My friend and I had such a great night out -- we hit a lively bar, danced a bit, and had a few drinks. By the end of the night, we were both pretty tired and a little sore from standing and walking around. On a whim, we decided to stop by a nearby SVIP foot massage parlor, and it turned out to be the perfect decision. The atmosphere was calm and welcoming, and the therapists were super professional. After a relaxing full-body massage, all the tension just melted away. We left feeling completely refreshed, loose, and happy. Such a great way to end the night. read more

The music is awful for a gay dance club. $20 cover, too expensive for the quality of DJ music. I tired giving this place a chance several times and was disappointed every time with the music. i prefer big city gay clubs, they know what they're doing. The Wave seems like they're hiring the prom DJ. read more

I really thought this place would be a nice spot for a Saturday night. I went here with my friend and I knew from the parking lot it wasn't going to be what I expected. It was mostly empty, and smelled kinda like throw up. The cover fee being $20 was kinda silly considering there was not much this place was offering. Security was a little overkill, I don't think 5 guys outside the front door is necessary really. When we got in we instantly noticed the smell. It was worse than the parking lot. It was like a bathroom throughout the entire place, you could not get away from the smell if you wanted to. Then, alongside that, their bathrooms were blocked off with garbage bins, so that makes me think they must've had a sewage issue, which is kinda ridiculous. Where are people supposed to go to the bathroom? Being closed for a little to fix an important issue isn't a bad thing people. As far as drinks go, they're about average price and quality for a bar/club scene. Since there was virtually nobody there, my friend and I wanted to play pool to pass the time for more people to show up. Unfortunately, trying to play pool is harder than it seems. The ATM there only has $20 as the lowest bill you can take out, and then the machine next to it for coins only accepts $5 and $1 bills, so we had to ask the front staff for change, which they did, but still kinda like dumb. When we finally got our change in the pool machine, I noticed we were missing like 4 balls. My friend and I had a good laugh knowing this place was just hitting all the red flags for our night. After we finished our game, we went to the other dance floor, and it was kinda just sad to look at. Most people there were young (21-35) but it seemed like they were all in their groups. It was either straight couples, girl groups, or a mix of people. That wasn't the sad part really though, it just was sparse out there, despite it being later there still was hardly anyone dancing or at this place even. It was more desolate than my homecoming. Eventually, we just left because it just wasn't worth being there anymore. I don't recommend this place, and won't be back. read more

only give this place a star because this is one of the few places to go in Norfolk predominantly LGBTQ+ I mean it's a place for "starters" of people who aren't connected to the community. There is security everywhere. so much so you don't feel safe but the opposite because they are overly invasive and creepy. The cover charge is excessive and most of the staff rude. One of the bartenders was friendly. Oh and dig this we went to the bar to order drinks and our food was right behind us. But they threw it out because it didnt appear attended like luggage at the airport. It's cool because the wings tasted like trash and we only ate them to have something in our stomach. read more

Took a friend of mine here and they had a foam party going on. It was fun as hell. Shout out to security. They DO love kicking ppl out for no reason it seems but I never have this problem when I'm there. The blonde one can be a little problematic but she's cool lol. There was one guy who I went back to get his name because he was sooo cool. I was leaving the foam pit and I slipped and busted my ass and they all helped me up. It was super funny and we all had a good laugh about it. Saturdays are always a good time here. Getchu a couple long islands and you're set for the night. The only problem is the DJ never takes requests?? Even when it's dead. Super lame. I'll be back though lol. read more

First time coming here on a Saturday and the amount of people walking to the building had me just about sold. Located near ODU, it has a parking lot of its own, but there's also quite a lot of parking nearby also. We got there around 1130pm and though there was line, we weren't standing outside for a crazy amount of time. PS: You WILL have to stand in line again if you leave, even if you have a wristband...don't embarrass yaself! Entry was only $8, which is a nice change from $10. Inside is amazing! They have a big glass wall that is the biggest attraction and multiple rooms throughout the club that play different music. There's even a pool table. What I like the most is the amount of seating available that's kind of close to the dance floor, but not too far that you feel left out. Biggest downer of this club is the amount of bartenders. Literally only saw about 5 total and it's a pretty good sized club. Definitely something they can invest in ASAP, especially being that they stay open until 3am on Saturdays. I enjoyed the music and the vibes, would definitely visit again! read more

