Kick Off Maryland Crab Season on the Eastern Shore

Blue Maryland Crab on a dock on the eastern Shore of Maryland

Blue Maryland crabs are iconic at dinner tables, backyard barbecues, and gatherings all over the state, but particularly so here on the banks of the Chesapeake Bay on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. While we’ve been greedily feasting on deliciously fresh oysters all winter here on the Eastern Shore, we’re thrilled that Maryland Crab season is finally here.

Maryland crab season kicks off in April every year and runs through November – though the later you get into the season, the bigger and more impressive the Maryland crabs become. Avid fishermen and families come to the Eastern Shore of Maryland to crab in the famed waters of the Chesapeake Bay each year, but you certainly don’t have to go through all the effort to enjoy plenty of delicious, fresh Maryland crab. You’ll find this regional delicacy on most menus at the top Rock Hall, MD Restaurants throughout the season.

Moreover, feasting on Maryland Crab is just one of the many reasons to visit us here on the bay. Of course, there are plenty of great things to do on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, but a trip here also gives you the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind at our leading Eastern Shore Bed and Breakfast. A stay here truly is the best part of any visit to the Eastern Shore, with 70 tranquil acres to enjoy and the perfect blend of casual, upscale elegance. Book your room at our stunning Eastern Shore Bed and Breakfast today!

Maryland Crab presented with a mallot, lemon, and seasoning - the perfect way to enjoy it on the Eastern Shore of Maryland

The 2023 Maryland Crab Seasons Starts in April!

We’re passionate about the Chesapeake Bay. From the gorgeous, tranquil environment it affords us and the robust history it brought this area to the deliciously fresh seafood that comes from its waters each year, it’s easy to see why the Chesapeake Bay is such an integral part of everyday life here on the Eastern Shore. In April, the bay brings us one of our favorite treats, Maryland crab. Feasting on crab is a way of life here on the Eastern Shore, particularly during the summer and early fall when the season really gets going.

The sweet, buttery, delicate flavor of Maryland crab is legendary, and eating it is a true feast for the senses. From the taste and feel of it in your mouth to the tactile experience of cracking open those shells, there’s a lot to love about a feast involving Maryland crab. In fact, Maryland crab is so important to life along the Chesapeake Bay that there’s a Maryland Crab & Oyster Trail that you can eat your way down.

When we’re talking about Maryland crab, it’s important to know we’re talking about Maryland Blue Crabs. Specifically, those caught just off the shore in the Chesapeake Bay. They may not look blue by the time they get to your table, but these crustaceans’ signature sweet and delicate flavor is unique and worth trying. They are served in various ways around town, including in crab cakes, crab soup, soft shell crab sandwiches, and perhaps our favorite method, steamed with traditional Old Bay seasoning.

Though the season does get underway this April, you’ll find the biggest crabs later in the season, typically between September and November, when we gradually turn our attention to another Chesapeake Bay delicacy, oysters. If you’re looking for the best places to try some Maryland crab for yourself, we recommend one of the following Rock Hall, MD restaurants.

  1. The Inn at Osprey Point houses one of the best Rock Hall, MD restaurants. The upscale atmosphere is elegant and perfect for a great meal out. You can even pull up in your boat before enjoying marina-view dining!
  2. Another of our favorite Rock Hall, MD restaurants is Blue Heron Oyster House. Their menu features a yummy mix of seafood and sandwiches.
  3. Harbor Shack is one of the best Rock Hall, MD restaurants for a quick yet delicious bite to eat. On Saturday nights, they also offer live music.
  4. Finally, a long-time staple among Rock Hall, MD restaurants is Bay Wolf Restaurant, where you’ll find an eclectic mix of fresh Eastern Shore seafood and more.
Crabbing boat at sunrise on the eastern Shore of Maryland, where you'll find the best and freshest Maryland crab

More things to do on the Eastern Shore of Maryland

As sinfully good as feasting on Maryland crab is, it’s not the only thing worth enjoying during your time at our Eastern Shore Bed and Breakfast. There are many other great things to do on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Of course, there are infinite ways to get out and enjoy the waters of the Chesapeake Bay, including kayaking and taking local fishing charters.

Beyond that, though, there’s a whole other world of quiet paradise to be enjoyed. Below, you’ll find just a few of our favorite things to do on the Eastern Shore in between those delightful meals of Maryland crab.

  1. Don’t miss your chance to explore the Eastern Neck Wildlife Refuge or the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, two of the most popular things to do on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.
  2. Enjoy beautiful views of the Eastern Shore aboard a sailing cruise on the Chesapeake Bay. 
  3. Spend time soaking up the sun on one of these fantastic beaches on the Eastern Shore.
  4. Ride your bike around the quiet country roads near our Eastern Shore Bed and Breakfast, or consider taking one of the popular Vermont Bike Tours, which just so happen to include lodging at our Inn.
  5. Enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting at some of the best Maryland Wineries, including the nearby Crow Vineyard & Winery.

As you can see, there are plenty of things to do on the Eastern Shore of Maryland between those sensational Maryland crab bites – and this is just the beginning. Treat yourself to one of the best weekend trips in Maryland this year, and book your room at our Eastern Shore Bed and Breakfast today!

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