Visit Kent Narrows, MD: Chesapeake Bay’s Hidden Gem

 

A laid-back waterfront destination on the eastern shore, 5 miles east of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, Kent Narrows remains one of Maryland’s best kept secrets. Surrounded by stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay in almost every direction, it’s the perfect destination for a getaway or a day trip. And it’s close to other popular places on the eastern shore like St.Michaels, MD.

Historically, the Kent Narrows Waterfront was the home for dozens of commercial seafood packing houses. While only one remains, today this charming waterfront destination has transformed into a fun and relaxing destination known for its sunsets, scenery, fresh oysters and crabs, iconic seafood restaurants, small shops, friendly people and population of outgoing ducks.

Small and very walkable, the land around Kent Narrows is connected by two bridges and divided into 4 sections around the bay. It’s only a two minute drive to access different sides of Kent Narrows if you’d rather drive. But for ultra convenience, stay in Fisherman’s Village in the south eastern side of Kent Narrows. 

Here you can book a room at the newly opened waterfront Hyatt Place Kent Narrows & Marina and walk to several amazing restaurants and bars including the famous dockside Fisherman’s Crab Deck and the Fisherman’s Inn which is home to the Eastern Shore’s largest collection of antique oyster plates.

Nature and bird lovers will love exploring the local parks and trails. But it’s standard here to see a variety of sea birds like herons fly by or local turtles called Terrapins, swimming through the water. To experience the bay away from the dock take a sunset cruise, book a fishing charter, or go kayaking or paddle boarding. And there’s nothing wrong with enjoying the bay from the balcony at a waterfront hotel!

With well-equipped marinas, full-service hotels and amazing restaurants to dock and dine, Kent Narrows has plenty of options if you want to arrive by boat. 

One visit to Kent Narrows and you’ll be hooked. 

Things To Do In Kent Narrows, Maryland

With signs of nature never far away, gorgeous views, stunning sunsets, and plenty of options for dockside dining, the Kent Narrows waterfront is the main attraction here. In the summer it comes alive with boats and people enjoying the bay, but never feels crowded.

You’ll find many bars, hotels, where you can relax and enjoy live music as you watch boats and yachts go by. 

Relax, Dock, and Dine in Fisherman’s Village

In 1930, Captain Alex Thomas and his wife Mae opened a small restaurant and grocery store along the Kent Narrows waterfront, serving the local community. Living above the restaurant with their children, they occasionally rented out rooms to local anglers. This was the original Fisherman’s Inn, and it was a success.

Over the decades, their daughter Betty and son-in-law Oscar “Sonny” Schulz expanded Fisherman’s Inn, overcoming challenges like fires and hurricanes. Today, their children Jody, Tracy, and Andy carry on the family legacy.

Now known as Fisherman’s Village, this once modest inn has grown into a walkable waterfront section of Kent Narrows with stunning Chesapeake Bay views and sunsets, dock-and-dine restaurants, bars, and places to stay. The best part is everything is just a few steps away from each other.

Restaurants in Fisherman’s Village include the lively Big Owl Tiki Bar and the iconic Schultz family establishments, Fisherman’s Inn and Fisherman’s Crab Deck.

Relax along the dock in the village, or rent a bike across the street from Hyatt Place and explore local trails. You can also book a sightseeing cruise with Chesapeake Water Tours, departing from the Hyatt Place dock.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, there’s 3 waterfront options within Fisherman’s Village.

The Hyatt Place Kent Narrows offers coastal-inspired modern rooms, 2000 feet of deck space, and an indoor pool. For a unique experience, consider booking a stay on the luxury houseboats, Cass-Away or Cass-N-Reel. 

Love to fish? The custom tackle and rod shop in the village has everything you need for your next catch.

At the entrance to Fisherman’s Village pay your respects at the Maryland Watermen’s Monument, dedicated to the history, culture, heritage and contributions of watermen to those who have worked the Chesapeake Bay. 

Ferry Point Park and Chesapeake Heritage and Visitor Center

425 Piney Narrows Rd, Chester, MD 21619
https://www.kentnarrowsmd.com/visitors-center

Ferry Point Park is a 41-acre park in Kent Narrows, surrounded by three bodies of water. With an easy boardwalk trail, coastline views of the Chester River, and a small beach, it’s perfect for hiking and bird watching.

