Sandaway Suites & Beach

Featured Offers

Don’t miss out on the best offers

This page is available in {{lang}}, switch to this language

Stay up with us

Sign Up For Specials

Ofertas

No se pierda las mejores ofertas

Esta página está disponible en {{lang}}, cambia a este idioma

Manténgase al día con nosotros

Regístrese para ofertas especiales

Des offres

Ne manquez pas les meilleures offres

Cette page est disponible en {{lang}}, passez à cette langue

Restez avec nous

Offerte in evidenza

Non perdere le migliori offerte

Questa pagina è disponibile in {{lang}}, passa a questa lingua

Rimani connesso

Stay up with us [nl]

Ofertas em destaque

Não perca as melhores ofertas

Esta página está disponível no {{lang}}, mude para este idioma

Permaneça conectado

Learn More About the Eastern Shore of Maryland and Chesapeake Bay

Sandaway Suites & Beach Blog for Traveling to Oxford, Maryland

Helpful advice and information for planning a Maryland vacation is found in our travel blog. Discover why Sandaway Suites & Beach has an ideal location for exploring the Eastern Shore and Chesapeake Bay. 

Sandaway Suites & Beach Blog - Travel Tips and Advice for Eastern Shore of Maryland Vacations

<h1 data-path-to-node="0">The Nature Lover&rsquo;s Ultimate Eastern Shore Guide: Best Parks Near Oxford, MD</h1>
Welcome to the authentic Eastern Shore, where the bustle of everyday life fades into the soothing sounds of the water and the wind through the pines. While the charming shops and harbor of St. Michaels draw many visitors, those in the know look just a little further south to Oxford.
Sandaway stands as your tranquil basecamp&mdash;the ultimate launchpad for exploring the rich natural and historical tapestry of the Delmarva Peninsula. If your perfect getaway involves watching bald eagles soar, spotting wild horses, or standing in the birthplace of heroes, you have come to the right place. We are official "Art Lover" sponsors of Plein Air Easton, and these parks offer the dramatic light and scenery that inspire artists worldwide.
Forget the crowds. Forget the parking battles. From the unique meadows of Oxford to the dunes of Assateague, here is your curated guide to the best National and State parks within an easy day&rsquo;s drive of Sandaway.
<hr data-path-to-node="4" />
<h2 data-path-to-node="5">Itinerary 1: The "Local Wonders" &ndash; Oxford &amp; Northern Talbot</h2>
Driving Distance: Very Low (Walking, Biking, and short drives under 30 mins) The Vibe: Peaceful, intellectual, and seamlessly integrated with the historic landscape.
This itinerary is designed for those who want a deeply relaxing day, combining quick nature immersions with the quiet elegance of Talbot County.
1. Oxford Conservation Park (Talbot County)
<ul data-path-to-node="9">
<li>
Location: Right here in Oxford! This 120-acre meadow is a birdwatcher's paradise and a signature Plein Air painting site. We suggest taking a leisurely morning stroll or a quick bike ride from Sandaway to experience the open meadows and "Big Sky" views.
<ul data-path-to-node="9,0,1">
<li>
Dog-friendly (on leash).
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
2. Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park (Talbot/Dorchester)
<ul data-path-to-node="11">
<li>
Driving Time: 15 mins from Sandaway. Although the main fishing piers are currently closed for restoration, this 25-acre park still offers fantastic shoreline fishing access along the Choptank River. It is a quiet spot with incredible river views, perfect for casting a line or taking a quick walk before your next adventure.
</li>
</ul>
3. Pickering Creek Audubon Center (Talbot County)
<ul data-path-to-node="13">
<li>
Driving Time: 20 mins from Sandaway. A true nature sanctuary, this 400-acre center features tidal wetlands, forests, and stunning creek overlooks. With miles of well-marked trails, a beautiful boardwalk, and binoculars available to borrow, it feels exclusive and serene. Keep an eye out&mdash;over 230 bird species have been recorded here.
</li>
</ul>
4. Frederick Douglass Park on the Tuckahoe (Talbot County)
<ul data-path-to-node="15">
<li>
Driving Time: 35 mins from Sandaway. This is the "soul" of the itinerary. Located near the birthplace of Frederick Douglass, the pristine landscape of woods and the Tuckahoe Creek remains remarkably similar to how it appeared in his childhood. Enjoy powerful interpretive signage, a pollinator meadow, and a stunning river overlook that connects you directly to the region&rsquo;s profound history.
</li>
</ul>
<hr data-path-to-node="16" />
<h2 data-path-to-node="17">Itinerary 2: The "National Treasures" &ndash; A Wildlife &amp; History Double Feature</h2>
