midlohokiegirl

Any tips on travel to the eastern shore of Virginia in late November, early December? I know many places may be closed (such as accomodation and restaurants), but I'm looking more for strolls on a deserted beach (No worries--I like cold weather and am NOT looking to sunbathe, nor go in the water), and I'm sort of looking for some solitude and time to reflect. And possibly do some writing, if the mood is right. So lack of open attractions doesn't bother me too much.

I have found some B&Bs which are open year round, some near Chincoteague and some near Onancock...but I'm looking for specifics, especially from someone who has been there. Specific places to stay, to eat, any info is appreciated. I've also considered Virginia Beach, but it's not my first choice. Also, looked at the Outer Banks, but it seems more stuff is closed down there during off-season (I could be wrong, this is based on my triple-A book). I'm in the Richmond area, so I'm looking for something within reasonable driving distance.

beanweb24

Maybe the Hyatt in Cambridge?

http://chesapeakebay.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/

Great location for some quiet time. Also nice because there are some dining options onsite (good, not great) as well as a spa.

hansman

If you are looking for a quiet, peaceful place, then Virginia’s Eastern Shore is just such a place. My wife was raised on the Shore and so we are there at least a couple of times a year. The Shore is a great balance of fields, forests and quaint little villages. You will see stately homes, farmhouses, as well as abject poverty. As for lonely beaches, Assateague would work. Smith or Silver Beach would also fit the bill. There is some beach in and around Cape Charles also. The Shore will seem especially remote and isolated in the colder months. Virginia’s Eastern Shore is composed of two counties: Accomac in the north and Northampton in the south. Accomac is more populous and built up, Northampton is more rural in flavor. But both are rural compared to the Richmond or Va. Beach areas. There are three restaurants I can recommend. The first is the Eastville Inn, in Eastville of course. Just ate there this past weekend and it was great. It is on the pricey side but the dress is casual. Seafood is the speciality here and the inn itself is 18th century. In Exmore is the Trawler which also has great seafood dishes as well as more standard fare. The Trawler is your basic by-the-side-of-the-road restaurant. For more of a pizza, sub, American good time food place, there is Stella’s in Onancock. My relatives go there quite often to eat and hang out. I think you can play pool on the 2nd floor. Now if you are really looking for remote, try Tangier Island in the middle of the Chesapeake Bay. You have to get there by ferry or by plane, no cars allowed. It is a working fishing community but there are a couple of bed and breakfasts on the island I believe. The Barrier Islands Center is a nice museum for learning Shore lore and facts.

LN

The beach should be great in December. We've always enjoyed going to the Maryland beaches early winter.

DH goes fishing down on Virginia's eastern shore around Onancock and Watchapreague (sp?) He enjoys the fishing solitude, friendly people, and reasonable motels.

One of his favorites foods down near Watchapreague is Tammy and Sammy's fried chicken. He swears that ou'll never have had anything as good as it anywhere.

JoyinVirginia

Here is another possibility close to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel connecting to Va Beach, also close to wildlife/ birding areas and right on the beach: www.bwsunsetbeachresort.com
And right on Route 13, inside the Exxon and gift shop (you want local color, right?) is Sting Ray's restaurant, where you can eat fancy or cheap! It really is great down-home cooking, and the crab soup is divine! I understand the appeal of a deserted winter beach, so have fun!

JoyinVirginia

Here is a link to a review of Sting Ray's. Honest, it is great food!
http://www.delmarvanow.com/apps/pbcs...plate=printart