Chincoteague Island, Cape Charles, and Onancock have long been considered the “Big 3” on the ESVA. These top Eastern Shore VA destinations see more visitors than any other places in the Virginia portion of Delmarva — and you can click on any photo below to learn more about each one.
Do you love venturing off the beaten path? Want to get away from the crowds to see the Eastern Shore of VA hidden gems!?
There are so many amazing places to visit, many of which you may have never evenheard of. Places like these often provide more of an authentic travel experience than some of the big-name destinations — and below you’ll see other great travel options outside of the Top 3.
EASTVILLE TRAVEL GUIDE
PARKSLEY TRAVEL GUIDE
WACHAPREAGUE TRAVEL GUIDE
SAXIS ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE
EXMORE TRAVEL GUIDE
ONLEY TRAVEL GUIDE
CHERITON TRAVEL GUIDE
ACCOMAC TRAVEL GUIDE
MELFA TRAVEL GUIDE
NASSAWADOX TRAVEL GUIDE
WILLIS WHARF TRAVEL GUIDE
Virginia Eastern Shore Map
Where is the Eastern Shore of VA located?
The Eastern Shore of Virginia, a picturesque region on the Delmarva Peninsula, stretches for about 70 miles between the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay. Located approximately 120 miles from Washington, DC, 140 miles from Baltimore, 220 miles from Newark, New Jersey, and 240 miles from New York City, it offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Counties on the Eastern Shore of VA
The Eastern Shore of Virginia is made up of two counties, Accomack and Northampton, located along the Atlantic coast. These counties are separate from the main part of Virginia in the United States. This 70-mile-long area is on the Delmarva Peninsula and is divided from the rest of Virginia by the Chesapeake Bay.
Cities on the Eastern Shore of Virginia
The number of towns on the Eastern Shore of Virginia can vary depending on how one defines a town. These areas of incorporated, and unincorporated communities and census-designated places (CDPs) contribute to the area’s charm and character.
What are census-designated places (CDPs)?
CDPs are areas with a lot of people living close together in small towns that don’t have an official government. These places are known by their local names and people in the community recognize them.
What is the difference between unincorporated and census-designated places?
A census-designated place is an area that doesn’t have set borders like a city or town, and it doesn’t have a working government like a city council. In these areas, the county usually takes care of things like police and firefighters.
Why would an area be unincorporated?
An area might be unincorporated for several reasons:
Population size: If the area has a small population, it might not have enough people to support the infrastructure and services of an incorporated town or city.
Rural nature: Unincorporated areas are often found in rural settings where there is a lot of open land and fewer people. These areas might not need or want the same level of services and regulations that come with being incorporated.
Financial reasons: Becoming an incorporated city or town can be expensive. Unincorporated areas might not have the financial resources to support the costs of establishing and maintaining a local government.
Local preferences: The people living in an unincorporated area might prefer the lower level of government involvement and fewer regulations that come with being unincorporated. They might value their independence and a more relaxed way of life.
Annexation concerns: Sometimes, unincorporated areas choose not to incorporate because they don’t want to be annexed by a nearby city or town, which could lead to changes in their community identity or property taxes.
Is Eastern Virginia the same as the Eastern Shore of Virginia?
No. Eastern Virginia is not the same as the Eastern Shore of Virginia.
Eastern Virginia includes Norfolk, Portsmouth, Newport News, Chesapeake, Hampton, Virginia Beach, and Suffolk.
The Eastern Shore of Virginia is a 70-mile strip of land, situated on the southern end, or the Virginia portion of the Delmarva Peninsula.
ESVA Meaning
It stands for Eastern Shore of Virginia
What is the origin of the Tangier Island accent?
The Tangier Island accent originates from the early English settlers from southwestern England who arrived in the late 1600s and early 1700s. The island’s isolation has helped preserve and develop this unique accent over time.
Can you drive to Tangier Island?
No, you cannot drive to Tangier Island, as it is located in the Chesapeake Bay and not connected to the mainland by a bridge or road. The most common ways to reach Tangier Island are by taking a passenger ferry or a private boat.
What is the Tangier Island Ferry Schedule?
The Tangier-Onancock Ferry makes daily runs from May through October. The boat ride takes about 1 hour each way, and the meeting location is at the Onancock Wharf. Departure time is usually at 7:30 am.
