Sip your way through Cape Charles, Virginia

When you’re craving a drink in Cape Charles, your biggest challenge may just be choosing between all of the options that local businesses have on offer. Whether your preferred beverage is coffee, beer, or moonshine, there’s sure to be an option to wet your whistle. Here are a few of the best things to drink in Cape Charles.

Packages of coffee placed on a shelf in store

Coffee from Eastern Shore Coastal Roasting Co. Start your day with a healthy jolt of caffeine from the Eastern Shore’s favorite coffee roasters. ESCR specializes in ethically grown products that are custom blended and roasted to order. Pick up a bag to make at home at Gull Hummock Gourmet Market, or grab a freshly brewed cup at Peach Street Books.

Close-up view of two glasses of beer and two plates of French fries and sausages on a restaurant table outside

Beer at Cape Charles Brewing Co. Named one of Virginia’s best breweries by readers in Virginia Living’s annual Best of Virginia poll, Cape Charles Brewing Co. is a family-run business with an impressive line-up of brews. Choose from locally inspired options like the Nor’Easter Pale Ale, Smith Island Oyster Stout, and Bayside Belgian Farmhouse Ale.

Close-up view of three colorful cocktails placed on a bar

Cocktails at Cape Charles Distillery. You don’t have to leave the Shore for an upscale cocktail bar experience — Cape Charles Distillery offers top-notch cocktails made with hand-crafted local spirits. Grab a seat in their always-bustling tent for a craft cocktail, or pick up a bottle of their flagship bourbon, whiskeys, moonshine or vodka. It’s no wonder they won for Best Distillery and Best Cocktails in Eastern Virginia in Virginia Living’s 2020 Best of Virginia poll.

Cider at Buskey Cider on the Bay. A quick stroll from the beach, Buskey’s expansive deck is the ideal spot for a few sandy, post-beach rounds of refreshing cider. Sample a few of their creative flavors with one of their flights, or grab a pint of Watermelon Rosemary, Guava Hop, or Blueberry Pancake cider. Once you’ve settled on a favorite, be sure to snag a four-pack to take home.

Wine from Chatham Vineyards. Take a little road trip to scenic Chatham Vineyards, located just a few miles north of Cape Charles. This working farm has been in operation for four centuries, most recently serving as a high-density, European-style vineyard. Would you rather arrive by water? Book a spot on Southeast Expedition’s “Paddle Your Glass Off” kayak tour for a relaxing creek paddle that ends at the vineyards.