Instead of Annapolis, This Maryland Town is Where You Should Take Your Next Trip

There’s no denying that Annapolis, Maryland, is one of those places that, after you visit, you’ll walk away with lasting memories. From its buzzing harbor to its eye-catching architecture to its historic charm to its sailing culture, it’s easy to see why over four million people visit the capital city every year. Drive 60 miles south, and you’ll find Solomons, a small Maryland town like Annapolis, offering quiet boardwalks, boat-filled marinas, plenty of water recreation, and waterfront restaurants — all without the large crowds, of course. Here’s why we think you should plan a trip to this Chesapeake Bay gem. 

Why This Town Feels Like Annapolis

Solomons Island, Maryland, is an actual island surrounded by the Patuxent River, Back Creek, and the Chesapeake Bay. But it’s connected to the mainland via a short 20-foot concrete bridge that you barely notice when driving across it. Technically, it’s similar to Annapolis in that it’s classified as a peninsula with access to the Bay. Sure, Solomons wasn’t named after royalty; it doesn’t have the well-preserved 18th-century architecture, nor does it share the extensive colonial heritage or historical significance of Annapolis. That said, the community offers a more low-key waterfront spot where you can fill your days eating, playing, and sleeping on an “island” in Maryland. Something that Annapolis can’t claim.  

Of course, I think Annapolis is worth seeing; in fact, it’s one of my favorite towns in Maryland to visit. Be sure to stop by Wild Country Seafood and order the broiled crab cakes when you’re there, and thank me later. But if you need a place that shares Annapolis’ boating culture, maritime heritage, and waterfront activities, drive to Solomons Island instead. With about 2,400 residents, I would argue that this underrated town in Maryland is simply a compact version of Annapolis… minus the extra historical features.   

What You Can Do Here

Solomons Island is all about life on the water. Even the town's museum, the Calvert Marine Museum, is located near the waterfront on the mainland. This attraction usually surprises visitors who expect a typical small-town museum. What they end up finding is an expansive complex with both indoor and outdoor exhibits, including aquariums, adorable river otters, a giant megalodon skeleton, historic yachts, and the restored Drum Point Lighthouse. This would be great for the little ones, and there’s enough to keep you busy for several hours. 

What I like about the museum is that it’s a few minutes' walk from the restaurants, marinas, and fishing charters along Back Creek. Similar to Annapolis, you can grab a bite at a waterfront restaurant, then book a fishing trip to catch plenty of bluefish, white perch, Spanish mackerel, rockfish, and catfish from the open Bay. You can also go sailing for two to six hours on an actual yacht for a true maritime adventure. 

On the island, if you want to explore the waterways at your own pace, consider renting a pontoon boat, jet ski, paddle board, or kayak from Bunky's Charter Boats. The spot to eat is the Tiki Bar and Grill, where you’ll experience true island vibes with a sandy area, live music, and colorful cocktails. You can end your day at the Tiki Bar, or, better yet, take a stroll along the Solomons Island Boardwalk, then head to the pier to watch the boats drift by as the sun sets over the Patuxent River. For a change of scenery, take the kids to Annmarie Sculpture Garden for a few hours. Here, you can stroll the shaded pathways and admire the art installations, then have a picnic at this peaceful art garden. 

Plan Your Visit

Anyone living or visiting the DC, Maryland, Virginia area will find that Solomons Island is easy to get to. It’s about 65 miles from DC, 45 miles from Virginia, and less than two hours from the Baltimore Inner Harbor. Sure, you can come to the island for a day, but with all there is to do, you’ll need a few days (or more) to get into the slow-paced island vibe. If you need a place to stay, just like in Annapolis, there are lovely waterfront spots to spend the night. They include Solomons Victorian Inn, a charming bed-and-breakfast housed in a Queen Anne-style home. Or choose Solomons Inn Resort and Marina, a modern resort boasting access to the Chesapeake and stunning views.  

Naturally, summer is the busiest time of year, especially with annual regattas and local events. But it’s actually the ideal time to visit. In the warmer months, you won’t have to worry about seasonal closures as you would when it's cold outside. And don’t worry, even though there will be more people here, the vibe will still be more relaxed than in Annapolis. After all, it’s an “island” on the Bay. 

It would make sense to add Annapolis to your travel plans if you have time. But I think Solomons Island is ideal for anyone who prefers a less crowded waterfront spot in Maryland offering similar attractions to the capital city. Solomons Island might not get the same attention as Annapolis, but the town knows who it is: a place to relax and unwind in intimate settings on the Chesapeake Bay in southern Maryland… island-style. Learn more about this underrated town on the official Solomons Island website.