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Eastern Shore

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Back to Nature

Uncommon beauty abounds year round on Virginia’s Eastern Shore’s 70 mile long pastoral peninsula providing endless opportunities to recreate and relax. Be it biking, hiking, kayaking, boating or sharing Shore traditions with hunting and fishing guides.

In summer, life’s a beach or boat whether on the broad waters of the Chesapeake Bay or along the Atlantic surf.

Autumn is when marshes turn to golden seas and tranquil water trails are a kayaker's dream, as waves of songbirds head south along this globally significant migratory flyway.

Trumpeting geese herald the winter dawn and wildfowl fill creeks with angelic wings. Come spring lilac-hued wisteria warm the woodland’s edge, perfect for biking with the fresh scent of turned earth as tractors gently waken the fields.

Only on the Eastern Shore of Virginia can one discover the largest remaining stretch of natural coastline on the entire Eastern Seaboard. A slender chain of 18 pristine seaside barrier islands comprises a world-class ecosystem, the vast majority of which are owned and protected by The Nature Conservancy. Guided barrier island tours safely take you to this private water meets sky world to discover wildlife, fascinating local lore, clamming, bird watching, dining alfresco and overnight stays in old oyster watch houses (* For watch house stays call 1-877- 22-KAYAK). Whether bayside or seaside try kayaking, small boat tours, perhaps a sunset schooner cruise.

Or "Go Fish"! With 30 public boat ramps the Eastern Shore is an angler’s paradise. Also fishing piers can be found at Kiptopeke State Park, Cape Charles and Chincoteague.

With more than 128,000 acres of woodland, 143,000 acres of tidal marsh and 263 square miles of water, the Eastern Shore is idyllically ideal for getting back to nature.
So get out – and enjoy!

Chesapeake Bay Bridge-tunnel: An automatic calm sets in when taking this southern gateway to the Eastern Shore from Virginia Beach, traversing 17.6 miles of spectacular ocean and bay views, ships and sailboats, pelicans above and dolphins below. Stellar bird watching from the manmade islands is allowed by permit. (757) 331-2960 www.cbbt.com The Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge: Located just minutes north of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-tunnel on the seaside southern tip the 752-acres of maritime forests, thickets, grasslands, fresh and saltwater ponds provide crucial habitat and stopover for wildlife. Visitors can witness the annual drama of the huge fall migration of songbirds, raptors and even monarch butterflies who funnel through here on their way south. Walking trails, a breathtaking view of the seaside barrier island chain from atop a WWII bunker and a compact visitors center filled with compelling exhibits make this a year round must see. (757) 331-2760 www.fws.gov/northeast/easternshore/. Kiptopeke State Park: Three miles north it provides recreational access to the Chesapeake Bay including half a mile of beach where calm, shallow waters are perfect for small children. Boat launch, fishing pier, picnic and camping facilities combine with walking/biking trails allowing exploration of scenic maritime forests and dunes. Chosen Top 100 Family Campgrounds 2005, and Top 15 Birding Location 2005 - Family Campground Magazine.
(757) 331-2267 www.dcr.state.va.us/parks/kiptopek.htm.

Virginia Coast Reserve: Brownsville Farm headquarters of The Nature Conservancy’s 40,000 acre Virginia Coast Reserve is located on Seaside Road outside of Nassawadox. It hosts a 3-mile nature trail through woodlands, aside farm fields, across wetlands and salt marshes. (757) 442-3049

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge: Located on the northern end of the Eastern Shore on Assateague Island its the “one-stop shopping” of outdoor recreation from wild pony watching, ocean swimming, beach walking on 10 miles of pristine beach, kayaking, biking, bird watching, fishing, hunting even a chance to hike the light –and get a bird’s eye view from atop the 145 ft tall 1867 Assateague Lighthouse. No pets. (757) 336-6122 www.fws.gov/northeast/chinco/introduction.htm.