Chesapeake Bay

Virginia's Chesapeake Bay region features George Washington's birthplace, the estate of Confederate General Robert E. Lee, Stratford Hall, as well as the lands of the Pamunkey and Mattaponi Native Americans. See rural and waterfront cottages, quaint villages and expansive farmlands all along the Bay.

Ways to enjoy the Chesapeake Bay and all it has to offer include Westmoreland State Park with its beach, Caledon State Park with its trails to the Potomac River, and charter boats, which show off the charm of this region.

Westmoreland State Park is on the Potomac River's Northern Neck, this park offers many opportunities for family fun. It's listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has a camp store and power-boat ramp. You'll also find a visitor center, boat rentals, fishing pier and 6 miles of trails. Fossil collectors enjoy hunting for ancient shark teeth along the Potomac. Offshore breakwaters are great for fishing. Birding enthusiasts find the park an excellent site for spotting American bald eagles, ospreys, kingfishers, great blue herons, common terns, green herons and gulls, as well as wintering waterfowl.

Caledon State Park is known for its old growth forest and summer home to one of the largest concentrations of American bald eagles on the East Coast, Caledon attracts bird watchers of all ages. Tours of the eagle habitat are offered seasonally. Forest trails are open year-round.

Cruise across the Chesapeake Bay from historic Reedville at the tip of Virginia's Northern Neck to quaint Smith Island, only 13 miles away, yet a world apart. You'll see the crabbers on the rivers and the Bay, and the fascinating soft shell crab "farms" as you come into Smith Island. Visit the village of Ewell where you can take the walking tour, enjoy a fresh seafood lunch and visit local gift shops.

Many of Virginia's most prestigious vineyards are located here in the Northern Neck. Also visit Westmoreland Berry Farm & Orchard, famous for their jams, jellies and climbing goats.

You'll love the Vacation Home Rentals in this region. Escape the ordinary by spending your vacation in the Chesapeake Bay region of Virginia. You'll go home refreshed, full of seafood and country charm.