Need a relaxed, beachy getaway with Victorian charm? Head to Cape Charles! Located on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, this bayside town blends history, small-town vibes, and beautiful sunsets over the Chesapeake Bay. Whether you're strolling along sandy shores or exploring art galleries, Cape Charles offers a peaceful retreat with character.
Cape Charles, VA Highlights:
- Relax on Cape Charles Beach: Calm, family-friendly waters perfect for swimming, shelling, or sunbathing.
- Stroll the Historic District: Admire Victorian homes, browse charming boutiques, and enjoy ice cream downtown.
- Visit Cape Charles Natural Area Preserve: Hike boardwalk trails through rare maritime forests and spot native wildlife.
- Tour the Cape Charles Museum: Dive into the history of this once-bustling railroad and ferry town.
- Catch a sunset at the Cape Charles Fishing Pier: A local favorite for fishing, crabbing, and unbeatable evening views.
Best Time to Visit Cape Charles, VA
The best time to visit Cape Charles is from late spring through early fall (May to September), when warm weather makes it ideal for beach days, boating, and enjoying local festivals. Late summer brings especially stunning sunsets and fewer crowds.
How to Get to Cape Charles, VA
- If you are traveling by car: Located off U.S. Route 13 on the Eastern Shore, Cape Charles is about 45 minutes north of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel and 90 minutes from Virginia Beach.
- By Bus: Limited regional bus service is available; most visitors arrive by car.
- By Train: The nearest Amtrak station is in Newport News; from there, rent a car to reach the shore.
Where to Stay in Cape Charles, VA
- Hotel Cape Charles – Chic, modern boutique hotel right on Mason Avenue in the heart of town.
- Bay Haven Inn of Cape Charles – Cozy bed-and-breakfast with wraparound porch and Southern hospitality.
- Shore Stay Suites – Spacious suite-style accommodations just minutes from the beach and golf courses.
Best Things to Do in Cape Charles, VA
1. Drive through the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, an engineering marvel
The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel allows vehicles to cross under or over the water between Southeastern Virginia and the Delmarva Peninsula. It also connects drivers to Maryland, Delaware, North Carolina, and D.C. After the Bridge-Tunnel opened in 1964, and received recognition as an “Engineering Wonder of the Modern World.” And ever since then, it’s received worldwide attention and notoriety for its modern engineering. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel was funded solely from private investments, no state or federal money was contributed towards the project. In total, the Bridge-Tunnel measures 21 miles long, when including the tunnels, trestles, bridges, causeways and man-made islands.
Address: 32386 Lankford Hwy, Cape Charles, VA 23310, Phone: 757-331-2960
2. Go bid watching in Kiptopeke State Park
Kiptopeke State Park is a state park that was used as the northern terminal for the Little Creek-Cape Charles Ferry service from 1949 to 1964. When the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel opened in 1964, the ferry service was no longer needed and this area became the Kiptopeke State Park. The park offers many recreational activities, including Yurts for rent, which are half tent, half cabin. Also, visitors can access the Chesapeake Bay shoreline and beaches to relax or explore migratory bird habitats. Finally, there are large cabins, RV and trailer spaces, tent camping, and fishing available for recreational fun.
Address: 3540 Kiptopeke Dr, Cape Charles, VA 23310, Phone: 757-331-2267
3. Observe wildlife in the Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge
The National Wildlife Refuge in Cape Charles is a 1200-acre refuge that offers viewing access to many plant and animal species. Some of the landscapes include grasslands, salt marshes, loblolly pine forests, barrier islands, and freshwater ponds. Additionally, the refuge is home to around 300 bird species and over 80,000 raptors, similar to falcons, migrate here each fall. Visitors of the refuge can visit the Sunset Beach Resort that has a private beach and features a vista, meant for watching the sunset. Kayaks are a great way to explore wildlife in the area and can be rented near the resort.
Address: Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge, 32205 Seaside Rd, Cape Charles, VA 23310, Phone: 757-331-3425
4. Learn about local history at Cape Charles Museum and Welcome Center
The Cape Charles Museum and Welcome Center is a not-for-profit that opened in 1996. It preserves and educates the public about the history of Cape Charles, the Eastern Shore and surrounding areas. Part of the museum’s mission is to build awareness of the cultural diversity of this town. Even more, they continue to protect and conserve historical artifacts, structures, and the oral history for future generations. Another part of the museums role in the community is to collect, organize, documents and archive historical materials. The Board Members host monthly board meetings that are open to the public.
