Cape Charles, Virginia: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Tucked along the Chesapeake Bay, Cape Charles is a gem. It's a picturesque coastal town that has transformed over time. Once the major economic point of Virginia's Eastern Shore, it's now a friendly haven for beach and outdoor fans. So, what's the real magic of Cape Charles? What makes it a must-visit spot?

Cape Charles boasts a unique historic downtown, full of one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques. It also has a big public beach and lots of outdoor adventures. This mix of charm and activity draws people of all kinds. Looking for a quiet escape, a fun beach trip with family, or a chance to explore nearby areas? You'll find it all in this charming coastal town.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the rich history and revitalized charm of Cape Charles, a coastal town on the Chesapeake Bay
• Explore the town's historic downtown, filled with unique shops, boutiques, and beautifully preserved homes
• Enjoy outdoor adventures like the Cape Charles Beach and Fun Pier, kayaking, and exploring the Cape Charles Natural Area Preserve
• Indulge in the town's culinary delights, including fresh Chesapeake Bay seafood, craft breweries, and local bakeries
• Experience the welcoming community and small-town charm that make Cape Charles a must-visit destination on the Eastern Shore of Virginia

Introduction to Cape Charles

Cape Charles is a warm coastal town on Virginia's Eastern Shore. It sits at the end of the Chesapeake Bay. The area is known for its history and as a place beachgoers love. Once a big deal for trade and travel, it now offers a calm seaside experience.

A Friendly Coastal Town on the Chesapeake Bay

It's set perfectly on the Chesapeake Bay, so it has calm, beautiful waters. The town is small but full of charm. People are friendly and welcome visitors to enjoy life at a slower pace.

Once the Economic Hub of Virginia's Eastern Shore

Cape Charles was very important in the late 1800s and early 1900s. It was the end point of a railway from New York. Ferries also ran to and from the mainland. The town was bustling, with the railway alone employing 2,000 people at its peak.

But, things changed with the decline of the railway and the opening of the bridge-tunnel in 1964. This led to hard times for the town's economy.

Revitalized Destination for Beach Lovers

Recently, Cape Charles has seen a new life and is loved by beach enthusiasts. Its old-time look, historical buildings, and easy bay access draw many. The sandy beach, activities, and good food make it a treat for visitors. People now consider it one of Virginia's top spots for a quiet beach holiday.

Exploring Downtown Cape Charles

Cape Charles' heart is its historic downtown, around Mason Avenue. This charming street has brick storefronts with unique shops and places to eat. In 1991, the downtown was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This move preserved its beautiful architecture, including Victorian and Colonial Revival-style homes.

Historic Mason Avenue

Walking down Mason Avenue, visitors find unique shops and boutiques. These shops are locally owned and offer incredible items. You can find handmade jewelry, gourmet foods, and stylish home decorations. For example, Moonrise Jewelry, Gull Hummock Gourmet Market, and Table & Tonic show Cape Charles’ creativity.

Unique Shops and Boutiques

Cape Charles is also famous for its historic homes. The town is full of Victorian and Colonial Revival-style houses from the 19th and 20th centuries. These homes are beautifully kept and keep the town’s old seaside feel. They offer a look into Cape Charles' history.

Charming Victorian and Colonial Revival Homes

Outdoor Adventures in Cape Charles

Cape Charles is a great place for outdoor lovers. Its public beach sits on the calm Chesapeake Bay. This sandy shore is perfect for families. Everyone enjoys swimming, sunbathing, and looking for seashells. The town also features the Cape Charles Fun Pier, perfect for fishing and watching the sunset.

Kayaking, Paddleboarding, and Guided Tours

Besides the beach, Cape Charles has more to offer. SouthEast Expeditions rent kayaks and paddleboards. They also lead tours on the bay and through creeks. For a special outing, you can join a tour to Chatham Vineyards for wine tasting on the water.

Cape Charles Natural Area Preserve

The Natural Area Preserve is just a short drive from the town. It lets visitors explore different ecosystems. A boardwalk trail takes walkers through various environments. This includes the beach, dunes, and pine forests. It's a favorite spot for bird watchers and nature lovers.

Culinary Delights in Cape Charles

Cape Charles is well-known for its fresh seafood. Restaurants such as The Shanty by the harbor offer dishes made with the day's local catch. You can try a range of Chesapeake Bay favorites, like local oysters and crab cakes. The town also features many dishes highlighting fresh, local produce.

Craft Breweries and Wineries

Besides seafood, Cape Charles is famous for its craft breweries and wineries. Places like Cape Charles Brewing Company and Chatham Vineyards let you taste local beers, ciders, and wines. This is a great way to enjoy the town's drinks with its awesome food.

Bakeries and Cafes

For those with a sweet tooth, Cape Charles has bakeries and cafes. The Bakery on Mason and Peach Street Books have fresh pastries and special coffee. These spots, set in the heart of downtown, bring a sense of warmth and community to the area.

Cape Charles, Virginia: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Strolling down Mason Avenue is a top pick in Cape Charles. It's the town's historic main street. You'll find charming shops and beautiful buildings. Enjoy meals from freshly sourced seafood to tasty bakery goods.

Visiting the public beach and Fun Pier is a must. This spot on the Chesapeake Bay is perfect for families. You can swim, sunbathe, and find treasures on the beach. The Fun Pier is great for fishing and watching sunsets.

