Broad Bay offers a peaceful and relaxed neighborhood atmosphere with low noise levels throughout its streets. This area features a variety of single detached homes and townhouses, mostly built around 1969, and primarily includes spacious three-bedroom and larger residences. Convenient access to several public green spaces provides ample opportunities to explore nature close to home. Daily essentials like groceries are easily reached with a short vehicle trip, while primary schools are accessible without the need for a vehicle. The neighborhood supports moderate cycling and offers ample parking, making transportation straightforward for residents seeking a quiet, welcoming environment.
Broad Bay is an excellent neighborhood to buy a home in for those who prefer a relaxed ambience. Parks are very well-spread out and there are a few of them nearby for residents to unwind in, making it easy to access them. The noise levels in this part of Virginia Beach are also especially low, as the streets are generally very calm.
Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special
Bay Island residents enjoy direct deep‑water access to Broad Bay and Long Creek, making boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing a central part of neighborhood life.
Children on Bay Island attend the highly rated Virginia Beach schools—John B. Dey Elementary, Great Neck Middle (with dual‑language immersion), and Frank W. Cox High—making the area prized for families.
Just a short drive from Bay Island, First Landing State Park offers nearly 3,000 acres of forest, swamps, hiking, biking trails, and some of the quietest beaches in Virginia Beach.
Along the island’s shores, locals love docking at Chick’s Oyster Bar for seaside oysters and shrimp, while The Porch on Long Creek offers sushi and she‑crab soup paired with scenic water views.
Just off Bay Island, Shore Drive offers convenient amenities like a Food Lion for groceries and the seasonal Shore Drive Farmers Market, along with casual dining like A Bite of Maine and Hot Tuna.
Things to do, events, and what's happening this month
A unique overnight sleepover under the sea offers families in Bay Island an unforgettable experience with nautical night lights, surprises, and animal encounters—plus next‑day aquarium admission.
View event details →Just steps from Bay Island, this beer festival offers locals a fun late‑summer outing with over 60 beers, live music, food trucks, and even zero‑proof tasting options.
View event details →A family‑friendly beachside Christian music festival that brings worship, games, live acts and fellowship—perfect for Bay Island residents looking for uplifting community fun.
This iconic week‑long surf competition with beach volleyball, skate contests, a 5K run, and concerts gives Bay Island folk both sporty excitement and vibrant beach culture nearby.
Two nights of high‑energy R&B, jazz and funk on the beach—with live music, vendors and a funky atmosphere—makes for a great oceanfront night out for locals.
View event details →Just a short drive from Bay Island, enjoy free live music almost every weekend evening in August with local bands at Town Center’s Fountain Plaza.
View event details →Stories, updates, and things to know in Bay Island
Local characteristics and demographics for Bay Island
