At Big Island Aquaculture, sample our oysters and you’ll understand why professional tasters refer to them as the quintessential oyster.

It’s not an accident that our oysters are so delicious. We wanted to share just why that is.

2149 Big Island View Road
Hayes, VA 23072

757-759-7661

An oyster a day keeps the doctor away!

4734 Hunny Pot Lane
Gloucester, VA 23061

804-832-5060

Christchurch School’s 125-acre campus sits on the Rappahannock River, in the heart of the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Exploration and investigation of the watershed is central to the school’s Great Journeys curriculum and the development of modern, flexible skills for each student. The river and bay are living classrooms where we learn about the geography, ecology, economy, history, and culture of our region through hands-on exploration. The river is an ever-present reminder of our responsibility to the natural environment. And, of course, the river is fun. It is the perfect place to make friends and discover new interests through activities like sailing, crew, canoeing, fishing, crabbing, and adventure trips. 

49 Seahorse Lane
Christchurch, VA 23031

804-758-2306

Farm-raised oysters from the Little Wicomico River in the Northern Neck of Virginia. Contact us to order your oysters in the shell year-round!

51 Railway Dr.
Heathsville, VA 22473

804-761-0908

2604 Long Creek Dr
Virginia Beach, VA 23451

443-691-4626

Come and get away from it all as you enjoy a casual cruise aboard the “Helen Elizabeth”, our 34 ft. classic Chesapeake Bay Deadrise boat. Savor an authentic Chesapeake Bay experience with a local oyster farmer as your Captain. Take in the views of local river estates, historic homes, Chesapeake Bay wildlife, or beaches and lighthouses. Captain Trey is also a popular local Oyster Farmer, and his scrumptious Chapel Creek Oysters are featured in many of our areas finest restaurants from Mathews to Richmond, Virginia. He knows all about this fascinating mollusk, so go ahead and Shuck Um, Eat Um, and ask all the burning questions you have about oysters. Want to take a dozen or so home to shuck , oven roast, or grill? Let us know in advance and we can arrange that for you.

384 Turpin Ln
Port Haywood, VA 23138

804-815-6132

Oyster Seed Holdings, Inc. strives to be a premier supplier of high quality oyster seed serving the entire shellfish aquaculture industry. We have taken a deliberately independent approach with no grow-out operations and remain dedicated to providing customers with healthy, disease-resistant larvae and seed. Our team is constantly working to innovate commercial production, ensuring that we remain at the cutting edge of shellfish culture.

425 Callis Wharf Rd
Grimstead, VA 23064

804-725-3046

We are always happy to have folks come by the farm for a quick tour and to learn about oysters, oyster farming, and the Rappahannock. We are always around, but we are a small team and every day is different. So to make sure you catch us, call ahead and let us know when you’d like to stop by!

137 Fairweather Lane
Lancaster, VA 22503

804-577-8590

Most oyster farmers on the Chesapeake Bay are satisfied with the easy pickin’s… low-salinity, sweet oysters raised in the calm, shallow, brackish waters of the Bay’s creeks and river mouths. Salty Bottom Blue oysters are farmed mid-bay where the cleaner, cooler water has what it takes to grow fresh-tasting, high-salinity Chesapeake oysters. But the oyster farming techniques and equipment used in the shallows don’t work mid-bay where the current is strong and the water gets rough. There are no easy pickings a mile offshore.

Not satisfied with the taste of typical Chesapeake oysters raised in near-shore shallows, Salty Bottom Blue founder Scott Gray has devised innovative sustainable aquaculture techniques to grow and harvest a dependable supply of premium local oysters in mid-bay waters. Our video shows what we do to bring you the best-tasting high-salinity Chesapeake Bay oysters.

616 Old Ferry Road
Redart, VA 23076

804-928-3365

Coastal Virginia’s only Oyster-Wine and Oyster-Brew tours are guided by lifelong locals.

425 W Plantation Rd
Virginia Beach, VA 23454

757-340-8687

Join us for an Oyster Tour! The Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) offers tours for preformed groups such as civic clubs, community organizations, and middle- and high-school students year-round and public tours for non-groups during the summer months.

Schedule your visit soon to see how scientists use CSI techniques to understand clam and oyster diseases in the Shellfish Pathology Lab; watch live animals in VIMS Visitors Center and hear about related research; and tour the Oyster Hatchery to learn about the breeding and feeding of oyster brood stock. Reservations required. Check www.vims.edu/public for more information or give us a call at 804-684-7061.

