Although the state of Maryland may be most known for its capital city of Annapolis, the busy metropolis of Baltimore or its proximity to Washington, D.C., the “Free State” is also home to numerous beautiful islands along its East Coast that provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing summer getaway. Plus, with interesting attractions like sightseeing tours, boating, shopping and even wild ponies, there is plenty to do on these islands, without all the hustle and bustle of a commercial beach destination.
Assateague Island - Berlin, MD
Assateague Island National Seashore is a protected area that’s owned by the National Park Service, which means you won’t find any long strips of hotels and billboards here. Just miles of sandy beaches, marshlands and sweeping sand dunes. It’s the ultimate getaway spot for relaxing on the sand, taking walks along the water, collecting seashells and maybe even catching a glimpse of the island’s wild ponies. There are also ample opportunities for getting out on the water, whether it’s by boat cruise, a kayak tour or going surfing. You can also camp right on the island in a tent, an RV or if you’re feeling really adventurous, at a backcountry camping site. Just don’t forget to bring plenty of sunscreen and bug spray!
Kent Island - Kent Island, MD
Although Kent Island is actually the largest island in the Chesapeake Bay, you might miss it if you’re not looking for it. Located right at the base of the massive Chesapeake Bay Bridge, it’s often a passing-through point for travelers who are on their way to the beach destinations of Ocean City or Rehoboth Beach. However, the area has enough attractions on its own to make it a great destination for a vacation or just a weekend getaway. First, there are the numerous restaurants offering fresh Chesapeake Bay seafood. Plus, you’ll find several beaches, an outlet mall, nature trails, a farmer’s market, a nature park and the Chesapeake Exploration Center, where you can learn all about the Bay area.
Solomons Island - Solomons, MD
Located at the intersection of the Chesapeake Bay and the Patuxent River, Solomons Island is a picturesque little town, as well as a major boating center. From the moment you cross onto the island via the Governor Thomas Johnson bridge, you’ll find beautiful scenery everywhere you look, including the most popular photo spot in the area – the Drum Point Lighthouse at the Calvert Marine Museum. Along the island’s riverfront boardwalk, you’ll find a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as the Chesapeake Bay Biological Lab, which includes a visitors center with exhibits about the bay and an oyster reef aquarium.
Smith Island - Ewell, MD
Smith Island has been referred to as the Chesapeake Bay’s best kept secret because of its beautiful landscape and variety of things to do. As the main hub of the soft shell crab industry, there are plenty of opportunities for both going crabbing yourself and enjoying crab at any of the area’s delicious seafood restaurants. You can also learn about the industry and the history of the area at the Smith Island Heritage Center, and pick up some fresh crabmeat at the Smith Island Crab Co-Op. There are also several companies on the island that offer fishing adventures and sightseeing tours. If you prefer to see the area by paddleboat, make sure to pick up the official paddling guide at one of the island shops or download it online.
Tilghman Island - Tilghman Island, MD
Also located just a short drive from Washington D.C., the relaxing area of Tilghman Island is an authentic waterman’s village, with a slow pace and laid-back charm. Of course, the biggest draw of the area is the water, so take advantage of the many ways to enjoy it by taking a sunset cruise, chartering a fishing boat or going on a waterway boat tour. Stop by the Tilghman Island Watermen’s Museum to learn the history of one of the richest fisheries in the country and then finish off your day with a delicious meal at one of the island’s restaurants, like the Marker 5 Restaurant and Tiki Bar, where you can get classic Bay dishes like Maryland crab soup and crab cakes.
St. Clement's Island - Colton's Point, MD
Although St. Clement’s Island is a uninhabited island, you can visit the St. Clement’s Island State Park, a publicly-owned recreational area that covers the majority of the island. The park preserves and commemorates the site of the landing of Maryland’s first colonists in 1634. In addition to the commemorative plaque, there’s also a 40-foot tall stone cross that celebrates the freedom of religion in the United States, as well as the historic Blakistone Island Light – a Civil War lighthouse that dates back to 1851. You can also learn more about the area’s history at the nearby St. Clement’s Island Museum.
