Smith Island, Maryland

Enjoy a laid-back, secluded getaway on Maryland’s only inhabited island not accessible by bridge or causeway from the mainland. Named for Captain John Smith who first mapped it in 1608, Smith Island today has only around 200 year-round residents. Smith is divided into three distinct communities: Ewell, Tylerton, and Rhodes Point. Tour boats, supplies, and the mail arrive in Ewell, the largest. The community also hosts a visitor’s center and the only three restaurants.

Smith Island Accommodations

Despite its isolation, day-tripping ferry riders often choose to book accommodations on Smith. A rustic hunting and fishing lodge in the community of Tylerton has great lodging packages. Bed & breakfast inns feature home-cooked breakfast on the porch with stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay. A few waterfront cottages are available with amenities like fully-equipped kitchens, bikes, kayaks, canoes, and piers for small boats.

Smith Dining and Shopping

Crab cakes and other fresh-catch seafood delicacies are served in the three restaurants. Join a family-style luncheon or order off the menu at Bayside Inn located at the dock where the ferries arrive. You can also order crab sandwiches and subs for take-out. Be sure to include a slice or two of Smith Island cake, Maryland’s official state dessert. This amazing cake has 10 layers and is only three inches tall. Get hand-scooped ice cream and snow cones to enjoy while sitting on the dock.

Seafood is a way of life on Smith. Shop at Ruke’s Store and Seafood Deck and have soft crab and other seafood delicacies on their screened deck. The market in Tylerton has groceries, convenience items, take-out subs, and crab cakes of course. Tylerton also has a crabmeat co-op where you can watch the workers pick and pack crabmeat and purchase crab cakes, crab salad, and more.

Things to See and Do on Smith

Walking and golf-carting are the preferred modes of transportation and provide a sure-fire way to strike up an interesting conversation with a friendly local. Stop at the visitor’s center for a walking tour map. Take time to watch a short film about life here and view the historical items on loan from local families. Kayaking on the waterways is a relaxing pastime and a great way to enjoy the serenity. Pick up a paddle guide at one of the local establishments and keep to the marked water trails.