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50 Best Places to Visit in Solomons Island: Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay Gem

by Lifestylemetro
December 16, 2025
in Australia & Oceania
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Aerial view of Solomons Island showing the waterfront, marina, and Patuxent River meeting the Chesapeake Bay
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Nestled where the Patuxent River meets the Chesapeake Bay, Solomons Island offers a charming maritime escape just 90 minutes from Washington DC. This picturesque waterfront town may be small in size—only 2.3 square miles—but it delivers an impressive array of attractions, from fascinating maritime history and mouthwatering seafood to scenic water views and outdoor adventures.

Whether you’re planning a day trip, weekend getaway, or extended vacation, this comprehensive guide showcases the 50 best places to visit in Solomons Island and the surrounding area. Discover why this hidden Maryland gem continues to captivate visitors with its perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and coastal charm.

The stunning waterfront of Solomons Island where the Patuxent River meets the Chesapeake Bay

Table of Contents

Toggle
  • Planning Your Visit to Solomons Island
    • Ready to Explore Solomons Island?
    • Best Time to Visit
    • Getting Around
  • Museums and Historical Attractions
    • 1. Calvert Marine Museum
    • 2. Drum Point Lighthouse
    • 3. J.C. Lore & Sons Oyster House
    • 4. Chesapeake Biological Laboratory Visitor Center
    • 5. Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center
  • Staying Connected During Your Visit
    • Never Lose Connection While Traveling
  • Natural Attractions and Outdoor Activities
    • 6. Solomons Riverwalk
    • 7. Calvert Cliffs State Park
    • 8. Flag Ponds Nature Park
    • 9. Solomons Town Center Park
    • 10. Cove Point Park
  • Water Activities and Boat Tours
    • 11. Wm. B. Tennison Cruises
    • 12. Big Kahuna Cruises
    • 13. Dee of St. Mary’s Skipjack Tours
    • 14. Scuba Center and Outdoor Rec
    • 15. Fishing Charters
  • Dining and Shopping Experiences
    • 16. Waterfront Restaurants
    • 17. Solomons Island Winery
    • 18. Cove Point Winery
    • 19. No Thyme to Cook
    • 20. Boutique Shopping
  • Nearby Attractions Worth Exploring
    • 21. Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum
    • 22. Cove Point Lighthouse
    • 23. Perigeaux Vineyard & Winery
    • 24. Chesapeake Hills Golf Course
    • 25. Historic St. Mary’s City
  • Unique Experiences in Solomons Island
    • 26. Spooky Solomons Ghost Tours
    • 27. Imaginarium Indoor Playspace
    • 28. Antique Shopping
    • 29. Farmers Markets and Local Produce
    • 30. Wellness and Relaxation
  • Where to Stay in Solomons Island
    • 31. Solomons Victorian Inn
    • 32. Back Creek Inn
    • 33. Hotel Chain Options
    • Find Your Perfect Solomons Island Accommodation
  • Seasonal Events and Festivals
    • 34. Solomons Christmas Walk
    • 35. Patuxent River Appreciation Days
    • 36. Solomons Plein Air Festival
    • 37. Maritime Festival
  • Historical Significance of Solomons Island
  • More Places to Explore in Solomons Island
    • 38. Governor Thomas Johnson Bridge
    • 39. Annmarie Gift Shop
    • 40. Island Bingo
    • 41. Solomons Island Playground
    • 42. St. Leonard Museum
    • 43. Cove Point Park Dog Park
    • 44. New Direction Community Theater
    • 45. Sunset Viewing Spots
    • 46. The Past and Presents Gift Shop
    • 47. Waterside Picnic Areas
    • 48. Bird Watching Locations
    • 49. Ye Ole Cutlery & Gift Shop
    • 50. Solomons Harbor
  • Plan Your Visit to Solomons Island
    • Ready to Experience Solomons Island?

Planning Your Visit to Solomons Island

Ready to Explore Solomons Island?

Before diving into our list of attractions, make sure you’re prepared for your trip with these essential travel resources:

Find Best Deals for Flights and Hotels

Best Time to Visit

Solomons Island is most vibrant from late spring through early fall (May-October). Summer offers perfect weather for water activities, while fall brings cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage. Many attractions have seasonal hours, with fuller schedules during summer months.

