Last traditional island community in Maryland, Smith Island is one of the magical places to visit in Maryland. With strong ties with maritime heritage and cultural significance, Smith Island Maryland is a true reflection of resilience, confronting the ecological pressure and environmental challenges. If you are seeking a getaway to step back in time and experience the Chesapeake Bay island fun, Smith Island is a place you will definitely want to visit. Let’s discuss a comprehensive detail of this island, a brief background, and what are the exciting things to do in Smith Island Maryland.
A Brief Background
Built in connection with three small villages, Ewell, Rhodes Point, and Tylerton, Smith Island was first recognized by English Settlers in the 17th century. Known as a hub of fishing and crabbing, it faced many challenges overtime, but the resilient inhabitants are determined to preserve their heritage and culture. Moreover, the island has been announced to be completely demolished by 2100 if the sea level reaches 4 feet or above. Besides, the climate fluctuations and erosion has already caused many threats, but couldn’t convince residents to abandon this place. Today, Smith Island Maryland is standing against all ecological difficulties, maintaining its vibrancy and fortitude. With an experience of going back to generations, the smith islanders are known as the unique ancestry in the United States.
Where is Smith Island Maryland: How to Get There
Situated in the Chesapeake Bay of Somerset County, Maryland, Smith Island shares the Maryland-Virginia border. More precisely, it is approximately 12 miles west to Crisfield or 8.6 miles away from the mainland in the Chesapeake Bay. Furthermore, you can only get there through the boats, as no route for vehicles is available to reach there. The most used and accessible waterway is through Crisfield Maryland, offering boat tours and ferry options. If you plan a one-day trip, you can book a boat tour, managing time efficiently. However, ferries are best if you want to enjoy a long immersive experience without much hustle.
- Those leaving from the Western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, Smith Island Cruise take an off from Point Lookout, Maryland around 10 AM (Thursdays to Saturdays).
- However, if you are seeking a departure from the Eastern Shore, boats and ferries from Crisfield, Maryland start around 12:30 PM (seasonally) from Wednesdays to Sundays.
- In addition, you can also book the boat tour guides to explore all hidden gems in the island and get to know all behind the scenes. For example, Experience Smith Island is one of the premium guided tour agencies, offering you a complete and immersive escape. The captain and the guides will make sure to give the best of the island experience, highlighting all watermen stories and history of the place.
- Moreover, Smith Island Cruises also departs a ferry from Reedville Virginia to Smith Island Maryland. So, if you want to explore the island from Virginia, you can get the details of departure here.
Things to do in Smith Island Maryland
1- Get a tour of Villages
The scenic villages, Ewell, Rhodes Point, and Tylerton offer a glimpse into the rich maritime culture and ancestry lifestyle. Ewell is one of the most beloved and a large village in the island, connected via bridge to Rhodes Point. On the other hand, Tylerton is a separate town with great seafood history. There are multiple things to do in these villages, connecting with the locals and relishing the great hospitality. rent cycles, bikes, and golf carts to discover the surrounding beauty of these towns. Furthermore, the quiet and serene atmosphere with shops, restaurants, and waterfront views makes your trip memorable, urging you to visit there again.
2- Go for Birding and Fishing
With a diverse species of marshland breeding birds, Smith Island Maryland offers a great place for birdwatching. To boot, you can also go for pelican tours for an ultimate birds watching experience, allowing visitors to enjoy an all-day birds guide. From Common Yellowthroat to Virginia Rail, Red-winged Blackbird, Marsh Wren, Brown Pelican, and many more, bird enthusiasts can witness these fascinating birds in their habitats. You can book a tour for a thrilling birdwatching adventure with Delmarva Birding.
On the other hand, a renowned hub for fishing, Smith Island features diverse fishing adventures, from kayak fishing to shoreline fishing. Moreover, fishing enthusiasts can also join the annual Fishing Tournament in Smith Island Maryland happening in spring. If you plan a visit in spring, attending this fun-filled event is one of the best things to do in Smith Island Maryland.
3- Explore Smith Island Culture Center
Preserving and celebrating the maritime heritage of the island, Smith Island Culture Center is another top-attraction to see in Ewell. In addition, exhibits show traditional watercrafts, photographs, documentary films, and family stories captivates the visitors, allowing them to discover the colonial past of the island.
4- Visit Jack & Pickles Playhouse
Offering an exciting lineup of activities, Jack & Pickles is the only videogame arcade and nightlife spot in Smith Island Maryland. Kids will have a blast playing different arcade games and feeding goats and chickens there. Moreover, Jack & Pickles offers rentals for children wagons, kayaks, and bikes to explore the surrounding area. You can enjoy the mesmerizing sunset and induce in vibrant nightlife fun games.
5- Explore Martin National Wildlife Refuge
The coastal area covering more than 4,500 acres, exploring the Martin National Wildlife Refuge is one of the best things to do in Smith Island Maryland. Different species, including the migratory birds and native birds reside in this place, making large nesting and feeding habitats there.
Best Places to Eat at Smith Island Maryland
Smith Island is known for introducing the state dessert of Maryland, Smith Island Cake, you can’t miss the chance to taste this detectable dish here. Besides, it also features many seafood dishes and famous places to sit and try the seafood cuisine. For example, you can have the most savory seafood at Bayside Inn at Ewell and enjoy the Smith Island Cake at Smith Island Bakery. The soft crabs, waterfront views, and friendly staff makes your visit an unforgettable experience.
Best Places to Stay at Smith Island Maryland
For enjoying the true island lifestyle, Island Time B&B is one of the premium destinations and best places to stay at Smith Island Maryland. This bed and breakfast point allows luxury accommodation, flavorful food, and exceptional services. Moreover, Smith Island Inn also offers great lodging with rental rooms and cottages. Those seeking a fun and upscale experience to relax and rejuvenate in a serene atmosphere, this is one the best escapes in Maryland.
Read about a comprehensive guide to Plumpton Park Zoo Maryland here.