Driving Distance: High (1.5 - 2 hour drive to the coast, with crucial midpoints) The Vibe: High-impact nature, iconic historical sites, and the satisfaction of seeing it all.
This itinerary covers the most renowned sites on the Shore. By using Oxford as your basecamp, you avoid the commercial rush of Ocean City while still experiencing the iconic sights of Assateague and the Underground Railroad.
1. Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge (Dorchester County)
<ul data-path-to-node="21">
<li>
Driving Time: 35 mins from Sandaway. Start your day on the Eastern Shore&rsquo;s famous "Wildlife Drive." This is one of the premier locations on the Atlantic coast for spotting bald eagles, osprey, and migratory waterfowl in pristine wetlands. It&rsquo;s an ideal first stop on your way further south.
</li>
</ul>
2. Salisbury Zoological Park (Wicomico County)
<ul data-path-to-node="23">
<li>
Driving Time: 40 mins from Blackwater; 35 mins to Assateague. We love this small, free zoo as the perfect "intermission" for this longer day trip. Located almost exactly at the midpoint, it offers a shaded, naturalistic environment where you can stretch your legs and view species like Andean Bears and Red Wolves. It&rsquo;s a quiet retreat before hitting the coast.
</li>
<li>
Plein Air Tip: The zoo&rsquo;s winding paths and unique animal habitats offer distinctive painting opportunities.
</li>
</ul>
3. Assateague Island National Seashore (Worcester County)
<ul data-path-to-node="25">
<li>
Driving Time: 35 mins from Salisbury Zoo. This is the jewel of the coastal landscape. Search for the famous wild horses, walk the dramatic Atlantic beaches, and explore the Life of the Marsh or Life of the Forest trails. It&rsquo;s the perfect, dramatic climax to your nature journey before beginning the peaceful drive back.
</li>
</ul>
4. Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park (Dorchester County)
<ul data-path-to-node="27">
<li>
Driving Time: 35 mins from Blackwater/on the return leg. For a final stop before your evening in Oxford, visit this world-class park. This is the authentic, protected landscape where Harriet Tubman was born and where she led so many to freedom. Standing here as the sun sets over the marshes offers a moment of true reflection on the history of this remarkable place.
</li>
</ul>
<hr data-path-to-node="28" />
<h2 data-path-to-node="29">Itinerary 3: The "Deep Shore Forests" Loop &ndash; Caroline County Secrets</h2>
Driving Distance: Medium (20-40 mins, with sequential stops) The Vibe: Shaded, secluded, and a refreshing change from the coastal marshlands.
This itinerary is for those who appreciate the "deep" Eastern Shore&mdash;trading salt water for freshwater creeks and pine forest.
1. Tuckahoe State Park (Caroline/Talbot County)
<ul data-path-to-node="33">
<li>
Driving Time: 35 mins from Sandaway. Best known for its 60-acre lake and beautiful, shaded hiking trails that wind through both pine and hardwood forest. This park offers a different ecosystem from the rest of the Shore. While here, be sure to visit the adjoining Adkins Arboretum for expertly curated walks focused on the native plants of the Chesapeake.
</li>
</ul>
2. Martinak State Park (Caroline County)
<ul data-path-to-node="35">
<li>
Driving Time: 15 mins from Tuckahoe. Sitting at the confluence of the Choptank River and Watts Creek, this quiet park offers excellent birding and walking paths. The mix of pine and hardwood forest, along with its historic river connections, creates a peaceful atmosphere.
</li>
<li>
Dining Tip: Use this loop as an excuse to visit nearby Denton. Grab lunch at a local spot like the Market Street Public House or Harry's on the Avenue before returning to the quiet of Oxford.
</li>
</ul>
<hr data-path-to-node="36" />
<h2 data-path-to-node="37">Plan Your Nature-Inspired Stay at Sandaway</h2>
Most visitors to the Eastern Shore stick to the busy harbor towns. We invite you to stay deeper and see further. Using Oxford as your basecamp means you are never far from true wilderness and world-changing history, yet you can always return to the quiet luxury and waterfront elegance of Sandaway.
These parks represent the premier locations for Plein Air painting in the region&mdash;join us for the event and capture the natural world on your canvas.

National & State Parks Near Oxford, Maryland

Oxford isn’t just a destination—it’s the gateway to the Mid-Shore's most iconic landscapes. While most visitors rarely leave the sidewalk, the true magic of the Eastern Shore lies in its sprawling wildlife refuges, deep hardwood forests, and pristine coastal dunes. We’ve designed three distinct itineraries—from hyper-local walks to epic National Park day trips—so you can experience the best of the outdoors by day and return to the quiet waterfront luxury of Sandaway by night.

