Cruise the Coast

Discover the beauty and heritage of the Capital Region’s beaches and bays.

DAY 1

Start in Annapolis, Maryland, whose location on the Chesapeake Bay lends itself to the city’s maritime history. After admiring the Maryland State House and colourful houses on Pinkney Street, take a tour of the US Naval Academy.

Cross the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and head south to Cambridge on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, where you can go for a sail aboard the skipjack Nathan of Dorchester. After a seafood dinner in the city centre, tuck in for the night at one of the town’s charming inns.

DAY 2

Make your way to Ocean City, Maryland, which stretches for 10 miles (16 km) along the Atlantic coastline. The wooden boardwalk is a nostalgic focal point, with a vintage carousel and street performers of every kind. Explore sandy shores and catch an unparalleled sunset over the bay side before an evening enjoying the nightlife.

DAY 3

Next up is Virginia Beach, the world’s longest pleasure beach, sitting on the Atlantic Ocean at the mouth of Chesapeake Bay. It too features a boardwalk, dotted with crab shacks and nautical-themed shops. For the adventure-seeker, try surfing, parasailing, or kayaking with dolphins.

DAY 4

You’ll wrap up your journey in Norfolk, Virginia, whose popular Ocean View Beach Park offers one of the best swimming spots in the region along with outdoor concerts, a boardwalk and lots of open green space.