Start at the air-conditioned Chesapeake Heritage and Visitor Center for local information and travel tips. Take a moment to explore the small museum, which features educational displays on the ecosystems, culture, wildlife, and history of local life along the waters. Then, head outside to climb the two- and three-story open-air observation tower for stunning panoramic views of the Chester River, Kent Narrows, and Piney Creek. An elevator is available to the second floor, but definitely take the spiral staircase up to the third. The views alone are worth the visit.

Afterward, enjoy a leisurely hike or bike ride through the park. The one-mile unpaved trail and boardwalk, offering coastline views, will lead you to a small, calm beach.

With a mixture of tidal wetlands, non-tidal wetlands, and uplands, Ferry Point Park is a hotspot for wildlife sightings. You might spot ducks, bald eagles, osprey, herons, Maryland Terrapins, and other local creatures.

The waterfront area in front of the Visitor Center has benches where you can relax with a coffee or lunch while watching boats go by.

Ferry Point Park is open from sunrise to sunset and accessible at the entrance of the Chesapeake Heritage and Visitor Center. Enter 425 Piney Narrows Road, Chester, MD 21619 into your GPS. Restrooms are available at the Visitor Center during open hours.

Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center (CBEC)

600 Discovery Ln, Grasonville, MD 21638
https://bayrestoration.org

Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center is an admission-free-but-donations-appreciated 510-acre waterfront preserve a 10 minute drive from Kent Narrows. This beautiful local outdoor retreat for nature lovers with 4 miles of themed hiking trails also has kayaks available for rental.

Made up of native woodlands, tidal marshes, and meadows, CBEC is home to a variety of wildlife including turtles, rabbits, river otters, deer and approximately 200 hundred bird species. Expect to spot egrets, osprey, eagles and herons. Before you leave, don’t miss a visit with the resident owls, hawk, and kestrel in their aviary rescue.

For tips getting around the park head into their air conditioned visitor center. Here you can borrow an “Explorer’s Backpack”, which includes binoculars, a trail map, a scavenger hunt worksheet and other supplies. QR codes posted on signs through the park can be scanned on your smartphone to guide you on your journey. CBEC is open 9 to 5 daily

 💡 Travel Tip: If visiting any of the local Kent Narrows parks or riding local trails, be sure to bring sunscreen, water and bug spray.

Terrapin Park

191 Log Canoe Cir, Stevensville, MD 21666
https://www.qac.org

Terrapin Park is an award-winning 276-acre nature park with a 3.25-mile walking trail that wanders through woodlands, wildflower meadows, and wetlands on its way to a narrow sandy beach where sea glass hunters often collect.

With stunning views of the Bay Bridge and Chesapeake Bay, Terrapin Park is a great place to catch sunsets. True to its name, Terrapin turtle sightings are common here and the park is home to a variety of birds and wildlife. 

Other unique features of Terrapin Park include a gazebo, wheelchair-accessible boardwalk, benches for rest along the trail, and two observation blinds to let you watch birds unseen. Parking is free and bathrooms are located at the trailhead entrance. It’s only a 10 minute drive from Kent Narrows. Simply head west on 301/50 and take the Stevensville Exit to Terrapin Park.

Cross Island Trail

https://www.kentnarrowsmd.com/trails
https://www.traillink.com/trail/cross-island-trail/

Hike, bike, or jog the scenic Cross Island Trail where you’ll see stunning views of the water, birds like ospreys, blue herons and other wildlife along the way.

Traveling along this scenic boardwalk and asphalt trail 6 miles west from Kent Narrows will take you to Kent Island and Terrapin Park. Or get on the eastern bound Cross County Connector Trail instead to Long Point Park in Grasonville. 

Take a Boat Ride or Fishing Tour

You can’t officially experience Kent Narrows properly unless you get on the open water. With a boat tour, you can see its shoreline and coves from a whole new perspective.

Plus, you’ll also have a chance at viewing some of the area’s local wildlife. Bird lovers will definitely enjoy seeing the ospreys that nest on the mile markers up close and personal. 

On a fishing tour, you can cast your pole for a chance at catching local fish like striped bass (rockfish) and blue fish. Afterward you can bring your fresh catch to Big Owl’s and they’ll cook it up for you.

Check here for the current boat charters available in Kent Narrows.

Historic Stevensville

325 Cleat St, Stevensville, MD 21666
https://www.stevensvilleartsandentertainment.org

Stroll through artsy and historic Stevensville, for small-town charm.

Stevensville is just five minutes from Kent Narrows by car and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Here you can explore a handful of galleries, eateries and beautifully preserved 19th century historic landmarks, including the Old Stevensville Post Office, the Stevensville Train Depot, the Stevensville Bank and historic Christ Church.  