The Wave - the outside of a restaurant at night - Gay Bars Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

Cover is way too high for an LGBT establishment. Historically, LGBT bars have been accessible and affordable due to the underprivileged realities of being queer in this world. It's a shame that they take advantage of the community that keeps them open. Also, drag shows are awful. Bartenders are sexist. I'd give it a 0/10, but I respect the fact that they do provide a space for the community. read more

Good music and good food for a drunk night lol We had a good time!! The drinks were good!! read more

The drinks were yummy, the vibe inside was cool. It was a $20 fee to just walk in which I wouldn't mind if the bar is super cool, however, I was pretty annoyed I had to use the ATM and the minimum to cash out at the ATM was $20, then go to the bar ask for change, then go to a coin machine to get quarters for the pool table. It was like $40 automatically came out of my account just for walking in, and wanting to play some pool... So definitely bring quarters if you wanna play pool lol! I had a love/ hate relationship with the security. I liked that they check to make sure no one is bringing in any weapons/ dangerous stuff. But once you are in the bar, the security feels a little intense. Me and my friend went into the restroom together (as most girls do when they need to pee) and not even 1 minute later a guard was yelling for us to get out and told us if we did it again we'd be kicked out... for being in the restroom together. I felt that was strange but I also do understand that something probably happened for them to act like that. Then later we are standing by the bathrooms again, and I guess we were standing too close to the doors and a security person came over and yelled at us for standing.... and waiting for the bathroom... I was so confused and they weren't nice about it. A security guard also had to tell us to not put our drink on the edge of the pool table which yes I get it?? But... Idk. It was just a bit extra to me but it was a fun, cool vibe in there overall. read more

This place was fun AFTER 11:30! That's when people started actually coming and dancing. The only reason they got 4 stars was because the drinks are hella expensive. I barely drank because they were so much. I got a tequila sunrise and a Roman coke and it was $22. That's insane for a club. But the DJ was on point in the main area. Also! It is COLD. Once I started dancing and moving I warmed up, but I was legit shivering at first. read more

See all

Had a great time at their pride foam party. Definitely a fun place to hang out. Will be back soon

Nice and friendly prices not bad was kool. Like that they do have a dance floor as well

Food and Ambiance of the bar was good. Drinks were a little pricey, but music was a vibe.

I looove the Wave. You will find all kinds of people here. The ladies at the entrance are always kind and do their jobs very well. You do have to leave your ID at the front with them if you're under 21. Also, the cover fee is $12 for under 21 and $8 for 21+. They take card for the fee too. That's cover fee isn't too bad, I'm glad it's a set fee because I've had Peabody's charge my boyfriend $20 just to get in, and then my cousin's boyfriend a much lower fee. The DJ plays hellllla good music! He plays all the current hip hop hits, it'll def get you dancing. The dance floor is very open and they let you get up on that little stage if you're up to it. My friend ordered a trashcan drink, and it was so goood! All in all, go to the wave if you're looking for good music to vibe/dance to; there's none of that EDM/rave stuff. read more

I enjoy myself every time I go to this club. One of the few 18+ clubs in Hampton Roads. $12 for 18-20, $8 for 21+ not too shabby prices for a phenomenal time. read more

Always a great time coming here, they had a great line up of events for pride weekend!

Okay so after spending a disappointing night at the Rainbow Cactus when first coming here... my expectations of what the Wave would be like were extremely low. HOWEVER... I was pleasantly surprised... First off, if you're looking for a place to dance, this is the place to go. The main room at the Wave has a large dance floor and a small stage for people to display their dance skills and gym sculpted bodies. Music was perfectly chose IMO and is akin to what you find at any other gay clubs in big cities (Apex, Badlands, Rage). Music was techno and remixes of other popular pop songs. You do have people taking off their shirts. Unlike other sketchy places, people actually have nice bodies here, so bring your straight girlfriends for a funtastic time. I did go on a Saturday so I can't speak for how great the club is on other nights. On Saturday, though, there was a great many people there both young and old but I would say the average age was closer to 22-24. People 18-21 can also get in, but they have to get a wrist band at the door that prevents people from buying drinks at the bar. Cover charge is more expensive for those who are not 21 yet, but it's reasonable IMO. They have other rooms as well, but I didn't take too detailed of a look. From what I saw, there was a TV room as well as a room for pool tables. So even if you don't like dancing, you can leave your friends for a bit and hit on the guy with the long pool cue. They are open until 2amish although that's give or take 30 min. Club doesn't really get heated up until around 11pm ish so make sure to get there around that time. Anytime after that might mean that you'll have to wait awhile outside in the cold until the line starts moving so if you want to avoid that, I recommend getting in there a little earlier. Parking is readily available and there is plenty of parking spots across the street as well. Just remember that Colley tends to be busy throughout the night so please take care of your drunk stumbling friends when crossing the street =) I think I covered just about everything. For Norfolk, this is the place to be and that is why I gave it 5 stars. read more