1375 Greate Rd
Gloucester Point, VA 23062

804-684-7061

Connecting locals and visitors to world-class ecotourism destinations across coastal Virginia on the Eastern Shore, Northern Neck, Middle Peninsula, and Lower Chickahominy. Interactive water trail maps show the best paddling in coastal Virginia, packed with local culture, attractions, and wildlife viewing.

We’re beer people. Some say it, we live it. We drink it, think about it, and talk about it… For us, it’s been all about making great craft beer going on 16 years now. Whatever your favorite style of beer is, you’ll get the best version of it at Alewerks.

189-B Ewell Rd
Williamsburg, VA 23188

757-220-3670

Gauthier Vineyard is a woman-owned and veteran-owned working farm, equestrian center, vineyard, and winery located in scenic New Kent County, Virginia near the intersection of the Lafayette and Washington-Rochambeau trails to Yorktown. Owned by retired Navy Captains Mo and Sandi Gauthier, the farm, rich in history and established in 2010, features a state-of-the-art equestrian center built in 2011, offering boarding, training, lessons, clinics, and competitive events. The vineyard, with vines planted in 2011 and a tasting room and winemaking facility constructed in 2012-2013, produces quality wines overseen by award-winning winemaker Matthew Meyer and produced in collaboration with our partner vineyard, Cave Ridge Vineyard, located in the Shenandoah Valley. The 1st and 3rd Sunday of every month we have oysters from Big Island Aquaculture.

5000 Farmers Drive
Barhamsville, VA 23011

757-350-3125

Twice a year, we participate in an Oyster Crawl along the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail. The events are usually held in early April and November. We feature oyster pairings from Denson’s Grocery and R&B Oyster Bar.

1618 Weldons Rd
Hague, VA 22469

804-472-3172

Good Luck Cellars is a family-owned estate vineyard and winery located in picturesque Kilmarnock, VA. The vineyard was created in 2004 and has a total of 137 acres with 24 acres under vine. The vineyard, with its 24 miles of trellising, is home to 2400 vines and is guarded by 13 rescued hunting dogs. Picnics are always welcome and are perfect while enjoying your favorite Good Luck Cellars wine on our wide porches.

1025 Good Luck Rd
Kilmarnock, VA 22482

804-435-1416

Oyster fans, join us for the Spring and Fall Oyster Crawls along the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail. During these annual events, each participating winery will offer one or more oyster dishes to pair with their wines. After experiencing the Oyster Crawl, you will understand why Virginia is for lovers… of wine & oysters! 

5872 Leedstown Road
Oak Grove, VA 22443

804-224-8687

Mattaponi Winery is a family-owned winery in the heart of Spotsylvania County, with a passion for making a variety of National and International Award-Winning wines.

7530 Morris Road
Spotsylvania, VA 22551

540-582-2897

Your dream Wedding, Ceremony, Reception, Celebration, Party, Festival, or Special Event begins on Sunny Slope Farm. We are Rockingham County‘s #1 award-winning wedding venue. We are located in Rockingham County and are 1 minute from Harrisonburg, Virginia, and just a few minutes from James Madison University, Eastern Mennonite University, and Bridgewater College. We are just an hour from Charlottesville, Virginia.

1825 Sunny Slope Lane
Rockingham, Virginia 22801

540-830-0380

History is part of who we are.   Our winery’s vineyard, Meriwether, is the oldest Chardonnay vineyard in Virginia, producing wine from its 30 acres for over 40 years.  When Chris Pearmund bought Meriwether Vineyard in 1996, the plan was to build a winery focused on five things:  Virginia wine in every bottle, Quality of product second to none, Innovation, Education, and Experience.

6190 Georgetown Rd
Broad Run, VA 20137

540-347-3475

We are a craft brewery located in Kilmarnock, Virginia (that’s in Lancaster County) and utilize a 7-barrel system to make some of the best damn beers you’ve ever tasted. In concert with our distributors and restaurant friends, you can get TDM beer all over the Virginia Tidewater region.

