Jake’s Insider Neighborhood Guide: Sandbridge, Virginia Beach
Author: Jake Maines | Virginia Beach Realtor
The Sandbridge, Virginia Beach, neighborhood is a secluded, coastal retreat in every way. It’s quiet with 4.5 miles of uncrowded shoreline to explore. If you want to be close to the Atlantic Ocean so you can spend your days on the water, or you want a tranquil environment to retire, there is much to offer here. As you explore what Sandbridge has to offer, keep in mind that, while it is so serene, it is also only a matter of 15 minutes from the rest of the area’s major shopping areas, offering the best of both worlds.
- Life in Sandbridge, Virginia Beach Community Overview
- Exploring Sandbridge Virginia Beach - Video Tour
- Map of Sandbridge, Virginia Beach
- Jake’s Top Things to Do in Sandbridge, Virginia Beach
- Jake’s Local Favorites & Best Restaurants in Sandbridge, Virginia Beach
- Local Health Care in Sandbridge, Virginia Beach
- Get Jake’s Local Insights on Sandbridge
- Shopping Centers in Sandbridge, Virginia Beach
- Get Jake’s Local Insights on Sandbridge
- Get Jake’s Local Insights on Sandbridge
- View Properties In Sandbridge, Virginia Beach
- Top Reasons To Live In Sandbridge, Virginia Beach
- Ask Jake: Your Insider to Sandbridge, Virginia Beach
- Frequently Asked Questions About Sandbridge, Virginia Beach
- Virginia Beach Neighborhoods
- Contact Jake Maines Today!
Life in Sandbridge, Virginia Beach Community Overview
Sandbridge, Virginia Beach, is among the top 15% in wealthiest neighborhoods in the U.S, home to numerous professionals and executives who want an exceptional quality of life in one of the most pristine areas of the shoreline. This community has numerous vacation homes, but is more prominently dominated by those looking for a second home or retirement estate. With the Atlantic Ocean, Back Bay, and numerous parks, there are plenty of things to do in Sandbridge for outdoor lovers. When you compare the Sandbridge area to other oceanfront communities, you can expect high-end homes, a quiet, retreat-like environment, and a tight-knit, welcoming neighborhood.
Exploring Sandbridge Virginia Beach - Video Tour
Map of Sandbridge, Virginia Beach
Jake’s Top Things to Do in Sandbridge, Virginia Beach
There is no shortage of things to do in Sandbridge if you love the outdoors. The wide beaches, pristine sand dunes, and sunsets over the water are what life is about when you live here. One of the reasons to buy a home here is that it’s not driven by tourism. You have the Oceanfront District a few miles away for shopping, live music, and boardwalk adventures. Here, the vibe is laid-back, with a coastal feel. Still, there are some excellent things to do in Sandbridge.
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge Trails
This 8,000-acre freshwater refuge sits along the Atlantic Ocean with Back Bay on the west. Woodlands, marshy areas, and beaches make every trip here a bit different. If you haven’t been before, it’s worth taking one of the guided tours to get an idea of the environment. Then, you can fish your days away, walk the trails for serene silence, and even take some photos. You can bring non-motorized boats into the area, and it’s an excellent area for canoeing and kayaking. The Reese F. Lukei, Jr. Raptor Trail is a favorite because it takes you along such a diverse range of environments. The Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a local natural treasure you’ll take pride in when you call this area home.
Take To The Air
With no shops and bars located within the Sandbridge, Virginia Beach neighborhood, it’s critical to get creative with ways to explore the area. Parasailing and windsurfing are by far some of the most unique ways to experience the area. As one of the things to do in Sandbridge that both visitors and locals enjoy, there are various rental locations available (and people to teach you!) If you want to remain closer to the ground, jet-skiing, paddleboarding, surfing, and sailing are all other options available within a short drive.
Canoe at False Cape State Park
False Cape State Park is the perfect place to go canoeing. Here’s a tip – plan your trip early in the morning. The park opens about 30 minutes prior to sunrise. Relax and watch the sun come up, fish in the peace and quiet, or take in the beautiful, clean water. You cannot bring pets here, but you can hike and bike through the area. This is one of the few undeveloped areas in this region, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer more natural surroundings over tourist attractions. There’s also a fishing pier and beach access to dig your feet into the sand.