These sites are only open on the 1st Saturday of the month from 12pm – 4pm from May through November, but they can be enjoyed from the outside. It’s easy to peek through the windows of the train station

Unless you’re planning to have lunch, less than an hour is all you’ll need here. 

Love Point Winery and Vineyard

305 River Shore Lane, Stevensville, MD 21666
https://lovepointvineyards.com/

Sample delicious locally made wine at Love Point Vineyards and Winery, where you can relax and enjoy stunning views of the Chester River. 

Eight miles west of Kent Narrows on the northern tip of Kent Island, this gorgeous family-owned winery established in 2015 produces award-winning white and red artisan wines including cabernet Sauvignon, merlot, chardonnay and Sangiovese from over 15 acres of vines grown on their property. 

Love Point offers wines by the glass, bottle or flight that you can enjoy on their spacious outdoor patio, deck or light filled tasting room. For ultimate relaxation, take a glass to one of the Adirondack chairs overlooking the water. If you like white wine, try their lightly sweet Summer Breeze made with a blend of Vidal Blanc and Gruner Veltliner with notes of lime, lemon and grapefruit. It’s perfect on a hot summer day.

For a bite with your wine, order one of their delicious charcuterie or veggie boards. For a quiet time, head over during the week or catch one of their live music acts on the weekends. 

Love Point Winery is open from Thursday to Sunday, noon to 5 pm, but double check the schedule on their website before you go.

Enjoy The Famous Kent Narrows Sunsets 

One of the most amazing things to do in Kent Narrows, MD is to enjoy the stunning sunsets over the Chesapeake Bay. Trust me, you don’t want to miss this natural spectacle that will take your breath away.

Whether you are looking for a romantic date night, a relaxing evening with friends, or a solo moment of Zen, watching the sunsets in Kent Narrows will make you feel like you’re in paradise.

The sunsets in Kent Narrows are especially beautiful because of the location and orientation of the area, which faces west and overlooks the bay. The bay is the largest estuary in the US, and it has a complex and dynamic weather system that affects the color and intensity of the sunsets. The sunsets can vary from soft pastels to fiery reds and oranges, depending on the season, cloud cover, humidity, and air pollution. No two sunsets are ever the same, so you can expect to see something different and amazing every time.

Where to Shop (Mostly) Small in Kent Narrows

When you need some retail therapy, here’s some shops to hit while you’re visiting Kent Narrows.

Hope Boutique

100 Piney Narrows Road Unit C, Chester, MD 21619
https://www.shophopeboutique.com 

Loved by locals, Hope Boutique is a haven in Kent Narrows for stylish women’s clothing, known for their super friendly and helpful staff. 

Pieces at Hope Boutique range from casual loungewear, swimwear, shorts and jeans to breezy blouses, jumpsuits, skirts and dresses. The clothes are gorgeous, and even better, they won’t break the bank. Hope also carries shoes, jewelry, accessories and skincare. Need your crystal fix or a chic gift? This boutique is your place.

Ophiuroidea (“The O”) Kent Narrows

110 Channel Marker Way Suite 100, Grasonville, Maryland
https://www.ophiuroidea.com

Ophiuroidea (pronounced “O-fu-roy-dee-uh”) is a boutique in Kent Narrows with a treasure trove of unique gifts and souvenirs. 

Named after a subclass of species related to starfish, locals know this shop as “The O”. 

“The O” carries a large selection of tasteful coastal inspired home décor, food, jewelry, gifts, soaps, and women’s clothing. Mermaids, heron’s, blue crabs, turtles, sea glass and coastal Maryland are themes you’ll see throughout the store. There’s some sweet things here for children as well.

With all the wonderful things to see here, give yourself plenty of time to browse. It’s open 7 days a week, year round. 

Chesapeake Bay Chocolates

202 Island Plaza Ct, Stevensville, MD 21666
https://www.chesapeakechocolates.com

For rich delicious gourmet chocolate molded in shapes inspired by coastal nature and the Chesapeake Bay, stop into Chesapeake Chocolates. 

This shop is tiny, but the chocolates are divine. The chocolate lighthouses, sailboats and turtles are fun and delicious, but don’t leave here without a few chocolate crabs. You’re in Maryland after all.