13 W Church St
Kilmarnock, VA 22482

804-761-1085

The Hague Winery tasting room is located on Historic Buena Vista Plantation, circa 1835, in a rural town, Hague, in the Northern Neck of Virginia. The tasting room is housed in a former barn that overlooks the manor home, outbuildings, vineyards, and surrounding farmland. Wines are vinted in the French style from excellent quality grapes grown with precision viticulture.  The tasting room features a gift shop with local crafts and photography, wine accessories, and Goot Essa cheeses, local jams/jellies, and OLLI salame.

8268 Cople Hwy
Hague, VA 22469

804-472-5283

Many years ago, when owner Suzanne Moss’ daughter (Mariah) was just 5 years old, they started a little “nature club” together. This club grew organically, with a waitlist. Mariah even wrote and published a book about the club! A few years ago, they expanded the club, partnering with the Master Naturalist program, to create what is now known as the Virginia Junior Master Naturalist Program. With many years of experience, Suzanne wanted to offer nature experiences to the public at large, for all ages, not just children. The purchase of The Nature Bus has allowed her to organize Nature Experiences that include both local and distant destinations across the whole state of Virginia. The entire Moss family is excited and very much involved in this endeavor, as it is truly a family-run operation. The Nature Bus is an original idea that grew out of 30+ years of experience that began with teaching elementary school, teaching swim lessons to children, becoming certified to teach yoga, getting a CDL bus driver’s license, and obtaining other certifications and licenses. All paths led to this project!

Naturepreneur Suzanne Moss seeks to provide individuals with the benefits of nature (physical, emotional, psychological, and social); to expose and introduce people whom may otherwise be indoors, to have a chance to spend more time in natural settings, Benefits include relaxation, an antidote to stress and anxiety, nature knowledge, exercise and more. There are countless reports and research studies online that disseminate all oft the health benefits of connecting to nature. The Nature Bus can bring you right to all of those things!

The Nature Bus Experiences also provide benefits for the environment through public education and raising awareness of our role and connection to nature. It is Suzanne’s hope that people will have positive nature experiences, feel a deeper connection to the great outdoors, become more attached and grow their affinity and level of concern for the health of our natural world.

350 Independence Blvd
Virginia Beach, VA 23462

757-288-9595

Located on the historic 300-acre Wessex Hundred farm, the Williamsburg Winery offers the opportunity to taste, dine, stay, and relax. Tours of the barrel cellar are offered daily. An extensive tour with reserve and library wine tasting is also available by advance reservation. Winemaker Matthew Meyer produces 25+ wines annually, including the 2010 Adagio, which won the 2014 Governor’s Cup for best wine in Virginia. 

The Gabriel Archer Tavern serves up delicious simplicity. Lunch is served Monday through Saturday with Sunday Brunch also available. Indoor seating overlooks the vineyard, and outdoor seating is under a canopy of wisteria. 

Wedmore Place, a 28-room country hotel, is also located on the farm. Each room is uniquely decorated with antiques and art from a different European region. Inside the hotel is the Cafe Provencal, a fine dining restaurant that serves dinner Tuesday through Sunday evenings from the Wessex Hundred Executive Chef Ian Robbins. 

5800 Wessex Hundred
Williamsburg, VA 23185 

757-229-0999

Your home away from home but better.

445 Irvington Rd
Kilmarnock, VA 22482

804-435-2318

Coles Point Marina and RV Resort is nestled on the Potomac River, near the Chesapeake Bay. We are about a two-hour drive from Washington, D.C. and Richmond – but a world away from the hustle, bustle, and traffic jam shuffle.

Things here in Virginia’s Northern Neck are a bit slower. You’ll like it that way.

Coles Point Marina and RV Resort is nestled on the Potomac River, near the Chesapeake Bay. We are about a two-hour drive from Washington, D.C. and Richmond – but a world away from the hustle, bustle, and traffic jam shuffle. Once you arrive at Coles Point, there’s nothing left to do but kick back, relax, and enjoy our amazing amenities. Pack all the activities you can – kayaks, boats, fishing poles, bikes – or keep it simple and pack a book. However you like to vacation, we’ve got the perfect retreat for you.

