The Less Traveled Island In Virginia You’ll Want To Add To Your Bucket List
It’s easy to forget that Virginia is home to an array of beautiful islands, many of which have never been traveled by lifelong residents of the Old Dominion. Today, we’ll introduce you to the breathtaking location of Gwynn’s Island. Located in the Chesapeake Bay in Mathews County, Gwynn’s Island measures approximately three miles long and two miles wide. This little-known destination is filled with history, charm, and natural beauty, and it’s a place that every Virginia resident should visit at least once.
Gwynn's Island is located along Virginia's middle peninsula at the mouth of the Piankatank River.
Though modest in size, the island has an extraordinary amount of natural beauty. Its recent history dates back to 1640, when the land was acquired by Colonel Hugh Gwynn.
Prior to colonization, Gwen's Island was home to Native Americans for centuries. Artifacts, tools, and pottery found on the island suggest that humans lived here as early as 10,000 B.C.
The island is most prominently known for its fishing industry, agriculture, shipbuilding, and tourism, although recently, many of these have dwindled. The permanent population is around 600.
There are still plenty of local businesses located on the island, although many are only open seasonally. One beloved landmark is a restaurant called Hole In The Wall.
With vacation homes and cottages, the island still maintains its identity as a leisure destination, although not to the extent that it once was. Even still, there's no denying the abundant beauty of this tiny Chesapeake island.
So if you haven't yet had an opportunity to visit this extraordinary destination in Virginia, you should plan on doing so as soon as possible. You won't be disappointed!
For more information about Gwynn’s Island, you can visit the official Gwynn’s Island Museum website by clicking here. Have you visited Gwynn’s Island before? If so, we’d love to hear from you!
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Alexandria. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
