I've been traveling to Cape Charles for more than a half-century, and during that time, I have personally witnessed an incredible transition from a run-down commercial fishing village and rail-transfer site to what some may now consider a vacation destination that has a lot to offer outdoor, recreational enthusiasts from all walks of life.
One of the most fascinating places I visited in the general area was
https://www.turnersculpture.com/ . This is a must see for anyone that is enjoys seeing some of the greatest wildlife bronze sculptures in the world. I've been there many times, purchased a few things, and always marveled at the incredible creations that are on display.
I remember when Cherrystone Camp Grounds became a destination for campers throughout the eastern seaboard. Situated on the lower shores of Kings Creek, the campgrounds also proved to be ideal for shellfish aquaculture. I'm not sure if they still conduct tours of the operation, but if they do, it is well worth a few hours of your time to visit Cherrystone Campgrounds Aquaculture.
Clam and Oyster Products > Ballard Fish & Oyster Company
When it comes to recreational fishing, nothing in the Mid-Atlantic region comes remotely close to what is available near Cape Charles. At one time, it was known as the black drum capital of the world, and rightfully so. Drum to more than 100 pounds were commonplace during early spring, followed by red drum, also known as redfish, to 60 or more pounds which were available during mid summer to late fall.
Spanish mackerel to 5 pounds can easily be taken by casting small spoons near the islands of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel complex, mainly near Island #4. Also, in the same vicinity, is where you will find cobia to 85 pounds, amberjack, jack creville, bluefish of various sizes to 12 pounds, at least 4 species of shark, some tipping the scales at several hundred pounds, croaker, spot, weakfish, spotted seatrout, flounder and tautog. Hang a couple chicken neck baited lines over the side near the anchorage at Kiptopeke and you will catch enough crabs for a delightful crab-cake dinner in less than an hour.
The children will absolutely love exploring the beaches of Kiptopeke State Park, which has a huge number of wild yucca plants in bloom this time of year.
https://www.google.com/maps/uv?hl=en&pb=!1s0x89ba58ddc644a5b5:0x1969dab625a43e1c!2m19!2m2!1i80!2i80!3m1!2i20!16m13!1b1!2m2!1m1!1e1!2m2!1m1!1e3!2m2!1m1!1e5!2m2!1m1!1e4!3m1!7e115!4shttp://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/kiptopeke!5skiptopeke+state+park+-+Google+Search&imagekey=!1e1!2shttp://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/image/data/kp-image-03.jpg&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjMrYWwvMPTAhWDRCYKHWI-D5UQoioImQEwDg
What more could you ask for without traveling to some remote island in the Caribbean, and it's all at the mouth of Chesapeake Bay.
Enjoy,
Gary