Mathews County, Virginia

Things to do in Mathews -

There's too many to mention here but we've compiled a list of our favorite things to do in Mathews County - so you'll know, like we do - why Mathews is the best kept secret of Virginia's river country. For more, be sure to visit: www.visitmathews.com or give us a call, we'd love to help.

1. Visit New Point Comfort Lighthouse

Mathews is the proud keeper of the New Point Comfort Lighthouse. Situated at the confluence of the great Chesapeake and Mobjack bays she's been lighting the way since 1804. There's many ways to visit: Local boat tours are available through Bay Water Excursions or take a leisurely drive to one of two observation decks at the tip of Virginia's Middle Peninsula. Learn more about New Point Comfort Lighthouse at lighthousefriends.com.

2. Explore Our Local Waters

From the Piankatank River to the Mobjack Bay, visitors and locals enjoy kayaking, sailing, fishing or cruising the waters that surround Mathews County. There's many ways to do it: Captain Chris Newsome offers fishing charters, Bay Trails Outfitters offer kayaking tours, Mobjack Sailing offers sailing, and our own Captain Court Van Clief of Bay Water Excursions offers boat tours throughout the county including Gwynn's Island, Wolftrap Light and beyond.

3. Immerse Yourself in Art

Whether you're an accomplished artist or just starting out, there's a ton of inspiration at your fingertips. Local artist Dorothy Fagan offers outdoor workshops in plein air painting. The Bay School Community Arts Center offers classes abound in almost all media, or just wander about and find your own inspiration at local galleries or a host of beautiful vistas throughout the county.

4. Enjoy The Wildlife

Mathews pristine shoreline and wooded areas offer countless opportunities for birding, wildlife photography, or just relaxing with the local wildlife. As part of virginia's coastal birding and wildlife trail, wildlife lovers can't go wrong in Mathews. Visit the Virginia Dept. of Game and Inland Fisheries for more information.

5. Shop and Dine

Small town charm is what it's all about in Mathews. From the Mathews Art Gallery on Main St. to Cattail's on Church St. and all the boutiques in between you'll find original art from local artists as well as unique treasures from the past. Beyond The White Dog Inn's own bistro there's plenty of fine dining options available as well. Local favorites include: Southwind Pizza, Chef Todd's on Main St. and Richardson's on the corner of Church and Main. For a complete list of shopping and dining opportunities visit www.visitmathews.com.