Getting Around

While a car is recommended for exploring the broader area, Solomons Island itself is quite walkable. The Riverwalk provides easy access to restaurants, shops, and museums along the waterfront. Boat rentals and water taxis offer unique perspectives of the island.

Solomons Island Riverwalk with people strolling along the waterfront boardwalk on a sunny day

The scenic Riverwalk is perfect for exploring Solomons Island’s waterfront attractions

Museums and Historical Attractions

1. Calvert Marine Museum

The crown jewel of Solomons Island’s attractions, this exceptional museum showcases the region’s rich maritime heritage, paleontology, and natural history. Explore fascinating exhibits on local fossils, traditional Chesapeake Bay watercraft, and the area’s seafood industry.

Don’t miss the river otter habitat, the impressive collection of fossils from the nearby Calvert Cliffs, and the detailed model boats that tell the story of the region’s maritime past.

Exterior of the Calvert Marine Museum in Solomons Island with Drum Point Lighthouse visible

The Calvert Marine Museum houses extensive collections on maritime history and paleontology

Check Ticket Prices

2. Drum Point Lighthouse

Located on the grounds of the Calvert Marine Museum, this beautifully restored screwpile cottage-type lighthouse is one of only three remaining from the 45 that once served the Chesapeake Bay. Built in 1883 and decommissioned in 1962, it now offers visitors a glimpse into the life of lighthouse keepers from the early 20th century.

The hexagonal structure sits on iron screwpiles and features period furnishings that recreate the living conditions of lighthouse keepers and their families. This National Register of Historic Places landmark is included with museum admission.

Historic Drum Point Lighthouse at Calvert Marine Museum in Solomons Island

The historic Drum Point Lighthouse has been beautifully preserved at its new home

Plan Your Visit

3. J.C. Lore & Sons Oyster House

Step back in time at this restored 1934 seafood packing house that showcases the boom and decline of the region’s once-thriving seafood industry. The exhibits detail every aspect of oyster processing, from receiving oysters at the dock to storing, shucking, washing, packing, and shipping them to markets across the region.

This National Historic Landmark offers a fascinating window into Solomons Island’s economic past and the industry that shaped the community. Open seasonally from May through September with free admission.

J.C. Lore & Sons Oyster House historic building on the waterfront in Solomons Island

The historic J.C. Lore & Sons Oyster House preserves the region’s seafood industry heritage

Find Nearby Accommodations

4. Chesapeake Biological Laboratory Visitor Center

As part of the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, this visitor center offers fascinating exhibits on Chesapeake Bay ecology and the groundbreaking research being conducted by CBL scientists. The highlight is the oyster reef community aquarium, which provides a window into the complex underwater ecosystems of the bay.

The center also hosts free public seminars where you can learn about current environmental research and conservation efforts in the Chesapeake Bay region. It’s an educational stop that helps visitors understand the delicate balance of the bay’s ecosystem.

Chesapeake Biological Laboratory Visitor Center with interactive exhibits about bay ecology

Interactive exhibits at the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory Visitor Center explain bay ecology

Explore Nearby Attractions

5. Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center

Located just outside Solomons proper, this 30-acre sculpture park and arts center offers a perfect blend of nature and creativity. Follow the walking path through wooded areas to discover sculptures on loan from the Smithsonian Institution and other surprising artistic treasures.

The center includes indoor gallery spaces with rotating exhibits, a creative reuse space called the artLAB, and the Nature Nook for younger visitors. The grounds also feature a children’s natural play area and native gardens. Pet-friendly (leashed dogs welcome) except during special events.

Sculpture display at Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center near Solomons Island

Artistic sculptures blend with nature at the Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center

Check Opening Hours

Staying Connected During Your Visit

Never Lose Connection While Traveling

Stay connected throughout your journey with reliable internet access. Share your Solomons Island adventures in real-time and easily navigate between attractions:

Get an Egypt eSIM to stay connected

Tourist using smartphone to navigate Solomons Island attractions along the waterfront

Stay connected to easily navigate between Solomons Island’s many attractions

Natural Attractions and Outdoor Activities

6. Solomons Riverwalk

This picturesque boardwalk stretches along the waterfront, offering stunning views of the harbor and the Patuxent River. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, with plenty of benches for relaxing and watching the boats. The Riverwalk connects many of the island’s restaurants, shops, and attractions, making it the backbone of any Solomons visit.

