
Local Tips for your North Beach Getaway
Curated by your hosts Nadia, Blair, and Pasha the dog
Welcome to North Beach, Maryland — our favorite little corner of the Chesapeake Bay. Whether you're here for a weekend escape or a longer stay, we’ve gathered our favorite local spots and experiences to help you feel like a local from the moment you arrive.
💡 Travel Tip: Booking directly through our website gives you access to the best rates. We host several properties in the area – check them all out here.
🌅 First Stop: Snacks, Sips & Stocking Up
If you’re arriving hungry (or just excited to get into vacation mode), we’ve got you covered.
Vaughan Cheese – Artisanal cheese boards, wine, and lunch fare from a charming, farm-focused shop on the main strip.
Check out this local feature
Ketch 22 – Our go-to for a relaxed waterfront lunch. Snag a table at the far end of the deck and try the fish tacos!
Need groceries?
Roland’s – Full grocery store, 5–10 mins away
Chesapeake’s Bounty – Local produce, seafood, and firewood, right in town
🏖 Beach Time, Anytime
North Beach is a mellow, family-friendly spot perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or hunting for fossils.
Summer months? Beach passes are required (we provide them for guests).
Off-season? It’s all yours, no pass needed.
📅 Don’t Miss What’s Happening in Town
North Beach always has something fun going on — think farmers markets, movies on the beach, craft fairs, and live music on the boardwalk. Before your trip (or once you arrive), check out the town’s event calendar to see what’s on:
👉 North Beach Calendar of Events
It’s worth a peek — especially if you’re here over the weekend!
🍽 Eat Like a Local: Our Favorite Spots
We’ve taste-tested our way through the area — here’s the shortlist we always come back to.
Brunch & Bites
Hook & Vine – Cozy, creative Southern fare (call ahead!)
Baia – Brunch with a view
Bakist – Killer pastries, great for a morning treat or custom cake
Tyler’s Tackle Shop – Steamed shrimp and seafood takeout
Global Flavors
Plaza Mexico – Authentic and generous — try the marinated shrimp
City Sliders – Great vegetarian and vegan options
Thai Zapp (in Dunkirk) – Great for takeout or delivery
Grab a Drink
Wheelhouse – Beer garden vibes and occasional live music
Bay Wine & Spirits – Feels like Cheers, with excellent wine recs
🌊 Road Trip! (Worth the Drive)
🛥 Deale: Our Favorite Mini Getaway
About 20 minutes up the coast via scenic Fairhaven Road.
Skipper’s Pier – Cold drinks, waterfront tables, and live music on warm days
The Boathouse – More casual, still great
Jesse Jay’s Latin Kitchen – Tucked-away gem with limited hours (worth the check)
🚗 Head South for Hidden Gems
Flag Ponds Nature Park – Fossil hunting + dog-friendly beach
More infoCalvert Cliffs State Park – Dramatic cliffs, shady hiking trails, and a small beach with fossil hunting — great for kids who like a nature walk with a reward at the end.
Annmarie Sculpture Garden – Artsy, peaceful, great for families
WebsiteVera’s Restaurant – Tiki-style pit stop for lunch
🚶♀️ Stretch Your Legs: Local Trails & Nature Walks
Must-Do: Chesapeake Beach Railway Trail
A scenic raised boardwalk through the wetlands — peaceful, flat, and perfect for all ages.
For Morning Runs & Dog Walks
Start at Wetlands Overlook Park (we have a map in the house guide). Connects to wooded trails and quiet residential streets.
🚲 Pedals & Scooters: Explore on Wheels
Tessa Scooters – Rent e-bikes, beach cruisers, scooters & more
Mention A Haven Away when booking online for $5 off
tessascooters.com
💦 On the Water: Boats, Boards & Jet Skis
Looking to get out on the Bay? Try one of these local rental spots (most open seasonally):
DMV Jet Skis
Show Boatin’
Chesapeake Flyboarding
Chesapeake Beach Boat Rental – 410-257-1028
Let us know if you try one — we’d love to hear how it goes!
💧 Splash Zone: Chesapeake Beach Water Park
Great for families with younger kids. Check their site for seasonal hours, access requirements, and ticket info:
chesapeakebeachwaterpark.com
🎂 Sweet Stuff: Cakes, Cookies & Special Orders
Planning a birthday or celebration?
Bakist – Morning pastries, and maybe cupcakes!
Baked by the Bay – Vegan, gluten-free, and sugar-free options (email ahead!)
📧 bakedbythebaycb@gmail.com
🐾 Pet Perks: Grooming & Goodies
The Sudsy Mutt is our go-to for dog grooming. Friendly, reliable, and locally loved.
🏃♀️ Triathlon or Training?
Let us know if you’re planning long runs, rides, or swims. We've hosted plenty of athletes and can share favorite scenic routes nearby.
🍷 Sip & Chill: Wineries & Weekend Vibes
Looking for a vineyard outing?
Fridays Creek Winery – A friend who stayed with us recently went and loved it. It’s a small, relaxed spot with a country barn feel — great for a low-key afternoon tasting.
Running Hare Vineyard – Think live music, food trucks, and dogs under picnic tables. (Wine is meh, but the beer and vibe are worth it.)
📸 Share What You Discover
We always love hearing what our guests find — whether it’s a favorite bite, new trail, or secret view. Tag us in your photos on Instagram: @ahavenaway
🔑 Book Direct & Save
You’ll always find the best rates and more options when you book directly at
👉 www.ahavenaway.com