Has the frosty air brought the need for an escape? Our 3-day winter getaway to Cape Charles is just the ticket. The beauty of this itinerary is that it’s meant to get your planning juices flowing. Either choose to relax and follow it to a “T” or let it spark additional ideas and fun ways to spend your time away. Build some anticipation by reading through these ideas.
Our itinerary provides many options, beginning with check-in at the Bay Haven Inn of Cape Charles.
Day 1 | Check-in and Explore a Bit
You made it; welcome! Any treats or special packages you booked with us will be ready and waiting — fresh flowers or a bottle of something bubbly. Then you can simply unpack, relax, and take some time to freshen up in your room.
To begin, we’ll offer some recommendations for your dining pleasure. Here are three highlights in the area:
- Hook@Harvey. This bistro has a seasonally changing menu, so the element of surprise makes it even more appetizing. You’ll often find dishes featuring crab, wild game, lamb, or seasonal vegetables. Try to get the amaretto souffle or the espresso ice cream if you can. Reservations are required, and we’d suggest making them early.
- Cape Charles Brewing Company. Here you’ll find a casual eatery with excellent sandwiches and brews. The burgers are always great, but the fish tacos are worth a try. The beer menu is where it’s at — light or dark? Sour or smooth? Or get a flight to try a few.
- Kelly’s Gingernut Pub. You may want to start with dessert first here! All homemade, these treats are perfection. If you must go the traditional route, try the fisherman’s chowder for an appetizer. Shepherd’s pie, Guinness cod sandwich, and or a daily special have all earned their spot on the menu, too.
Once you’ve indulged in a little taste of Cape Charles, tuck in for a cozy night in your room or enjoy one of our cozy fireplaces. A day of fun adventures and memorable moments awaits you tomorrow.
Day 2 | Out and About on Cape Charles
After a delicious breakfast, our itinerary includes ideas for both indoor and outdoor activities. Feel free to linger over a second (or third) cup of Bay Haven Inn of Cape Charles ESCR blend — it’s your getaway. If you cannot fit everything in this time, just add it to your list for your next visit.
In the morning, explore some local shops. We have some fantastic local makers with unique items, bookstores, and more. When you need a pick-me-up, stop by a bakery or coffee bar. Here are some of our favorites.
- The Almeta. Come for brunch or lunch in this little bistro located in a boutique hotel. We must mention a couple of coffee highlights: the campfire (think chocolate and toasted marshmallow) and the cafe Oaxaca (a bit of chocolate and spice).
- The Bakery on Mason. We had to put this on the list – to put it on your radar. Only open on weekends, but the bread alone here is worth the trip. The bakery that boasts of “varieties of sourdough” knows its bread. Focaccia, yeast breads, and raisin bread are just a few begging you to sample.
- Cape Charles Coffee House. Just the building itself is worth seeing. This 1910 building was originally the Cape Charles Bank. There are two floors of beautiful seating areas where you can sip something from the menu.
- Coastal Baking Co. Need a baguette? Cinnamon roll? Maybe it’s time for some lunch with a bowl of gumbo, a tomato pesto Caprese sandwich, or chopped chicken salad. This family-owned and operated bakery has beautiful menu items; make this a highlight on your visit.
In the afternoon, head out for a hike and work up an appetite for dinner. It’s best to dress in layers, pack some water or a thermos with something warm, and pull on some wooly socks layered with sturdy shoes.
- Edward S. Brinkley Nature Preserve. This preserve offers a ¾ mile hike that leads to a short boardwalk through a wooded area. At the end of the boardwalk, you’ll have a gorgeous view of the barrier island. Open daily, dawn to dusk.
- Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge. The visitor center is open only on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am – 4pm.
- Kiptopeke State Park. Over five miles of trails in this 562-acre park means the enjoyment of a nice hike or bike ride. The pier offers great views.
- Magothy Bay Natural Area Preserve. Prepare for a rustic trip, as there are no restrooms here. Two walking trails are open daily. Beautiful scenery includes woodlands and salt marshes.
- Savage Neck Dunes Natural Area Preserve. Beach, dunes, a forest — experience the wonder of winter amidst all the natural beauty. Savage Neck Dunes Natural Area Preserve. Check the website for any closures for hunting.
Here are a few more dinner recommendations. Feel free to pull from yesterday’s options, but these are just as tempting:
- Ambrogia Caffé & Enoteca. This quaint eatery offers authentic Italian cuisine with warm hospitality. It has been said that their smoked chicken ravioli is “to die for.”
- Shanty. Our perfect meal includes the Shoradora cocktail, steamed cherrystone clams appetizer, hushpuppies with honey butter, and a softshell BLT for the main dish. Wait, we can’t forget about the paprika-fried brussels sprouts. What is your perfect meal?
- The Oyster Farm at King’s Creek. The ambiance of this place is so fun, being so close to the marina and pier. Take a break for just a minute from seafood to try its famous chicken pot pie! Then you can get back to the crab soup and items off the raw bar.
Day 3 | Final Stops Before Saying Goodbye
It’s your last day — linger over a delicious breakfast with our exclusive coffee blend — you can even take a package home with you. You may want one last photo of the LOVE sign or souvenir to take home on your way out of town.
- Cape Charles Historic District. Established in 1884, a little tour through the town gives you a sense of the beautiful structures still standing. The late Victorian architecture features some great photo ops.
- Cape Charles Lighthouse. Did you know this structure is the third iteration of the lighthouses around this location? Get a postcard-worthy photo of the lighthouse that has been through quite a lot.
- The Boardwalk. Picking up souvenirs has never been so much fun! This sweet little gift shop covers all the home decor bases. Lovely pieces carry an eastern seaboard theme, and you’ll find everything you need to remember your trip.
So many lovely hours await you on your 3-day winter getaway to Cape Charles. We are here to help you plan the perfect stay; let us know what we can do for you. Each season means new things to discover indoors and out. Can’t wait to see you!
