Share The Article
Got crabs? That’s an interesting question for a state with the slogan of “Virginia is for lovers”, but of course, we’re talking about Chesapeake Bay, a nationally renowned source for seafood.
Though Virginia’s coastal allure stretches far beyond the fresh “catch of the day”.
Virginia’s latest statistics show the state embraced over 43 million ‘lovers’, but it’s safe to say those numbers largely represent D.C. tourists crossing the state line, or sun seekers flocking to the vibrant shores of Virginia Beach.
As such, vacationers tend to skip over the treasure trove of baytown hideaways north of Virginia Beach, including one recently featured destination hyped by Southern Living as Virginia’s best kept secret.
If you’re ready to make late spring or summer travel plans, but are already dreading the hordes of people jam-packing more notable beach towns, then the blissful, crowd-free atmosphere of Cape Charles is just for you.
Experience Cape Charles’ Timeless Charm
Turn down for what? How about turn down for a nap? Southern Living drew the comparison of Mayberry as the closest thing to Cape Charles.
Don’t worry; you don’t have to whistle that annoying song as you peruse independent shops, pop in a cozy cafe to fuel your day, or grab a barstool in a Cheers-like bar where everybody knows each other’s name.
Cape Charles is a blip on the map, but it packs a punch. Home to less than 1,500 residents, the town relies heavily on tourism, but has remained hush-hush as a tight-lipped favorite for locals seeking an idyllic retreat from the city grind.
A trip to Cape Charles is a far cry from Virginia Beach as this bayside town is beaming with character whether it be rows of Victorian homes, the 1828 lighthouse still guiding boats home, or the walkable town center where nothing but the cars passing by seem to have changed for decades.
In fact, there’s a whole district dedicated to Cape Charles timeless charm, known as the Historic District.
As a quick fun fact, according to Cape Charles’ official tourism website, this vintage town offers ‘one of the largest concentrations of turn-of-the-century buildings on the East Coast’.
Check out these 3 historic inns for a delightful stay:
Cape Charles’ Tranquil Shores
You don’t have to visit Virginia’s Atlantic side for a relaxing beach vacation; Chesapeake Bay has you covered.
There may be no better spot than Cape Charles, especially with a seemingly never-ending stretch of coastline even more secluded than the town itself.
That would be Kiptopeke State Park, located 9 miles outside Cape Charles’ blink-and-miss-it city limits.
It’s only $5 to enter, but know there are no lifeguards stationed at the designated swimming beach within the park.
Kiptopeke is the region’s top hidden gem with rave reviews like from a recent guests stating it’s ‘A gorgeous, well preserved, lush natural beach’.
Adding, ‘There are hiking trails with views of the water, a pier / platform from which to view the mysterious ghost ships and beach / shore access from the parking lot. Bathhouses as well.’
Within Cape Charles, there’s one beach to visit. In fact, it’s the only public beach on Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern shore.
Like Kiptopeke, Cape Charles’ beachfront is also beloved not only for convenience since it’s in the heart of town, but for the calm waters, cleanliness, open space, and ample parking (even in summer!).
A Haven For Foodies
Any small town with deeply rooted maritime history is all but guaranteed to be a haven for seafood lovers.
But don’t let Cape Charles’ quaint and cozy streets and stubbornness to change fool you; there’s more than meets the eye in the food scene, whether it be popular breweries, homemade pasta, or quintessential small town ice cream shops.
The reason for the variety is a testament to how much people fall in love with Cape Charles (remember, Virginia is for lovers).
It’s common for people to become magnetized by the slower pace of life and coastal delights, ultimately moving here and opening new businesses.
According to Southern Living, these are the top restaurants to visit in Cape Charles:
- Ambrogia Caffe & Enoteca – known for made-from-scratch pasta and fresh seafood
- The Shanty – the best spot to slurp fresh oysters
- Brown Dog Ice Cream – arrive with a sweet tooth; the menu changes daily!
- Cape Charles Brewing Company – order a pint of the local favorite Puddle Pirate Porter
Keep an eye out for the town’s new highly anticipated E&O Pub, a few blocks from the beach.
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
Ready For Your Trip? Check The Latest Entry Requirements For Your Destination Here
↓ Elevate Your Travel↓
Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!
️Join Our Travel Off Path Community Forum: Where travelers unite, ask questions, share experiences and even find like-minded travel buddies!
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS
Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.
This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Източник за тази статия
Наши спонсори са:
Български трактори на добри цени при изключително качество
