Sort of. Tilghman Island isn’t necessarily sinking in the dramatic sense, but it is facing erosion due to rising sea levels. Here’s a breakdown:

• Rising Sea Levels: Global warming and melting ice sheets are causing sea levels to rise. This trend threatens Tilghman Island’s shorelines, as evidenced by studies showing significant erosion over the past century.
• Vulnerability: The island’s low-lying nature makes it particularly susceptible to rising water levels.
• Erosion: The combination of rising seas and wave action eats away at the island’s edges, potentially impacting infrastructure and natural habitats.

While the island itself may not be actively sinking, its landmass is definitely under threat from rising waters. The Chesapeake Bay is infamous for it’s “lost islands,” including the long vanished Sharp’s island, just to the south of Tilghman, which was once a thriving community in the 1800s. Fortunately, as compared to it’s neighboring island to the south, Tilghman’s shoreline has been almost entirely reinforced by stone “rip-rap” barriers to prevent erosion. Most of these are built and maintained by individual waterfront property owners at their own expense.   

Tilghman Island is named after Matthew Tilghman. The island originally had various names, including Great Choptank Island, Foster’s Island, and Ward’s Island. In the mid-1700s, the Tilghman family inherited the island through Matthew Tilghman. He is credited with renaming the island Tilghman Island, which has been its official name ever since.

In the summer (around July 15th), hotel prices in Tilghman Island, Maryland range from $178 to $310 per night. Here are some options:

• The Tilghman Island Inn – Charming waterfront property offering bright, breezy rooms, plus an outdoor pool & a gourmet eatery. Price: $310 per night.
• Knapp’s Narrows Marina & Inn – Bayfront hotel offering low-key rooms, plus free continental breakfast, a seasonal pool & a marina. Price: $210 per night.
• Black Walnut Point Inn – Relaxed 1840s B&B offering quaint rooms & cabins, plus ocean views, an outdoor pool & a boat dock. Price: $178 per night (32% less than usual).
• Wylder Hotel Tilghman Island – Longstanding waterfront inn with traditional rooms, an outdoor pool, dining options & a marina. Price: $207 per night.
• Short Term Rentals. If you’re traveling with a larger group or family, it may be more economical to rent an entire house like this one from Flaneur Vacation Rentals. You can get your own private escape on six acres with a pool, spa and dock and sleep up to ten with waterfront views. Price: $700 per night. 

So there’s a good variety of options depending on your budget and preferences. If you’re looking for a luxurious stay with a gourmet restaurant, then The Tilghman Island Inn might be a good choice. Knapp’s Narrows Marina & Inn and Wylder Hotel Tilghman Island are good options for a mid-range waterfront hotel experience. Black Walnut Point Inn is a charming B&B option for a more relaxed stay. If you want more bang for your buck, short term rentals are a good option.

Yes. There is a selection of wedding venues, each with its own special charm and catering to different styles and guest sizes. 

• The Tilghman Island Inn: This luxurious waterfront property boasts a beautiful ballroom with expansive windows overlooking the Chesapeake Bay. Perfect for a formal wedding with breathtaking views, it offers in-house catering featuring fresh, local seafood.

• Wylder Hotel Tilghman Island: This longstanding waterfront inn features a recently renovated ballroom with a classic ambience and picturesque water views. They offer flexible event spaces and catering options to suit your vision.

• Black Walnut Point Inn: This relaxed 1840s B&B exudes a charming and intimate atmosphere. Exchange vows on the waterfront lawn or in a beautifully decorated garden setting. Perfect for smaller weddings with a focus on a relaxed and personal celebration.

• Waterfront Private Property: Consider exploring the possibility of renting a private waterfront property on Tilghman Island. This option allows for maximum personalization and a truly unique wedding experience. However, you’ll need to handle all logistics like catering and rentals.

Considerations when Choosing a Venue:

• Guest Capacity: Ensure the venue can comfortably accommodate your expected number of guests.
• Catering: Inquire about in-house catering options or if you have the flexibility to bring in an external caterer.
• Wedding Packages: Some venues offer comprehensive wedding packages with services like event coordination, setup, and rentals.
• Logistics: Discuss details like ceremony location, reception space, accessibility for guests, and any necessary permits with the venue.

Remember:

• Booking venues on Tilghman Island, especially during peak season (spring, summer, and fall), can get competitive. Plan and reserve your chosen venue well in advance.
• Tilghman Island’s beauty lies in its natural, rustic charm. Be prepared to embrace this atmosphere and work with vendors who can complement the island’s unique character.

Yes! Tilghman has a bridge, and a famous one at that. The Knapps Narrows bridge has been named the “busiest draw bridge in America,” going up and down on average more than 10,000 times per year. A major benefit of Tilghman Island is it’s accessibility by road — as opposed to more remote islands to the south like Smith and Tangier that are accessibly exclusively by boat.

Fun fact: The original Tilghman Island bridge was dismantled and barged 20 miles north to St. Michaels, Maryland, where it now stands as a historical landmark near the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum.

No. At least, not anymore. While the island was accessible a century ago by ferry boat from DC or Baltimore, the building of the Chesapeake Bay bridge made Tilghman an easy two hour drive from DC or Baltimore. The Knapps Narrows bridge, which has existed in some form for hundreds of years, connects Tilghman to the rest of the Bay Hundred peninsula.