Chesapeake Bay Chocolate’s chocolate crabs are available in white, dark and milk chocolate and a variety of sizes. For something really special, get their chocolate “Crabs in a Bushel Basket.” Also available in different sizes, these special Chesapeake treats make the perfect gift. Even if it’s for yourself. 

In nearby Stevensville, Chesapeake Bay Chocolates is only a 6 minute drive west from Kent Narrows.

Queenstown Premium Outlets

441 Outlet Center Dr, Queenstown, MD 21658 (at the Rt. 301/50 split)
https://www.premiumoutlets.com/outlet/queenstown

For deals on name brands and luxury goods, the Queenstown Outlets is a popular Eastern Shore shopping destination only about 5 miles from the Kent Narrows waterfront. 

Not including eateries, there’s currently about 50 stores here with everything here from women, children and men’s apparel to shoes, home decor and accessories. Currently stores include Kate Spade, COACH, Calvin Klein, Michael Kors Outlet, LOFT Outlet, Tommy Bahama, Under Armour, Adidas, Pepper Palace and more. With so many stores to explore, you can easily spend a full day at Queenstown Premium Outlets. 

Kent Island Farmers’ Market

1169 Shopping Center Rd. in Stevensville, Maryland
https://www.facebook.com/Kentislandfarmersmarket/

Foodies will love the cheerful year-round Kent Island Farmers’ Market where you can shop a variety of delicious locally made and grown artisanal food products and specialty goods.

And you can feel the Maryland love here. Some of the many seasonal and ultra fresh goods available at the market include seafood, meat, microgreens, bread, pastries, pastured eggs, mushrooms, award-winning cheese, honey, jams, olive oil, spirits, baked goods, prepared dishes and more. 

The fresh-cut flowers will brighten your day and handcrafted goods like candles, art, soaps, and jewelry are well worth the visit. And the market hosts new vendors and pop ups regularly. 

The Kent Island Farmers’ Market runs Thursdays 3:30 pm to 6:00 pm in the summer and fall, and 3:30 to 5:30 pm in winter. Most vendors accept pre-orders, cash and credit cards. Don’t forget to bring a tote and cooler bag.

Where to Eat in Kent Narrows

Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, tacos, burgers, or something else, you’ll find it here. Kent Narrows has many dockside restaurants that offer amazing views of the water and the bay, as well as friendly nearby eateries. Within walking distance you can enjoy local dishes and specialties, such as Maryland crab cakes, oysters, clams, and rockfish. You can also find international cuisine, such as Italian, Mexican, and Asian all close by. Plus, many of the waterfront restaurants in Kent Narrows offer Dock & Dine options with complimentary boat slips. No matter what your budget or preference is, you will find something to satisfy your appetite in Kent Narrows. Here’s where we dined.

Fisherman’s Inn

Fisherman’s Village | 3116 Main St, Grasonville, MD 21638
https://fishermansinn.com

Located within Fisherman’s Village, Fisherman’s Inn isn’t only a large modern upscale casual seafood restaurant with a full mermaid themed bar. It’s also a historic landmark that has been catering to locals and drawing visitors to Kent Narrows for almost a century.

In 1930, long before AirBnB, Captain Alex Thomas and his wife Mae opened up the Fisherman’s Inn restaurant and grocery store and also rented out bedrooms in their home to local travelers. Although the original building is long gone, their daughter Betty took over the family business with her husband Sonny Schultz and opened the Fisherman’s Inn you see today back in 1971. The family continues to run Fisherman’s Inn along with the dockside Fisherman’s Crab Deck restaurant next door.

Seafood is the star of the show here (of course). And it’s as fresh and delicious as it gets. Start with the sesame fried panko Rockfish “Bites” with Hawaiian BBQ, wasabi cream pickled ginger, and seaweed salad. For your main entrée, try the Seafood Norfolk Sauté, a blend of fresh caught scallops, large gulf shrimp and jumbo lump crab meat sautéed in succulent white wine butter sauce. Their signature dish, Baked Jumbo Lump Crab Imperial features sweet and meaty lump crab topped with their rich and luxurious imperial sauce. It’s divine.

And don’t leave without diving into their best selling Coconut Cream Pie. It’s made with a homemade pie crust filled with a lighter than air creamy coconut mousse, topped with whipped cream, salted caramel, and a sprinkle of toasted coconut.

The food and atmosphere are wonderful but not the only attraction here. A unique feature is Miss Betty’s collection of over 300 antique oyster plates displayed throughout the restaurant. Each plate is a work of art and hand painted with a variety of themes.