During summer evenings, the Riverwalk comes alive with locals and visitors enjoying the cool breeze off the water. It’s especially beautiful at sunset when the sky reflects off the harbor waters.

Sunset view of boats docked along Solomons Riverwalk with colorful sky

The Solomons Riverwalk offers spectacular views, especially during sunset

Find Nearby Dining

7. Calvert Cliffs State Park

Located a short drive from Solomons Island, this 1,460-acre park features majestic cliffs formed over 15 million years ago. The cliffs contain more than 600 species of fossils, making this a popular spot for amateur paleontologists and fossil hunters. A two-mile trail leads through woodlands to a beach where you can search for prehistoric shark teeth and other fossils.

The park also offers opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and fishing. A large tire playground makes it a hit with families. Note that the walk to the beach is relatively long, so come prepared with water and comfortable shoes.

The fossil-rich beach at Calvert Cliffs State Park near Solomons Island

The fossil-rich beach at Calvert Cliffs State Park is perfect for finding prehistoric shark teeth

Plan Your Outdoor Adventure

8. Flag Ponds Nature Park

This natural preserve offers sandy beaches, freshwater ponds, and excellent views of Calvert Cliffs. The park features hiking trails, fossil hunting opportunities, observation platforms, a wetlands boardwalk, and an observation pier. The visitor center includes wildlife exhibits that help explain the local ecosystem.

Like Calvert Cliffs, Flag Ponds is a prime location for finding fossils, particularly prehistoric shark teeth. The beach here is more accessible than at Calvert Cliffs, making it a good option for families or those with limited mobility. Dogs on leash are permitted, and picnic tables and grills are available for day use.

Boardwalk trail through wetlands at Flag Ponds Nature Park near Solomons Island

The wetlands boardwalk at Flag Ponds Nature Park offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities

Check Park Hours

9. Solomons Town Center Park

Located in the Dowell area, this community park offers a playground, sports fields, picnic areas, and a walking path. It’s an excellent spot for families looking to let children burn off some energy or for visitors seeking a quiet green space for relaxation.

The park is well-maintained and provides a nice contrast to the waterfront activities that dominate most of Solomons Island. It’s particularly pleasant in the early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.

Playground and picnic area at Solomons Town Center Park

Solomons Town Center Park offers family-friendly recreation spaces

Find Family Activities

10. Cove Point Park

This outdoor recreation center features an impressive aquatic complex with an eight-lane lap pool, diving boards, a zero-entry wading pool with play features, and a leisure pool with four waterslides. It’s the perfect place to cool off during hot summer days.

Beyond the pools, the park includes sports facilities and a dog park where four-legged friends can run off-leash. The facility is family-friendly, though children under 13 must be accompanied by a paying adult. For large groups of 20 or more, reservations are required.

Swimming pools and water slides at Cove Point Park near Solomons Island

The aquatic center at Cove Point Park offers refreshing summer fun

Check Pool Hours

Water Activities and Boat Tours

11. Wm. B. Tennison Cruises

Experience Solomons Island from the water aboard the historic Wm. B. Tennison, one of the oldest Coast Guard-licensed passenger vessels in the United States. These relaxing one-hour cruises take you through Solomons harbor, past the island, under the Governor Thomas Johnson Bridge, and toward Point Patience.

The narrated tour provides fascinating insights into the area’s history and points of interest. Departing from the Calvert Marine Museum dock, these cruises are weather-dependent and operate seasonally. It’s a must-do activity for first-time visitors to Solomons Island.

Historic Wm. B. Tennison boat offering harbor cruises from Calvert Marine Museum dock

The historic Wm. B. Tennison offers narrated cruises of Solomons Harbor

Book a Cruise

12. Big Kahuna Cruises

For a more festive water experience, hop aboard the tiki-style pontoon boat Kanaloa with Big Kahuna Cruises. This fun vessel accommodates up to 30 passengers and offers a variety of tour options, from public sightseeing cruises to private events like birthday celebrations and corporate outings.

The boat features ample seating with both sun and shade options, beverages available for purchase, and an onboard restroom. Each cruise is led by a licensed captain with a professional bartender and first mate ensuring a smooth, enjoyable experience. Special themed cruises and live music events are offered throughout the season.

