
Where to Eat
Abner’s Crab House
Old Bay seasoning perfumes the air at this family-owned waterfront eatery. Grab a table outside so the kids can watch the ducks and boats while you munch on a crab-smothered pretzel or the signature steam pot full of crustaceans. abnerscrabhouse.net
Neptune’s Seafood Pub
Located a few blocks from the beach, this neighborhood corner bar is a solid spot for seaside pub grub like excellent mussels and gooey crab dips. neptunesseafoodpub.com
Traders Seafood Steak & Ale
You’ll love the filling and reasonably priced plates at this diner-style venue known for its breakfast, where an egg, bacon, toast and home fries goes for a delightfully modest $5.29. traders-eagle.com
Westlawn Inn
It’s one of the few white-tablecloth restaurants in the area, where you’ll find upscale versions of down-home dishes such as cream of crab soup and pan-fried catfish. Friday and Saturday nights bring spirited live jazz. westlawninn.com
Where to Swim
Bay Front Park
Situated just south of Chesapeake Beach, this strip of sand, known as prime territory for finding prehistoric shark teeth, is open year-round but only charges a fee ($5-$18) during summer months. chesapeake-beach.md.us/attractions_bayfrontpark.htm
Breezy Point Beach
With beach access, a fishing pier, a playground, grills and a concession stand, this is a great spot for families. Campsites fill up fast, so reserve as early as possible. The fee for beach access ranges from $4-$10, free for children ages 2 and younger. co.cal.md.us/facilities/facility/details/breezy-point-beach-and-campground-15
North Beach
As with all the beaches in this area, bring water shoes since the bay floor can get rocky. It’s also a great idea to arrive with things to float on, plus cash or checks for antiquing later. Beach access fees for out-of-towners run from $9-$17, free for children ages 2 and younger. northbeachmd.org/welcome-center/pages/beach
Where to Learn
Bayside History Museum
Develop a deeper understanding of the region through fossils, old-timey recreation displays and exhibits showing the contributions of the African-American community. baysidehistorymuseum.org
Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum
The historic train station now serves as a small but fun gateway to the past, showcasing the people who used the railway during its years of operation from 1900-1935. chesapeakebeachrailwaymuseum.com
Summer Events
Farmers Market & Classic Car Cruise-In
May 4-Oct. 5
This outstanding market takes place each Friday evening from 6-9 p.m., when you can pick up flowers or handmade soaps to brighten your week, buy something for dinner or just hang out and people-watch. northbeachmd.org/friday-night-farmers-market-classic-car-cruise
Movies on the Beach
These free monthly screenings from May to August start at dusk and project family-friendly flicks on an inflatable screen. northbeachmd.org/special-events/pages/movies-beach
Rina Rapuano is a freelance food and travel writer based in Washington, D.C. She’s on Instagram @rinacucina and Twitter @rinarap.