Sunsets, seafood, solitude, sea, and sandy beaches. Sound good? Well, that’s what you’ll get on Tangier Island, Chesapeake Bay just 12 miles off the Lower Eastern Shore of Virginia. You’re probably not so keen on visiting big cities in the post-corona era, so why not see a different side to America. Getaway from it all to the small community on Tangier Island Chesapeake Bay!
Why Visit Tangier Island
Tangier which is 1 mile wide and 3 miles long, is actually a small group of islands connected by wooden bridges and separated by marshes. Because of the island’s isolated location, locals speak a unique English dialect which is reminiscent of the original 1686 English settlers. The main source of income is from the sea, so the seafood (soft shell crab sandwiches) is excellent! There are neighborhoods with names like Meat Soup and Black Dye, and one of the waterways is called The Big Gut! You can really “get away from it all” here.
With COVID-19, many people are opting for vacations in more isolated, smaller communities like Tangier Island. As of 2020, the population of Tangier Island is about 692. With climate change, the rising sea level and erosion are causing the island to slowly get smaller and smaller. You should visit Tangier Island before it disappearing.
What’s It Like on Tangier Island?
Tangier Island is connected to the mainland by boats that leave regularly from Crisfield, Maryland; Onancock, Virginia, and Reedville, Virginia. There is no crime on Tangier, one public phone, no mall, ATM, or drug store, and even no traffic lights. Why? Because there are no cars! That is right you can get around by bike or golf cart, which means much less noise and air pollution. Bird enthusiasts will be overwhelmed by the number of birds that come to enjoy the watery marshes, and fisherman’s leftovers. A large number of stray cats have also made it to this over to the island in search of tranquility and fish. There are about 250 households on the island. However there is a modest tourist industry here and you can find Spanky’s ice-cream parlor, B&Bs, a few restaurants, and day trips from the island. Stroll along the wild beach, just you and the elements, no loud crowds, lifeguards or kiosks. Oh yes and the island is alcohol-free!
So why not see a different side to the US and get away from it all on Tangier Island Chesapeake Bay.