Tiki-style pontoon boat from Big Kahuna Cruises on the water near Solomons Island

The festive tiki boat from Big Kahuna Cruises offers a unique way to experience the water

Reserve Your Cruise

13. Dee of St. Mary’s Skipjack Tours

Step aboard the museum’s historic sailing skipjack for a unique maritime experience. During the sailing season, you can join a cruise aboard this traditional Chesapeake Bay oyster dredging vessel. In the off-season, dockside tours are available where crew members explain how watermen dredged for oysters, hoisted sails, and navigated the waterways.

The Dee of St. Mary’s is one of the few remaining working skipjacks on the Chesapeake Bay, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the traditional waterman’s way of life. Tours are included with museum admission, making this an excellent value addition to your Calvert Marine Museum visit.

Historic Dee of St. Mary's skipjack sailing on the Patuxent River near Solomons Island

The historic skipjack Dee of St. Mary’s preserves traditional Chesapeake Bay sailing techniques

Check Sailing Schedule

14. Scuba Center and Outdoor Rec

This full-service water adventure center offers equipment and experiences for scuba diving, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. Whether you’re a certified diver looking to explore local waters or a beginner interested in learning, the center provides lessons, dive trips, air fills, and equipment rental and sales.

Paddleboard rentals offer a more accessible way to get on the water, allowing visitors to explore the calm waters around Solomons Island at their own pace. The knowledgeable staff can recommend the best spots based on your experience level and interests.

People paddleboarding on calm waters near Solomons Island

Paddleboarding offers a peaceful way to explore the waters around Solomons Island

Book Water Activities

15. Fishing Charters

The waters around Solomons Island offer excellent fishing opportunities throughout the year. Several charter companies operate in the area, providing everything from half-day trips to full-day excursions targeting species like striped bass (rockfish), bluefish, croaker, spot, and white perch.

Charter captains provide all necessary equipment and licenses, making this an accessible activity even for beginners. More experienced anglers can discuss specific target species and techniques with their captain. Fresh-caught fish can often be cleaned and packaged for you to take home or to a local restaurant that will prepare your catch.

Fishing charter boat returning to Solomons Island marina with the day's catch

Fishing charters offer the chance to catch prized Chesapeake Bay species

Find Fishing Charters

Dining and Shopping Experiences

16. Waterfront Restaurants

Solomons Island is renowned for its fresh seafood and waterfront dining options. Several restaurants along the harbor offer outdoor seating with spectacular views of the marina and Patuxent River. Local specialties include Maryland blue crab, oysters, rockfish, and other Chesapeake Bay delicacies.

Popular establishments include The Lighthouse Restaurant, CD Café, Ruddy Duck Brewery, and Stoneys Kingfishers, each offering their own take on regional cuisine. For the full experience, try a traditional Maryland crab feast with steamed crabs, corn on the cob, and Old Bay seasoning.

Waterfront dining with view of boats at a Solomons Island restaurant

Waterfront dining offers delicious seafood with spectacular views

Find Restaurant Deals

17. Solomons Island Winery

Located at the end of the pier, this charming tasting room offers a selection of Maryland wines to sample and purchase. The friendly staff is happy to help you find the perfect wine to match your taste preferences, whether you prefer sweet, dry, red, or white varieties.

The winery features a small outdoor seating area where you can sip your selections while enjoying the picturesque views from the pier. It’s an ideal spot to relax after exploring the island or to pick up a bottle as a souvenir of your visit.

Wine tasting at Solomons Island Winery with waterfront views

Sample local Maryland wines at the Solomons Island Winery tasting room

Plan Your Wine Tasting

18. Cove Point Winery

This boutique winery sources grapes and juice from growers throughout Maryland and beyond to produce a variety of wines and ciders. Their diverse selection includes options that appeal to both casual wine drinkers and connoisseurs, with everything from sweet fruit wines to traditional dry varieties.

Visitors can enjoy tastings and learn about the winemaking process from knowledgeable staff. The winery’s relaxed atmosphere makes it a pleasant stop during your exploration of the Solomons area.

Wine bottles and tasting area at Cove Point Winery near Solomons Island

Cove Point Winery offers a variety of locally produced wines and ciders

Discover Local Wines

19. No Thyme to Cook

This unique culinary experience center offers cooking classes and events overlooking Solomons Harbor. It’s the perfect place to learn about regional cuisine and cooking techniques in a fun, interactive environment. Classes range from seafood preparation to international cuisines and baking.

