Attention all boat lovers (with emphasis on the last word): Valentine’s Day is two weeks out.
Before you hit the panic button, relax! We’ve got a great idea for a romantic boating escape that will sweep your honey off his (or her) feet.
Two words: Cape Charles.
You may have visited Cape Charles in the past: it’s a popular day stop for boaters exploring the Eastern Shore. There’s a protected harbor and marinas that will book slips for overnight guests.
And it’s a perfect destination for a romantic Valentine’s Day weekend jaunt. The quaint town, just a few steps from the waterfront, is full of shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore, up and down Mason St. and the side streets named Peach, Pear and Strawberry. Even in these days of social distancing, it’s a wonderful place to explore and wander. Many of the buildings in the town are on the National Register of Historic Places.
Nearby, you’ll find some beautiful beaches to stroll along, or if you’re more athletically inclined, the two golf courses at the Bay Creek resort are open to the public. The Kiptopeke State Park is a prime spot for birding and the Eastern Shore National Wildlife Refuge offers a 2.6 mile hike and bike trail.
If you make the short run up from Hampton Roads, you can book an overnight slip from the Cape Charles Yacht Center (757-331-3100 or VHF Channel 16), the Cape Charles Town Harbor (757-331-2357 or VHF Channel 6) or the Oyster Farm Marina at King’s Creek (757-331-8640 or VHF Channel 9). You can also make bookings through Dockwa.
For that special V-Day dinner, there’s The Shanty, overlooking the harbor. This American bistro offers a nice menu and drinks on the deck facing west for the nightly sunset show. Hook@Harvey is another popular spot in the town, with an excellent menu and friendly, casual service. The Cape Charles Coffee House is a popular breakfast spot and the Brown Dog Ice Cream is a don’t-miss spot.
If you or your sweetheart prefer, Cape Charles is loaded with romantic inns and B&Bs. Visit the town’s website to get full listings and details.
We think Cape Charles has all the answers this year: It’s not far away, visiting boaters are welcome, and the town is fun to explore. And best of all, it’ll just be the two of you for a romantic few days on the Delmarva Peninsula.
