Fall for Cape Charles: an off-season guide to our corner of the Eastern Shore

Cape Charles is more than just a summer hideaway. When the temperatures cool off, Cape Charles is still here, businesses bustling, golf carts rolling, and adventures awaiting. We’re here to tell you all of the reasons you should visit Cape Charles in the off-season.

Avoid the crowds: Hate waiting in lines? Traveling to Cape Charles in the off-season ensures you will have first-class access to the town. Don’t worry about calling ahead for dinner reservations, how long the check out line is at your favorite store, or getting to the bakery early. Just show up and revel in the greatness of a blissfully uncrowded Cape Charles.

The beach never closes: The water may not be a comfortable temperature for swimming, but our beautiful beach still offers an escape. Stroll around looking for shells, go on a beach run, or watch one of our spectacular sunsets to soak in our sandy coastline. The beach isn’t just for swimming, make it yours!

Year-long events season: You might know us for our Saturday night concerts in the park, annual Crab Slam, or July 4th celebration, but did you know we have unforgettable events all year long? In October, Dock Dogs brings tail-wagging, high-flying fun to town as our furry friends compete to win a tournament. At the end of October, our spooky secrets come alive as Cape Charles is haunted at the Halloween Hootenanny. November brings holiday spirit when Festive Fridays begin, four consecutive Friday nights of holiday fun on Mason Avenue. February highlights Love the Locals Week, a week of specials, promotions, and discounts at local businesses. And in April, join us for our annual LOVE Run, featuring a 10K, 5K, and 1-mile color run. Not to mention all of the fantastic events our businesses put on!

Observe unique wildlife: The early fall is the best time to see wildlife on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. Witness the fall migration of hawks, falcons, herons, egrets, and more from one of our nearby nature preserves. And as winter settles in, stick around to see cold-weather waterfowl like snow geese, tundra swans, or bufflehead ducks.

The opportunities are endless: No matter where your interests lie, Cape Charles has something for everyone! Outdoorsy? Try kayaking through our marshland, touring Fisherman’s Island, or hopping on a fishing charter. Girls trip? Head over to Chatham Vineyards and Winery or shop the local boutiques in our Historic Shopping District. Need fun for the whole family? Grab dinner at Cape Charles Brewing Company, see a show at the Historic Palace Theatre, or simply cruise around town on a golf cart.

Fall in Cape Charles just has a certain type of charm to it. From scenic backroads to breezy mornings on the porch, the off-season in Cape Charles offers unrestrained access to all the Eastern Shore has to offer. Stay a while in Cape Charles and discover what makes our town special year-round.

Post created by Cape Charles