Jake’s Local Favorites & Best Restaurants in Sandbridge, Virginia Beach
Where are the best restaurants in Sandbridge, Virginia Beach? As we noted, there are no hotels here and very few restaurants. The good news is that there are some options close by to enjoy.
Margie and Rays – Seafood – 4.6 Stars - $$
One of my personal favorites in the area for steamed blue crab is Margie and Ray’s Crabhouse and Restaurant. It’s rustic and simple, and there’s always a local catch of the day offered at a great price. Unlike the more upscale destinations in Norfolk, I find this location to offer more down-home, local options with bigger portions.
Baja Restaurant – American – 4.2 Stars - $$
The surf and turf, coupled with the music, patio seating with waterfront views, and exceptional quality food, make Baja Restaurant a fantastic choice. You can count on the food to be fresh and full of flavor, and, in case you plan to host an event, they have a beautiful patio area you can reserve.
Baja Restaurant – American – 4.2 Stars - $$
The surf and turf, coupled with the music, patio seating with waterfront views, and exceptional quality food, make Baja Restaurant a fantastic choice. You can count on the food to be fresh and full of flavor, and, in case you plan to host an event, they have a beautiful patio area you can reserve.
Jose Tequilas – Mexican – 4.4 Stars - $
Another very affordable location with authentic, freshly made cuisine is Jose Tequilas Mexican Grill and Bar. This is a family-owned location, but they offer the big, bold flavors that you would expect from a lavish restaurant in Mexico. Another recommendation is to consider catering from this location if you’re hosting a group of people.
Blue Pete’s – American – 4.4 Stars - $$
Located in the Pungo historic area, it’s well worth a reservation to visit Blue Pete’s Restaurant. I particularly love those waterfront views and have attended a couple of private events here. It’s just 10 minutes from the beach and is a local favorite. This is also a great location for those looking to enjoy brunch with friends.
Blue Pete’s – American – 4.4 Stars - $$
Located in the Pungo historic area, it’s well worth a reservation to visit Blue Pete’s Restaurant. I particularly love those waterfront views and have attended a couple of private events here. It’s just 10 minutes from the beach and is a local favorite. This is also a great location for those looking to enjoy brunch with friends.
Sandbridge Island Restaurant – Seafood – 4.2 Stars - $
When you’re walking along the water and want a fast lunch, check out Sandbridge Island Restaurant. Again, it’s small and locally owned, the type of old-school location you know is going to have the best food possible. Fried seafood, pizza, fries, and more are all made to order. It’s an excellent long-time beachfront eatery.
Simply Steamed – Seafood – 4.4 Stars - $
Simple is really a great name for this popular location. Simply Steamed has some great local seafood that’s properly prepared, like the locals do. From the lobster rolls to the fish tacos, you’ll find everything is incredibly full of flavor and made with care. This location is seasonal, though they do offer some great holiday pies well into the season.
Simply Steamed – Seafood – 4.4 Stars - $
Simple is really a great name for this popular location. Simply Steamed has some great local seafood that’s properly prepared, like the locals do. From the lobster rolls to the fish tacos, you’ll find everything is incredibly full of flavor and made with care. This location is seasonal, though they do offer some great holiday pies well into the season.
Local Health Care in Sandbridge, Virginia Beach
Princess Anne County has numerous well-respected, high-quality medical providers, doctors’ offices, specialist care, and emergency centers. In the Sandbridge, Virginia Beach neighborhood, you’re a slight distance away from some of these locations, but you can easily get the care you need within a 20 to 30-minute drive throughout the area.
Sentara Princess Anne Hospital
A 24-hour hospital and emergency room, Sentara Princess Anne Hospital offers care for those who need it fast. It is a Level III trauma center, offering medical and skilled nursing care for seriously ill patients, as well as planned procedures and illness management.
Virginia Beach’s Corporate Landing Medical Center
Located just minutes from Sandbridge, Virginia Beach’s Corporate Landing Medical Center offers convenient access to high-quality healthcare close to home. This modern facility provides a wide range of services—from primary care to specialty treatments—making it easy for Sandbridge residents to stay on top of their health without traveling far. It’s one of the many local amenities that make living in Sandbridge both relaxing and practical.