Events are designed for all skill levels, making this an enjoyable activity for both cooking enthusiasts and beginners. The venue can also be booked for private cooking parties and team-building events. Advance registration is recommended as classes often sell out.

Cooking class in progress at No Thyme to Cook in Solomons Island

Learn to prepare local specialties at No Thyme to Cook’s interactive classes

Book a Cooking Class

20. Boutique Shopping

Solomons Island offers a variety of unique shops and boutiques perfect for finding souvenirs, gifts, and local crafts. The Blue Shell Gifts & Décor features home décor, glassware, and Solomons Island-themed gifts, while Hooked Crafts & Apparel offers handmade items, jewelry, and seasonal gifts.

Other notable shops include carmen’s gallery with fine art and jewelry, The AllyCatWalk Boutique for women’s fashion, and Maertens Fine Jewelry for custom designs and repairs. The Annmarie Gift Shop at the Sculpture Garden is also worth a visit for unique handcrafted items and works from Southern Maryland artists.

Interior of a boutique shop on Solomons Island with nautical-themed merchandise

Boutique shops offer unique souvenirs and locally crafted items

Explore Shopping Options

Nearby Attractions Worth Exploring

21. Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum

Located in nearby St. Leonard, this 560-acre park sits on the Patuxent River and houses nearly 70 archaeological sites reflecting more than 8,000 years of human occupation. Visitors can explore a visitor center, exhibit barn, gift shop, hiking trails, and a recreated Indian Village.

The park is also home to the Maryland Archaeological Conservation Laboratory, a state-of-the-art facility for the conservation and research of archaeological artifacts. The Indian Trail is particularly fascinating, leading visitors along an informative path to a replica village depicting the life of early inhabitants of Calvert County.

Recreated Indian Village at Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum near Solomons Island

The recreated Indian Village at Jefferson Patterson Park offers insights into indigenous life

Plan Your Visit

22. Cove Point Lighthouse

As Maryland’s oldest continuously operating lighthouse, this historic structure offers a glimpse into maritime history. Built in 1828, the lighthouse complex includes the tower, a 1901 fog signal building, and a visitor center. The six-bedroom keeper’s home has been converted into a vacation rental, allowing guests to experience lighthouse living firsthand.

The grounds are open during specific hours and are free to tour, with a museum interpreter on site to answer questions. This National Register of Historic Places landmark provides excellent photo opportunities and historical insights.

Historic Cove Point Lighthouse near Solomons Island

The historic Cove Point Lighthouse has guided mariners since 1828

Check Lighthouse Hours

23. Perigeaux Vineyard & Winery

Located in St. Leonard, this award-winning winery produces Bordeaux-style red and white wines from grapes grown in their estate vineyards. The tasting room is nestled among four vineyards, creating a picturesque setting for wine sampling and relaxation.

Weekends feature live music and guided winery tours with the winemakers, offering insights into the wine production process. The grounds can accommodate celebrations of up to 250 guests, making it a popular venue for special events. It’s an excellent destination for wine enthusiasts looking to experience Maryland’s growing wine scene.

Vineyard rows and tasting room at Perigeaux Vineyard & Winery near Solomons Island

Perigeaux Vineyard & Winery offers award-winning wines in a beautiful setting

Schedule Wine Tasting

24. Chesapeake Hills Golf Course

Just minutes from Solomons, this 18-hole, par 72 county-owned golf course offers a challenging and scenic playing experience. The course features undulating fairways, elevation changes, water hazards, and doglegs that make it a favorite among local golfers.

Amenities include a driving range, pro shop, lessons, and a snack bar. The course is well-maintained and offers reasonable rates, making it accessible for visitors looking to enjoy a round during their stay in the area.

Golfers on the course at Chesapeake Hills Golf Course near Solomons Island

Chesapeake Hills Golf Course offers challenging play in a scenic setting

Book Tee Time

25. Historic St. Mary’s City

A short drive from Solomons Island, this living history museum sits on the site of Maryland’s first capital and fourth permanent English settlement in North America. The outdoor museum features reconstructed colonial buildings, costumed interpreters, and archaeological exhibits that bring the 17th century to life.

Highlights include the reconstructed State House, the Godiah Spray Tobacco Plantation, the Maryland Dove (a replica of a 17th-century trading ship), and the Woodland Indian Hamlet. Special events throughout the year offer additional historical experiences, from militia musters to harvest celebrations.

