Coastal Towns of the Mid Atlantic
The Coast of the Mid Atlantic is filled with many cute towns. Even though these places are most visited during the summer season, I found that the late fall season was better for discovery. I can imagine the beaches and broadwalks crowded with people during the day. This way you pretty much have the whole place to yourself. The weather helped a lot too, it was sunny during our drive and as we boarded the ferry, crossing from New Jersey into Maryland, I immediately know that we were in for a treat. In this post I want to show some small coastal towns that we visited and also include a gem hidden just a few miles inland from the coastline. Come along with us on a sunny road trip day!
Cape May-Lewes Ferry
There is only one way to cross from New Jersey into Maryland and stay on the coastline. That is the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. In the summer it rides fairly often, but from October there is a different schedule. The tickets have to be booked in advance on the official website. The ride takes one hour and there isn’t that much to see, since the ferry rides through a canal and the coast is far away.
Rehoboth Beach
Our visit to the charming coastal town of Rehoboth Beach was a delightful escape. We stayed at the Fairfield by Marriott and arrived fairly late in the day. We went for dinner in the iconic Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats, a beacon for beer enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of the town, this brewery offered a perfect blend of craft beer and coastal charm. We immersed ourselves in a unique tasting experience, sampling a diverse array of brews crafted with care and creativity. We also had great burgers and fries.
Bethany Beach
As we strolled through the town’s quiet streets, the salty breeze from the nearby Atlantic Ocean carried with it a sense of tranquility. Bethany Beach’s inviting atmosphere was complemented by its picturesque surroundings, featuring beautiful beachfront homes and sandy pathways leading to the expansive shore. We spent a lazy morning walking the pristine beaches, and having coffee in one of the cafes that was open on the boardwalk. Bethany Beach revealed itself as a hidden gem, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and coastal beauty. It was a sunny day again, and it made everything just better. I wish I could have stayed in this moment forever.
Bethany Beach Nature Center
We visited the Bethany Beach Nature Center just after the beach and it was a harmonious blend of environmental education and exploration. Nestled in the heart of the coastal town, the nature center serves as a gateway to the area’s diverse ecosystems. The informative exhibits provided insights into the local flora and fauna. The walk along the Baldwin Trail lasts around 20 minutes. The trail, with its meandering paths and rich biodiversity, allowed us to witness the beauty of the coastal landscape up close. It’s a perfect for bird watching too. It was a morning well spent, and it left us with a renewed sense of wonder for the world around us.
Berlin
Our visit to the quaint town of Berlin, Maryland, was a step back in time, immersed in the charm of a bygone era. The town’s historic district, with its cobblestone streets and well-preserved 19th-century architecture, exuded a timeless appeal. As we meandered through the picturesque streets, we discovered a treasure trove of unique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes, each contributing to Berlin’s small-town allure.
The Atlantic Hotel, a landmark with its Victorian grandeur, stood as a testament to the town’s rich history. Berlin’s sense of community was palpable, and we found ourselves enchanted by the vibrant art scene and the genuine friendliness of the residents. Our visit to this little Maryland gem was a journey into the heart of Americana. We spent our afternoon here, had coffee, bought some souvenirs and took a lot of pictures. It was a perfect end to our day exploring the coastal towns of the Mid Atlantic.