Sentara Urgent Care
A walk in urgent care facility near the Sandbridge neighborhood, Sentara Urgent Care offers quick medical care for a number of ailments. It allows those who are in need of simple medical care the ability to get the help they need without needing to go to the hospital.
Strawbridge Animal Care
A full-service veterinarian health care center, Strawbridge Animal Care has a long history of providing superior care to patients in the area. That includes offering emergency medical care when there’s a need. The location treats dogs and cats, as well as other small animals.
Get Jake’s Local Insights on Sandbridge
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with me and ask a question
Shopping Centers in Sandbridge, Virginia Beach
If you’re willing to hit the road, Virginia Beach has dozens of shopping centers nearby, including at Town Centre and the Lynnhaven Mall. The key to remember, though, is that there are only a handful of shopping centers in Sandbridge itself.
Food Lion
Food Lion
If you are looking for a true grocery store, check out Food Lion on Dam Neck Road. Noted for its deli and bakery, I also enjoy shopping for health products here because they tend to be a bit more affordable.
Sandbridge Seaside Market
Sandbridge Seaside Market
I happen to like to stop in at Sandbridge Seaside Market when I am planning a day at Sandbridge because it’s just the perfect spot for fresh groceries. It’s intimate, with no website for this charming little store that’s got fresh coffee, pastries, and even some medications when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s located at 209 Sandbridge Road, and while not its own shopping center in Sandbridge, it’s an excellent place to visit every week.
Red Mill Commons Shopping Center
Red Mill Commons Shopping Center
Red Mill Common Shopping Center is about 10 minutes from the boardwalk area and offers just about everything you need. Red Mill Commons Shopping Center is home to national restaurants Red Robin and Buffalo Wild Wings, as well as big stores like Target, TJ Maxx, and Home Depot. There’s also a Walmart Supercenter here. A total of about 80 locations exist. This is one of the most inclusive shopping centers in Sandbridge.
Get Jake’s Local Insights on Sandbridge
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with me and ask a question
Recreation, Nature & Parks in Sandbridge, Virginia Beach
When it comes to the things to do in Sandbridge, nature is the crowning jewel of the area. It is one of the main reasons why so many people plan a Sandbridge vacation – the nearly untouched and pristine coastal area is just so hard to find anywhere else in Virginia Beach. Here, you can make your home feel like a getaway. Here are some of the best things to do in Sandbridge, Virginia Beach, outdoors.
Sandbridge Fishing Pier
If you enjoy fishing, the Sandbridge Fishing Pier. It’s also the perfect place to capture the sunset (or sunrise if you’re an early riser!) It’s open 24 hours a day, too, so for those who want to get up and see what’s biting early in the day, you can do that here.
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
The Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, located to the south of Sandbridge itself, is a rather isolated area in Princess Anne County. It is the best place for watching birds and exploring a diverse beachfront area. You can hike, bike, and take photographs here.
False Cape State Park
This huge, 4,300-acre state park is on the Currituck Banks Peninsula and is a full mile wide area between the Atlantic Ocean and the Back Bay. It’s nature at its best with the sand dunes and hiking along the water. False Cape State Park is undeveloped and one of the few areas along the Atlantic Ocean in the United States that remains protected. It’s home to the Wash Woods community and the Little Island Coast Guard Station as well.
Top Schools Near Sandbridge, Virginia Beach
One of the reasons many people buy a home in this area is because of the region’s schools. Those who live in the Sandbridge, Virginia Beach area are within the Virginia Beach City Schools, which means top-quality education that’s recognized in the state.
Red Mill Elementary School
Red Mill Elementary School provides education for about 700 students from preschool to 5th grade. This school received an 8/10 rating from GreatSchools. That’s thanks to its numerous programs, including the gifted and talented program. There are numerous extracurriculars and special programming options available to students.
Princess Anne Middle School
Princess Anne Middle School services students from 6th grade through 8th grade. It’s noted for winning the Southern Division and City Championships for interscholastic competitions, including in its music and drama programs.