If you do want a ferry, however, you’re in luck: The Oxford-Bellevue Ferry is an historic ferry service, believed to be the nation’s oldest privately operated ferry, runs between Oxford, Maryland, and Bellevue, Maryland (which connects to Tilghman Island).

• Ferry Operation: The ferry operates daily, 7 days a week (typically from 9 am until closing time, which varies depending on the season). The ride itself is a short and scenic 10-minute journey across the Tred Avon River.
• Capacity and Fees: The ferry can accommodate vehicles, trailers, bicycles, motorcycles, and passengers. Fees vary depending on the type of vehicle and the number of passengers. You can find the current rates and more information on their website: Oxford Ferry.

Choosing the best place to stay on Tilghman Island depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Here’s a breakdown of some top options, catering to different preferences:

Waterfront Luxury: The Tilghman Island Inn: This luxurious waterfront property offers stunning views, beautifully appointed rooms, and an upscale on-site restaurant featuring fresh seafood. Ideal for those seeking a pampered escape with a touch of elegance.

Waterfront Comfort: Wylder Hotel Tilghman Island: This longstanding waterfront inn provides a comfortable and scenic stay with a relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy on-site dining options, an outdoor pool, and a marina for exploring the Chesapeake Bay.

Charming B&Bs: Black Walnut Point Inn: Step back in time at this historic 1840s B&B. Experience the island’s charm with quaint rooms, some with water views, and a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for those seeking a unique and intimate stay.

Budget-Friendly Option: Knapp’s Narrows Marina & Inn: This bayfront hotel offers a good value for the price. Enjoy low-key rooms, some with water views, a seasonal pool, and the convenience of on-site dining with a free continental breakfast.

Unique Stays: Vacation Rentals: Consider exploring vacation rentals on Tilghman Island. This option offers the most privacy and the potential for a truly unique experience in a waterfront cottage or private home. Be aware that availability can be limited, so plan well in advance.

Tilghman Island offers a unique blend of year-round charm and seasonal events. Here’s a breakdown of what you might encounter:

Annual Events:

• Tilghman Island Day (October): This signature event celebrates the island’s heritage and culture. Enjoy live music, crab-picking and oyster-shucking contests, local artisans showcasing their work, and delicious food vendors.
• OysterFest (October): Held alongside Tilghman Island Day, this event focuses on the island’s famed oysters. Sample fresh oysters prepared in various styles, learn about the oyster industry, and participate in oyster-related activities.
• Waterfowl Festival (November): This event on the nearby mainland in Easton, Maryland, attracts waterfowl enthusiasts from all over. While not technically on Tilghman Island, it coincides with the fall season and offers a chance to experience the region’s rich hunting culture.
• Plein Air (July): This outdoor painting event attracts artists from all over the world who descend on the island for several days each summer to pain the local scenery in real time. All of the work can be purchased after at a showcase.
  

Other Events and Activities:

• Pop-Up Events: Keep an eye out for pop-up events throughout the year, such as kayak tours, cooking classes featuring local seafood, or art exhibits showcasing local talent. You can find information on these events through local businesses, visitor centers, or online event calendars.
• Seasonal Activities: Tilghman Island offers various activities throughout the year. Go kayaking or fishing in the spring and summer, enjoy crabbing in the fall, or witness the beauty of the Chesapeake Bay during the cooler months.
• Live Music: Some restaurants and waterfront bars might host live music nights, especially during peak tourist season.

• Tilghman Island boasts a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations:

  Spring (March-May):

  • Pleasant: Spring arrives with mild temperatures, often ranging from the high 40s F (low 10s C) to the low 70s F (around 21 °C).
  • Blooming Beauty: Witness the island come alive with colorful wildflowers and blossoming trees.
  • Water Activities Begin: As the weather warms, kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching become popular activities.

  Summer (June-August):

  • Warm and Sunny: Summer brings sunny skies and warm temperatures, often reaching the high 80s F (around 30 °C) with high humidity.
  • Beach Time: While Tilghman Island doesn’t have traditional sandy beaches, the waterfront offers opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the Chesapeake Bay.
  • Peak Season: Summer is the busiest tourist season on Tilghman Island. Be prepared for higher prices and larger crowds.

  Fall (September-November):

  • Comfortable Temperatures: Fall offers a welcome respite from summer heat, with temperatures ranging from the low 70s F (around 21 °C) down to the high 40s F (low 10s C).
  • Vibrant Foliage: Enjoy the beauty of fall foliage with changing colors on the surrounding trees.
  • Seafood Delights: Fall is prime time for crab feasts and enjoying fresh oysters, celebrated during the island’s signature events, Tilghman Island Day and OysterFest.

  Winter (December-February):

  • Mild Winters: Winters on Tilghman Island are mild compared to other regions, with average temperatures in the 30s and 40s F (around 0 to 5 °C). Snowfall is infrequent and usually melts quickly.
  • Peaceful Escape: Winter offers a peaceful and tranquil escape with fewer crowds. Enjoy the serenity of the island and cozy up by a fireplace.
  • Limited Activities: Some water-based activities might be limited due to colder weather.

  Overall:

  Tilghman Island offers a pleasant climate year-round. The ideal time to visit depends on your preferences.

  • Warm weather and outdoor activities: Spring, summer, and early fall are best.
  • Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures: Consider spring or fall.
  • Peak seafood season and island festivals: Fall is a great choice.
  • Tranquil escape: Winter offers a peaceful retreat.

  No matter what time of year you choose, be sure to pack layers of clothing as the weather can change throughout the day.