Costumed interpreters at Historic St. Mary's City near Solomons Island

Costumed interpreters bring Maryland’s colonial history to life at Historic St. Mary’s City

Explore Maryland History

Unique Experiences in Solomons Island

26. Spooky Solomons Ghost Tours

Discover the eerie side of this picturesque waterman’s town with a 90-120 minute walking tour that explores Solomons Island’s creepy history. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours combine historical facts with spine-tingling tales of the supernatural.

As you stroll through the historic streets after dark, you’ll learn about mysterious happenings, tragic events, and the spirits that some believe still linger in this centuries-old maritime community. It’s an entertaining way to experience a different perspective on Solomons Island’s rich history.

Evening ghost tour along the waterfront in Solomons Island

Ghost tours reveal the spookier side of Solomons Island’s maritime history

Book a Ghost Tour

27. Imaginarium Indoor Playspace

Perfect for families traveling with young children, this 6,000-square-foot indoor play center was designed by a local teacher to provide hands-on, interactive experiences for children aged 1-10. The modern facility offers a welcome respite on rainy days or when a break from outdoor activities is needed.

The drop-in play center features various themed areas that encourage imaginative play, physical activity, and creative exploration. It’s an excellent option for keeping younger visitors entertained while providing a climate-controlled environment.

Children playing in the Imaginarium Indoor Playspace in Solomons Island

The Imaginarium Indoor Playspace offers interactive fun for younger visitors

Find Family Activities

28. Antique Shopping

The Solomons area is a treasure trove for antique enthusiasts, with several notable shops and markets. Grandmother’s Store Antique Center occupies a former general store and post office building, while Grandmothers Too can be found in Harmon House Shoppes on the Solomons boardwalk.

For an even larger selection, visit the Chesapeake Marketplace and Auction House in St. Leonard, featuring 100 shops with antiques, collectibles, gifts, local crafts, ceramics, used books, and furniture. These venues offer a chance to find unique pieces with local history and character.

Interior of an antique shop with vintage items in Solomons Island area

Antique shops in the Solomons area offer unique treasures and collectibles

Discover Antique Shops

29. Farmers Markets and Local Produce

Experience the bounty of Southern Maryland at local farmers markets and produce stands. Chesapeake’s Bounty in St. Leonard offers farm-fresh foods from the Chesapeake Bay region, including seasonal produce, locally raised meats, and artisanal food products.

During the growing season, several farmers markets operate in the area, providing an opportunity to meet local growers and purchase just-picked fruits and vegetables. These markets often feature additional vendors selling baked goods, preserves, honey, and handcrafted items.

Fresh produce display at a farmers market near Solomons Island

Local farmers markets showcase the agricultural bounty of Southern Maryland

Find Local Markets

30. Wellness and Relaxation

Take time for self-care during your visit at Inner Equinox, a wellness center focused on bringing peace, joy, wholeness, health, and wellness to mind, body, and spirit. The center offers various services and classes designed to promote relaxation and rejuvenation.

Several hotels and inns in the area also offer spa services, from massages to facials. After days of exploring, these wellness options provide a perfect opportunity to unwind and refresh before continuing your Solomons Island adventures.

Waterfront yoga class in Solomons Island with harbor view

Wellness activities like waterfront yoga offer relaxation with scenic views

Book Wellness Activities

Where to Stay in Solomons Island

31. Solomons Victorian Inn

This charming bed and breakfast occupies a historic Victorian home with stunning water views. The inn offers individually decorated rooms, gourmet breakfasts, and a welcoming atmosphere that captures the essence of Solomons Island’s maritime heritage.

Exterior of Solomons Victorian Inn bed and breakfast with water view

Check Availability

32. Back Creek Inn

Set in a restored 1880s home, this waterfront bed and breakfast offers serene views and easy access to Solomons’ attractions. The inn features comfortable rooms, beautiful gardens, and a dock perfect for watching sunsets over the creek.

Waterfront view of Back Creek Inn bed and breakfast in Solomons Island

Book Your Stay

33. Hotel Chain Options

For those preferring familiar accommodations, Solomons Island offers several chain hotels including Hilton Garden Inn and Holiday Inn. These properties provide reliable amenities, rewards programs, and convenient locations near major attractions.