Another nostalgic yet unexpected feature in the Fisherman’s Inn is the suspended working train track is entertaining to watch traveling through the main dining rooms 8 feet in the air riding over 280 feet of track. I dare you not to get excited as it passes your table.

For a casual visit, head into their spacious Nauti Mermaid bar for cocktails, drinks and lighter fare. Happy Hour is another good thing here.

Fisherman’s Crab Deck 

Fisherman’s Village | 3032 Kent Narrow Way S, Grasonville, MD 21638
https://crabdeck.com

The waterfront Fisherman’s Crab Deck is the perfect place to go for an authentic, but casual Maryland seafood experience. 

There’s no need to dress up here. In fact, if you’re coming here to crack crabs, it’s better you don’t and it’s part of the fun.

For dinner or lunch with a view, ask for a table by the water. Start with an orange crush, the Seafood Nachos with shrimp, scallops and crab, and their delicious award winning crab bisque. Then order up what the crab deck is famous for: fresh steamed blue crabs! 

While you wait, someone from the friendly Fisherman’s Crab Deck crew will prep the table with paper and you can get cracking. Crabs come seasoned with plenty of Old Bay and plus, it’s fun to smash your dinner with a mallet. You’re in Maryland and life is great.

For a taste of the sea that’s enough to share, opt for the Steamed Crab Pot with steamed crabs, fresh mussels, clams and shrimp. Melted butter is a must. 

If you’d rather not use a mallet to eat your dinner, try one of their delicious entrees like Crab Deck’s Seafood Platter. It’s an unbeatable dish with a taste of everything! It comes with a homemade crab cake, sea scallops, Gulf shrimp, flounder, and your choice of sides. We love the local corn on the cob. Served fried or broiled, with melted butter on the side, it’s a winning combination.

You can’t leave here without trying one of their house signature cocktails or refreshing specialty crushes. Their Crabby Cocolada made with Malibu Coconut Rum and blended with strawberries and pina colada is the perfect way to cool down on a warm Maryland summer night. And it’s pretty too. 

For dessert grab a Maryland seafood house favorite: The Nutty Buddy! Similar to a drumstick, Nutty Buddies are a towering cone of creamy vanilla ice-cream in a waffle cone, dipped in chocolate, covered in crushed peanuts and deep frozen. Because of the size they’re enough to share with someone. But you definitely won’t want to. Docking and dining is an option here.

Big Owl Tiki Bar

Fisherman’s Village | 3015 Kent Narrow Way S, Grasonville, MD 21638
https://thebigowl.com

For a Key West vibe at the edge of Fisherman’s Village, Big Owl Tiki Bar is a fun and friendly open-air bar on the edge of a pier. With some of the best views around, this local hotspot makes a great stop at sunset. 

At Big Owl Tiki Bar you can feel the Chesapeake breeze on your face while you order up creative cocktails and tropical themed drinks. Big Owl’s also has a great selection of ice-cold beers, crushes, and specials like the jalapeno seed margarita that we tried and loved. 

The food here is bar casual and budget friendly, but really tastefully prepared. Menu highlights include sandwiches, wings, tacos and steamed shrimp. For a local treat, the Soft Shell Fried Tacos are not to be missed.

For something other than seafood, this place has some of the best burgers around. Appropriately named the Cheeseburger in Paradise, here a 1/2 lb. Black Angus Beef, is nestled on a buttery bun and served with lettuce, tomato and your choice of cheese and added toppings. Juicy and perfectly grilled, this burger will satisfy any meaty craving.

 💡 TIP: Don’t leave without a slice of their authentic Key Lime Pie. Sweet, tangy and perfectly creamy with a buttery graham cracker crust. It will totally hit the spot.

Their stage hosts live music acts almost every day in the summer. You might even get lucky and see a Terrapin swimming dockside like we did!

Bridges Restaurant

321 Wells Cove Rd, Grasonville, MD, 21638
https://bridgesrestaurant.net

Named one of the “Most Scenic Restaurants” in America by Food & Wine Magazine, Bridges offers stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay and serves up a fresh, creative and flavorful menu in an airy Caribbean atmosphere.

Menu options here include seafood, salads, sandwiches, pizzas, burgers and cocktails. And both indoor and outdoor seating is available. Try the delicious Shrimp and Grits with colossal shrimp, grape tomatoes and smoked Andouille sausage, over creamy cheddar grits. And you can’t go wrong with the Fish Tacos with poblano ranch slaw, Pico de Gallo, and guacamole wrapped in flour tortillas.