190 Plantation Drive
Hague, VA 22469

804-472-4011

Escape to our all-suite beachfront hotel in VA Beach

With panoramic water views, Delta Hotels by Marriott Virginia Beach Waterfront is an oasis on the shores of the breathtaking Chesapeake Bay. Embrace effortless relaxation in beautifully appointed suites with complimentary Wi-Fi, signature amenities, luxurious bedding, and breathtaking bay views at our waterfront hotel in VA Beach. Thrill your palate in our Bay Island VA hotel with fresh oysters, fish, and coastal cuisine at our distinctive hotel restaurant, featuring inspiring water views. Enjoy an ideal location near diverse water activities on the Chesapeake Bay, near First Landing State Park, and the Virginia Beach Sportsplex. Host weddings, meetings, and social galas in our dynamic indoor event space or inspiring outdoor venue. After an unforgettable day on our private beach, refresh in the sparkling waters of our outdoor pool or exhilarate your body at our modern hotel fitness center with cardio equipment and free weights. Discover scenic luxury in a beautiful travel destination at our Virginia Beach hotel.

2800 Shore Dr
Virginia Beach, VA 23451

757-481-9000

Experience the Hope and Glory Inn & Vineyard

Those of you seeking rest, relaxation, and romance will find everything you need and more at our gorgeous bed and breakfast that’s second to none. Let the feelings of peace and tranquility simply wash over you, from your head to your toes, as soon as you step inside the Hope and Glory Inn. This romantic bed and breakfast was once an elite boarding school in 1890, and it has since graduated into a stylish hotel in Irvington within Virginia’s Northern Neck peninsula.

Come for the luxurious accommodations and stay for the unparalleled experiences that you can’t find anywhere else. Enjoy a variety of shabby-chic rooms and cottages, a dog-friendly micro-vineyard, a top-rated restaurant, scenic boat cruises, and so much more at this one-of-a-kind Virginia winery resort. It’s no surprise that we’ve gained significant acclaim from the media as well as numerous five-star reviews.

65 Tavern Rd
Irvington, VA 22480

804-438-6053

MaMargaret’s House Bed and Breakfast, a lovingly restored grandmother’s home expanded to meet the needs of the twenty-first century.

249 Greenfield Rd
Reedville, VA 22539

804-453-9110

Our cozy inn has 1950’s flair alongside all the clean, comfortable, and modern comforts to make your stay in Colonial Beach one to remember.

24 Hawthorne Street
Colonial Beach, VA 22443

804-224-4200

Come explore the very best the Eastern Shore of Virginia has to offer! Private, beautiful, and perfect.

Belle Haven,
VA 23306

757-350-9775

Indulge yourself with a stay at our elegant, easy-going family- and pet-friendly inn near Washington, D.C., Richmond, and the Chesapeake Bay! Tucked away in the heart of Urbanna, our chic little inn is the perfect romantic getaway, retreat spot, or personal sanctuary from the stresses of day-to-day life.

Relax in style in one of our beautiful guest rooms… enjoy the luxurious lobby, peaceful garden, and public rooms … shop at Ballgown Barefoot, our stylish gift and home decor boutique… celebrate in the Rappahannock Room or in one of our other spaces … explore Urbanna’s restaurants and shops, beautiful countryside and inviting waterways in complimentary kayaks and signature surrey carriages…

The Chesapeake Inn is family-owned and operated, and we take pride in providing each of our guests with true personalized hospitality — extra special treatment at no extra charge. Let us help you create your own retreat by the river!

250 Virginia St
Urbanna, VA 23175

804-758-1111

Locally owned and operated, The Oceanfront Inn highlights our local culture by bringing experiences to life. Our family-owned property offers our guests the opportunity to visit and experience Coastal Virginia’s distinctive ecosystem and unique shellfish providers with locals’ favorite eateries, or dive right in, with hands-on aquaculture experience at one of Virginia Beach’s oyster farms!

2901 Atlantic Ave
Virginia Beach, VA 23451

888-826-2326

Close, but a world away… 

Set on its own lush peninsula with the Potomac River to the north, the Rappahannock River to the south, and historic Chesapeake Bay to the east, the Tides Inn provides a Virginia luxury resort setting like no other. This serene resort and spa destination includes the Tides Marina, the 18-hole Golden Eagle Golf Club, and Journey spa®…creating the perfect luxury retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation in Virginia’s countryside. 

Whether you enjoy Virginia golf vacations, a renowned Chesapeake Bay resort marina, Virginia wedding reception parties, or an urban escape to a pastoral setting to experience Virginia wines and oysters, you’ll find much to do, see, and taste at the Tides Inn!

