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

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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.

The water and sky view from the observation deck at Chesapeake Heritage and Visitor Center

The view from the observation deck at Chesapeake Heritage and Visitor Center | Photo: Better Living

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.

A Blue Heron walking along a dock during sunset in Kent Narrows

A Blue Heron walks along the dock at sunset in Kent Narrows, MD | Photo: Better Living

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. 

The view from the Hyatt Place Kent Narrows Hotel. An expansive bay with docks and piers along the coast. Boats going by in the background.

The view from the balcony suites at Hyatt Place Kent Narrows. | Photo: Better Living

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. 

The Maryland Watermen’s Monument at nighttime in Kent Narrows, MD.

The Maryland Watermen’s Monument in Kent Narrows, MD | Photo: Better Living

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. Then shop one of the local boutiques to bring home a unique treasure.

An aerial view of The Chesapeake Heritage and Visitor Center with water in the background.

The Chesapeake Heritage and Visitor Center | Photo: Better Living

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 that is closed for renovations, but worth putting on your radar. With an easy boardwalk trail and coastline views of the Chester River, it’s great for hiking and bird watching.  Plus, there’s a small beach.

Ferry Point Park is accessible at the entrance of the Chesapeake Heritage and Visitor Center which is also under renovation. Visitors love the observation tower here, but when they reopen, visit the museum inside to learn about local history and wildlife and get local travel information. For now, the Chesapeake Heritage and Visitor Center is temporarily in the Queenstown Premium Outlets. Both the park and Chesapeake Heritage and Visitor Center will be ready for visitors by 2024. 

The view of the bay from the shore of the Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center

Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center | Photo: Better Living

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.

Perched rescued, non-releasable Barred Owls at CBEC

Visit the rescued, non-releasable Barred Owls at CBEC | Photo: Better Living

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.

A baby terrapin turtle in the palm of a woman helping it to the water.

Helping a baby terrapin turtle find the water at Terrapin Park | Photo: Better Living

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. 

Strolling through Historic Stevensville, MD. Shops and a fountain line the street.

Strolling through Historic Stevensville, MD | Photo: Better Living

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.  

The Stevensville Train Depot

The Historic Stevensville Train Depot | Photo: Better Living

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. 

The view of the Love Point Winery and Vineyard from the dock.

Love Point Winery and Vineyard in Stevensville, MD | Photo: Better Living

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.

A view of the dock, water, and sitting area at Love Point Winery and Vineyard

Wine with a view at Love Point Winery and Vineyard in Stevensville, MD | Photo: Better Living

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.

The sun setting in Kent Narrows over the water. Boats in the forefront.

A  stunning sunset and pastel sky from the docks at Hyatt Place Kent Narrows | Photo: Better Living

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.

An interesting cloud formation at sunset from The Crab Deck in Kent Narrows

A brilliant sunset from the docks at Fisherman’s Crab Deck in Kent Narrows, MD | Photo: Better Living

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.

Items for sale in Hope Boutique, Kent Narrows

Hope Boutique in Kent Narrows, MD | Photo: Better Living

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.

Items for sale at the Ophiuroidea Boutique

The whimsical Ophiuroidea Boutique in Kent Narrows, MD | Photo: Better Living

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. 

Chocolate blue crabs in a chocolate basket at Chesapeake Bay Chocolates

Chocolate blue crabs in a chocolate basket at Chesapeake Bay Chocolates | Photo: Better Living

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 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.

The shopping outlet storefronts in Queenstown, MD

The outlets in Queenstown are a short drive from Kent Narrows | Photo: Better Living

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 here. 

Vendors under their tents at Kent Island Farmers' Market in Stevensville, MD

Kent Island Farmers’ Market in Stevensville, MD | Photo: Better Living

Kent Island Farmers’ Market

1169 Shopping Center Rd. in Stevensville, Maryland
https://www.kentislandfarmersmarket.net

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, jewelry are well worth the visit. And the market hosts new vendors and pop ups regularly. You can check the regularly updated schedule of vendors at the Kent Island Farmers’ Market website before you go.

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.

Steamed Crab Pot at Fisherman's Crab Deck in Kent Narrow with blue crab, mussels, clams, shrimp, and a mallet.

The legendary Steamed Crab Pot at Fisherman’s Crab Deck in Kent Narrows | Photo: Better Living

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.

The dining area of Fisherman's Inn at Kent Narrows, MD

Fisherman’s Inn at Kent Narrows, MD | Photo: Better Living

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.

Sesame fried panko Rockfish “Bites” with Hawaiian BBQ, wasabi cream pickled ginger, and seaweed salad

Asian inspired Rockfish Bites at Fisherman’s Inn Kent Narrows | Photo: Better Living

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.

Baked Jumbo Lump Crab Imperial features sweet and meaty lump crab topped with their rich and luxurious imperial sauce.

Baked Jumbo Lump Crab Imperial at Fisherman’s Inn | Photo: Better Living

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.

