Welcome to Talbot County, Maryland
An elegant coastal escape defined by historic harbor towns, scenic waterscapes, and refined leisure.
Talbot County is where timeless charm meets waterfront luxury. Located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, this region comprises the picturesque towns of Easton, Oxford, St. Michaels, and Tilghman Island—each with its own distinctive character, yet all connected by a shared appreciation for the water, history, and relaxed sophistication. Life here is built around the Chesapeake Bay, where sailing regattas, seafood feasts, and scenic drives are part of the everyday rhythm.
This part of the Shore is ideal for those seeking more than just a home—it’s perfect for those craving an experience. From iconic inns to quaint village shops, historic ferries to sunset cruises, Talbot County offers unmatched access to Chesapeake culture with a refined twist.
Whether you're drawn to Easton’s arts and festivals, St. Michaels’ yachting scene, Oxford’s quiet charm, or Tilghman Island’s rustic-luxury atmosphere, you’ll quickly discover why so many fall in love with this part of Maryland.
What to Love
- Stunning waterfront estates and peaceful, upscale communities
- Historic small towns with nautical ambiance and architectural charm
- Signature events and festivals that celebrate Chesapeake heritage
- Boating, crabbing, and dining with unbeatable water views
- A sophisticated yet unhurried pace of life
Local Lifestyle
Living in Talbot County means embracing a lifestyle shaped by the Bay. It's peaceful and leisurely, yet undeniably elegant. Residents enjoy boat rides at sunrise, lazy lunches at dockside cafes, and evening strolls through historic town centers. It’s a place where locals know each other, but newcomers are welcomed like old friends. Whether you’re docking your boat in St. Michaels, biking along the Oxford loop, or sipping wine at a waterfront tasting, you’ll find the pace both calming and luxurious.
Dining and Shopping
St. Michaels is the culinary and shopping hub of Talbot County. Theo’s delivers upscale steakhouse fare in a stylish yet relaxed setting, while Ava’s offers a cozy bistro vibe with wood-fired pizzas and local favorites. For a true Chesapeake experience, dine outdoors at the iconic Crab Claw or grab a drink at Foxy's Harbor Grille. Don’t leave without visiting Justine’s for some of the best ice cream around, or booking a scenic ride with Patriot Cruises for views best enjoyed by water.
Oxford’s dining scene is charming and low-key, perfect for relaxing with dockside views. The Scottish Highland Creamery is beloved for its small-batch flavors, while Doc’s Sunset Grille and Capsize offer fresh seafood and a relaxed marina atmosphere. For groceries or a quick bite, The Oxford Market is a local staple. Shopping here is about quality over quantity—expect curated coastal gifts, nautical decor, and one-of-a-kind art pieces.
Tilghman Island offers a more rustic luxury experience. The Wylder Hotel has become a destination for elevated dining and boutique accommodations, with its on-site restaurant Marker 52 drawing locals and travelers alike. Two if by Sea is a charming café offering everything from hearty brunch to seafood dinners, making it a favorite among visitors seeking authenticity and flavor.
Things to Do and Entertainment
Talbot County is a festival-lover’s dream. The annual Waterfowl Festival draws nature enthusiasts and art collectors alike, celebrating local wildlife and culture across multiple towns. St. Michaels WineFest is a springtime highlight, where attendees sip, shop, and socialize along the town’s waterfront streets. During the holiday season, Christmas in St. Michaels transforms the town into a festive wonderland, complete with parades, markets, and historic home tours.
The celebrations continue year-round. Big Band Night on July 4th fills the waterfront with music and fireworks, while First Night Talbot offers a family-friendly New Year’s Eve alternative packed with performances and entertainment. In February, the Fire and Ice Festival lights up Easton with ice sculptures, live music, and cozy fire pits. From seasonal events to spontaneous afternoons on the water, there’s always something to do—or not do—in Talbot County.
Welcome to Talbot County, Maryland
An elegant coastal escape defined by historic harbor towns, scenic waterscapes, and refined leisure.
Talbot County is where timeless charm meets waterfront luxury. Located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, this region comprises the picturesque towns of Easton, Oxford, St. Michaels, and Tilghman Island—each with its own distinctive character, yet all connected by a shared appreciation for the water, history, and relaxed sophistication. Life here is built around the Chesapeake Bay, where sailing regattas, seafood feasts, and scenic drives are part of the everyday rhythm.
This part of the Shore is ideal for those seeking more than just a home—it’s perfect for those craving an experience. From iconic inns to quaint village shops, historic ferries to sunset cruises, Talbot County offers unmatched access to Chesapeake culture with a refined twist.
Whether you're drawn to Easton’s arts and festivals, St. Michaels’ yachting scene, Oxford’s quiet charm, or Tilghman Island’s rustic-luxury atmosphere, you’ll quickly discover why so many fall in love with this part of Maryland.
What to Love
Stunning waterfront estates and peaceful, upscale communities
Historic small towns with nautical ambiance and architectural charm
Signature events and festivals that celebrate Chesapeake heritage
Boating, crabbing, and dining with unbeatable water views
A sophisticated yet unhurried pace of life
Local Lifestyle
Living in Talbot County means embracing a lifestyle shaped by the Bay. It's peaceful and leisurely, yet undeniably elegant. Residents enjoy boat rides at sunrise, lazy lunches at dockside cafes, and evening strolls through historic town centers. It’s a place where locals know each other, but newcomers are welcomed like old friends. Whether you’re docking your boat in St. Michaels, biking along the Oxford loop, or sipping wine at a waterfront tasting, you’ll find the pace both calming and luxurious.
Dining and Shopping
St. Michaels is the culinary and shopping hub of Talbot County. Theo’s delivers upscale steakhouse fare in a stylish yet relaxed setting, while Ava’s offers a cozy bistro vibe with wood-fired pizzas and local favorites. For a true Chesapeake experience, dine outdoors at the iconic Crab Claw or grab a drink at Foxy's Harbor Grille. Don’t leave without visiting Justine’s for some of the best ice cream around, or booking a scenic ride with Patriot Cruises for views best enjoyed by water.
Oxford’s dining scene is charming and low-key, perfect for relaxing with dockside views. The Scottish Highland Creamery is beloved for its small-batch flavors, while Doc’s Sunset Grille and Capsize offer fresh seafood and a relaxed marina atmosphere. For groceries or a quick bite, The Oxford Market is a local staple. Shopping here is about quality over quantity—expect curated coastal gifts, nautical decor, and one-of-a-kind art pieces.
Tilghman Island offers a more rustic luxury experience. The Wylder Hotel has become a destination for elevated dining and boutique accommodations, with its on-site restaurant Marker 52 drawing locals and travelers alike. Two if by Sea is a charming café offering everything from hearty brunch to seafood dinners, making it a favorite among visitors seeking authenticity and flavor.
Things to Do and Entertainment
Talbot County is a festival-lover’s dream. The annual Waterfowl Festival draws nature enthusiasts and art collectors alike, celebrating local wildlife and culture across multiple towns. St. Michaels WineFest is a springtime highlight, where attendees sip, shop, and socialize along the town’s waterfront streets. During the holiday season, Christmas in St. Michaels transforms the town into a festive wonderland, complete with parades, markets, and historic home tours.
The celebrations continue year-round. Big Band Night on July 4th fills the waterfront with music and fireworks, while First Night Talbot offers a family-friendly New Year’s Eve alternative packed with performances and entertainment. In February, the Fire and Ice Festival lights up Easton with ice sculptures, live music, and cozy fire pits. From seasonal events to spontaneous afternoons on the water, there’s always something to do—or not do—in Talbot County.