480 King Carter Drive
Irvington, VA 22480

804-438-5000

Enjoy spectacular sunsets over the Chincoteague Channel Also best view of Rocket launches from NASA/Wallops Flight facility and the July 4 fireworks display from the Carnival Grounds.

3761 S. Main St
Chincoteague, VA 23336

757-336-3434

Stay with us at Wedmore Place, a traditional European-style country hotel featuring 28 uniquely designed rooms and suites. Each is named and patterned after a different province of Europe and decorated with period furniture and artwork that reflect the culture and history of the region.

5810 Wessex Hundred
Williamsburg, VA 23185

757-941-0310

Come stay in Historic Yorktown and experience a unique blend of the past and present. Comfortable rooms with a view and all the amenities. An outdoor pool overlooking the river and a beach out front make the perfect basecamp for exploring Yorktown and all the nearby attractions of the Historic Triangle and beyond.

508 Water Street
Yorktown, VA 23690

757-898-3232

Experience Yorktown by immersing yourself in the heart of the Historic Village. Choose from 2 lovely cottages that can accommodate up to four or five people in each cottage.

301 Ballard Street
Yorktown, VA 23690

757-879-0438

Nestled within beautiful Riverwalk Landing, we’ve created a premier gathering of unique artwork infused with love and the creative spirit. From the self-taught to the highly trained, Auntie M has curated a selection of goods made with American hands. From traditional artwork to something a little farther out on the branch, you can find it here.

330 Water St #502
Yorktown, VA 23690

757-369-8150

We carry beautiful oyster jewelry made by local artist Jacquie Colligan. Working with molds cast from native Chesapeake Bay oysters, Jacquie crafts each delicate oyster from precious metal clay. She specializes in pendants and rings. 

Gorgeous oyster trays to grace your table, by Sue Henshaw, make a dynamic addition to your table and make great gifts. 

Stop by to see what is in the gallery today.

279 Main St
Mathews, VA 23109

804-725-1278

We are a pet shop and bakery for dogs with a full line of foods, treats, cookies, toys, antlers, gifts, and more! We specialize in CBD oil for dogs. Our bakery also puts together custom barkuterie boards for your pup, or even a full-blown dog party! 

Our best friends give us unconditional love throughout their entire lives. They live with us, wait for us, and enjoy nothing more than our companionship. We believe that when our companions gives that much of themselves that we shouldn’t think twice about giving them something back that they enjoy. 

We set out to create the most authentic, flavorful, and all-natural dog treats. We thoroughly test all of our treats to ensure all dogs find them incredibly tasty. We truly make great stuff for really good dogs! Oh, and some products for their people too!

9555 Shore Drive
Norfolk, VA 23518

757-697-2499

If you are looking for one-of-a-kind Yorktown souvenirs or beautiful, handcrafted work by local artisans, the Gallery is the place to visit. Nestled on Main Street in Historic Yorktown, this welcome center and local favorite features paintings, jewelry, stained glass, pottery, quilts, and other masterfully crafted works from more than 300 local artists. Staffed by volunteers, the Gallery donates a portion of the proceeds from each purchase to support performing and visual arts in the historic area. Be sure to visit their printable exhibit calendar often to learn about their rotating themed exhibits and artist demonstrations. There is always something new and beautiful at the Gallery! 

301 Main Street
Yorktown, VA 23690

757-890-4490

For over 45 years, master goldsmith and precious metals craftsman J. Henry “Hank” Viccellio has built his career as a creator of jewelry that is not only unique and beautiful, but a work of art. Priding himself in paying close attention to each tiny detail in his work, Hank’s stunning pieces are incredibly special.

From his signature Yorktown collection and imaginative custom creations to the carefully chosen designer collections, each design at Viccellio Goldsmith is a spark of Hank’s creativity and innovation.

325 Water Street
Yorktown, VA 23690

757-890-2162

The Yorktown Bookshop is a veteran-owned used book store located in the beautiful Riverwalk Landing area. We have high-quality used books of numerous genres at 50-70% off the publisher’s price; attentive and knowledgeable staff; and a warm, inviting atmosphere where you can browse and relax in a comfortable space.

328 Water Street
Yorktown, VA 23690

757-969-6626

Here and away from the park, schools, community groups, and others may learn about and explore the park’s diverse ecosystem and that of Virginia’s Northern Neck area.