Kellam High School
A full-service high school serving the needs of a diverse group of students, Kellam High School is located in the General Booth Corridor area. As the main high school serving the Sandbridge, Virginia Beach area, Kellam High School has a variety of offerings including AP courses, 32 sports and extracurricular activities, and a comprehensive gifted and talented program.
Get Jake’s Local Insights on Sandbridge
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with me and ask a question
View Properties In Sandbridge, Virginia Beach
If you’ve fallen in love with Sandbridge, now is a great time to take a tour of the area. Meet with me, let’s enjoy a short tour of the area, and I’ll show you the incredible waterfront homes, estates, luxury properties, and condos here.
It’s important to note that some who buy the homes for sale in the Sandbridge, Virginia Beach neighborhood do so for investment. Vacation rentals, including single-family homes and condos, are a popular way to take advantage of the demand for Sandbridge Beach from tourists. Take a look now with a search for houses for sale in Sandbridge.
If you’re looking for an alternative location that offers a bit more of a suburban feel, don’t overlook our Croatan Beach lifestyle and area guide. We’re happy to help you see numerous areas.
Top Reasons To Live In Sandbridge, Virginia Beach
It’s not uncommon for clients to tell us they’ve driven in from North Carolina or further up the coast for a vacation and fall in love with this community. There’s a reason this area is known as the Outer Banks of Virginia – it offers all of the waterfront living benefits without the tourism for Virginia Beach. Take a look at why we think you should buy a home in the Sandbridge, Virginia Beach, neighborhood.
The Relaxed Pace
As a truly secluded coastal retreat, Sandbridge, Virginia Beach, offers a slower pace of life. You have an uncrowded shoreline to explore, and while you don’t have a lifeguard watching over you, there’s nothing quite like the quiet, private beach. It’s just down the beachfront from Croatan, but it will take you some time to get there. That’s why this area feels like such a hideaway destination.
Exceptional Homes and Investment Opportunities
A wide range of single-family homes dot the landscape here. Homes are larger and lots are bigger, which contributes to a sense of privacy. It’s also an excellent area for those who want to live in an affluent area, especially during retirement. On the flip side, it’s a solid option for those seeking an investment opportunity in short-term vacation rentals in Virginia Beach. If your target market is higher-end homes to buy, this area works well.
You’re Good with Quiet Nights
Quiet, safe, and family-friendly, the Sandbridge, Virginia Beach neighborhood lacks everything that some of the larger cities in the area offer. There are no high-rise hotels to block your view, no crowded boardwalks with music that never ends at night, and the beaches remain clean. The open sky isn’t bothered by much air traffic either.
Ask Jake: Your Insider to Sandbridge, Virginia Beach
How well does Sandbridge, Virginia Beach, fit your goals and needs in a stunning community to buy a home? Instead of planning your next vacation, meet with Jake Maines. Let’s explore the current homes for sale in Sandbridge, determine which areas are best suited for you, and take to the outdoors for a tour. There is no doubt that this community will not disappoint nature, coastal, and privacy-seekers. Contact us now to learn more.
Jake Maines, Virginia Beach Realtor
Jake Maines is a Virginia Beach Realtor known for his market knowledge and exceptional client service. His real estate journey, beginning in 2020, showcases a successful transition from marketing to realty and investing, marked by a passion for helping clients find their dream homes. Recognized as one of Inside Business 40 Under 40 and ranking in the top 8% of Hampton Roads Realtors in his first year, Jake's accolades affirm his expertise. A member of NAR and HRRA, he upholds the highest ethical standards. Community involvement and continuous professional development make him a trusted, authoritative Virginia Beach real estate expert.
Jake Maines, Virginia Beach Realtor
Jake Maines is a Virginia Beach Realtor known for his market knowledge and exceptional client service. His real estate journey, beginning in 2020, showcases a successful transition from marketing to realty and investing, marked by a passion for helping clients find their dream homes. Recognized as one of Inside Business 40 Under 40 and ranking in the top 8% of Hampton Roads Realtors in his first year, Jake's accolades affirm his expertise. A member of NAR and HRRA, he upholds the highest ethical standards. Community involvement and continuous professional development make him a trusted, authoritative Virginia Beach real estate expert.
