Each winter, one of the most breathtaking natural events on the Maryland Eastern Shore takes place at the Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge. Thousands of Tundra Swans migrate from the Arctic tundra to the Chesapeake Bay region, creating a spectacular display that’s a dream come true for birdwatchers around the world. You don’t have to be an avid bird enthusiast to enjoy it, though. This annual Tundra Swan migration transforms the quiet waterways of the Maryland Coast into a lively haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, making it one of the most memorable winter experiences on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.
Standing on the observation platforms at the Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge, you can hear the distinctive calls of the Tundra swans and watch their graceful movements across the water, a true highlight of the winter bird migration season. While the Tundra Swans are the star of the show, there are so many more things to do on the Eastern Shore this winter. Visitors can enjoy small-town charm in Rock Hall, warm up in local cafés and seafood restaurants, or explore unique shops featuring local art and coastal treasures.
The season is also perfect for hiking the scenic trails at the refuge, exploring museums that highlight the area’s maritime heritage, or taking a peaceful drive along the Maryland Coast to discover all the hidden charms of Maryland’s Eastern Shore. After a day of exploring Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge and witnessing the majesty of the swan migration, there is no better place to unwind than the Inn at Huntingfield Creek.
Known as the best Rock Hall Bed and Breakfast, our Inn offers luxurious accommodations, warm hospitality, and a convenient location just minutes from the refuge. Guests can relax by the fire, enjoy gourmet breakfasts, and take in sweeping views of the property, which overlooks the breathtaking Chesapeake Bay. Whether your trip is centered around the Tundra Swan migration or you’re simply looking to experience the best of the Eastern Shore of Maryland, you can’t beat a stay at our Rock Hall, MD Bed and Breakfast. Book your getaway now!
Tundra Swans at the Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge
The Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge is one of the most remarkable places to experience during the winter in Maryland. The fall and spring bird migrations here are spectacular enough, but when you add Tundra swans into the mix in the winter, the experience is nothing short of mesmerizing. This annual Tundra Swan migration highlights the importance of the Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge, as well as the Chesapeake Bay area as a whole, as a safe haven for wildlife along the Maryland Coast.
Each year, the refuge becomes a seasonal home for thousands of Tundra Swans, which migrate from their summer breeding grounds in the Arctic. From November through March, visitors can see and hear these magnificent birds as they gather in the protected waters surrounding the Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge. Their numbers can reach into the thousands during peak migration, filling the skies and waterways with a dazzling display that has become one of the region’s most celebrated natural events.
The Tundra Swans typically begin arriving in late fall, with the largest numbers present during December and January. The observation platforms at Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge are ideal for spotting flocks of Tundra swans gliding across the water or for listening to their distinctive calls. Bringing binoculars or a camera is highly recommended, as the Tundra swans are often joined by thousands of ducks and Canada geese, adding even more to the spectacle of winter bird migration. It’s an extraordinary chance to witness wildlife behavior that most people only read about, and it’s one of the many reasons the Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge is so valued by birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.
Beyond the swans, there are plenty of other things to do at the Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge during the colder months. More than 2,200 acres of preserved land offer scenic hiking trails through forests, wetlands, and shoreline habitats that remain beautiful even in winter. The refuge also offers opportunities for fishing in designated areas, wildlife photography, and guided interpretive programs that help guests learn more about the Eastern Shore of Maryland’s ecosystem. Even in the quiet of winter, the refuge teems with life, making it one of the best ways to connect with nature and enjoy the natural treasures of the Eastern Shore of Maryland in winter.
The Best Bed and Breakfast in Rock Hall, MD
If you’re looking for a relaxing winter getaway, where you’re surrounded by nothing but the gentle sounds of nature, visiting the Eastern Shore of Maryland should be high on your list. From winter walks at the Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge to quiet spaces at our Rock Hall, MD Bed and Breakfast, there’s nothing that beats a little time along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay.
Our Bed and Breakfast in Rock Hall features beautifully appointed guest rooms and private cottages. Whether you prefer the charm of a cozy room or the extra space and privacy of a cottage, every accommodation provides plush bedding, thoughtful details, and elegant décor that will make your stay feel special. Large windows invite in natural light, and many rooms offer views of the expansive property, giving guests a true sense of retreat during their stay on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.
Beyond the accommodations, our Rock Hall Bed and Breakfast is known for its outstanding amenities and friendly, service-oriented hospitality. Each morning begins with a fresh, gourmet breakfast prepared with care, and throughout the day, guests can take advantage of welcoming common spaces, fireplaces, and comfortable spots for reading or conversation. The property also offers a pool in warmer months, walking paths, and access to the waterfront, creating opportunities for relaxation no matter the season.
With more than 70 acres of scenic grounds and a setting that feels worlds away yet remains close to Rock Hall’s shops, restaurants, and galleries, our Bed and Breakfast offers the best of both worlds. Its proximity to the Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge makes it the top choice for travelers who want to experience the Tundra Swan migration and the natural beauty of the Eastern Shore of Maryland. For those seeking the ultimate winter retreat, we’re so much more than a place to stay. See the difference this winter, and book your Maryland getaways today!
