middle School
• Tyee High School

Things to Do In Seatack

• At the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, visitors can see the ever-changing art displays or participate in hands-on activities.
• With a Mural Tour, see the public art of the ViBe Creative District. Spend the day relaxing in the sun, swimming in the sea, or even fishing at Virginia Beach.
• Create your masterpiece in the form of a splash painting at Splash House.
• At Atlantic Fun Park, compete in carnival games or take a ride on the Ferris Wheel to see the city of Virginia Beach from above.
• Take on a challenge at the massive Nightmare Mansion and try to escape the horror-themed Escape Room.
• South Beach Grill serves a Maryland Lump Crabcake or French Dip Sandwich to help you unwind with some well-deserved comfort food.
• From Bay Local, a breakfast dish like the Breakfast BLT, Jamaican Rum French Toast, or Cheddar Bacon Omelette is recommended. Alternatively, try a game of shuffleboard or a selection of board games at Beachside Social.

• Median Home Price: $334,944
• Median Rent: $1,594
• Crime Rate: (Calculated annually per 100,000 residents)
  • Assault- 68
  • Murder – 4
  • Robbery – 52.3
  • Burglary – 194.2
  • Theft – 838.6
  • Motor Vehicle Theft – 362.7

See Also:Best Neighborhoods In Virginia Beach For Singles And Young Professionals

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4. Great Neck

Great Neck is a neighborhood in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The neighborhood is home to several parks, including Great Neck Point Park and Great Neck Estates Park. Great Neck is bordered by the Great Neck Road and Great Neck Point Park to the north, the Chesapeake Bay to the south, Bayville Farms Road and Linkhorn Bay to the west, and Great Neck Road and Great Neck Estates Park to the east. Great Neck is also home to the Great Neck Recreation Center, which offers a variety of recreational activities for residents. The Virginia Beach Public Schools system serves great Neck.

Top-Rated Schools

• Saddle Rock School
• John F. Kennedy

Things to Do In Great Neck

• At Lynnhaven Park, play some tennis in the light. Swimming a few laps, taking a group fitness session, or playing hoops at the Great Neck Recreation Center are good options.
• At Great Neck Park, set up a picnic, play a volleyball game, or unwind in the gazebo.
• To benefit from the opportunity to play on a championship golf course, Olympic-sized pool, and excellent dining, join Broad Bay Country Club. Begin your day with the Bronx Bowl or a New York-style bagel from The Bagel Baker.
• From Ynot Italian, try the Chicken Parmigiana Sandwich, Margherita Pizza, or Florentine Calzone.
• La Herradura Mexican Restaurant & Cantina serves authentic Mexican foods like Quesadillas Rellenas, Poblanos Enchiladas, and Huevos Rancheros.
• Grab a filling dinner at the popular Coastal Grill, where you may sample the Grilled Leg of Lamb or Peppered Seared Tuna.

• Median Home Price: $404,000
• Median Rent: $1,174
• Crime Rate: (Calculated annually per 100,000 residents)
  • Assault- 58.3
  • Murder – 5.8
  • Robbery – 58.4
  • Burglary – 238.5
  • Theft – 678.6
  • Motor Vehicle Theft – 352.8

5. Thoroughgood

Thoroughgood is a neighborhood in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The Thoroughgood family originally settled the area in 1636. Thoroughgood House, the home of the family’s patriarch, George Thoroughgood, is now a museum and one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations. The neighborhood is also home to Thoroughgood Elementary School, which serves kindergarten through fifth-grade students. Thoroughgood is a close-knit community with a strong sense of history and tradition. Residents take pride in their homes and businesses, and many have lived in the area for generations. There are a variety of local shops, restaurants and parks, and other recreation options. Thoroughgood is a great place to live, work, and raise a family.

Top-Rated Schools

• Thoroughgood Elementary School

Things to Do In Thoroughgood

• At Bayside Recreation Center, go swimming, run laps, or play pool.
• At Natural Bodyz Fitness, you may either pump iron or get started on a fitness program built for you.
• Visit the 1719 Thoroughgood House to see one of Virginia Beach’s oldest Colonial homes.
• Play disc golf or visit the dog park at nearby Bayville Farms Park.
• The Rustic Spoon serves food sourced locally, such as a Spoon Stack or a Veggie Omelet.
• Try the Lan Zhou Beef Noodle Soup, Cucumber Cold Noodle Salad, or Mongolian Beef Stir-Fried Noodles at Noodle Man.
• 1608 Crafthouse serves as a great place for families to dine. Enjoy the Asiago Chicken or Fried Green Tomato BLT with some locally produced beer at this local watering hole.
• For a Porchetta Salad or Four Cheese Ravioli in White Cream, go to Marchese Italian Market & Cafe.

• Median Home Price: $453,000
• Median Rent: $1,267
• Crime Rate: (Calculated annually per 100,000 residents)
  • Assault- 49.6
  • Murder – 4.7
  • Robbery – 62.6
  • Burglary – 269.8
  • Theft – 57.3
  • Motor Vehicle Theft – 127.7

See Also: Most Affordable Places to Live in Virginia

Conclusion

Virginia Beach is a great place to live for families. There are many different neighborhoods, each with their own unique amenities and features, that are perfect for any family. Virginia Beach has something for everyone, from the historic Thoroughgood neighborhood to the modern Great Neck neighborhood. No matter what your family’s needs are, you can find the perfect Virginia Beach neighborhood for you.

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See Also: Moving to Virginia | Best States to Live | Top Interstate Moving Companies

FAQs

What makes Thoroughgood such a great neighborhood for families?

There are several reasons why Thoroughgood is a great neighborhood for families. The close-knit community and strong sense of history and tradition make it a great place to live, work, and raise a family. There are also a variety of local shops and restaurants and parks, and other recreation options.

What are some of the top attractions and amenities in Thoroughgood?

Some of the top attractions and amenities in Thoroughgood include Bayside Recreation Center, Natural Bodyz Fitness, the 1719 Thoroughgood House museum, Bayville Farms Park, and The Rustic Spoon.

What kinds of food can I find in Thoroughgood?

You can find various local restaurants and cafes in Thoroughgood, serving everything from Italian cuisine to American comfort food.

What are some of the best restaurants and shops in Thoroughgood?

Some of the best restaurants and shops in Thoroughgood include Noodle Man, Marchese Italian Market & Cafe, 1608 Crafthouse, and Mediate Italian Market & Cafe.

How can I find a home in Thoroughgood?

Many real estate agencies in Virginia Beach can help you find the perfect home in Thoroughgood. Whether you’re looking for a single-family home, a townhouse, or an apartment, many options are available to suit your needs and budget.