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25 Jul 2025 Local Adventures & Superhost Shawn’s Travels
If you’re staying at Chesapeake Paradise, chances are you came for peace, beauty, and a break from the busy. And while our property offers plenty to keep you grounded and inspired, sometimes it’s nice to venture just a bit farther—especially when two charming waterfront towns are less than 15 minutes away.
Chesapeake Beach and North Beach, though neighboring each other, each bring something unique to your stay. Whether you're in the mood for boardwalk breezes, boutique shops, outdoor dining, or a quiet nature trail, these two towns offer the perfect side trip. Here’s how they compare, what you’ll find, and why guests love weaving them into their Chesapeake Paradise experience.
Though often grouped together, Chesapeake Beach and North Beach have different personalities—and both are worth exploring during your stay.
Chesapeake Beach is home to Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort, multiple marinas, and some of the area's best bayfront dining. It offers a breezier, more open feel—with more space to roam and a few tucked-away adventures.
If you’re into fishing charters, nature trails, or relaxing by the water, this is your spot. It’s less about shopping and more about soaking up the coast.
North Beach, just to the north of its sister town, has a cozy, small-town vibe with a strong sense of community. Guests love its boardwalk lined with benches and sculptures, weekly farmers market (in season), and colorful mix of boutiques, bakeries, and galleries.
You can easily park once and spend an hour—or a whole afternoon—browsing, sipping, and strolling.
This quiet, scenic stretch along Fishing Creek is perfect for a slow walk, birdwatching, or catching sunset reflections on the water. It’s part nature trail, part waterside path—and always peaceful.
Great for walkers, joggers, and nature lovers, this trail winds along old railroad paths with water views, wildlife sightings, and interpretive signs about the area’s history.
Rod ‘N’ Reel Restaurant – Waterfront views, fresh seafood, and live music
Neptune’s Seafood Pub – Casual and local-loved for crab cakes and cocktails
Beachin Bay Bakery – From fresh-baked pies to warm morning muffins, Beachin Bay Bakery is your go-to for classic treats made with love just steps from the water.
This is the livelier of the two boardwalks, with bayfront benches, grassy picnic areas, and a small sandy beach nearby. It's ideal for families, couples, or anyone who wants to enjoy the breeze with an ice cream in hand.
In spring and summer, the North Beach Farmers Market brings together local vendors, artists, musicians, and food trucks. It’s a must-stop if you’re here on a Friday evening.
Hook & Vine Kitchen and Bar – Southern coastal cuisine in a relaxed, upscale atmosphere
The Wheel House Beer Garden – A seasonal outdoor spot with fire pits, live music, and a great drink selection
The Bakist — A cozy, creative café on Bay Avenue, The Bakist is known for its lavender lattes, scratch-made pastries, and small-town charm with big flavor.
Both towns are just a 12–15 minute drive south from Chesapeake Paradise via MD-261. You can visit one or both in a single afternoon, or split your exploration across multiple days. With such a short drive, they’re perfect for a quick trip after a morning paddle or a lazy brunch.
At Chesapeake Paradise, many guests tell us they’re surprised by how much they enjoy these nearby towns. The relaxed energy, the walkable charm, the friendly locals—it all adds up to something special.
If you’re looking to balance stillness with a bit of coastal exploring, Chesapeake Beach and North Beach make the perfect detour. Picture this: picking up fresh produce at the Friday night farmers market and cooking it on the grill by the bay the very next day, savoring still-warm pastries for breakfast on the deck as the sun rises over the water, or strolling the boardwalk before this beloved seasonal market wraps up in September.
📍 You could be here by next weekend, savoring the flavors and scenery that make this place unforgettable. TAP HERE to view our accommodations and book!