Chesapeake Beach Travel Guide

Plan your trip with this comprehensive guide to Chesapeake Beach's attractions, activities, food, and more. Explore the cultural and natural landmarks, find the best places to stay and eat, and learn about local customs, safety procedures, and transportation options.


Chesapeake Beach is a charming and historic town located in Southern Maryland, United States. It is a popular destination for tourists, offering a variety of attractions, outdoor activities, and beautiful natural scenery. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, sunbathing, or exploring museums and historical landmarks, Chesapeake Beach has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, eat, and stay, as well as provide helpful tips for getting the most out of your trip.

Introduction to Chesapeake Beach

Chesapeake Beach was originally a fishing village in the 19th century, and it grew into a popular vacation destination in the early 20th century when a railway was built between Washington, D.C. and Chesapeake Beach. Today, it is known for its historic boardwalk, charming downtown area, and water activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming. The town is located on the western shores of the Chesapeake Bay, and it boasts stunning views of the Bay Bridge and nearby lighthouses.

List of Places to Visit in Chesapeake Beach

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum: This museum tells the story of the Chesapeake Beach Railway and its impact on the town’s growth and development.
  • Calvert Marine Museum: Located a short drive from Chesapeake Beach, this museum showcases the rich maritime history of Southern Maryland, with exhibits on boat building, fishing, and lighthouses.
  • Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum: This archaeological site and museum features Native American history and artifacts, as well as exhibits on the War of 1812 and Patuxent River ecology.

Natural Attractions of Chesapeake Beach: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chesapeake Beach Water Park: This family-friendly water park features water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and more.
  • Breezy Point Beach and Campground: This public beach offers swimming, picnicking, and camping facilities, as well as a fishing pier and nature trail.
  • Chesapeake Beach Fishing Pier: With great views of the Bay and plenty of fish to catch, this pier is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chesapeake Beach

  • Chesapeake Beach Railway Trail: This scenic trail stretches for almost two miles along the former railway tracks, offering views of the Bay and surrounding forest.
  • Bayfront Park Trail: This trail winds around Chesapeake Beach’s Bayfront Park, offering views of the water and access to the town’s fishing pier and marina.

Best Things to Do in Chesapeake Beach: Activities and Tours

  • Charter a fishing boat: With miles of coastline and plenty of fish to catch, Chesapeake Bay is a great spot for fishing enthusiasts. Charter a fishing boat for a day on the water.
  • Rent a kayak or paddleboard: Several equipment rental companies in Chesapeake Beach offer kayak and paddleboard rentals for visitors who want to explore the bay at their own pace.
  • Take a sunset cruise: Several local companies offer sunset cruises on Chesapeake Bay, with opportunities to see local wildlife and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Week-Long Itinerary for Chesapeake Beach

Day 1: Visit the Calvert Marine Museum and have lunch at nearby Stoney’s Seafood House. Day 2: Spend the day at the Chesapeake Beach Water Park and enjoy dinner at Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort’s seafood restaurant. Day 3: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and spend the day exploring Chesapeake Bay. Stop for lunch at the local seafood restaurant Traders Seafood, Steak, and Ale. Day 4: Take a day trip to nearby St. Mary’s City, a colonial-era living history museum with reconstructed period buildings and costumed interpreters. Day 5: Explore the Chesapeake Beach Railway Trail and have lunch at the Town Grill. Day 6: Charter a fishing boat and spend the day fishing on the Bay. Have dinner at Sunset grille. Day 7: Relax on the beach at Breezy Point Beach and Campground and enjoy dinner at Westlawn Inn.

Food and Drink Scene of Chesapeake Beach

Must-Try Dishes

  • Maryland-style crabcakes: Made with Chesapeake Bay blue crabs, these crabcakes are a regional specialty.
  • Southern-style brisket: Slow-cooked and smoked to perfection, brisket is a meat-lover’s favorite.
  • Fried chicken and waffles: This soul food classic combines sweet and savory flavors for a delicious brunch or dinner dish.

Local Beverages

  • Maryland craft beer: With over 100 local craft breweries in Maryland, visitors can sample a variety of styles and flavors of beer.
  • Maryland wine: Maryland has a growing wine industry, with several vineyards and wineries throughout the state.
  • Old Bay Bloody Mary: This spicy and savory cocktail is made with Old Bay seasoning, a local favorite for seasoning seafood.

