As the Old Dominion’s biggest city, Virginia Beach is more than a beach destination. Of course, it helps that it’s blessed with 38 miles of sandy beaches, bustling with activity in the summer. 

“Virginia Beach is leading the way in education, recreation, and housing accessibility. Locals love the diversity of activities all year long — disc golf, soccer, kayaking, festivals, concerts, the boardwalk, natural areas, sunrises, surfing, fishing, gardening, whale watching, and more,” said Jeremy Johnson, an agent at Long & Foster, calling the city “wildly affordable” for a coastal market. He added that most neighborhoods are within a 20-minute drive from the beach.

The city’s most iconic neighborhoods include Shadowlawn, just off the oceanfront resort area, and Chic’s Beach along the Chesapeake Bay.