Looking for a break from the Delaware beaches? These trips can all be done in a day

The Delaware beaches are always a good time.

But maybe you got a little too much sun and a day in the sand doesn’t sound appealing. Or maybe you’re one of those people who can only sit still for so long, and a few days of lounging around has you antsy.

No matter the reason for your departure, these day trips – all within driving distance of the Delaware beaches – will give you a temporary break from the salt and sand.

Maryland’s Eastern Shore

Consisting of all counties east of the Chesapeake Bay, Maryland’s Eastern Shore is full of small, cobblestone-filled towns that are perfect for a day visit.

First on the list is Cambridge, which dates back to 1684, making it one of the oldest colonial cities in Maryland. Originally a seaport community, it celebrates its rich maritime history with the Richardson Maritime Museum and Ruark Boatworks, part of the museum.

Visitors can watch as volunteers restore and build traditional wooden boats or hop across the creek for a ride on Skipjack Nathan of Dorchester, an oyster dredge boat.

For history nerds, there’s a museum honoring Underground Railroad conductor Harriet Tubman, who was born near Cambridge.

5 Maryland Day Trips: Quick summer getaways close to Delaware

About an hour north of Cambridge is the charming Rock Hall, a waterfront town located directly on the Chesapeake Bay. Known as the Pearl of the Chesapeake, you’ll find some of the freshest seafood around along its numerous waterfront restaurants, such as the funky Harbor Shack.

Other popular towns include St. Michaels, Easton and Oxford.

Elsewhere along the Chesapeake Bay

Located at the mouth of the Susquehanna River and the head of Chesapeake Bay, Havre De Grace is a must-see.

Another waterfront village, you'll be sure to find some top-notch seafood. Not a seafood lover? The village has many other options, too!

This wouldn’t be a proper list without mentioning Annapolis, Maryland’s capital city.

Known as the sailing capital of the U.S., visitors can explore the area by foot or by boat.

Annapolis is home to the U.S. Naval Academy, and visitors can take a stroll around the beautiful grounds. Or, take a tour of the Maryland State House.

Main Street is also bustling, with numerous eateries, shops and galleries.

Chincoteague, Virginia

This island — and town by the same name — is located on Virginia’s Eastern Shore.

Its national wildlife refuge is known for wild ponies, which reside on Assateague Island. Two herds call the island home, one of which is located in Maryland and the other in Virginia. The Maryland herd is managed by the National Park Service, while the Virginia herd is owned by the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company.

Each year, there’s an annual pony swim where “Saltwater Cowboys" on horseback round up the ponies and swim them from Assateague Island to Chincoteague Island.

This year’s 99th annual swim will be on Wednesday, July 24, though festivities kick off in late June with the Chincoteague Fireman's Carnival. The town’s annual pony auction will be held July 25.

For a complete guide to the events, visit chincoteaguechamber.com/pony-event-schedule.

Aside from the ponies, the town boasts numerous waterfront eateries, farmers markets, a blueberry festival, a water park, minigolf and many other outdoor activities.

Cape May, New Jersey

If you’re already at the Delaware beaches but you’ve never been to Cape May, New Jersey, this is the perfect time to check it out.

A ferry will take visitors between the town and Lewes. The ride is about 85 minutes. Reservations are required year-round and can be made at cmlf.com.

Cape May-Lewes Ferry guide: What to know about pricing, schedules, amenities and terminals

The town is known for its beaches, but has plenty more to do.

Its downtown area is bustling with shops and restaurants, as well as eye-catching Victorian homes.

A little further out is Willow Creek Winery and Farm, which offers tours, tastings and fire pit Fridays and Saturdays, often accompanied by live music.

And don’t forget to check out the Cape May Lighthouse, located in Cape May Point, where visitors can climb the 199-step cast iron spiral staircase to a remarkable view of the Delaware Bay.

Got a story tip or idea? Send to Isabel Hughes at [email protected]. For all things breaking news, follow her on X at @izzihughes_

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Trips from the Delaware beaches that can be done in a day