Explore the best National & State parks near Oxford, MD. From Assateague horses to Blackwater eagles, discover our curated nature itineraries for your stay.

Nature Lover’s Guide to Eastern Shore Parks

Nature Lover’s Guide to Eastern Shore Parks | Sandaway

<h1>Sandaway Suites &amp; Beach: A Favorite Choice for Plein Air Artists</h1>
Welcome to Oxford, MD, a charming haven for Plein Air artists. Nestled on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, this picturesque town offers a wealth of inspiration for artists seeking to capture the beauty of the outdoors. And when it comes to finding the perfect place to stay during your artistic retreat, look no further than Sandaway Suites &amp; Beach. With its stunning waterfront location and cozy accommodations, it has become a favorite choice for plein air artists visiting Oxford. In this blog, we will explore the charm of Oxford and why Sandaway Suites &amp; Beach is the ideal base for your artistic adventures.
<h2>Exploring the Charm of Oxford, MD: A Haven for Plein Air Artists</h2>
If you're a Plein Air artist looking for a charming and picturesque destination to create your artwork, look no further than Oxford, MD. This quaint and sleepy little town offers a tranquil atmosphere and beautiful scenery that will inspire any artist.
Oxford is surrounded by natural beauty, with the Tred Avon River and stunning landscapes providing the perfect backdrop for plein air painting. Artists can find unique and picturesque spots throughout the town to set up their easels and capture the beauty of Oxford.
What sets Oxford apart is its supportive community and dedication to the arts. The local community in Oxford welcomes plein air artists and there are often events and workshops that artists can participate in to connect with other artists and learn new techniques.
In addition to its natural beauty, Oxford also boasts a rich history and charming architecture that provide interesting subjects for plein air artists. The town's small-town charm adds to the overall appeal, providing a quiet and inspiring environment for artists to work in.
If you're planning a trip to Oxford, there are several accommodation options to choose from, including the Sandaway Suites &amp; Beach, an adults-only boutique hotel with private beach access. The town also offers a variety of art galleries, restaurants, and shops for leisurely browsing. A lot of Plein Air artists have chosen Sandaway Suites &amp; Beach for their Easton-area accommodations while attending art events like Plein Air Easton.
<h2>Plein Air Easton 2026</h2>
Did you know Plein Air Easton is the largest and most prestigious juried plein air painting competition in the USA? It is held in Easton, Maryland each July and celebrates its 22nd year in 2026 and will take place July 10-19.
Artists from all over the United States and beyond apply to participate, and 58 artists are selected each year. The competition lasts for a week, during which artists paint outdoors throughout Talbot County. The event includes various activities such as demos, workshops, exhibits, and lectures. Art sales for the event usually total over $500,000. Plein Air Easton also hosts the Quick Draw event, where nearly 200 artists create a painting in 2 hours or less. The festival invites the public to participate and support the event.
<h2>Join Us This July And Save 10%</h2>
As an official sponsor of Plein Air Easton, Sandaway is excited to offer 10% off. Just use promo code SAVE10 when booking from sandaway.com. With its idyllic waterfront location and cozy accommodations, Sandaway Suites &amp; Beach is truly a haven for plein air artists visiting Oxford, MD. The town's charm and natural beauty provide endless inspiration, and Sandaway Suites &amp; Beach offers the perfect retreat to relax and create. Whether you're capturing the vibrant colors of the sunset over the Tred Avon River, Choptank River, and Chesapeake Bay beyond, or painting the quaint streets of Oxford, this picturesque destination and its inviting accommodations will leave you feeling inspired and rejuvenated. So pack your easel and paints, and make Sandaway Suites &amp; Beach your home away from home as you embark on your artistic adventures in Oxford.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Sources and information about Plein Air Easton 2026 and accommodations in Oxford, Maryland -&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.pleinaireaston.com/donate">The Friends of Plein Air Easton - Donate</a>
<a href="https://www.pleinaireaston.com/events">Plein Air Easton Art Festival | Plein Air Easton Events 2026</a>
<a href="https://www.sandaway.com/">Chesapeake Bay Boutique Hotel in MD | Sandaway Suites &amp; Beach</a>

Plein Air Events and Painting at Sandaway Suites & Beach

Plein Air artists choose Sandaway Suites & Beach not only for its stunning waterfront location, but also for its ideal location for participating in Plein Air events. The most famous event will be Plein Air Easton 2026, July 10-19.

Plein-Air