Coconut Cream Pie topped with whipped cream, salted caramel drizzle, and a sprinkle of toasted coconut.

A generous slice of Coconut Cream Pie at Fisherman’s Inn | Photo: Better Living

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.

Customers dining and enjoying the sunset at Fisherman's Crab Deck in Kent Narrows, MD.

Sunset at Fisherman’s Crab Deck in Kent Narrows, MD | Photo: Better Living

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! 

Seafood Nachos with shrimp, scallops and crab. Sunset in the background.

Seafood Nachos at Fisherman’s Crab Deck | Photo: Better Living

While you wait, someone from the friendly 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.

Steamed Crab Pot with steamed crabs, fresh mussels, clams and shrimp.

Enjoying the sunset and a Steamed Crab Pot at Fisherman’s Crab Deck | Photo: Better Living

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 seafood entrees like the Crab Cakes, Seafood Mac and Cheese or Fish and Chips. There are lots of handheld options too.

The famous Kent Narrows Nutty Buddy ice cream cone being held high above the bay.

The famous Kent Narrows Nutty Buddy | Photo: Better Living

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.

Customers dining and enjoying the outdoor deck on the water at Big Owl Tiki Bar.

Big Owl Tiki Bar in Kent Narrows, MD | Photo: Better Living

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. 

Holding a Soft Shell Crab Taco at Big Owl Tiki Bar in Kent Narrows, MD

Soft Shell Crab Tacos at Big Owl Tiki Bar in Kent Narrows, MD | Photo: Better Living

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

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!

A dockside view of Bridges restaurant.

Bridges waterfront restaurant in Kent Narrows, MD | Photo: Better Living

Bridges

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

Recently named one of 100 Most Scenic Restaurants in America by OpenTable, 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.

Shrimp and Grits with colossal shrimp, grape tomatoes and smoked Andouille sausage, over creamy cheddar grits.

Shrimp and Grits at Bridges | Photo: Better Living

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

The front sign of Dock House restaurant with a giant blue crab on wood.

The new Dock House restaurant in Kent Narrows, MD | Photo: Better Living

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. 

Dock House Popcorn. Crispy fried shrimp, rockfish, calamari and caramel popcorn are served in a cinema style popcorn bucket.

The must-try Dock House Popcorn at Dock House Kent Narrows | Photo: Better Living

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.

Dock House Crab Pretzel. Doughy braided pretzel topped with Creamy Crab Dip, cheddar cheese, scallions and a touch of Old Bay.

The Crab Pretzel at Dock House | Photo: Better Living

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. 

Cinnamon Bread Pudding with a heaping pile of ice cream and whipped cream.

Cinnamon Bread Pudding at Dock House | Photo: Better Living

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.

The front counter and staff working at Sugar Doodles

Sugar Doodles in Kent Narrows, MD | Photo: Better Living

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.

Nutella Royalle with Nutella, fresh strawberry and sliced bananas.

Nutella Royale Crepe at Sugar Doodles | Photo: Better Living

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.

The Maryland Waterman's Monument and the Hyatt Place at the entrance of Kent Narrows, MD

The Maryland Waterman’s Monument and the Hyatt Place at the entrance of Kent Narrows, MD | Photo: Better Living

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.

Dockside view of The Hyatt Place Kent Narrows & Marina

The Hyatt Place Kent Narrows & Marina | Photo: Better Living

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 bedroom in Suite 304 at Hyatt Place Kent Narrows

The bedroom in Suite 304 at Hyatt Place Kent Narrows at sunset | Photo: Better Living

The living and dining area in Suite 304 at Hyatt Place Kent Narrows

The living and dining area in Suite 304 at Hyatt Place Kent Narrows | Photo: Better Living

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. 

Enjoying the view from our private balcony in Suite 304 at Hyatt Place Kent Narrows

Enjoying the view from our private balcony in Suite 304 at Hyatt Place Kent Narrows | Photo: Better Living

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. 

Breakfast plates on a table looking out at the water view at Hyatt Place Kent Narrows

Complimentary breakfast with a view at Hyatt Place Kent Narrows | Photo: Better Living

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.

Relaxing by the firepit at sunset at Hyatt Place Kent Narrows

Relax by the firepit and enjoy the sunset at Hyatt Place Kent Narrows | Photo: Better Living

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. 

The large indoor pool looking out to the water at Hyatt Place Kent Narrows

The large indoor pool at Hyatt Place Kent Narrows | Photo: Better Lving

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.

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 an 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.

A boat being stored at The Boatel at Kent Narrows

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

Kent Narrows Boatel

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.

The sunset over the shimmering water from the docks at Hyatt Place Kent Narrows, MD

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

Final Thoughts on Kent Narrows

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. Treat yourself to a stay at Kent Narrows and experience the beauty of nature. You won’t regret it!

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.

Links For More Information on Kent Narrows

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

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