How to Have an Undeniably Delicious Day Trip on Smith Island

As I mentioned in my post about Why You Should Go Camping at the Breathtaking Janes Island State Park, Smith Island is one of the local attractions you should check out in Maryland. Below, I will provide a quick history of the island, its cake, the tour I did, and my recommendations.

Smith Island’s History 

It all began with a guy named Captain John Smith. He led two Chesapeake expeditions in the early 17th century from Jamestown to document its geography and native peoples. He found his way to Smith Island in 1608. Then, throughout the 17th century, settlers came from southwestern England and Wales and established farms across the island group.

I also want to note that some of the descendants of the first English inhabitants still remain on Smith Island. How cool is that?

Over time, the people of Smith Island transitioned from farming to fishing due to social and environmental factors. Boats have become an important part of life for transportation, trade, and tourism. Smith Island is known for two things: Smith Island Cake and independent fishermen, called “Watermen,” who catch oysters, fish, and crabs to sell them to wholesale seafood companies.

Smith Island is 12 miles west of Crisfield, and you can only get there by boat. Fortunately, ferry service on the island is regular during the tourist season (summer and early fall). The schedule is more limited for the rest of the year.

The island group has three communities, Ewell, Tylerton, and Rhodes Point, all located in Maryland.

To this day, there are 250 people who still inhabit this island, which makes it the only island in the Bay to still have people living on it. These people can make the 12-mile trek back to Crisfield, or they can head to Virginia since they are close.

Smith Island Cake 

Smith Island Cakes were first made in the 1800s, and it was a common family ritual. During the island’s oyster harvest, women would send them off with their husbands, ensuring a sweet source of sustenance. Moreso, though, they were a symbol of the community they sailed away from, showing them that they were loved. It was also believed that the strong sentiment baked into these cakes would bless them with a safe return from waters that could sometimes be harsh and unforgiving.

So what do Smith Island Cakes taste like, you ask? They are a cake with super thin layers, and they’re usually eight layers high! The traditional flavor is the Original Chocolate Smith Island Cake, and it’s not made of chocolate! It’s actually a yellow cake. However, it does have chocolate fudge frosting.

These cakes are so popular and sought out that the Maryland legislature named them the state dessert in 2008. Even so, Smith Island Cakes were primarily a local delicacy.

It wasn’t until 2009 that Smith Island cakes became known on a national level. At that time, the Smith Island Baking Company was established, and it began shipping hand-crafted cakes nationwide.

What to Do on Smith Island

Smith Island offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. If you’re planning a visit to this charming island, here are some must-do activities that will make your experience truly unforgettable:

Smith Island Cultural Center and Museum

Start your journey by immersing yourself in the island’s rich heritage at the Smith Island Cultural Center. Learn about the island’s past, from its Native American roots to its fishing legacy. The museum houses fascinating exhibits, artifacts, and stories that give you a glimpse into the island’s proud history. Some artifacts found there are old boats, old photography of what the island looked like, Christmas ornaments and more!

Explore the Bakery’s Gift Shop

After visiting the museum, head to the local bakery and explore its delightful gift shop. Alongside the famous Smith Island Cakes, you’ll find enticing souvenirs, local crafts, and unique gifts that showcase the island’s artistic talent and charm. It’s a great place to find mementos to remember your trip years later.

Bayside Inn Restaurant

Be sure to treat yourself to a scrumptious dining experience at the Bayside Inn Restaurant. Enjoy a delicious meal while overlooking the tranquil waters of the Chesapeake Bay. I recommend the soft-shelled crab sandwich. This sandwich was huge, and they put two softshell crabs into it. I also picked their coleslaw, which wasn’t my favorite. The restaurant’s waterfront location offers picturesque views that complement the flavors of the fresh seafood and regional delicacies served here.

Duck House 

This was my favorite thing from the island! No, the house isn’t called the duck house, but if you ask anyone about it, they will point you in the right direction. This house has a candy dispenser of food for the ducks and roosters for 25 cents. I warn you; they are very eager to make friends with you. One of the roosters came onto the golf cart!

The Takeaway

With so many ways to treat yourself, you won’t regret visiting Smith Island. Spoil yourself with their decadent cakes and hearty meals, or treat yourself to the local history. Whatever you choose, you’ll fondly remember your day trip.

Have you ever been to Smith Island? What did you do there, or what would you like to do when you travel here?