Capital Region USA: Life on the Water 

With the Atlantic Ocean, Chesapeake Bay, miles of riverways and lakefront shorelines, having fun on the water should be part of any holiday to Washington, DC, Maryland and Virginia. Here are some of the top aquatic experiences to enjoy in America’s Capital Region.

Washington, DC

The area’s mightiest river is the Potomac, whose watershed encompasses the entire Capital Region. Forming the border between DC and Virginia, as well as between Maryland and Virginia, the Potomac is by turns serene and turbulent.

The Potomac River beckons kayakers, canoers, and stand-up paddlers. Any number of shops will get you kitted out and on the water in no time. Take out a paddleboat near the Georgetown waterfront or view the monuments by water as you enjoy a Washington, DC river cruise, many of which connect the District with Alexandria, Virginia and National Harbor, Maryland, allowing you to visit the nation’s capital and two US states in just one day!

The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal runs parallel to the Potomac for 184.5 miles, offering an additional waterway for canoes and rowboats. The towpath, which separates the canal and river, is also a favourite path for bicyclists and runners.

The Tidal Basin is part of West Potomac Park and was built to harness the power of the river’s tides. Rent a paddleboat to glide along the basin and gain a different perspective of the city’s iconic memorials. Views of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial from the waters of the Tidal Basin are stunning, particularly in the spring when the famous cherry trees are in bloom.

Virginia

With hundreds of miles of Atlantic coastline, Virginia offers a large collection of beaches within an easy drive of Washington, DC, the most famous of which is Virginia Beach. Comprised of three distinct areas—Chesapeake Bay Beach, the resort beaches and Sandbridge Beach- each has a unique character, making it easy for visitors to choose the type of beach vacation they prefer.

For a lively party atmosphere, hit the resort area, whose expansive boardwalk is packed with cafés, performers, rollerbladers and cyclists, as well as a 24-foot statue of King Neptune. For a quieter, more serene getaway, head to either Chesapeake Bay or Sandbridge Beaches. Both are known for their pristine shores and beautiful state parks, making them ideal destinations for nature lovers. In addition to sunbathing and strolling the iconic boardwalk, key activities to enjoy on the water here include kayaking with dolphins, taking a surfing lesson, or going on an oyster farm tour and tasting at Pleasure House Oyster Farms.

Nestled on the Potomac River within eyesight of Washington, DC, the city of Alexandria, Virginia is nationally renowned for its rich history and beautifully preserved 18th- and 19th-century architecture. Follow the cobblestone streets in the historic old town district down to the scenic waterfront for a relaxing bike ride along the river or take a boat tour to nearby Mount Vernon, the estate of America’s first president, George Washington. At the end of the day, refresh yourself by the water and sample local oysters under the red umbrellas at Vola’s Dockside Grill or at King Street’s acclaimed Hank’s Oyster Bar; or grab a drink at Blackwall Hitch and let the live music wash over you as night falls over the river.

Maryland

For Marylanders, the Chesapeake Bay is a source of pride, beauty and inspiration. Gain the same sense of awe for this natural treasure as you explore the fishing villages, wildlife, marshlands, and quiet waters that make up the Chesapeake Bay region. Discover the area by sailboat or powerboat as you cruise along the bay and its tributaries or stick to a landlubber’s perspective and enjoy a drive along the Chesapeake Country Scenic Byway.

Situated along the state’s Eastern Shore, Ocean City, Maryland has long been a favourite destination for beachcombers. The Atlantic’s warm waves entice swimmers, boaters, and boogie boarders to test the waters, where dolphins can often be seen traveling in groups of two or three. For those who prefer to dip their line rather than their feet, fishing and crabbing can be enjoyed from a rented boat or several public piers.

If you are looking for a more urban setting, fun on the water awaits in Annapolis, Maryland’s capital city, and Baltimore, the state’s largest city. Annapolis is home to the US Naval Academy and embraces its reputation as America’s sailing capital. The Inner Harbor is the centrepiece of downtown Baltimore, home to the National Aquarium, Maryland Science Center, Port Discovery Children’s museums, and numerous waterfront shops and restaurants.

Water taxi image - CREDIT K. Summerer for Visit Alexandria