Truth be told, I am a city girl and if you take me to the woods- I am not the happiest camper! But Tilghman island entirely blew my socks off. A couple hours drive out of DC, Tilghman island is part of the Chesapeake bay, Maryland. It is food and water sport haven.If you are looking for a mini escape from the city's maddening life, Tilghman Island could be your ultimate respite.
My family and I, including my dog, were invited to stay overnight at the Wylder Hotel, Tilghman Island. Had I known the place was going to be amazing, I would have stayed an extra night. The island might look small to you but there was so much do- canoe, kayak, cruise, crabbing, fishing, bike excursions, and so much more to it.
Spread over 3.5 acres, Wylder Hotel just may be the perfect retreat for your family. With 50 guest rooms, no elevators or open lobbies, the hotel is as comfortable as your own home. The outside of the resort is pristine white with a more coastal vibe unraveling as you navigate through different areas. Surrounded by lush greens, Wylder hotel is brimming with character and sophistication.
How to get there?
A short scenic drive from Baltimore, Washington D.C. and Philadelphia, Tilghman Island is a relaxed, yet exciting Eastern Shore escape. Drive through St. Michael's, past the farmland, corn stalks and pumpkin patches, and over the drawbridge across Knapp's Narrow, and you'll be on the 3-mile stretch of salty paradise.
What to expect on arrival
This waterfront hotel makes you feel right at home with its welcoming vibe and great offerings. From touchless check-in, to remote room requests, there is an ample amount of outdoor space. Unlike a conventional hotel, the reception area is a quaint room with all blue accents- very welcoming indeed! Just walk out the reception and you'll be lured to making yourself comfortable on the swing and the warm patio lounge.
The guest rooms are spread across two separate buildings. We opted for their 2 Queen Beds bungalow. Most of their bungalows have the breathtaking water view. The rooms are just what you'd expect at a resort- simple, functional and comfortable. Flanked by a small front porch, the rooms scream cozy.
Things to do at the Hotel
At Wylder, you go WYLD.....
If you are a water sports person, this place will be your jam. Water sports like paddle board, canoe, kayak, fishing, boating, there is so much to do. Just pick up a canoe and row your way on the lake. Dip into the salt water pool if you aren't feeling water wild. Hop on the bikes for a road excursion of the island if you are feeling adventurous .
From morning yoga at the lawn to a round or two of bocce ball at the park, there is no dearth of family entertainment. Relax by the waterfront lounge, take a stroll by the boardwalk, this place is a relaxation haven. The evenings are an experience at the hotel. At around 6;30 every evening they light up the fire pits- just sit around chit-chatting or grill some s'mores, the night under the sky is just so mesmerizing.
Check out full event list HERE.
The Sunset Cruise
One of their newest addition to the " explore the island " list - THE SUNSET CRUISE. With the humble purpose of giving business to local captains on the island, Wylder Hotels kicked off the Friday/Saturday sunset cruise options for their guests. Learn history and the stories of yesteryear all while experiencing a beautiful sunset right in the middle of bay.
You can order from their onsite restaurant and bring it on board. Book ahead of time and don't forget to carry your motion-sickness medication if you are prone to sea-sickness.
Where to eat?
This place a seafood haven. Their on-site restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating daily and reservations are highly recommended.
With menus built to highlight the freshest local products- from their on-site kitchen garden and orchard to daily seafood fresh from Tilghman Island's fishing docks -their chef creates dining experiences at Tickler's Crab Shack and Bar Mumbo that range from relaxed elegance to finger-licking family style food. We ate three meals there and each time it was a fresh spread- their menu is that extensive.
Breakfast is the standard American fare and their freshly-brewed coffee was to die-for.
Hotel Highlights in a nutshell
- Family friendly
- Quite and quaint
- Pet-friendly
- Heated outdoor salt water pool
- Restaurant and bar on site
- In-house continental breakfast
- On-site water sports like canoe, paddle boat and kayak
- Picnic areas
- Sunset Cruise
- Bike loans on a first cum first serve basis
- Recreation and weekend activities
Overall, we had an amazing time at the Wylder Hotel. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a weekend getaway.
Shop my outfits