Modern hotel exterior near Solomons Island waterfront

Find Hotel Deals

Find Your Perfect Solomons Island Accommodation

From charming bed and breakfasts to convenient hotels, discover the best places to stay during your Solomons Island adventure:

Best Deals for Flights and Hotels

Seasonal Events and Festivals

34. Solomons Christmas Walk

During the holiday season, Solomons Island transforms into a festive wonderland with the annual Christmas Walk. The event features decorated storefronts, special shopping opportunities, holiday music, and a boat parade of lights that illuminates the harbor with creatively decorated vessels.

Restaurants offer seasonal specials, and the entire community embraces the holiday spirit with decorations and activities. It’s a magical time to experience Solomons Island’s charm and community atmosphere.

Holiday boat parade with decorated vessels in Solomons Island harbor

The holiday boat parade illuminates Solomons Harbor during the Christmas Walk

Plan Holiday Visit

35. Patuxent River Appreciation Days

This annual fall festival celebrates the heritage, economic impact, and ecology of the Patuxent River. Held at the Calvert Marine Museum and surrounding grounds, the event features maritime demonstrations, environmental exhibits, live music, food vendors, and children’s activities.

Highlights include boat rides, traditional crafts demonstrations, and educational presentations about the river’s ecosystem. The festival typically takes place in October and draws visitors from throughout Southern Maryland.

Festival activities during Patuxent River Appreciation Days in Solomons Island

Patuxent River Appreciation Days celebrates the region’s maritime heritage

Check Festival Dates

36. Solomons Plein Air Festival

Art enthusiasts will enjoy this celebration of outdoor painting that brings artists from around the region to capture Solomons Island’s scenic beauty. During the festival, you can watch artists at work throughout the island, creating paintings that showcase the area’s picturesque landscapes and maritime character.

The event culminates in an exhibition and sale where visitors can purchase original artwork created during the festival. It’s a wonderful opportunity to acquire a unique souvenir that captures the essence of Solomons Island through an artist’s perspective.

Artist painting waterfront scene during Solomons Plein Air Festival

The Plein Air Festival brings artists to capture Solomons Island’s scenic beauty

Explore Art Events

37. Maritime Festival

This celebration of Solomons’ maritime heritage features boat displays, demonstrations of traditional watermen’s skills, seafood tastings, and live music. Visitors can learn about boat building, oyster tonging, crab picking, and other traditional Chesapeake Bay practices.

The festival typically includes activities for all ages, from children’s games to craft beer tastings for adults. It’s an immersive way to experience the cultural traditions that have shaped life in Solomons Island for generations.

Traditional boat building demonstration at Solomons Maritime Festival

Maritime skills demonstrations showcase traditional Chesapeake Bay practices

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Historical Significance of Solomons Island

During World War II, the island was chosen by the Allied command as the site for Naval Amphibious Training Base Solomons. The lessons learned at Solomons proved invaluable on D-Day, at Tarawa, at Guadalcanal, and in numerous other military operations. Three naval bases were established at the mouth of the Patuxent River. These three facilities made a major contribution to the war effort and brought new jobs to local residents. Between 1942 and 1945, the population of Solomons increased from 263 to more than 2,600. Over 60,000 troops trained at Solomons during the war.

Originally known as Bourne’s Island, then Somervell’s Island, the area was finally renamed Solomons Island in honor of Isaac Solomon, a Baltimore businessman who established a cannery here shortly after the Civil War. The community’s evolution from a small fishing village to a shipbuilding center, military training facility, and now tourist destination reflects the broader history of the Chesapeake Bay region.

Historic black and white photograph of Naval training at Solomons Island during World War II

Solomons Island played a crucial role as a Naval training base during World War II

More Places to Explore in Solomons Island

38. Governor Thomas Johnson Bridge

This impressive 1.4-mile bridge connects Calvert County with St. Mary’s County and offers spectacular views of the Patuxent River. The high span provides a dramatic entrance to Solomons Island and is a popular spot for photography.

Governor Thomas Johnson Bridge spanning the Patuxent River near Solomons Island

39. Annmarie Gift Shop

Located at the Annmarie Sculpture Garden, this unique shop offers handcrafted items from Southern Maryland artists alongside fair-trade pieces from around the world. Find jewelry, pottery, glass art, garden décor, and gifts that support independent artists.