Don’t skip the Surf N Turf Nachos layered with crispy wonton chips and piled high with fresh shrimp, tender steak, lettuce and tomato, and then drizzled with creamy queso and a chipotle aioli for a spicy kick. Bursting with bold flavors and textures, they’re too good to pass up. 

Bridges’ generously sized crab cakes, packed with decadent crab meat, are served over a sweet corn hash tossed in a fire-roasted tomato vinaigrette, offering a delicious and elevated twist. With virtually no filler, these crab cakes are done right.

 For something great to share around the table, Bridges pizzas with their light and crispy crust are outstanding. The White Sausage with a roasted garlic sauce, oven-roasted tomatoes, spinach, mozzarella, provolone & goat cheese is a house favorite. For a pizza with Maryland flare, the flavorful Crab Pesto Pizza with roasted tomatoes, spinach, mozzarella & provolone is the way to go.

And for dessert, there’s plenty of sweets to choose from, including cheesecake and strawberry shortcake. Check Bridges website for their weekly schedule of live entertainment.

Bridges Restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner, and offers Happy Hour specials daily. Reservations can be made online or by phone. 

Dock House

110 Piney Narrows Rd, Chester, MD 21619
https://dockhouserestaurant.com/

Dock House is a new airy dock and dine restaurant with modern coastal vibes, plenty of waterfront seating and unbeatable panoramic views of the Chester River and the Kent Narrows Bridge. It is a great place to watch boats go by while you eat great food. 

Locally and sustainably sourced, whenever possible Dock House serves both local traditional seafood dishes like crab bisque and crab cakes. But there’s also some seriously creative takes on classic seafood house flavors. 

An appetizer with a unique combination of flavors and textures is the Dock House Popcorn. Crispy fried shrimp, morsels of rockfish and calamari are tossed with Old Bay seasoning Caramel Popcorn and served in a cinema style popcorn bucket. It’s crispy, salty, sweet, and a little spicy. The flavors are genius.

For something more traditional, the Crab Pretzel is a doughy braided pretzel topped with Creamy Crab Dip, cheddar cheese, scallions and a touch of Old Bay won’t disappoint. For something meaty go for the Dock House Burger made with a blend of short rib, chuck and brisket, topped with bacon, Cooper’s sharp cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, red onion and Dock House’s special sauce. 

The Cinnamon Bread Pudding topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice-cream makes an incredible sweet finish. If it’s hot outside try the Dock “House” Crush made with a blend of Orange and Grapefruit Vodka, triple sec, sprite and orange and grapefruit juices to wash it all down.

Dock House is only a 1-2 minute drive from the Kent Narrows hotels. Dock space and seating is first come first serve. Check out their Happy Hour or live entertainment on the weekends.

Harris Crab House

433 Kent Narrow Way N, Grasonville, MD 21638

A family-owned year-round oyster processing house and the last commercial seafood house in Maryland, Harris Crab House & Seafood Restaurant has been serving fresh seafood in Kent Narrows for over 75 years.

With waterfront indoor and outdoor seating, plus a rooftop bar, this iconic local seafood restaurant offers a crab-centric menu featuring beloved Maryland staples like Maryland Crab Soup, meaty crab cakes, crabs, rockfish, and oysters.

Experience a true local tradition by having paper laid down on your table, grabbing a mallet, and picking steamed blue crabs. Their 7-inch jumbo crabs, steamed and house-seasoned, paired with a cold beer or a crush, won’t disappoint. Or try one of their house special appetizers like Buck Rums—flash-fried crispy soft-shelled crab bites served with street corn salsa and honey Old Bay aioli.

For flavors south of the border, try the Crab & Shrimp Ceviche. Gulf shrimp and lump crab meat are marinated in a mild lemon-tomato juice and served with onions, tomato, and avocado. Warm tortilla chips on the side are perfect for scooping.

We loved the Jumbo Lump Crab Imperial. Chesapeake Bay jumbo lump blue crab meat is mixed in a light remoulade sauce and broiled to perfection. This delicious dish is loaded with crab and served with your choice of two sides. Go for the hush puppies!

For a cocktail at sunset, head to Kent Narrows’ only rooftop bar at Harris Crab House in their newly remodeled Pearl Bar upstairs. Then, grab a sweet treat and gourmet coffee along the water at their Dessert First Coffee + Dessert Bar, next to the main restaurant and open all day starting at breakfast.

