Eastern Shore Travel Guide

Explore the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in Eastern Shore, Virginia with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Eastern Shore

Eastern Shore is a beautiful peninsula located in Eastern Virginia, South United States of America, and lies on the Atlantic Coast. It is surrounded by water on three sides and is known for its natural beauty, historic attractions, unique culture, and scenic vistas. The Eastern Shore of Virginia has been inhabited by Native Americans for thousands of years, and is now home to some of the most popular tourist destinations in Virginia.

List of Places to Visit in Eastern Shore

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Cape Charles Museum and Welcome Center

The Cape Charles Museum and Welcome Center is a great place to learn about the history of the town and the Eastern Shore. It houses artifacts, photos, and documents depicting the area’s past, including the railway industry, the oyster industry, and the ferry service. It also has a scale model of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel and teaches visitors about the ecology of the Chesapeake Bay.

Chincoteague Island

Chincoteague Island is a beautiful barrier island that is part of the Chincoteague Wildlife Refuge, where visitors can catch a glimpse of wild ponies, enjoy water sports, or spend the day at the beach. The island is also a great place to learn about the local fishing industry and enjoy delicious seafood.

Barrier Islands Center

The Barrier Islands Center is housed in a restored schoolhouse and contains exhibits on the life of Tangier’s watermen, as well as on the area’s ecology and history. Visitors can watch boat builders at work, see old photographs, and learn about the life of the barrier island residents.

Natural Attractions of Eastern Shore: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Assateague Island National Seashore

Assateague Island National Seashore is a beautiful coastal area that stretches from Maryland to Virginia and is home to wild horses, sandy beaches, and marshlands. Visitors can hike, bike, kayak, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

Kiptopeke State Park

Kiptopeke State Park is located at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay and is one of the best bird-watching locations in the Eastern Shore. It also has hiking trails, fishing spots, and scenic views of the bay.

Wallops Island

Wallops Island is a NASA launch site where visitors can view rocket launches and learn about space exploration. They can also hike, bird-watch, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Shore

The Eastern Shore of Virginia has several hiking and biking trails that visitors can explore, including:

  • The Eastern Shore Bike Trail- a 70-mile bike trail from Cape Charles to Chincoteague Island
  • The Assateague Island Bike Trail- a 1.5-mile bike trail on the barrier island
  • The Savage Neck Dunes Natural Area Preserve- a hiking trail that leads to a beautiful beach

Best Things to Do in Eastern Shore: Activities and Tours

  • Take a pony tour of Chincoteague Island
  • Go fishing in the Chesapeake Bay
  • Visit the Cape Charles Farmers Market
  • Take a scenic drive along Route 13
  • Explore the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel
  • Attend the Annual Chincoteague Island Pony Swim
  • Visit the Eastern Shore Railway Museum

Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Shore

Day 1: Arrive in Cape Charles and explore the town. Stay at Hotel Cape Charles.

Day 2: Take a ferry to Tangier Island and spend the day exploring the island. Stay at Tangier Island Bed and Breakfast.

Day 3: Visit the Chincoteague Wildlife Refuge and observe the wild ponies. Stay at Best Western Chincoteague.

Day 4: Visit Assateague Island National Seashore and go hiking or biking on the trails. Stay at Island Resort.

Day 5: Explore the Eastern Shore Railway Museum and sample local seafood. Stay at The Chesapeake Club.

Day 6: Take a scenic drive along Route 13 and visit the Wallops Island Visitors Center. Stay at Sunset Beach Resort.

Day 7: Visit Kiptopeke State Park, go bird-watching or hiking, and watch the sunset over the Chesapeake Bay.

Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Shore

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried oysters
  • She-crab soup
  • Crab cakes
  • Clam chowder
  • Salt-and-pepper catfish

Local Beverages

  • Virginia wine
  • Craft beer
  • Eastern Shore Tea Company

Where to Stay in Eastern Shore: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Chesapeake Club
  • Hotel Cape Charles
  • Sunset Beach Resort
  • Island Resort
  • Tangier Island Bed and Breakfast
  • Best Western Chincoteague

What to Buy in Eastern Shore: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Eastern Shore wines and spirits
  • Handmade crafts and jewelry
  • Fresh seafood
  • Virginia peanuts

Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Shore

The Eastern Shore is home to a unique culture that is influenced by its location, history, and architecture. The residents of the Eastern Shore are friendly and welcoming, and visitors can expect to be greeted with southern hospitality.

Best Time to Visit Eastern Shore

The best time to visit the Eastern Shore is from late spring to early fall when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities are at their peak. However, the fall season also offers beautiful foliage views and the opportunity to see migrating birds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Shore

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment and wildlife
  • Try local seafood dishes
  • Enjoy the beaches and water sports
  • Visit the local farmers’ markets

Don’t:

  • Litter
  • Disturb the wild horses
  • Wear inappropriate clothing in public places
  • Leave valuables in your car

Safety and Health

Safety in Eastern Shore

The Eastern Shore is generally a safe and peaceful place to visit. However, visitors should be aware of the usual safety precautions such as keeping an eye on personal belongings, lock your hotel room, avoid unlit areas at night and know the emergency contacts.

Health in Eastern Shore

There are many healthcare facilities in the Eastern Shore, including urgent care centers, pharmacies, and hospitals. Visitors are advised to have health insurance and carry a first aid kit. Water in the area is safe to drink.

Getting to Eastern Shore: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Eastern Shore

  • Norfolk International Airport (ORF)
  • Salisbury–Ocean City–Wicomico Regional Airport (SBY)

Bus Stations Near Eastern Shore

  • Greyhound Bus Lines in Salisbury

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train in Newport News & Norfolk, VA

How to Get Around in Eastern Shore

The best ways to get around in Eastern Shore are by car, bike, or boat. There are also taxi and bus services available. It is recommended you rent a car due to many attractions being scattered across the Eastern Shore.

Where to Go Next from Eastern Shore: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Virginia Beach
  • Norfolk, VA
  • Williamsburg, VA
  • Ocean City, MD

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a combination of outdoor adventure, fascinating history, and unique local culture, the Eastern Shore of Virginia is the perfect destination for your next trip. Whether you want to explore the natural beauty of the beaches and waterways or immerse yourself in the rich history, Eastern Shore has something for everyone.



    Cape Charles
    Chincoteague