Although everyone tends to think of Virginia Beach when they're planning a beachfront vacation, neighboring Norfolk has eight miles of sandy beach along the Chesapeake Bay. This area is known as Ocean View and there are plenty of vacation rentals available there.
The surf along the Chesapeake Bay beachfront is pretty calm, so these beaches are a little safer for families with small children. The waters of the Ocean View beaches are also popular with sailors and you'll see catamarans and wind surfers launched from the beach here.
There's a bandshell at Ocean View Beach Park and there's live big band music and dancing there every Sunday night during the summer.
Willoughby Spit is an additional beachfront Norfolk community that doesn't have as many houses as Ocean View, but has some great views and boating access. Willoughby Spit is a narrow strip of land that juts out into the Bay at the southern side of the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel. There's water on both sides and you often see sailboats in the water there.
If you like to stay in a more urban setting, you might enjoy a rental located in downtown Norfolk. These aren't beach houses, but they offer easy access to all the restaurants, theaters, shopping, and museums in the downtown area. For waterfront fun, there's Town Poin Park on the shores of the Elizabeth River, and beaches in Norfolk and Virginia Beach are a short drive away.
Luxury Home Close to Beach. This two bedroom home with one full and one half bath has easy beach access.
Beachfront Apartment. One bedroom third floor apartment with private deck.
Luxury Beachfront Duplex. This 3 bedroom, 3 bath is located right on the beach at Ocean View.
Bay Views This large five bedroom, four bath house is steps from the beach and has great Bay views.
Two Bedroom Apartment with Walkway to Beach. No water view with this one, but close access to the beach.
Water Views from Every Room. This three bedroom, three bath home has easy access to three beaches.
Waterfront with Large Deck. Four bedroom, three bath home with access to two beaches.
Bay Breeze Compass Suite - One bedroom waterfront vacation property with access to private beach with beach cabana, and a 100' pier with two boat lifts.
1 Bedroom Luxury Loft-Style Condo. Loft-style condo located in downtown Norfolk, within walking distance of Scope, Chysler Hall and lots of shops and restaurants.
Remodeled Home in Colonial Place. Convenient downtown location, close to MacArther Center Mall, Scope, Chrysler Hall, and Granby Street shops and restaurants.