Reservations aren’t required here, and seating is first come, first served.

Sugar Doodles

110 Piney Narrows Rd, Chester, MD 21619
https://www.sugardoodlessweetshop.com

Sugar Doodles is a small but charming local cafe that serves up delicious gourmet coffee drinks, pitaya (dragon fruit) and acai bowls, and ice cream from Vanderwendes, a third generation dairy farm in Bridgeville, Delaware. You can’t go wrong with anything here. But you’ll be committing a Kent Narrows crime if you don’t get the crepes. Yes, they’re that good.

Crepes come in a variety of classic and creative sweet and savory flavors served all day. Savory crepes flavors include flavors like ham, egg, and cheese, Pizza and Pork BBQ while some of their sweet selections include Momma’s Apple Pie and Nutella Royale with Nutella, fresh strawberries and sliced bananas.

When you need a caffeine boost, Sugar Doodles serves Chesapeake Coffee Roasters coffee and gourmet coffee drinks. Try the USDA organic Oyster Reef medium roast with notes of chocolate, brown sugar, pecans or the River’s Edge (dark roast). Also, organic, this one has tasting notes of s’mores, dark chocolate and nutmeg. 

Bird and nature enthusiasts will love the smooth Guatemala Bird Friendly® Blend. This eco-friendly seal created by the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center ensures the coffee was 100% shade grown to protect the habitat for birds and other wildlife. And shade-grown coffees are prized for their more complex, deeper flavor.

Breakfast and lunch at Sugar Doodles are available daily starting at 8AM.

Where to Stay in Kent Narrows

Kent Narrows makes a great day trip if you live within a hours drive. But to give yourself time to enjoy the restaurants and the area, plan to stay for a night or two.

Hyatt Place Kent Narrows & Marina

3028 Kent Narrow Way S, Grasonville, MD 21638
https://www.hyatt.com

For a place to relax with mesmerizing panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay, book a room at the recently opened Hyatt Place Kent Narrows & Marina. If you can’t relax here, you won’t be able to relax anywhere. 

Located in the Fisherman’s Village section of Kent Narrows, the Hyatt Place features 120 modern and serene guest rooms and is a short walk to a variety of harbor restaurants and dockside bars. 

The Hyatt’s tranquil coastal inspired suites with natural woods in calming tones of blues, grays include standard amenities like free WIFI, 55” flat screen tv’s, and plush bedding. And many rooms are equipped with kitchenettes. For ultimate relaxation, book a waterfront room with a private balcony so you can look out over the Chesapeake fed Prospect Bay to the south. 

Complimentary breakfast for guests is served at the Breakfast Bar room in the morning with a nice selection of hot and cold items, including scrambled eggs, waffles, sausage, steel cut oatmeal, yogurt and fruit. It’s a treat to enjoy it out on the dockside terrace with a hot cup of fresh coffee and watching the boats cruise by. Plus, complimentary coffee is served all day in the lobby. 

When you’re ready for a creative cocktail, local beer, glass of wine or a casual bite to eat, take a seat at The Placery lobby bar, which is open until 10pm most nights. Definitely try their signature Chesapeake Blue cocktail. It’s light, refreshing, and there’s even a cherry on top. In the evening, grab your drink and head out the terrace for sunset bay views by the firepit.

If you want to keep up on your workout, the spacious 24/7 gym is bright, motivating and well-equipped with equipment like weights, stationary bikes and cardio machines. 

Or, take a dip in the indoor pool that overlooks the marina. 

If you’re arriving by car, the hotel is right off exit 42 of the 50/301 split. If you would like to arrive by boat, the Hyatt Place in Kent Narrows is a great place to dock and stay. The marina behind the property has 40 dock slips, with electrical and water hookups and can be booked. And bonus, pets are welcome here.

Cass-N-Reel and Cass-Away Luxury Houseboats

Looking for unique accommodations in Kent Narrows? Why not stay over the water instead of beside it?

Located at the edge of Fisherman’s Village, Cass-Away and Cass-N-Reel are side-by-side modern luxury houseboats. Here, you can unwind as you watch boats glide by and enjoy stunning sunrises and sunsets. Surrounded by Prospect Bay, with front-row views of the Kent Narrows Bridge, these retreats offer a serene waterfront oasis.

No need to worry about stormy nights or choppy waters. These luxury houseboats are hoisted and secured above the water, providing the feel of being on the water with the stability of being on land.

Traveling by boat? You can dock right at both properties. There’s also convenient car parking right next to the houseboats.