Ah, The Wave...we meet again. I'm not as into 'dance clubs' as I was a couple of years ago, but as far as clubs in the area go this is definitely one of my favorites. The music here is great, always a nice variety (Thursday night/ 80's night is the best!) The Wave isn't technically a gay club, but it basically is a gay club...catch my drift? Although, Thursday nights are known to be the most 'tame' here. The drinks are decently priced here and there are several bars so quick service usually isn't too much of a problem - however I've seen this place get absolutely packed before, which is fun when you're dancing with a lot of people, not so fun when you're dying of thirst and waiting in line. If you're looking for a fun place to just let go and dance - this is definitely the place to be on Thursday, Friday, & Saturday nights! read more

The Wave - The Wave in Norfolk - Gay Bars Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

See all

they need better DJs especially for Saturdays when they open the big dance floor. I feel like all they cater too is White gay men. The atmosphere was nice and I like how they added more pool tables. Just wish the music was more diverse. read more

I had a good time at the Wave on Saturday night. It was pretty quiet around 11pm, picked up a little bit later in the night. I think cover charges are foolish, especially for those over 21 who are already spending money (too much) on alcohol, but oh well, we paid since we were with friends. So, $20 to get in, and about $35 for 3 well drinks and a shot. Meh, I prefer dive bar prices. Other than thinking about wasting money, the music was loud and fun and the dance-floor was the place to be. The DJ's played a nice mix of music styles. I guess if you drink beforehand it feels better leaving this place. Not sure I'd be back unless friends suggest it. The door staff isn't friendly, but the bartenders were. read more

My name is Alex Allen and I was laced here the other night! I've been to the wave a couple times and I've always enjoyed it, the few times I went I went by myself because I don't have a lot of friends in the area and I normally go there to meet new people ! The night was strange, at my past job many of my customers some female , some males would come in the morning after Saturday at the wave and express to me that they were laced there and couldn't remember much from the night before . That was me in this situation! I went there around 9:30ish to get a drink and I went by myself as normally. I was patted down and I was sober walking in the door .. I had one drink and it was a long beech , I do order another one but I ended up spilling on accident taking a pic in the mirror , I also got a shot of 1800 but mine you i only had 2 drinks that's nothing enough to make me black out the way I did ! I don't remember leaving that night I just woke up the next morning home with blood all on my clothes and face and I was cold , my phone was missing and my wallet , all of my belongings were scattered around my neighborhood! Idk how I got home, when I left ! This is insane ! My sister believes someone roofied me or laced me and with some of the knowledge I was passed from some other guest that had the same experience there I would say I was too!! I was in contact with the police Sunday morning but I doubt anything will be done about it ! If you are in the 757 do not go here ! It is a very high chance you will get drugged and god knows what else ! I'm only alive right now because of the will of god! I've been calling the wave non stop since I woke up that morning and I even @ them on Facebook ! I want answers now! read more

The Absolute WORST experience!! TOMMY was the absolute worst unprofessional bartender I have ever experienced in my life. Rude and condescending and shows favoritism to certain customers. Extremely rude!! I am pleasantly surprised because I know how customer service works and if you want to be treated right and to enjoy your night, sadly this isn't the place for you!! read more

So I went here with friends and tipped the girl $3 on my card check my bank account and she added a extra dollar. I mean it's only a dollar but it's the principle that if she does this all the time how much many is she actually making off people !!!? This isn't good for bussiness. One drink had to pay $13.50 plus 3.00 my total $16.50. Will be calling tommorow morning. read more