Address: 814 Randolph Ave, Cape Charles, VA 23310, Phone: 757-331-1008
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
5. Taste unique brews at Cape Charles Brewing
Cape Charles Brewing Company is family owned and operated. Brothers, Mark and Chris Marshall, started the business with the help and support of their mother, Deborah Marshall. Because of their passion for home-brewing beer and fishing, it was only natural to open a brewery that serves fresh seafood. Daily, the family members can be found working in the restaurant or working behind the scenes. There are over 15 beers on tap that were barrel produced on site. Beers change regularly to keep up with the seasons and varying taste buds of customers. Their flagship brand, Barrier Islands, is on tap and also sold at local retail stores.
Address: 2198 Stone Rd, Cape Charles, VA 23310, Phone: 757-695-3909
Where to Eat in Cape Charles, VA
- The Shanty – Casual waterfront dining with fresh seafood and unbeatable views of the harbor.
- Hook @ Harvey – Farm-to-table fare, cocktails, and elegant ambiance in a beautifully restored building.
- Brown Dog Ice Cream – Handmade ice cream with creative flavors and a loyal local following.
If you are interested in local events:
- Fourth of July Festivities – Fireworks, live music, and parades bring Cape Charles to life each summer.
- Love Run & Block Party (April) – A fun community event with a 5K and after-race festivities downtown.
- Harbor for the Arts Summer Festival (July–August) – Free weekly concerts and performances across town.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Cape Charles, Virginia:
- Kiptopeke State Park (10–15 min) – Hike trails, kayak, or view WWII-era concrete ships along the shore.
- Eyre Hall Gardens (20 min) – Tour a National Historic Landmark plantation with 18th-century gardens.
- Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge (15–20 min) – Walk trails and watch migratory birds in a protected coastal habitat.
- Chatham Vineyards (25 min) – Sip local wine at a family-run vineyard and winery just north of town.
- Town of Cheriton (10 min) – Explore antique shops and enjoy classic Eastern Shore charm.
- Sunset Beach (15 min) – Watch a beautiful Chesapeake Bay sunset from a quiet, scenic stretch of sand.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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Where is Cape Charles located?
- Cape Charles is a quaint town in Virginia located on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay.
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What historical influence shaped Cape Charles?
- Much of the town is reminiscent of the Victorian period, when the railroad helped this city grow.
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What types of accommodations are available in Cape Charles?
- Unique B&B’s, cottages, boutique hotels, and resorts surround the town, making a trip here a delight.
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What dining and shopping options does Cape Charles offer?
- There’s shopping in the downtown area, restaurants to dine at located on the waterfront, and Irish coffee and Russian tea houses to savor a hot or cold beverage.
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What attractions can visitors explore in Cape Charles?
- Cape Charles has a museum that recounts the town's local history, an Art Deco Theatre, and a mile-long town beach for swimming and soaking up the sun.
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How far is Cape Charles from Baltimore, MD?
- Cape Charles is 4 hours from Baltimore, MD (216.0 miles via US-13 S).
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Pleasant temperatures ideal for beach strolls and exploring historic sites.
Hotel Cape Charles – A charming boutique hotel located in the heart of town.
Explore Cape Charles Beach – Enjoy peaceful walks and stunning sunsets over the Chesapeake Bay.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather perfect for swimming, boating, and local festivals.
Bay Haven Inn Bed & Breakfast – Cozy accommodations with a welcoming atmosphere.
Visit Kiptopeke State Park – Ideal for beach activities, fishing, and birdwatching.
Fall (September-November) – Pleasant temperatures and fewer visitors, ideal for outdoor exploration.
Fig Street Inn – Comfortable historic inn offering southern hospitality.
Enjoy local wineries and farms – Taste regional wines and fresh produce at nearby venues.
Winter (December-February) – Quiet charm, festive atmosphere, perfect for cozy getaways.
The Northampton Hotel – Relaxing accommodations suitable for winter escapes.
Discover Historic Downtown Cape Charles – Browse local boutiques, galleries, and eateries.
Map:
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