Cass-Away: Ideal for families or friends, this houseboat features:

• Two queen bedrooms
• Two full baths with showers
• A full kitchen
• A large modern living and dining room combo
• A spiral staircase leading to a rooftop deck with 360-degree panoramic views of the narrows, bridge, and bay

Cass-N-Reel: Perfect for single travelers or couples, this houseboat includes:

• A queen bedroom
• A full bathroom
• A kitchenette
• A living room
• An over-the-water deck at the rear with lounge chairs for sunbathing and bay views

When hunger strikes, Big Owl’s Tiki Bar is next door, and you can easily walk to all the Kent Narrows and Fisherman’s Village restaurants. In the evening, relax on your private deck with a cocktail, enjoying the famous Chesapeake Bay sunsets and live music from Big Owl’s.

Traveling as a group? Book both houseboats and enjoy your private slice of Kent Narrows.

The Holiday Inn Express Grasonville

1020 Kent Narrows Rd, Grasonville, MD 21638

For casual yet ultra-comfortable waterfront accommodations with modern amenities in Kent Narrows, The Holiday Inn Express Grasonville is a fantastic choice. The views here are stunning.

Set on a beautiful and serene waterfront property overlooking the calm waters of the Chester River, the hotel offers 76 comfy guest rooms and suites. If available, be sure to book one with river views. The beds are comfortable, and high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. There are plenty of lovely spots to relax on the property.

When you want to cool off, take a swim in the outdoor pool or enjoy the sun in one of the surrounding lounge chairs. The expansive deck next to the pool is the perfect spot to enjoy the daily complimentary hot breakfast, featuring options like eggs, biscuits, sausage, and gooey warm cinnamon rolls. As a guest, you can also enjoy a free 24-hour coffee and tea bar in the lobby for a quick pick-me-up.

The Holiday Inn Express Grasonville also has its own dock and pier with an observation area deck. Here, you can see ospreys soaring through the cove and terrapins popping their heads out of the water. Sink into one of the Adirondack chairs and take in the views. Sunsets here are perfect too.

If you love to hike or bike, hop on the Cross Island Trail conveniently accessible at the hotel’s driveway entrance. There’s a DIY bike rental kiosk here as well, so there’s no need to bring your own. When you’re ready for a bite to eat, Holiday Inn Express Grasonville is under a 10 minute walk to most of the amazing restaurants in Kent Narrows.

How to Get to Kent Narrows, MD

How far is Kent Narrows from some of the major cities in the region? 

Here are some approximate distances and driving times for reference:

• Annapolis, MD: 19 miles (31 km) and 22 minutes by car.
• Washington, D.C.: 54 miles (87 km) and 1 hour 10 minutes by car.
• Baltimore, MD:  46 miles (74 km), and about 1 hour and 5 minutes by car.
• Wilmington, DE: 76 miles (122 km) and it takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to drive.
• Ocean City, MD: 94 miles (151 km) about 1 hour and 40 minutes to drive.
• Philadelphia, PA: 101 miles (163 km) 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.

👉 Get Directions To Kent Narrows Here.

Kent Narrows Boatel

A boat gets stored at The Boatel, Kent Narrows. An indoor dry storage facility. | Photo: Better Living

If you visit and want to make Kent Narrows a permanent coastal getaway, you can keep your boat at the local Kent Narrows Boatel. This indoor dry-storage facility will house your boat keeping it protected from the elements and have your boat waiting for you in the water when you return.

Final Thoughts on Kent Narrows

The sunset from the docks at Hyatt Place Kent Narrows, MD | Photo: Better Living

If you love being on the water and want to get away, Kent Narrows is a stunning under the radar coastal gem with a relaxed vibe and friendly people. 

Waiting for you here is fresh seafood, great waterfront dining, outdoor adventure, shopping and picturesque views everywhere you look. It’s the perfect destination for solo travelers or couples who want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There’s not many activities for kids here, so this is your chance to enjoy a romantic getaway with your partner or some quality time with friends. 

Close to major cities and all the Eastern Shore has to offer, Kent Narrows is a great Mid-Atlantic getaway for anyone arriving by car or boat.

💡 Plan your Kent Narrows getaway now and experience the beauty of nature. You won’t regret it!

Links For More Information on Kent Narrows

Incredible views from Holiday Inn Express Grasonville | Photo: Better Living

https://www.kentnarrowsmd.com
https://www.kentnarrowsstories.org

Explore More of Maryland