Virginia's Eastern Shore is the narrow, 70-mile long, southern portion of the Delmarva Peninsula separating the Atlantic Ocean from the Chesapeake Bay.
On the Seaside (Atlantic side) you will find quaint seaside villages surrounded by rich farmland, pristine salt marshes, and shallow bays abundant with marine life.
Paddle through a coastal wilderness!
Beyond these shallow bays lie Virginia's barrier islands which are almost entirely in conservation ownership. These islands form a chain that protects the seaside's tidal creeks, bays, marshes and the mainland. Shorebirds abound as do shellfish and finfish. If you are lucky, and look closely you may see an occasional seahorse or pipefish.
One of the best ways to experience the serene beauty of the Seaside is by canoe or kayak. Paddlers can explore areas not accessible by car or foot.
Explore the Seaside on the Virginia Seaside Water Trail!
The Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program developed the 100 mile long Virginia Seaside Water Trail as a series of day-use paddling routes.
The Seaside Water Trail runs between the Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge at Cape Charles and Chincoteague Island. Additional trail segments go through Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and connect to Assateague National Seashore and the Assateague Canoe Trail. The Seaside Water Trail branches off at Chincoteague Island and ends at the Village of Greenbackville near the Virginia/Maryland state line.
Floating docks have been installed in Chincoteage at Downtown Park, at Quinby Harbor, at Wachapreague Harbor and in Willis Wharf with funding from the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
See article on Virginia Seaside Water Trail in the Spring/Summer 2006 Virginia Coastal Zone Management Magazine!
Start your journey on the Virginia Seaside Water Trail web site!
The Virginia Seaside Water Trail web site is a comprehensive on-line guide to the 37 routes available on the trail. It introduces canoe and kayak enthusiasts of all skill levels to extraordinary paddling opportunities.
This on-line guide provides:
Descriptions of 12 beginner or leisurely routes, 10 intermediate routes, and 15 advanced routes.
