Tucked away on the Chesapeake Bay side of Virginia Beach, Chesapeake Beach is a hidden gem that offers a coastal lifestyle like no other. This laid-back neighborhood, more commonly known as Chic’s Beach- a nickname deriving from a hotdog vendor named Luther “Chic” Ledington who was a fixture on the beach in the 1950s- boasts a unique blend of beachside living and a strong sense of community. As the premier Spot Build Builder in Virginia Beach, Bishard Homes has been welcoming families home to Chic’s Beach for the past 25 years, and continues to today. In this blog post, we will take an in-depth look at the captivating lifestyle of Chic's Beach, explore its popular attractions, reveal a plethora of activities to enjoy, discover the best local restaurants, and highlight top-rated schools that contribute to the allure of this picturesque and welcoming community.
1. The Chic's Beach Lifestyle: Coastal Living and Community Bond
The heart of the Chic's Beach lifestyle lies in its coastal allure and community bond. Residents here embrace a relaxed and friendly vibe, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a close-knit neighborhood. Chic's Beach attracts a diverse mix of residents, from young professionals to families and retirees, all united by their love for the beach and the strong sense of community spirit that permeates the area.
The neighborhood showcases a variety of housing options, including charming beach cottages, modern condos, and contemporary single-family homes. With the bay just steps away, residents savor breathtaking water views, stunning sunsets, and the soothing sounds of lapping waves.
Chic’s Beach also features quick, direct access to the Eastern Shore- a charming stretch of seventy miles of undeveloped barrier islands. Known for its pristine beaches, two National Wildlife Refuges, beachfront State Park and a National Seashore reel in those drawn to the great outdoors– from cyclists to boaters, fishermen to paddle boarders, beachcombers to bird-watchers, and every nature-lover in between.
2. Popular Attractions in Chic's Beach: Embracing Coastal Bliss
Chesapeake Beach: The beach itself is the main attraction in Chic's Beach. With its calm waters and family-friendly atmosphere, it's a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the shoreline and take in the serenity of the bay. With its lack of waves and sandy shores, Chic’s Beach is a coveted location for families with small children and anyone who loves open water swims. There are even swimming groups to join in the summertime who enjoy communal exercise and the beautiful Bay together.
Chesapeake Beach Park: This park is a great place for sunny walks on the beach, picnics by the ocean, and enjoying nature's beauty. It’s located just past the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel and is dog friendly, making it a favorite destination for both locals and visitors. It does have a limited amount of parking spaces so make sure to get there early.
Festivals and Events: Chic's Beach hosts various community events and festivals throughout the year, bringing residents together to celebrate local art, music, and food. The Chic's Beach Art and Music Festival is a highlight that showcases the neighborhood's vibrant arts scene.
First Landing State Park Chesapeake Bay Beach: With one of the only public access points to the Bay's coastline, First Landing State Park is the ideal place to unwind and relax in the calm Chesapeake Bay. With little to no waves, it's the perfect place to kayak, paddleboard, swim, or teach young ones how to surf. There's also plenty of availability to set up a campsite and enjoy the surrounding area with many hiking and biking trails.
3. Things to Do in Chic's Beach: Coastal Adventures
Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Explore the calm waters of the Chesapeake Bay with kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding adventures, where you can observe local wildlife and enjoy a unique perspective of the coastline.
Biking and Jogging: The scenic bike paths and jogging trails along the bay offer the perfect opportunity to stay active while enjoying picturesque views.
Fishing and Crabbing: Did you know the Chesapeake Bay is one of the most diverse fisheries on the East Coast? Anglers and seafood enthusiasts will find delight in the fishing and crabbing opportunities available in the Bay- with over 348 species of finfish and 173 species of shellfish calling the waters home.
4. Best Local Restaurants: Savoring Culinary Delights
Buoy 44 Seafood Grill: A local favorite, Buoy 44 offers a delightful seafood dining experience with a focus on fresh catches and classic coastal dishes.
Chick's Oyster Bar: Known for its fresh seafood and laid-back atmosphere, Chick’s Oyster Bar is a local staple for both day and nightlife.
HK on the Bay: With its waterside location, HK on the Bay provides a relaxed atmosphere to savor seafood, sushi, and a variety of cocktails.
Zia Marie: For those craving Italian cuisine, Zia Marie offers a taste of Italy in the heart of Chic's Beach. It’s a local favorite- and for good reason!
5. Top-Rated Schools within the Neighborhood: Nurturing Young Minds
John B. Dey Elementary School: As a top-rated elementary school, John B. Dey provides a nurturing and academically enriching environment for young learners.
Great Neck Middle School: With its focus on academic excellence and extracurricular opportunities, Great Neck Middle School prepares students for high school and beyond.
Frank W. Cox High School: As one of the best high schools in the city, Frank W. Cox High School offers a diverse array of academic programs and extracurricular activities, ensuring students are well-prepared for their future endeavors.
Conclusion:
Chic's Beach, or Chesapeake Beach, epitomizes the essence of coastal living, offering a perfect blend of beachside tranquility and community togetherness. With its breathtaking bay views, sandy shores, and abundant outdoor activities, residents of Chic's Beach have access to a coastal paradise right at their doorstep. If you’re craving the neighborhood's sense of community and strong bond among its residents, Bishard Homes can help you make this sought-after destination your coastal haven to call home.
From exploring the bay by kayak to savoring fresh seafood at local restaurants, Chic's Beach provides a unique and enriching lifestyle that celebrates the beauty of the Chesapeake Bay and the warm spirit of community. With top-rated schools in the area, families can rest assured that their children will receive an exceptional education within this charming and coastal neighborhood. Embrace the coastal bliss, create lasting memories, and experience the vibrant allure of Chic's Beach with new construction by Bishard Homes.