The Wave is undoubtedly going to pale in comparison to other reputedly gay bars in bigger cities, but it definitely does a damn good job for Norfolk's sake. If you're looking for somewhere to dance, and I mean serious sweaty, uninhibited dancing, not necessarily just repeatedly grind to a thumping bass, this is the place to do it. While I wouldn't suggest going before 11:30, unless you're brave and want to hit the floor and/or wall of poles and mirrors by yourself, those few precious hours are worth it. Personally, I like to bring some friends and treat the amazing DJs and light show as my own personal party until people start flocking in. The crowd is creative, so don't be afraid to be a little more imaginative with your attire, especially if it's 80's night. I wouldn't necessarily call this an exclusively gay bar myself, but more of a place that doesn't take itself too seriously. Good music, good drinks, good people; no labels needed. read more

The Wave - The Wave; Pre-action - Gay Bars Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

As a straight female, when I lived in Hampton Roads, this was my club of choice, from high school all the way through college. It was a very dance-floor-oriented place, with the alcohol being the number-two priority, which made it very friendly to the underage crowd. There is also a pool table room and some seating in the back for when you need to cool off and get some quiet space. The bathrooms are suprisingly clean, but the bartenders aren't very friendly to women -- technically it's not called a gay bar, but it's considered such by all the regulars. Enough to have your sexuality questioned if you are male and are seen at The Wave. I moved away over a year ago and I miss The Wave! Even if the bartenders were a bit cold, the people there are nice! I loved it. read more

I love the wave. Technically not a gay bar but gay friendly and no one assumes everyone is gay (so lighten up). The club is 18 and up as well. Always easy to get a drink, quieter areas if you need it, open-air areas if you need a breather, rarely drama, and everyone is pretty nice. Thursdays is 80's night, which I hear is their most popular night. Friday is indie night and the music selection is pretty great and current while still danceable. Guys, if your girl wants to dance and you don't want some bro navy guy grinding on her out on the floor, take her to the wave. read more

The most unprofessional bartender I have ever experienced in my life!! Used to love this place but sadly it went down since this last bartender started. Definitely bad for business!!! read more

Dancing to Prince on 80s night, dancing to the Ting Tings on Indie night, throw in some Smiths both nights, go mainstream with some Lady Gaga (don't worry, it won't ruin your hipster image). This place is all about DANCING. One of the only clubs in Hampton Roads where people don't take themselves too seriously and it's all about moving to the music. I work my leg warmers and neon colors for 80s night. There's a different kind of dancing going on here. More bouncy and old school and less grinding and popping. Gay or straight, it doesn't matter. Cheap drinks...if you're not a good dancer, at least you will think you are. read more

The Sunday Drag Brunch is AWESOME!!! I'm so freakin happy right now!! The show was awesome!! Bring plenty of ones cuz the ladies definitely earn their $$... This is the best show I've ever been too in Hampton Roads area being from the DMV. Definitely check out I promise you will not regret. I showed up @ 11:30. Show starts a little after 12p. Had our drinks and food by 12:15p. It's 2:30p & they're still rocking!!! Such an Epic experience!!! read more

See all

I love this place it's my first time but it wont be my last. They made sure the atmosphere was lit and safe. They followed all the COVID Guidelines so I felt safe the whole time. I will definitely be back with some out of state friends. And the Lemon Pepper wigs were . read more

They don't play much hip hop music at all, and it's actually upsetting ... like how are you in Norfolk and don't play hip hop. It's 98% pop music, and old songs. Nothing you can really feel and want to dance to. read more

This bar is so nice and gay friendly. If you happen to be in town passing through this is the number 1 go to dance spot to let off some steam. I would recommend this place to anyone who is looking for a good time if your from out of town and need to blow off sum steam! Note: don't forget your ID when you leave because they keep it at the door. read more

This review is for the Sunday Drag Brunch. My mom was in town visiting and I there was a Groupon that included 2 brunch plates, 2 non-alcoholic drinks and the show for $19. We made reservations and were told to show up between 11:30-12:00. When we arrived we were seated at a table of 6, so we were elbow to elbow with other people we didn't know. I guess that's okay but it would of been nice to have our own table. The show started right around 12:15 and kept going till about 2pm. There is really no stage so the queens come around and perform around your tables they will even stop to take pictures with you as you hand them a dollar or two. There were 5 queens who performed about 3 times each, there were 2 from out of town that didn't really give a great show, but the other 3 which included the DJ were very pumped up and actually performing and lip syncing to the songs! They also had all the birthday ladies go up and take a free shot. Ok, now as for the brunch part, this is why the rating is a 3. It took forever to get our drinks (2 pepsi) and I ordered a $4.75 bloody Mary. We didn't even get to order our food till about 12:45 and got it delivered around 1:15 and it was cold and just meh! There was really nothing other than breakfast to order which kind of sucks since we're eating after lunch time.. but I guess $3 mimosas and $4.75 bloody marys sounds better with breakfast, I dunno. I think it would work out a lot better if the food was more buffet style and we were able to eat as soon as we got there. The bloody Mary was pretty good. After the show we waited another 20 minutes for the waiter to bring our $7.25 check which included the bloody Mary and some tax. So the queens went to the back to take pictures but by the time we paid our check and headed back there we were only able to take a pic with one, don't know where the others went. So overall we had a good time but thing could of definitely been better! read more