1632 Belle Isle Rd
Lancaster, VA 22503

804-462-5030

A National Natural Landmark known for its old-growth forest and summer home to many American bald eagles, Caledon attracts bird watchers of all ages. Trails, including Boyd’s Hole Trail, which leads to the Potomac River, are open year-round. A visitor center with bald eagle exhibits, four picnic areas, a picnic shelter, and restrooms is also available.

Experience the new primitive paddle-in/hike-in campground on the Potomac River. Year-round programs and events.

11617 Caledon Rd
King George, VA 22485

540-663-3861

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation recognizes that saving the Bay is uniquely tied to restoring the native oyster, Crassostrea virginica. Historically, Chesapeake oysters were the Bay’s most valuable fishery. Ecologically, native oysters are equally important: they filter algae, sediment, and other pollutants. Oyster reefs also provide habitat for fish, crabs, and other Bay organisms. The Bay’s native oyster population has been estimated at as low as one percent of historic levels, making restoration critical to help improve the Bay’s water quality and increase its economic viability. In support of re-establishing this keystone species, CBF has established three facilities devoted to the restoration of Crassostrea virginica, including the Virginia Oyster Restoration Center (VAORC) in Gloucester Point. The VAORC offers diverse and unique hands-on opportunities where all types of people—farmers, teachers, students, and decision makers—can learn about Bay ecology. The VAORC and associated programs have planted millions of oysters across many of Virginia’s Bay tributaries with the help of thousands of volunteers.

6 Herndon Ave
Annapolis, Maryland 21403

410-268-8816

Chincoteague Island, Virginia’s only resort island, is perhaps the most beautiful island on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. World-famous for its oyster beds and clam shoals, Chincoteague is the gateway to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, which is located on the Virginia side of Assateague Island. Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is also home to the world-famous Chincoteague Ponies and an award-winning beach managed by Assateague Island National Seashore. Adventure awaits everywhere as history and legend blend with the wild loveliness of the seasonal shore. This serene fishing village, seven miles long and one and a half miles wide, and abounding with history and natural charm, welcomes you to explore its unique island heritage. 

Fishing, boating, surfing, sunbathing, shell collecting, biking, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, shopping, dining…Chincoteague and Assateague have it all! Come spend an hour or a month…do a little or a lot…it’s your choice. Chincoteague Island—a birder’s paradise, a fisherman’s dream, sunsets like you have never imagined, dolphins frolicking in the waves with seagulls laughing from above…idyllic days by the shore. 

Discover the spirit of Chincoteague Island through the eyes of our talented artists and delight in our bounties from the sea.

425 Callis Wharf Rd
Grimstead, VA 23064

804-725-3046

Located in Middlesex County on Mill Creek, just off the Chesapeake Bay in the heart of Deltaville, VA, Holly Point Nature Park and the Deltaville Maritime Museum offer a unique opportunity to enjoy the area’s boat-building history and the serenity of river life. 

Our park is a 36-acre waterfront nature preserve that features woodland and children’s gardens, walking trails, a kayak landing, a waterfront living shoreline and pier walk, and picnic areas. Leashed pets are welcome, and the park is open from dawn to dusk daily! 

We also have an events pavilion. Please call the office for facilities rental information for your private events! 

287 Jackson Creek Rd
Deltaville, VA 23043

804-776-7200

Boats lead the way on The Oyster Trail at Deltaville Yachting Center & Chesapeake Yacht Sales!

18355 General Puller Hwy
Deltaville, VA 23043

804-776-9898

A National Historic Landmark, Christ Church is one of America’s great buildings. Come visit this 1735 church and see how its builders used oyster shells to create a stunning plaster ceiling. Christ Church’s bricklayers also used oyster shells for the lime mortar in the church’s remarkable brickwork.

420 Christ Church Road
Weems, VA 22576

804-438-6855

We have one of the largest collections of Oyster Plates in the Country, and we invite you to come and see our collection! 