Handcrafted items display at Annmarie Gift Shop in Solomons Island

40. Island Bingo

For evening entertainment, try your luck at Island Bingo in the Patuxent Shopping Plaza. This local bingo hall offers a fun, social activity and the chance to win prizes while mingling with locals and fellow visitors.

People playing bingo at Island Bingo hall in Solomons Island

41. Solomons Island Playground

Families with young children will appreciate this well-maintained playground that offers a place for kids to burn off energy. Located near the waterfront, it provides recreation opportunities with scenic views.

Children playing at Solomons Island Playground with waterfront view

42. St. Leonard Museum

Located at Buehler’s Marketplace in nearby St. Leonard, this cozy local history museum brings the area’s past to life through personal artifacts, vintage photos, and one-of-a-kind displays celebrating Southern Maryland’s charm and stories.

Historical displays at St. Leonard Museum near Solomons Island

43. Cove Point Park Dog Park

Traveling with four-legged friends? This dedicated dog park provides a safe, enclosed space where dogs can run off-leash and socialize. The facility is clean and well-maintained, making it a welcome amenity for pet owners.

Dogs playing at Cove Point Park Dog Park near Solomons Island

44. New Direction Community Theater

This local theater group produces three shows per season at the Long Beach Community Building in St. Leonard. Performances showcase local talent and provide evening entertainment options for visitors interested in the arts.

Theater performance at New Direction Community Theater near Solomons Island

45. Sunset Viewing Spots

Solomons Island offers several prime locations for watching spectacular sunsets over the water. Popular spots include the Riverwalk, the pier at the Solomons Island Winery, and the beaches at Flag Ponds Nature Park.

Dramatic sunset over the Patuxent River from Solomons Island viewpoint

46. The Past and Presents Gift Shop

Located at Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum, this unique shop features merchandise highlighting local and regional history from early America to today, including historical games, toys, souvenirs, and handcrafted items from local artisans.

Historical souvenirs at The Past and Presents Gift Shop near Solomons Island

47. Waterside Picnic Areas

Several locations around Solomons Island offer scenic picnic spots where visitors can enjoy a meal with waterfront views. Public areas along the Riverwalk and at nearby parks provide tables and sometimes grills for outdoor dining.

Waterfront picnic area with tables overlooking Solomons Island harbor

48. Bird Watching Locations

The Solomons area is a haven for bird watchers, with diverse habitats attracting numerous species. Prime locations include the wetlands at Flag Ponds Nature Park, Jefferson Patterson Park, and the shorelines along the Patuxent River.

Great blue heron wading in wetlands near Solomons Island

49. Ye Ole Cutlery & Gift Shop

This unique store in St. Leonard specializes in cutlery, specialty gifts, and sports items. It’s a distinctive shopping experience offering items you won’t find in typical tourist shops or chain stores.

Specialty knife display at Ye Ole Cutlery & Gift Shop near Solomons Island

50. Solomons Harbor

The heart of Solomons Island, the harbor itself deserves recognition as an attraction. This picturesque marina is filled with sailboats, fishing vessels, and pleasure craft, creating a quintessential maritime scene. The harbor comes alive in different ways throughout the day—from the early morning activity of fishing boats heading out to the evening tranquility as the sun sets over the water.

Simply sitting on a bench along the harbor and watching the boat traffic offers a peaceful, authentic Solomons Island experience. It’s the perfect place to end our list of 50 best places to visit, as the harbor embodies the nautical charm that makes this destination so special.

Panoramic view of Solomons Harbor filled with sailboats and fishing vessels

Solomons Harbor captures the maritime essence that defines this charming destination

Plan Your Solomons Island Getaway Today

Plan Your Visit to Solomons Island

With its rich maritime heritage, stunning waterfront views, and diverse attractions, Solomons Island offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, culinary experiences, or simply relaxing by the water, this charming Chesapeake Bay destination has something for everyone.

The 50 best places to visit in Solomons Island highlighted in this guide represent just a sampling of what this remarkable area has to offer. As you explore these attractions, you’ll discover your own favorite spots and create lasting memories of this special place where the Patuxent River meets the Chesapeake Bay.

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Sunset view of Solomons Island waterfront with boats silhouetted against colorful sky

Experience the magic of Solomons Island, where every visit creates lasting memories

Tags: Chesapeake Bay tripsMaryland travel destinationsSolomons Island attractionsSolomons Island itinerariesSolomons Island sightseeingSouthern Maryland travel
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