With a population of slightly less than 1,000 residents, Oxford, Maryland has the distinction of being one of the nation's oldest surviving towns. Unlike some surrounding towns that have been overrun by developers, Oxford has maintained its quaint, small town charm with a plethora of maritime activities, local restaurants, craft and antique shopping and a thriving community center that hosts theater performances, lectures and classes.
As one of Eastern Maryland's most popular tourist destinations, St. Michaels is an ideal town for those wanting the best of waterfront living and a taste of city life. With many bed and breakfast inns, hotels and vacation rentals, St. Michaels is a essentially a resort town located halfway between the start of the Susquehanna and the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay. Even with all of the tourist-friendly attractions such as harbor boat tours, the St. Michaels Winery and museums, residents and tourists alike can enjoy historic walking tours, luxury spas and salons, historic saloons, trendy restaurants and outlet shopping.
Tilghman Island lies hidden at the southern tip of Talbot County. Called "the pearl of the Chesapeake Bay," Tilghman Island is famous for its unspoiled natural beauty and its reputation as a working waterman's village. It is located just minutes away from other historic towns and only a few hours from Washington, D.C. With its thriving fishing and sailing community, residents and visitors can enjoy fresh seafood from local waterfront restaurants, a number of shops, chartered boat and fishing tours and a variety of accommodations ranging from intimate inns to luxury hotels.
Affectionately referred to as the "OC," Ocean City is arguably one of the most popular vacation destinations in the Mid-Atlantic. While Ocean City's resident population is under 10,000, the city hosts nearly half a million tourists over the course of the summer. Despite its plethora of hotels, crowded beaches, special events and numerous shopping areas for tourists, Ocean City still maintains a small town within a city feel. Locals can enjoy a number of parks, an active community center, prime waterfront real estate, restaurants serving fresh seafood and secluded beaches, once tourist season is over.