Oyster Plates have been around for over 100 years and were even used in the White House starting in 1880 by President Hayes. A brief history, as indicated in the Oyster Plate Collector’s Guide by Jeffery B. Snyder, goes that on a professional visit to the White House in 1879, to photograph President Rutherford B. Hayes and his cabinet, Theodore Davis met with First Lady Lucy Webb Hayes. The discussion turned to White House china, and Mr. Davis, noted for nature and wildlife art as well as his affinity for outdoor sports, suggested a motif depicting the native wildlife of the nation. Various creatures and plants would adorn the different tableware and serving pieces. rendered in striking designs and bright colors. By the meetings’ end, Mr. Davis had the commission to produce the Hayes’ White House china for a price of $3,120.00. 

Theodore Davis was well regarded as a designer, however, he had never designed a pattern for dinnerware, a fact soon evident to the French firm Haviland & Company, which was given the Herculean task of committing Mr. Davis’s complex design and color schemes to porcelain. Before the set was complete, Haviland’s staff had been forced to create new manufacturing methods. The oyster plates alone illustrated the complexity of the design. They featured a scattering of oysters and aquatic plant life around the five wells. The overall clustering of the shells is reminiscent of the turkey, native to the Americas, and the oyster plates with the design are now referred to among collectors as either “Turkey or “Turkey design” oyster plates. 

144 School St
Kilmarnock, VA 22483

804-435-1207

Kinsale’s waters have fed the world and continue to do so: from bivalves to crustaceans, rockfish to blues, perch, flounder, and sugartoads to herring. Have you ever ordered an oyster item off the menu at your favorite restaurant? It may well have been shucked right here on the Yeocomico River. At the Kinsale Museum, you will see many boat models, including Oyster Buyboats, Steamboats, Skipjacks, Gunning Skiffs, Bugeyes, Schooners, and more from the collection of Turner Waughtel, a waterman’s son.

449 Kinsale Road
Kinsale, VA 22488

804-725-3046

Lynnhaven River NOW works with residents, businesses, faith communities, schools, and community leaders to restore and protect our Virginia Beach waterways. Our beautiful waterways, delicious local seafood, and diverse recreational opportunities in nature are why we chose Virginia Beach as our home. With everyone’s help, our dream of clean, healthy waterways is possible. Supporting the work of Lynnhaven River NOW is an investment in your community.

3712 Holland Road
Virginia Beach, VA 23455

757-962-5398

Bay Country Kayaking is a family owned and operated kayak ecotour company founded in 2012 for the purpose of sharing our love of the scenic waters of coastal Virginia and educating others on their ecological, cultural, and historical significance. Our goal is to offer the most personalized (and fun!) guided kayak experiences on the Eastern Shore and in the Historic Triangle areas. The father and daughter team that started this venture has almost a century of combined experience on and around the water. Certified by the American Canoe Association in coastal kayaking, we’re prepared for either a casual paddle or for instructional lessons to help with paddling and safety skills on the water.

6584 Morattico Rd
Morattico VA, 22523

804-462-0214

Nuttall’s Store serves as the social center of the Ware Neck community. It houses the post office, a grocery store, a kitchen which produces prepared foods to go as well as selection of hand cut meats, a deli, a wine shop, a gift and souvenir area, and a crabbing and fishing supply area. 

Founded as the Arthur Tabb Store in 1877, the business flourished for generations because of its profitable ties to the steamship lines that connected nearby Hockley Wharf with the Chesapeake Bay and various ports along the Eastern Seaboard. It became even more important as a hub of this predominantly rural farming community after brothers Richard P. and H.E. Taliaferro bought the store and added the post office during the mid-1880s. Their business was so successful that they added two flanking wings and a living quarters to the back of the original 2-story building in the 1890s. Even after the wharf was destroyed by the Great Hurricane of August 1933, later owners such as Rudy Nuttall, for whom the store is named, maintained a strong neighborhood presence long after other country stores had gone out of business.  

6495 Ware Neck Rd
Ware Neck, VA 23178

804-693-3067

Yorktown Arts Foundation is a nonprofit that supports the local arts through education, outreach, and sales at the On the Hill Gallery.

5308 George Washington Memorial Highway
Yorktown, VA  23692-2761

757-369-1108

Welcome to Piankatank River Golf Club, one of the most unique and beautiful courses in the entire Virginia golf community.

6198 Stormont Rd
Hartfield, VA 23071

804-776-6516

Welcome to Piankatank River Golf Club, one of the most unique and beautiful courses in the entire Virginia golf community.

504 Main St
Reedville, VA 22539 

804-453-6529

It’s true what they say. When we foster a love for something, we tend to take care of it. Become a steward for it. Grow an affinity for it. 

