There are no traffic lights on Smith Island. No highways, no car rental agencies. Getting here — and moving through the island — is part of the experience.
The most common way to reach Smith Island is by passenger ferry from Crisfield, on Maryland's Eastern Shore. The crossing takes approximately one hour and offers beautiful views across the Chesapeake Bay.
Crisfield is approximately 2.5 hours from Baltimore, 3 hours from Washington D.C., and under 2 hours from Ocean City.
Seasonal schedules apply — we strongly recommend confirming departure times before travel. Contact us for current schedule information.
Leave your car in Crisfield. You will not need it on the island. Pack a bag you can comfortably carry from the ferry dock to your accommodation — the Sanctuary can arrange a golf cart pickup for guests with luggage.
Comfortable walking shoes
Layers — bay weather changes quickly
Cash — not all island businesses take cards
A book and zero agenda
Most of the island is easily walkable. The Sanctuary properties and village center in Ewell are within comfortable walking distance. Walking is the best way to discover the island at its own pace.
The island's preferred mode of local transport. The Sanctuary can help arrange golf cart access for guests who need it. Also a wonderful way to explore the causeway between communities.
Bikes are available for guests and a lovely way to explore. Flat terrain, very little traffic, and the constant company of the bay make cycling here genuinely peaceful.
We understand that getting to an island for the first time can feel like a logistical puzzle. It doesn't need to be. When you book with us, we send you a clear arrival guide with current ferry schedules, where to park in Crisfield, what to expect on the crossing, and how to find us when you arrive.
If you are joining a retreat, we coordinate arrivals so no one lands alone and confused on the dock. We know the ferry and we know the island. Let us handle the logistics so you can start resting the moment you step off the boat.
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