Need a peaceful Chesapeake Bay getaway with waterfront views and small-town charm? Head to Stevensville, MD! Located on Kent Island, just across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge from Annapolis, Stevensville is a hidden gem full of maritime history, seafood shacks, and scenic sunsets. Whether you’re paddling the bay or relaxing on a dock, Stevensville offers a quiet escape with coastal flair.

Stevensville, MD Highlights:

  • Explore Historic Stevensville: Stroll through one of Maryland’s oldest towns with 19th-century buildings, shops, and galleries.
  • Walk the Cross Island Trail: Enjoy a scenic hike or bike ride across Kent Island, passing through woods, creeks, and marinas.
  • Fish or boat from Matapeake Pier: Cast a line or launch your kayak into the Chesapeake from this popular shoreline park.
  • Relax at Terrapin Nature Park: Walk boardwalks through wetlands with stunning views of the Bay Bridge and wildlife.
  • Dine with a view at Kentmorr Marina: Enjoy crab cakes and drinks on the beach at this beloved waterfront restaurant and tiki bar.

Best Time to Visit Stevensville, MD

The best time to visit Stevensville is in late spring through early fall (May–October). Warm weather is perfect for boating, beach lounging, and outdoor dining. Summer is lively with waterfront events, while fall brings crisp air and fewer crowds.

How to Get to Stevensville, MD

  • If you are traveling by car: Stevensville is just off US-50/301, immediately after crossing the Chesapeake Bay Bridge from Annapolis (about 20 minutes).
  • By Air: Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) Airport is about 50 minutes away; rental cars are readily available.
  • By Boat: Many marinas on Kent Island offer dock space for boaters traveling the Chesapeake Bay.

Where to Stay in Stevensville, MD

  • The Inn at Chesapeake Bay Beach Club – Upscale waterfront inn with spa, garden courtyards, and gorgeous bay views.
  • Kent Manor Inn – Historic inn surrounded by 220 acres of nature with classic charm and a peaceful setting.
  • Local Rentals – Find cozy Airbnbs and waterfront cottages perfect for romantic escapes or small groups.

Best Things to Do in Stevensville, MD

⮕ Stroll Through Historic Streets and Discover Stevensville’s Charm

Stroll Through Historic Streets and Discover Stevensville’s Charm

© Historic Stevensville

Historic Stevensville, also known as the Stevensville Historic District, is a nationally recognized historic district within the downtown area of this Maryland town. This district of Stevensville, Maryland is made up of around one hundred historic structures, showing what the town looked like during its early day. It can be found along what was formerly a part of Cockey Lane and a section of Love Point Road, but the majority of the Stevensville Historic District is located along East Main Street. Historic Stevensville, as would be expected, is also listed on the country’s National Register of Historic Places.

⮕ Feast on Fresh Maryland Crabs at the Stevensville Crab Shack

Feast on Fresh Maryland Crabs at the Stevensville Crab Shack

© J.NATAYO/stock.adobe.com

Stevensville Crab Shack offers delicious seafood platters, fresh salads, homemade soups, and cabs steamed to order in the Chesapeake Bay town of Stevensville. Owned and operated by Cheri and Bob Wittman, this local seafood restaurant first opened to the community in 1998 and specializes in oysters and Blue Crabs from the Chesapeake Bay, which are delivered every day by some of the best watermen in the area. Located along the “Maryland Crab and Oyster Trail,” the Stevensville Crab Shack has the Bay Bridge as its backdrop and is typically open from 11:00am to 7:00pm, Monday through Saturday.

116 Pier 1 Rd, Stevensville, MD 21666, Phone: 410-604-2722

⮕ If You Love Waterfront Views, Relax and Celebrate at Silver Swan Bayside

If You Love Waterfront Views, Relax and Celebrate at Silver Swan Bayside

© Silver Swan Bayside

Silver Swan Bayside in Stevensville, Maryland is an elegant venue for events situated along the waterfront of the Queen Anne Marina. Offering an ideal backdrop for events along the Eastern Shore of Maryland, the facility is often used for holiday celebrations, corporate parties, and gorgeous weddings. One of the best things about the Silver Swan Bayside is the unmatched views of the scenic and beautiful Chesapeake Bay, which can be enjoyed outdoors from the lawns, patio areas, and lovely gardens or indoors from the elegant dining room. Boasting water access, events here can even include fishing, canoeing, and other water activities.

412 Congressional Dr, Stevensville, MD 21666, Phone: 443-249-0400

Where to Eat in Stevensville, MD

  • Kentmorr Restaurant & Crab House – Fresh crab, Chesapeake classics, and a beach bar with Adirondack chairs and live music.
  • The Narrows Restaurant – Elegant waterfront dining with legendary cream of crab soup and sweeping views of the Kent Narrows.
  • Bridges Restaurant – Contemporary American cuisine and craft cocktails in a relaxing marina setting.
  • Fisherman’s Inn – Longtime favorite for seafood platters, fresh oysters, and local charm near the drawbridge.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Kent Island Day (May) – Celebrate island heritage with a parade, local vendors, and family activities in downtown Stevensville.
  • Bay Bridge Paddle (Spring) – Annual stand-up paddleboard race across the Chesapeake’s iconic span.
  • Chesapeake Storytelling Festival (Fall) – Hear regional tales, music, and folklore from the Eastern Shore and beyond.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Stevensville, Maryland:

  • Annapolis (20–25 min) – Stroll cobblestone streets, tour the Naval Academy, or dine at waterfront taverns.
  • St. Michaels (30 min) – Visit the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum or cruise the harbor in this postcard-perfect harbor town.
  • Tilghman Island (30 min) – Explore working watermen’s culture and fresh seafood shacks on this rustic retreat.
  • Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge (30 min) – A quiet spot for birdwatching, hiking, and marsh views on the Chester River.
  • Queenstown Premium Outlets (10–15 min) – Bargain shopping with top brands in a convenient open-air setting.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Where is Stevensville, Maryland located?
    • The town of Stevensville, Maryland, is located in Queen Anne’s County.
    • It offers a great escape from the city with its charming atmosphere and historical significance.
  • What is the history of Stevensville?
    • Founded as a steamboat terminal in 1850, Stevensville has a rich past.
    • Today, it is a place to explore history, sample local spirits, and enjoy fresh seafood.
  • What makes Stevensville historically significant?
    • Stevensville is one of just two registered historic districts in Queen Anne’s County.
    • The Stevensville Historic District features around one hundred historic buildings dating back to the town’s early days.

Plan Your Trip


In This Article: