Bay Island is a well-known and generally sought-after residential neighborhood in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Here's a breakdown of what makes it distinct:
-
Location & Geography:
- Waterfront: As the name suggests, Bay Island is primarily an island (technically a peninsula connected by bridges) situated within the Lynnhaven Bay system, specifically surrounded by parts of Broad Bay and Linkhorn Bay .
- Proximity: It's located just west of the North End/Oceanfront area, accessible primarily via bridges off Great Neck Road. It offers easy access to the Chesapeake Bay via the Lynnhaven Inlet and is close to First Landing State Park .
-
Character & Lifestyle:
- Water-Oriented: The lifestyle heavily revolves around the water. Many homes are waterfront or water-access, featuring private docks for boating, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and enjoying the bay views .
- Established & Upscale: It's an established neighborhood with a mix of architectural styles, including older ranch homes, contemporary designs, and large, renovated or newly built luxury homes. It's generally considered an affluent area .
- Relatively Quiet: Compared to the bustling Oceanfront resort area nearby, Bay Island tends to be quieter and more residential, offering a sense of seclusion despite its central location .
- Community Feel: It has an active civic league and a distinct neighborhood identity .
- Highly Rated Schools: Frank W. Cox High School, Great Neck Middle School and John B Dey Elementary School.
-
Housing:
- Predominantly Single-Family Homes: The neighborhood consists of approximately 200 single-family detached houses .
- Variety & Size: Homes range significantly in size from roughly 1,694 sq ft to 8,652 sq ft, reflecting development over many years, with builds dating from 1950 to 2022 . Lot sizes also vary, typically ranging from about 0.42 acres (18,284 sq ft) to 1.41 acres (61,269 sq ft) .
- Waterfront Premiums: Homes directly on the water command significant premiums. Even non-waterfront homes benefit from the neighborhood's location and water access points .
-
Amenities & Access:
- Boating: Direct access to Lynnhaven Bay and the Chesapeake Bay is a major draw. Nearby marinas offer additional services .
- Nearby Conveniences: While the island itself is primarily residential, it's very close to the shopping, dining, and services along Great Neck Road and Laskin Road. The Oceanfront boardwalk, beaches, and restaurants are just a short drive away .
- Parks: Proximity to First Landing State Park provides hiking, biking, and nature trails .
-
Recent Market Activity (Last ~6 Months as of early May 2025):
Based on recent MLS data, the Bay Island market shows upscale activity. Here's a summary of active listings and homes sold between approximately November 2024 and May 2025:
Status Number of Listings Average Size (SqFt) Average Price Average Days on Market (DOM) Active 2 3,482 sq ft $1,225,000 15 days Sold 7 4,321 sq ft $2,042,857 24 days Active Listings Details (as of 05/05/2025):
- 2736 Broad Bay Road: 6 Bed, 3.1 Bath, 3,464 sq ft, Listed at $950,000 (11 DOM)
- 2301 Leeward Shore Court: 5 Bed, 3.1 Bath, 3,500 sq ft, Listed at $1,500,000 (18 DOM)
Sold Listings Details (Nov 2024 - May 2025):
Active Listings Details (as of 05/05/2025):
- Average Sales Price: $2,042,857
- Average Size: 4,321 Square Feet
- Average Days on Market: 24 Days
Address Sold Price Sq Ft Beds/Baths DOM Sale Date 2416 Broad Bay Rd
$1,050,000 3,292 4/3.5 60 1/17/25 2224 Leeward Shore Dr
$1,225,000 2,036 3/2.1 4 12/13/24 2412 Broad Bay Rd
$1,275,000 4,051 4/3.0 27 12/19/24 2745 Broad Bay Rd
$1,750,000 4,200 6/5.1 58 3/31/25 2245 Leeward Shore Ct
$1,925,000 3,519 5/3.0 2 4/28/25 2145 Windward Shore Dr
$2,100,000 6,549 6/4.1 17 11/8/24 2141 Windward Shore Dr $4,975,000 6,600 4/5.1 0 11/18/24
Key Considerations:
- Flood Risk: Being a low-lying island surrounded by tidal waters, properties on Bay Island are susceptible to flooding, especially during storms (like Nor'easters) and exceptionally high tides. Flood insurance is a significant consideration and often a requirement .
- Bridge Access: While providing a sense of community, access is primarily via bridges, which could potentially be a factor during severe weather or high traffic times .
- Cost: Due to its desirable location and waterfront nature, property values and taxes tend to be higher than in many other Virginia Beach neighborhoods .
In summary, Bay Island is a picturesque, upscale, water-centric neighborhood ideal for boaters and those seeking waterfront living close to both the tranquility of the bay and the amenities of the Oceanfront and Great Neck areas. The recent market data confirms its status as a high-value area with significant waterfront property sales . However, potential residents need to be mindful of the costs and flood risks associated with living in such a prime coastal location .
As a licensed real estate broker in both Virginia and North Carolina, I specialize in helping buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals. Whether you’re looking to buy your dream home in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, or anywhere in the Tidewater area, I’m here to make the process seamless.
📞 Contact Robin Gauthier: (757) 739-7754
📍 Licensed Real Estate Broker in Virginia (0225181163) & North Carolina (301068)
NextHome Tidewater Realty
Comments(3)