Claire Neubert and Linda Hamm, founders and owners of Shored Up, have a deep love for the water, the environment, and the communities that make up the Chesapeake Bay watershed regions of Virginia. 

Together, they want to spread that love and help foster greater stewardship for the unique elements that make up so much of the culture, heritage, economy and life of Virginia. 

More specifically, Claire and Linda created a way to offer fun and unique eco-tour experiences to locals and visitors alike.  

100 Eaton St
Hampton, VA 23669

In 1974, a group of local carvers formed the Back Bay Wildfowl Guild, hoping to showcase the wildfowl art, carvings, artifacts, and photographs of our area. When the City of Virginia Beach purchased the historic de Witt Cottage in 1992, the Guild thought this would be the perfect location for their museum. Together, the guild and the Virginia Beach Foundation converted the 100-year-old cottage into a waterfowl museum, gift shop, and home for the Guild.

1113 Atlantic Avenue
Virginia Beach, VA 23451

804-725-3046

Historic Urbanna, a Colonial Port Town: an easy target for pirates in the town’s early years, was pillaged during the Revolutionary War—historic buildings. 

45 Cross St
Urbanna, VA 23175

804-758-2613

Everything you need is within easy walking distance of Upton’s Point, the town marina on Urbanna Creek: grocery and liquor stores, a pharmacy, restaurants, playground, marine supplies and repairs, doctor, dentist, historic sites, shops and a public library where even out-of-towners can use the Internet and sign out books and movies.

The marina is only two-tenths of a mile from downtown Urbanna for all your shopping needs.

390 Virginia Street
Urbanna, Virginia 23175

804-758-5440

The Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum honors and preserves the history of Virginia’s coastal communities and maritime heritage. The scope of the Museum’s exhibits begins with the Virginia Beach Community and extends to subjects related to Virginia’s oceanfront, coastal, and water-related heritage.

2401 Atlantic Ave & Boardwalk
Virginia Beach, VA 23451

757-422-1587

Waterfront dining, public beach, farmers market, shopping, American history–there’s a reason for everyone to #visityorktown!

331 Water Street
Yorktown, VA 23690

757-890-5900

Our mission is to demonstrate the role Chesapeake Bay Watermen, from pre-colonial to modern times, have played in the shaping of our nation. We provide historical exhibits depicting military and civilian watercraft and activities, crafts, and methods of their trade, and a look into the lives of the people who have worked and fought on the water.

309 Water Street
Yorktown, VA 23690

757-887-2641

On the Potomac River’s Northern Neck, this park offers many opportunities for family fun. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has an Olympic-sized swimming pool and an adjacent bathhouse, meeting area, snack bar, camp store, and power-boat ramp. You’ll also find a visitor center, campgrounds, camping cabins, cabins, a playground, a fishing pier, boat rentals, and 6 miles of trails. Fossil collectors enjoy hunting for ancient shark teeth along the Potomac. Offshore breakwaters are great for fishing. Birding enthusiasts find the park an excellent site for spotting American bald eagles, ospreys, kingfishers, great blue herons, common terns, green herons, and gulls, as well as wintering waterfowl. The Potomac River Retreat is an overnight center suitable for family reunions and other gatherings of up to 16. Its waterfront location provides docking space at a boathouse. Murphy Hall, atop Horse Head Cliffs, offers a superb view of the Potomac River. The hall accommodates up to 72 people for meetings and other gatherings. Amenities include audiovisual equipment, a warming kitchen for catered events, and an executive board room. 

145 Cliff Rd
Montross, VA 22520

804-493-8821

To serve as a resource and advocate for businesses that are a part of the Virginia Oyster Trail.

16-A Town Centre Drive
Kilmarnock, VA 22482

804-435-6092

MCVIC is also a member of the Virginia Oyster Trail. We are your liaison for the ultimate oyster lovers’ experience in Mathews County. Eat ‘em, Dig ‘em, Grow ‘em! Also, shop our gift store for Chesapeake Bay-inspired artwork by local artisans.

239 Main St
Mathews, VA 23109

804-725-4229

Virginia’s Northern Neck – a scenic, historic peninsula between the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers fronting on the Chesapeake Bay

457 Main St
Warsaw, VA 22572

804-333-1919