I know it might seem odd to publish a beach-focused travel guide after summer, but so many people have asked Sherry and me what to do in Cape Charles that we wanted one clear, up-to-date place to answer everything. If you’re planning a visit to this quiet coastal town on Virginia’s Eastern Shore—or just curious why we renovated two vacation homes here—this guide covers beaches, dining, lodging, activities, and tips for enjoying sunsets on the Chesapeake Bay.
If you’re looking for our Airbnb, it’s the Doublemint Duplex—links to the left side and the right side are available from our listing pages.
Cape Charles was recently named one of Coastal Living’s #3 Happiest Seaside Towns, and it’s easy to see why. It’s small, walkable, historic, and full of charm. Below you’ll find our favorite family-friendly activities, restaurants we return to again and again, and reasons Cape Charles is a great place to relax and watch unforgettable sunsets.
Where Is Cape Charles?
Cape Charles sits near the southern tip of Virginia’s Eastern Shore on the Chesapeake Bay. The historic district is compact—roughly six blocks by six blocks—and its west-facing shoreline means you can watch sunsets over calm bay water right from the beach. It’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Richmond, includes the scenic Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, and is roughly 45 minutes from Norfolk International Airport. If you’re coming from Washington, D.C., allow about four hours for the drive.
The town has been quietly revitalizing over the past decade: historic homes are being restored and new shops and restaurants are opening, yet it retains a relaxed, low-key vibe that many visitors prefer to more commercial beach towns.
The Beach
The beach is what sold us on Cape Charles. It’s calm, shallow, and family-friendly since the water belongs to the Chesapeake Bay rather than the Atlantic Ocean. At high tide the water is waist-deep for several dozen yards; at low tide you can sit with your chair in the water to keep cool. Kids can play for hours with far less risk from big waves or strong riptides.
Families often find hermit crabs and other shoreline life at low tide, and the quiet water makes it ideal for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, jet skiing, or boating. There are local outfitters and rental places if you don’t bring your own gear.
One of the beach’s best perks is free, plentiful parking along Bay Avenue and easy access to public restrooms and outdoor showers near the big “LOVE” sign at Mason & Bay. In summer you’ll often find food trucks and treats nearby, so it’s easy to spend a whole day here without fuss.
Where To Stay
Cape Charles offers a range of lodging: vacation rentals, charming bed & breakfasts, hotels, and nearby campgrounds. Vacation rentals on platforms like HomeAway and Airbnb are great for week-long stays—just double check that the property is actually inside the historic district if you want to walk to shops, parks, and the beach.
Bed & breakfasts like the Bay Haven Inn, Cape Charles House, and Alyssa House are beautifully restored and rich in historic character. For hotels, Hotel Cape Charles offers a modern, loft-like experience with exposed brick and reclaimed wood, while the Northampton Hotel—newly restored—has a more classic Southern charm, water views, and a welcoming porch for morning coffee.
Kiptopeke State Park and Cherrystone Campground offer waterfront camping, cabins, and even a yurt for a more outdoorsy stay, while nearby motels and budget hotels provide simpler options if you just need a place to sleep.
Where To Eat
Dining in Cape Charles is relaxed and local. Mason Avenue is the town’s main street for shops and eateries, but a short drive or walk can get you to some of the best spots. Shanty Seafood is a local favorite—casual, on the water, with fresh fish, oysters, and kid-friendly options. Arrive early or add your name to the list and enjoy the marina while you wait.
Deadrise Pies, run by the same team, is our go-to for pizza and carryout—the perfect beach picnic at sunset. Cape Charles Brewing Company has great outdoor seating, family-friendly fare, and lawn games, while Kelly’s Gingernut Pub is another solid choice for casual meals. For nicer date-night dining, The Oyster Farm and Hook-U-Up are frequently recommended by locals.
Breakfast favorites include Cape Charles Coffee House and the Northampton Hotel cafe, and Rayfield’s soda fountain offers classic, casual fare. For quick lunches, Gourmet Alley and Tim’s Place are dependable choices. The town continues to add bakeries and small vendors, so options improve every season.
Where To Treat Yourself
Dessert is a highlight in Cape Charles. Brown Dog Ice Cream serves inventive flavors and was recognized among TripAdvisor’s best ice creams—expect creative combinations and milkshakes, malts, and floats. Peach Beach Shave Ice offers finely shaved Hawaiian-style treats during the warm months, while CC Kool Eatz and the new Cape Charles Candy Co. provide inexpensive, family-friendly options for sweet treats.
If adult beverages are your thing, Cape Charles now has a brewing company, a distillery, and a cidery—each offering a relaxed, craft-focused atmosphere. Cape Charles Brewing Company serves food alongside its beers; Buskey Cider on the Bay provides outdoor games and patio seating; and Cape Charles Distillery leans toward spirits and tastings. For wine, Chatham Vineyards is a short drive away and even offers kayak-and-wine experiences for a unique outing.
What Else To Do
Beyond the beach and food, Cape Charles is about exploring at an easy pace. Mason Avenue is lined with independent shops selling decor, art, vintage furniture, and gifts. Central Park, in the heart of the historic district, hosts summer concerts in the gazebo and provides playgrounds, walking paths, and open lawn space for families.
For nature and light hiking, visit the Cape Charles Natural Area Preserve with its shaded boardwalks, or take the five-mile Southern Tip Hike & Bike Trail. Kiptopeke State Park and the Barrier Islands Center offer additional outdoor education and walking trails. Day trips to Chincoteague Island to see wild ponies make a memorable excursion if you have time.
The area also supports fishing, crabbing, boating, and golfing; there’s a free fishing pier in town and two signature courses nearby for golfers seeking a round between beach time.
When To Visit
Summer is peak season—warmer weather, full menus, and more events—but Cape Charles is enjoyable in spring, fall, and during the holidays. We’ve had beach days as early as April and as late as November. Off-season events like garden tours, fall festivals, and holiday main street celebrations add charm, though some businesses reduce hours in winter, so call ahead if you have your heart set on a particular restaurant or shop.
Cape Charles keeps evolving—new bakeries, boutiques, and small businesses pop up regularly. If you visit, plan for relaxed days on the beach, sunset dinners, and time to stroll the historic streets. And if you see us while you’re here, please say hello and share your favorite discoveries—we’re always learning about new local gems.