Where to Stay in Chesapeake Beach: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Chesapeake Beach Resort and Spa: This waterfront resort offers upscale accommodations, a full-service spa, and several onsite dining options.
  • Bayfront Park Bed and Breakfast: This charming bed and breakfast is located within walking distance of Bayfront Park and Chesapeake Beach’s downtown area.
  • Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort: Located on the waterfront, this resort offers comfortable accommodations, several onsite restaurants, and a marina for guests who want to charter a fishing boat.

What to Buy in Chesapeake Beach: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Chesapeake Bay blue crab seasoning: This blend of spices is a must-have for anyone who loves cooking seafood.
  • Local crafts and artwork: Several galleries and shops in Chesapeake Beach sell handmade crafts and artwork by local artists.
  • Chesapeake Bay-themed clothing and accessories: T-shirts, hats, and other souvenirs featuring Chesapeake Bay motifs are a fun way to remember your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Chesapeake Beach

Chesapeake Beach is known for its laid-back, friendly atmosphere and love of all things nautical. Locals are proud of their town’s history and culture, and visitors are encouraged to explore local landmarks and participate in community events such as the annual Chesapeake Beach Stars and Stripes Festival.

Best Time to Visit Chesapeake Beach

The best time to visit Chesapeake Beach depends on your interests and preference. Summer is the peak season for outdoor activities and beach fun, with warm weather and plenty of water-based events. Spring and fall are great times to enjoy hiking and biking on the trails, and there are several fall festivals and events in the area. Winter can be chilly but offers the chance to see the town’s holiday lights displays and enjoy the local seafood restaurants.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chesapeake Beach

Do:

  • Try the local seafood: Chesapeake Bay blue crabs, oysters, and other seafood are must-try dishes in Chesapeake Beach
  • Explore the local history: Visit the town’s museums and historical landmarks to learn about the area’s past.
  • Be respectful of nature: Chesapeake Bay and its surrounding forests and wildlife are important natural resources, and visitors are encouraged to treat them with care.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Keep the beaches and trails clean and free of trash.
  • Ignore weather warnings: Chesapeake Bay’s weather can be unpredictable, and visitors should pay attention to local weather forecasts and warnings.
  • Disrespect local culture: Chesapeake Beach has a strong sense of community and pride, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Chesapeake Beach

Chesapeake Beach is generally a safe town, with low crime rates and friendly locals. Visitors should exercise common sense precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings, not leaving valuables unattended, and following posted safety signs and guidelines on beach and water activities.

Health in Chesapeake Beach

Visitors should be aware of the dangers of sunburn and dehydration, especially during the summer months. Water-based activities such as swimming and kayaking also pose inherent risks, and visitors should wear appropriate safety gear such as life jackets and follow all safety guidelines and instructions provided by equipment rental companies.

Getting to Chesapeake Beach: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Chesapeake Beach

  • Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI): Located approximately 40 miles from Chesapeake Beach, BWI is the closest major airport with connections to major domestic and international destinations.
  • Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA): Located approximately 45 miles from Chesapeake Beach, DCA is another option for visitors arriving from major domestic destinations.

Bus Stations Near Chesapeake Beach

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: Greyhound Bus Lines operates several bus stations in the nearby area, including in Annapolis and Prince Frederick, both of which are approximately 20 miles from Chesapeake Beach.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Renting a car is a convenient way to explore Chesapeake Beach and the surrounding areas, with several car rental agencies located at nearby airports.
  • Taxis and ridesharing services: Several taxi and ridesharing services operate in the area, offering affordable and convenient transportation to and from Chesapeake Beach.

How to Get Around in Chesapeake Beach

Chesapeake Beach is a small town that can be explored on foot or by bike. Visitors who don’t have their own transportation can rent bicycles or use the town’s free shuttle service, which runs on weekends and holidays during the summer months.

Where to Go Next from Chesapeake Beach: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Annapolis: Maryland’s capital city is located approximately 25 miles north of Chesapeake Beach, and it offers a variety of cultural attractions, historical landmarks, and waterfront dining and shopping opportunities.
  • Washington, D.C.: The nation’s capital is located approximately 40 miles southwest of Chesapeake Beach, and it offers a wealth of museums, monuments, and political landmarks to explore.
  • Assateague Island: This scenic barrier island is located approximately 120 miles southeast of Chesapeake Beach, and it is known for its wild ponies, pristine beaches, and opportunities for hiking and birdwatching.

Conclusion

Chesapeake Beach is a hidden gem in Southern Maryland, offering a mix of cultural and outdoor attractions, delicious seafood, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer trip, our comprehensive guide has everything you need to know to plan the perfect visit. From hiking and fishing to exploring museums and historical landmarks, Chesapeake Beach has something for everyone.

Sunset over North Beach Sunset over North Beach