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25 Jul 2025 Local Adventures & Superhost Shawn’s Travels
When you stay at Chesapeake Paradise in Churchton, MD, you’re not just visiting a waterfront vacation rental—you’re stepping into local tradition at your new home away from home. Maryland blue crabs are iconic, and you’ll find some of the Chesapeake Bay’s best right in our backyard. I'm honored every time a guest asks, “Where should we go first?” Well, here’s the answer.
But before you head out—why not make your crab feast right here at Chesapeake Paradise? Imagine spending the afternoon crabbing from our private dock or picking up a bushel from a nearby market, then spreading out the feast on the tables in our beautiful waterfront yard. Crack shells under the open sky, pass around bowls of corn on the cob, sprinkle Old Bay generously, and watch the sun sink over the creek while your family laughs and lingers. It’s as Maryland as it gets—messy hands, happy hearts, and the Chesapeake Bay as your backdrop. And once you’ve experienced that, you’ll appreciate the local crab houses even more.
Crab season spans April–November, with peak months from late May to early October. During this time, steamed blue crabs are plentiful—and go fast. Calling ahead is essential, especially on Fridays through Sundays.
Bring Old Bay, napkins, and patience—crab cracking is a joyful, messy ritual
Dress accordingly: dark clothes are a lifesaver
Order by the dozen and mix in sides like crab soup, hush puppies, or corn
All options listed here are verified local favorites within 5–30 minutes of Chesapeake Paradise.
Skipper’s Pier Restaurant & Dock Bar – Deale, MD
📍 6 min (2.6 mi)
A waterfront staple with stunning Rockhold Creek views, Skipper’s combines fresh steamed crabs with a vibrant, casual vibe—complete with live music on weekends.
Best for: groups, families, and sunset dining
Menu highlights: jumbo steamed crabs, hush puppies, crab dip
Insider tip: The outdoor deck is perfect for catching summer sunsets.
Happy Harbor Restaurant – Deale, MD
📍 5 min (2.3 mi)
This old-school, family-owned spot is renowned for its crab cake quality, crab dip, and classic steamed crab dishes.
Best for: a cozy night out or early evening crab feast
Menu highlights: crab cakes, crab dip, seafood platters
Insider tip: Thursdays are when the dock bar energizes—check their Facebook for events.
Stan and Joe's Riverside – Galesville, MD
📍 15 min (8.6 mi)
A laid-back waterfront restaurant located at the end of a pier in Galesville, Stan and Joe’s Riverside is known for good whole crabs, hearty bar food, and a lively atmosphere.
Best for: casual waterfront dining after a day on the Bay
Menu highlights: whole steamed crabs, burgers, crab dip
Insider tip: Open later than most area restaurants—perfect for an evening out after sunset at Chesapeake Paradise.
Mike’s Bar & Crab House – Riva, MD
📍 25 min (14 mi)
With over 8,000 positive reviews, Mike’s is celebrated for large, meaty crabs, casual waterside seating, and hearty sides like calamari.
Best for: a lively, full-service crab experience
Menu highlights: jumbo steamed crabs, crab dip, oysters
Insider tip: Weeknight visits may offer shorter waits and better service.
Abner’s Crab House
📍 15 min (~9 mi)
One of Chesapeake Beach’s most popular spots for fresh Maryland crabs, so they offer excellent options for carry-out. Order live crabs to steam yourself or have them freshly steamed and ready to enjoy back at Chesapeake Paradise.
Best for: bringing home crabs for a waterfront feast at the property
Menu highlights: live or steamed blue crabs, shrimp, local seafood sides
Insider tip: Call ahead during peak season—they can sell out quickly on weekends.
Feast in: Skipper’s, Happy Harbor, and Mike’s offer classic sit-down meals
Take home: Abner's is best for enjoying crabs on-site away from distractions
Begin with a morning paddle at Chesapeake Paradise
Plan an early crab feast at one of the Deale spots
End the day relaxing by the fire with leftovers or stacked crab dishes
During peak season, timing matters—arrive early to beat the rush
Keep in mind dress code: Old Bay stains require relaxed attire
Ask servers for the day’s freshest batch—they’ll often help you pick sizes and cooking time
Staying at Chesapeake Paradise isn't just about where you sleep—it’s about celebrating where you are. Maryland's rich culinary traditions begin on a table covered in cooking tools and end with satisfied smiles across the deck.
A true crab crawl—complete with waterfront views, hand-picked spots, and laid-back vibes—makes the stay memorable in ways a hotel can’t match.
📍 Just 45-50 minutes from Washington D.C, Baltimore, and 30 minutes south of Annapolis. with no Bay Bridge traffic, Chesapeake Paradise offers:
Waterfront suites, kitchens, and fire pits
Kayaks, hammocks, and creekside pier
Front-row seats to Maryland crab house culture
Gorgeous August days are ahead—and we have some last-minute availability! Check out our accommodations and book here.