Northwest Virginia Beach - Virginia Beach, VA

Thanks to its convenient seaside location, the land that now houses Northwest Virginia Beach has been in use for millennia. Native American tribes originally occupied the area, and European settlers moved into the area in the early 1600s. Later, Virginia Beach emerged as a resort town and developed into a bustling city in the 1900s.

Residents and visitors can learn about the history of Northwestern Virginia Beach at several local museums: the Adam Thoroughgood House, the Lynnhaven House, and the Union Kempsville Museum. When you're in the mood for a little mystery and fun, make the short drive south to the Get a Clue Murder Mystery Dinner Theater.

Each year, locals head east to Virginia Beach for the Hardee's Latin Fest and the Pungo Strawberry Festival. Nearby Norfolk hosts the popular annual Norfolk Harborfest, which features tall ships, parades, and fireworks.

Northwest Virginia Beach houses a wide range of dining options, from classic American burger joints to elegant Asian fusion eateries. Many of Northwest Virginia Beach's restaurants line the north side of Highway 58, but residents can find dining options scattered all around the neighborhood.

Bring your appetite to 1608 Crafthouse for American fare and coastal-inspired seafood dishes. Local diners rave about the bacon cheeseburger, stuffed with white American cheese and crusted with pieces of bacon; try it topped with an over-easy egg. If you're in the mood for something lighter, nibble on the locally-sourced oysters of the day, or try a charcuterie plate. Save room for the restaurant's legendary bread pudding, which features ribbons of Jack Daniels caramel.

When you're in the mood for something quick, grab takeout from the family-owned Carib Shack. Try the spicy jerk chicken, marinated with a special spice blend and grilled to perfection. Patrons can't get enough of Granny's curry chicken and coconut rice -- get a shack size for a light bite, or go all out with a big bowl.

Seek out Mediterranean Cuisine on Independence Boulevard for traditional Lebanese dishes. Pair the classic steak shawarma with an order of stuffed grape leaves to enjoy the perfect lunch. On a hot day, the refreshing parsley, mint, and cucumber blend of the fattoush salad fills you up without weighing you down.

Nightlife in Northwest Virginia Beach tends to be low-key and consists mainly of sports bars. Many local bars sit near the intersection of Virginia Beach Boulevard and Independence Boulevard. Check out the Tailgate Sports Pub for weekly trivia and poker nights; locals also love the Sunday brunch and the Monday wing specials. Although the neighborhood doesn't offer much in the way of live music, Amplitude Karaoke lets you check out local singing talent. Reserve a private karaoke room for a small group, or perform in the open bar area.

Most residents get around Northwest Virginia Beach by car. Interstates 64 and 264 sit less than 10 miles from most places in the neighborhood. Parking spots can be difficult to find near local hot spots, particularly near Chick's Beach; allow extra time when driving. Most businesses and neighborhoods provide free street or lot parking.

Hampton Roads Transit bus routes 27, 1, 22, and 29 connect the area to Norfolk and Virginia Beach. Locals can also access the Tide Light Rail from the Military Highway or Newtown Road park and ride stations.

Northwest Virginia Beach does not have dedicated bike lanes or bike trails, so bikers should exercise caution. Many of the residential neighborhoods offer sidewalks for safe walking.

Hailing a cab from the street in Northwest Virginia Beach is challenging, but several companies provide on-call service. Uber also serves the entire Hampton Roads area.

Northwest Virginia Beach provides several parks, each free, to residents and visitors. The Pleasure House Point Natural Area offers 118 acres of shores, marsh, and forest. Locals paddle through the area's water trails, hike the trail system, and enjoy shore fishing. Leashed dogs are welcome, but bicycles and motorized boats are not allowed.

Williams Farm Park offers shelters and an open playing field. The shared-use path hosts runners and bicyclists year-round. The park hosts occasional events, including the annual Bike Rodeo and the Treasures at the Farm community yard sale. Don't miss Chesapeake Beach, affectionately called Chick's Beach by locals. The small, kid-friendly expanse of sand offers beautiful ocean views and a quiet atmosphere.

Costs in Northwest Virginia Beach tend to be similar to the Virginia Beach city average. The average rental rate sits near $931, and an adult bus or light rail ticket into downtown Virginia Beach costs $1.75. Expect to pay about $5 for a beer at a local sports bar. Gas prices in the neighborhood sit at 10 percent less than the national average.

Shopping in Northwest Virginia Beach consists mainly of large national chains. Most stores cluster around the Pembroke Mall Virginia Beach near the intersection of Virginia Beach Boulevard and Independence Boulevard.

Located just outside of Northwest Virginia Beach, the Creative Wedge: An Artisan Market carries gifts and artwork from local artisans. Check out the always-changing supply of gourmet foods and charcuterie. If vape shops are your thing, head to the northern part of the neighborhood to Master Vapor, where the friendly staff offer in-depth knowledge of the wide juice selection.

When it's time to stock your kitchen cupboards, head for the Fresh Market on Virginia Beach Boulevard; local shoppers love the cases of fresh desserts and sushi. The neighborhood also offers a Kroger and a Farm Fresh market for grocery staples. At Grand Mart International Foods, residents shop for Asian grocery products and fresh seafood. The Farmers' Fare Farmers Market in Pavilion Park operates on Saturdays from from May to October, plus occasional November and December dates.