See all

My friends and I used to love going here Saturday nights. But it has changed for the worse! This place is no longer a gay bar in my eyes nor my friends! have to be wanded and patted down by heavily armed security guards upon entering. It's very alarming and a terrible first impression. It used to be that when you walk in you had top 40 or dance music on the main dance floor and hip hop rap and r&b music on the back dance floor. But now its the same music on both floors. It was great to have separate music genre dance floors to appeal to different people's tastes, but that's not the case anymore and it's unfortunate. It's really gotten worse of a place since we started going here the last few years. On the positive side, the bartenders are truly amazing and great people, very friendly and welcoming despite the crowds. read more

What a flipping hoot!!!! We were there for my sister's "29th" birthday and I couldn't be more satisfied with our experience. From the wait staff to the ladies, we will most definitely be coming back. The brunch was delicious. Plenty to choose from no matter the diet. Drink were delicious, pink pussy and blue balls was a favorite at our table. All in all this was an enjoyable experience for those whom had never been to a Drag Brunch. We are already looking at dates to cone back. The "ladies" worked their money makers and was worth every bit for the show. I also need to figure which one of the ladies made the outfits. We need to talk soon so i can have some for myself. Things for me to learn for next time, more dollar bills on hand :) Cannot say more great things about our Sunday brunch! Thank you all sooooo much for starting my sister's birthday week off with a bang!!!! read more

The Wave - Ladies with the ladies :) - Gay Bars Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

See all

Came here last night with my husband and our group of friends and was a little shocked/disappointed at the cover charge but had A FREAKING BLAST! There was a foam party on the dance floor as soon as you walked in and after finishing my drink I made my way out there with a friend. We danced in the foam and had fun throwing it all around. What I didn't realize was how wet my clothes would be after leaving the foam! I ended up ruining my phone that had been in my pocket but I didn't let it put a damper on my fun. We made our way to the back dance floor and the Dj was playing some good music so we basically danced the night away! I also lost a flip flop in the foam but hey, ya win some ya lose some. Overall I had a great night with great people! read more

I wanted to visit a different gay bar in the Hampton Roads. So, I was told that The Wave on Colley Ave was a gay bar for the young people like me. There were about five or six of us going there and we all disappointed immediately. Pros: It was close to my house. There was a diner that opens until late as 4am right the street across from the bar. I forget what was the name of this diner, but it was awesome. Cons: The bar was so tiny. Lousy drinks. Everybody looked like they were underage and rolling on the Ecstasy. Everybody were not so friendly. I visited there again not long later in the hopes that it would change my mind. Nada. It totally sucked. read more

Horrible!!!!! Bartender very demeaning!!! Was literally shocked at how unprofessional he was!! This bar used to be fun! But this new bartender is hurting this business! read more

Great place to go dance, the crowd is great. I go here with my gf almost every other weekend. The bar is gay friendly which I honestly think makes it more relaxed and carefree than other club/bars. If your close-minded and/or a homophobe don't bother coming. Very positive atmosphere :) read more

The Wave - Another great night at the wave. Foam party. - Gay Bars Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

See all

The wave isn't really considered a gay bar, they consider them selves gay friendly bar. I would say it's a mixed crowd, with it being different depending on the night. The Wave`s biggest night is Thursday night, Thursday night is 80's night. 80's night is about 75/25, with 75% being straight. One thing about the previous post was correct it is a younger crowd. Expect the crowd to be 18-25 usually, with the majority on the younger side. In the past The Wave use to host a indie/britpop night known as "secret dance night". This was a big night for the Hampton roads hipsters minus the Hampton and Newport News crowd. Secret dance night was primarily a straight night. read more