Getaway Guide: Hidden Gems Of The Eastern Shore
What To Do:
Betterton Beach
Chestertown, Md. 21620
(410) 778-0416
kentcounty.com
There are two public beaches in Kent County, and Betterton is the larger of the two, at five acres. It's located right near the mouth of the Sassafras River where freshwater meets the Chesapeake Bay. Enjoy 400 feet of swimming area and 700 feet of shoreline access. In addition to the sand and surf, this beach features a large boardwalk, picnic pavilion and a fishing jetty.
Adrenaline High
107 Morris Mill Road
Salisbury, Md. 21804
(410) 749-2886
adrenalinehigh.com
To add an element of adventure to your vacation, Adrenaline High is a must. This tour company offers biking and kayaking tours all over the Eastern Shore. Adrenaline High provides the equipment and advice to help you go on a short trail bike ride, all day road ride or a multi-day kayak fishing trip. Its guided trips fill up fast, so be sure to check out the site and book ahead of time if you're planning on spending time paddling through the Eastern Shore.
Lodging:
Inn at Perry Cabin
308 Watkins Lane
St. Michaels, Md. 21663
(866) 259-9476 (410) 745-3286
perrycabin.com
Price: from $485
Stay at this exquisite setting, and you'll immediately feel the luxury and relaxation possibilities. Enjoy the spa amenities or a lovely gourmet meal at Sherwood Landing Restaurant for waterfront dining any traveler will love. This inn gives you the feel of staying at a five-star resort while being nestled at a manor on the seaside. The inn features a swimming pool, multiple spa options and docking so you can even bring your boat. It provides complimentary bicycles for an afternoon ride along the shore as well.
Ship Watch Inn
401 1st St.
Chesapeake City, Md. 21915
(410) 885-5300
martuscelliandsons.com
Click here for rooms and rates
Located just off the C&D canal, this bed and breakfast has all the charm of the south. It also provides all of the amenities of a modern hotel in a quaint 1920s building. Every room comes with a view of the waterfront and a private dock out to the water. The inn offers discounts during the off season and fine dining at The Chesapeake Inn Restaurant and Marina.
Lodgecliffe on the Choptank
103 Choptank Terrace
Cambridge, Md. 21613
(866) 273-3830
lodgecliffeonthechoptankbandb.com
Click here for pricing and availability
Perched on a bluff overlooking the Choptank River, this bed and breakfast is a gorgeous place to stay for a romantic getaway, setting the stage for the James Michener book "Chesapeake." Every room features a private deck and view of the water, providing perfect views of the sun setting over the shore. It offers a few romantic packages for couples and even hosts weddings, so when you fall in love with it, the joys never stop.
Dining:
Town Dock
125 Mulberry St
St. Michaels, Md. 21663
(410) 745-5577
towndockrestaurant.com
Offering a wide variety of seasonal and seafood dishes as well as a stunning view of the shore, Town Dock is the ideal restaurant for a nice dinner. Hang around after dinner and check out the upstairs lounge, which features a jukebox, games, drinks and live music. The restaurant offers a daily happy hour as well as half-off burgers on Mondays.
Harbor Shack Waterfront Bar & Grill
20895 Bayside Ave.
Rock Hall, Md. 21661
(410) 639-9996
harborshack.net
Harbor Shack Waterfront Bar & Grill is a great place to enjoy Maryland steamed crabs out on the deck with family, friends or your special someone. The Harbor Shack provides a laid-back atmosphere and delicious seafood. Stop by on a weekend night and enjoy a live band or DJ. Besides the usual crabs and fish and chips, The Harbor Shack also offers a few beef and Mexican dishes, making it perfect for picky families.
The Tap Room Crabhouse
201 Bohemia Ave.
Chesapeake City, Md. 21915
(410) 885-2344
taproomcrabhouse.com
You can't come to the Maryland shore without enjoying a feast of crabs, and The Tap Room offers some of the best crab dishes in town. If you aren't a seafood fan, or have had your fill during your Chesapeake stay, it also offers a variety of sandwiches and Italian dishes, making The Tap Room a good place for a quick sandwich lunch or a crabby, butter-filled dinner.
Bistro Poplar
535 Poplar St.
Cambridge, Md. 21613
(410) 228-4884
bistropoplar.com
If you're looking for a romantic dinner for two or an upscale meal to finish off your stay, The Bistro Poplar should be your first choice. Located in the historic Hopkins Building, The Bistro serves up delicious, gourmet French food every day. One of the pricier eateries in town, the atmosphere and unforgettable food here is worth the price tag.
Gretta DeMennato is a freelance writer from Bel Air, Md. She is a certified teacher who likes to cover educational related topics. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
