Solomons

Solomons, Maryland, often referred to as Solomons Island, is a captivating waterfront community situated at the southern tip of Calvert County, where the Patuxent River converges with the Chesapeake Bay. This serene village, once a bustling hub for shipbuilding and the oyster industry, has gracefully transitioned into a popular destination known for its maritime heritage, recreational boating, and relaxed coastal charm.

While technically a peninsula connected to the mainland by a short causeway, Solomons offers the distinct feel of an island getaway. Visitors are drawn to its scenic boardwalk, diverse dining options featuring fresh local seafood, and an active arts and culture scene. Whether seeking outdoor adventures on the water, exploring fascinating museums, or simply enjoying the tranquil beauty of the Chesapeake Bay, Solomons provides a unique blend of history and leisure.

Solomons' origins trace back to the early 18th century, though it was known by different names before its current designation. Initially called Bourne's Island around 1680, it later became Somervell's Island in 1740, and then Sandy Island from 1827 to 1865. The land was likely part of the larger Eltonhead Manor grant. In 1865, Baltimore businessman Isaac Solomon purchased an 80-acre tract known as "Sandy Island." Solomon established a cannery and associated services, including worker housing, transforming the island into a thriving center for the oyster industry. His innovative rapid sterilization process significantly boosted oyster production, leading to a substantial fishing fleet and economic prosperity, evident in the fine Victorian homes that emerged.

The 19th century saw the development of shipyards in Solomons to support its growing fishing fleet, with the famed "bugeye" sailing craft being built on the island. Solomons quickly became Calvert County's most important commercial center. Its strategic location at the mouth of the Patuxent River also played a role in military history. During the War of 1812, Commodore Joshua Barney's flotilla sailed from Solomons to engage British vessels on the Chesapeake Bay. Over a century later, during World War II, Solomons was chosen as the site for the Naval Amphibious Training Base. Between 1942 and 1945, the island's population surged from 263 to over 2,600 as more than 60,000 troops trained there, making a significant contribution to the war effort and creating new jobs for residents.

For many years, Solomons remained a somewhat isolated boat-building town, also home to the University of Maryland's Chesapeake Biological Laboratory. This changed dramatically with the construction of the Governor Thomas Johnson Bridge in 1977, which connected Solomons Island to St. Mary's County and the Patuxent Naval Air Station. This bridge significantly increased accessibility, transforming Solomons into a popular weekend destination for visitors from the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area, while still retaining its deep maritime roots and laid-back atmosphere.

Solomons offers a variety of attractions that blend its maritime history with natural beauty and artistic expression. A primary stop is the Calvert Marine Museum, which showcases the cultural and natural history of Southern Maryland through exhibits on fossils, estuarine biology, and local maritime heritage. Here, you can also explore the beautifully preserved Drum Point Lighthouse, a screwpile lighthouse that stands as a testament to the region's seafaring past. The museum also offers cruises on historic vessels like the Wm. B. Tennison oyster buy-boat and a skipjack.

For art enthusiasts, the Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center is a Smithsonian affiliate featuring a quarter-mile walking path through woods adorned with permanent and loaned sculptures, including works from internationally known artists. The Solomons Island Boardwalk provides a scenic promenade along the Patuxent River, perfect for leisurely strolls, enjoying waterfront views, and discovering quaint shops and dining options. You can also enjoy fishing from Solomons Pier. For those seeking outdoor activities, kayaking, paddleboarding, and biking rentals are available through the Patuxent Adventure Center. Nearby, Calvert Cliffs State Park offers opportunities for fossil hunting along its beaches.

The best times to visit Solomons for warm-weather activities are throughout June and from mid-August to early October, when daily high temperatures average above 78°F. During these months, skies are generally clearer, and the chance of wet days is lower. The tourism season for Solomons typically runs from April to October. While Solomons is appealing year-round, visiting during the off-season or on weekdays can help avoid crowds, especially in warmer months.

Solomons is easily accessible by car, located just under two hours from both the Baltimore and Washington D.C. areas, making it a popular weekend getaway. The town is walkable, especially Solomons Island itself, which is only about a mile and a half long. Free parking is often available, such as at the Solomons Island Boardwalk. For those arriving by boat, Solomons offers numerous marinas, providing a variety of slip options and amenities. Some hotels, like the Quality Inn/Beacon Marina and Holiday Inn/Solomons Harbor Marina, even offer their own docks. Public restrooms are available at locations like the boardwalk and Solomons Island Town Center Park. While there are no public sandy beaches directly in Solomons, nearby Flag Ponds Nature Park and Calvert Cliffs State Park offer hiking trails to beaches.