Finding the LOVE along Virginia's Eastern Shore
Surrounded by water on three sides, Virginia’s Eastern Shore is an outdoor paradise with over 78,000 acres of parks and refuges and one of only 10 U.S. national seashores. Five walkable waterfront towns, with shops, galleries, museums and restaurants, that hug the Atlantic and Chesapeake Bay coastlines. Come and find out what there is to LOVE on the Eastern Shore, as you explore one of the best undiscovered coastal playgrounds in the mid-Atlantic.
Day 1
LOVEwork in Cape Charles
Just across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel sits a charming, bayside gem. Begin your journey in Cape Charles and stop at their public beach (next to the fishing pier) which is home to their LOVEWork. The LOVEwork in Cape Charles reflects the history and community by incorporating materials that represent what Cape Charles is all about. Cape Charles offers shops, restaurants, antiques, golf, sport fishing, and the last remaining rail-barge in the country which regularly crosses the Chesapeake Bay to Norfolk.
Explore the Eastern Shore National Wildlife Refuge, one of the most important avian migration funnels in North America. Take a guided nature tour of scenic marshes, islands and creek via kayak with Southeast Expeditions or play a round of golf at the Jack Niklaus and Arnold Palmer designed courses at Bay Creek Resort Golf Club.
After a day of exploring the Eastern Shore, relax with a wine tasting at Chatham Vineyard or a cold brew at Cape Charles Brewing Co.
Grab a souvenir at Moon Rise Jewelry or take in local aerial artwork at the At Altitude Gallery.
Day 2
Mallard's at the Wharf in Onancock
Onancock is where history meets hospitality. In the tiny town of Onancock, you’ll find shops, galleries, historic buildings and churches, and many dining options. Beyond the town, there are miles and miles of rural farms, beaches and wetlands to explore.
Kayak or paddle the Onancock Creek with Burnham’s Guides Paddling Adventures. (Full and and multi-day adventures including camping, lodging and meals are also available). Take a tour of the grand Federal House, Ker Place or learn about the rich waterman tradition at the Eastern Shore Waterman’s Museum and Research Center in the Historic Onancock School.
Pick up a locally-made gift at Red Queen Gallery and browse the local artwork including jewelry, pottery and more.
Eat
Day 3
LOVEwork in Chincoteague
This little island town in Virginia is world famous for its oyster beds, clam shoals and wandering wild ponies. Adventure awaits you around every corner in Chincoteague where history and legend blend with the wild loveliness of the seasonal shore. This serene fishing village, is seven miles long and one and one-half miles wide. Find the LOVEWork in Chincoteague, this time in the form of giant Adirondack chairs on Chincoteague Island.
Explore secluded areas where wild ponies roam with Assateague Explorer's Pony Express Nature Tour. Splash and slide down waterslides at Maui Jack’s Water Park or relax and take in some sun at Assateague Island National Seashore.
Check out our map of places where you can add more LOVE to your vacation. Be sure to share your pictures on social media by tagging @VisitVirginia using the hashtag #LOVEVA.