Cape Charles Travel Guide

Discover the rich cultural history, natural attractions, and outdoor adventures that Cape Charles has to offer through this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Cape Charles

Located in the Eastern Shore of Virginia, Cape Charles is a small town known for its pristine beaches, charming historic district, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Cape Charles is an ideal destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone looking to relax and unwind.

List of Places to Visit in Cape Charles

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Visitors to Cape Charles can learn about the town’s rich cultural heritage by visiting the following museums and historical places:

  • Cape Charles Museum and Welcome Center
  • Barrier Islands Center
  • Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
  • Northampton County Court Green

Natural Attractions of Cape Charles: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Cape Charles boasts of several natural attractions and breathtaking scenic views that visitors can explore. These include:

  • Kiptopeke State Park
  • Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge
  • Cape Charles Beach
  • Sunset Beach
  • Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cape Charles

For hiking and biking enthusiasts, Cape Charles offers plenty of routes to explore. These include:

  • The Virginia Capital Trail
  • The Colonial National Historical Park
  • The American Discovery Trail
  • The Virginia Beach Boardwalk

Best Things to Do in Cape Charles: Activities and Tours

Visitors to Cape Charles can undertake various activities, such as:

  • Historic home tours
  • Dolphin watching tours
  • Winery and vineyard tours
  • Kayaking and canoeing tours
  • Golfing

Week-Long Itinerary for Cape Charles

Day 1: Visit Kiptopeke State Park and explore its trails and picnic areas.

Day 2: Take a dolphin watching tour and enjoy the scenic views of the Chesapeake Bay.

Day 3: Visit the Cape Charles Museum and Welcome Center and learn about the town’s cultural history.

Day 4: Explore the Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge and its hiking trails.

Day 5: Take a historic home tour and visit the Northampton County Court Green.

Day 6: Go wine tasting and explore the local vineyards and wineries.

Day 7: Spend a relaxing day at Cape Charles Beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Cape Charles

Must-Try Dishes

Cape Charles offers a diverse range of culinary treats that visitors must try, including:

  • Crab cakes
  • Fried oyster sandwiches
  • Seafood chowder
  • Bay scallops
  • She Crab Soup

Local Beverages

Visitors can also sample the following local beverages:

  • Chatham Winery
  • Cape Charles Brewing Company
  • The Oyster Farm Seafood Eatery

Where to Stay in Cape Charles: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Visitors to Cape Charles can choose from a variety of accommodation options to suit their budget and preferences, including:

  • Hotel Cape Charles
  • The Baywood Bed and Breakfast
  • Shore Stay Suites

What to Buy in Cape Charles: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Cape Charles can bring home some unique souvenirs or local products, such as:

  • Chesapeake Bay oysters
  • Handmade pottery from local artisans
  • Taffy and other sweet treats from Brown Dog Ice Cream
  • Wine from Chatham Vineyards

Local Culture and Customs of Cape Charles

Cape Charles has a rich and diverse cultural history, with a mix of Native American, African American, and European influences. Visitors should be respectful of the town’s culture and customs, including its seafood-centric cuisine and historical significance.

Best Time to Visit Cape Charles

The best time to visit Cape Charles is during the summer months (June-September), when the weather is warm and the town is bustling with activities and events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cape Charles

Do:

  • Explore the town’s beaches, parks, and wildlife refuges.
  • Sample the seafood and local beverages.
  • Learn about the town’s cultural history and significance.

Don’t:

  • Engage in littering or disrespect the town’s natural environment.
  • Take items such as seashells from protected areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cape Charles

Cape Charles is generally a safe town, but visitors should take the usual precautions, such as keeping an eye on their belongings, not walking alone at night, and avoiding unlit areas.

Health in Cape Charles

Visitors should bring their required medication as there is no healthcare facility at Cape Charles. The nearest hospital is 30 minutes away in Cheriton.

Getting to Cape Charles: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can reach Cape Charles by:

Airports Near Cape Charles

The nearest airport to Cape Charles is the Norfolk International Airport, located 50 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Cape Charles

Greyhound Lines operate a bus service to Norfolk, which is an hour’s drive from Cape Charles.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car and drive through US Route 13 (also known as the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel) ending at Virginia Beach.

How to Get Around in Cape Charles

Visitors can get around Cape Charles by:

  • Walking
  • Biking
  • Driving

Where to Go Next from Cape Charles: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Cape Charles, visitors can explore other nearby destinations, such as:

  • Williamsburg Colonial Historical Park
  • Virginia Beach

Conclusion

Cape Charles is an ideal destination for visitors looking for a beach vacation that combines history and outdoor recreation. With its scenic beauty, rich cultural history, and diverse range of activities, Cape Charles is a must-visit travel destination in the United States.