Cape Charles is famous for its fresh seafood. Don't miss the chance to try local favorites like oysters and crab cakes. The town's restaurants let you dive into Cape Charles' taste.

The historic downtown is a sight to see. It's on the National Register of Historic Places. The old buildings and homes show off styles from long ago. Imagine life in Cape Charles during the early 20th century as you walk around.

Where to Stay in Cape Charles

When in Cape Charles, you can pick from various places to stay. There are old inns and small, unique hotels. For those who love modern style, Hotel Cape Charles fits the bill. It's in a 100-year-old building downtown. If you prefer a more classic feel, Northampton Inn offers the cozy B&B vibe in a historic space. These choices let visitors dive into the town's delightful atmosphere.

Historic Inns and Boutique Hotels

Cape Charles' historic inns and hotels are great for time travel. You'll find lovely old looks, snug spaces, and top-notch service. This mix makes for a comfy, homey holiday. Whether you fancy Hotel Cape Charles' sleek looks or Northampton Inn's vintage appeal, there's something here for you.

Vacation Rentals and Beach Houses

For those who want extra room, Cape Charles has vacation rentals and beach houses. Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo offer many options. You can choose from cute cottages to big houses by the beach. This is perfect for families or groups. It lets you blend in with the locals while enjoying Cape Charles' beauty.

Getting to Cape Charles

Getting to Cape Charles by car is easy, especially from the north or south. If you're driving from the south, you can use the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. For those coming from the north, just head south on US Route 13. Then, turn onto State Route 184 (Randolph Avenue) to get into town. Cape Charles is a great stop for those on a road trip or exploring the Delmarva Peninsula.

By Car

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel is key for southern visitors, offering a direct path. This bridge-tunnel combo is a huge engineering marvel linking the Delmarva Peninsula to mainland Virginia. Travelers from the north will enjoy the scenic US Route 13. After, they can turn onto State Route 184 to hit the town.

By Boat

If you prefer arriving by boat, Cape Charles is ready to welcome you. The harbor and marina have spots for docking, including space for larger boats. It's easy to get here by boat through the Cherrystone Channel. This makes Cape Charles a favorite for those sailing the Chesapeake.

Cape Charles through the Seasons

Cape Charles is great to visit all year. Yet, spring and fall are less crowded and peaceful. During these times, the town's beauty and fun activities shine without big crowds. The weather is also perfect for outdoor fun like going to the beach or hiking.

The summer is when Cape Charles bursts with energy. Its wide, sandy beach becomes a hot spot for fun in the sun. The Chesapeake Bay's calm waters are great for swimming and exploring.

In winter, Cape Charles gets quieter but remains inviting. With fewer crowds, there's more room to explore the town's history. You can also enjoy local shops and restaurants at a more leisurely pace. The cold weather adds a special cozy feel to the town.

Events and Festivals in Cape Charles

Every year, Cape Charles welcomes many events and festivals. These celebrations are all about the town's story, culture, and community. They let people dive into local life and see what makes Cape Charles so special.

The Spring into Art festival in April is a big hit. It's all about the lively arts scene. You can enjoy live music, see what local artists are creating, and even join in with interactive events. This is the perfect chance to feel the town’s creative vibe.

In the summer, Cape Charles is full of life with its Friday Night Concerts. Everyone loves coming together by the harbor. You get to listen to amazing music, eat delicious food from trucks, and take in the beautiful Chesapeake Bay views. It's an event everyone, young and old, looks forward to.

When fall arrives, Cape Charles showcases its farming background at the Fall Festival. This includes a market where you can buy fresh produce, apple-picking, and carving pumpkins. And let’s not forget the chance to see the leaves change while you stroll through the downtown's quaint shops and boutiques.

All year long, Cape Charles is buzzing with more community events. You can join in for the Fourth of July, see the lights at the holiday tree lighting, or warm up at the spring oyster roast. These get-togethers are great for getting to know local life and tradition, making memories that last in this lovely coastal town.

Beyond Cape Charles

Cape Charles is a great place to start your adventure. But, the Chesapeake Bay area around it is full of day trip options. For example, you can visit Kiptopeke State Park, Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge, or head to the historic Onancock.

These places let you see more of Virginia's Eastern Shore. You can see nature's beauty and Virginia's history everywhere you look.

Nearby Attractions and Day Trips

Take a short trip from Cape Charles and find more to explore. You'll enjoy the nature and history of Virginia's Eastern Shore. There's outdoor fun, seeing wildlife, or experiencing small-town life.

Conclusion

Exploring the coastal town of Cape Charles, Virginia is a treat. It mixes historic charm, outdoor fun, and great food. It's located on the peaceful Chesapeake Bay, making it perfect for a relaxing visit on the Eastern Shore of Virginia.

The town's historic downtown is rich in history with its old homes. It also has a vibrant food scene, especially known for its seafood. Cape Charles lets you enjoy the past and present. You can kayak, paddleboard, or relax on the beaches. It’s a place where every moment is special.

Leaving this town will fill you with fond memories and respect. Cape Charles is known for its strong spirit, care for its heritage, and friendly people. It is a top spot on the Chesapeake Bay, showcasing the beauty of coastal Virginia. Visiting Cape Charles leaves a mark and wonderful experiences.