About

island life

Time on the Island typically is much less rushed, more relaxed, and a slower pace. At the Inn, breakfast is typically served at 9 AM. After breakfast, most folks head out either for a special trip, a leisurely bike ride, or a simplistic walk down our quiet lane.

Many families bed down early and evenings tend to be quiet as most of our restaurants and stores close by 4 pm. Some dining options are staying open a bit later, but don't plan on eating after 6 PM, even in the summer. We offer catering services for guests who wish to dine at the Inn. Many guests sit outdoors in the evening, take a sunset cruise, or feast on deliciously seasoned steam crabs.

We have created several opportunities with local islanders to enable guests to gain a true view of the cultural aspects of island life. Whether you decide to embark on a watermen’s tour seek out artifacts or sea glass, or visit the tiny village of Tylerton, there is plenty to see and do. Land activities are also available for those whose who prefer to explore by land.

about our bed & Breakfast

When planning the opening of our Inn, our experiences in all facets of life provided significant direction and influence on the philosophy of the Inn. Nathan, my husband, had been a Navy Seabee for 7 years before becoming a nurse practitioner; his carpentry skills and artistic talents were put to test to help transform this once abandoned Eastern Shore Farmhouse into the historical gem that we knew was there all along.  I have been a nurse midwife, professor, and psychiatric nurse practitioner for many years. Running our Inn has many parallels to being a midwife, only with fewer late nights and shorter hours!   

Our four children inspired us to create a family-friendly retreat where childhood delights abound. As children ourselves, perhaps some of our fondest memories come from time shared with our grandmothers! Our guest rooms are named in honor of our grandmothers and our children's grandmother who have dramatically impacted so much of our vision for the Inn. 

We offer all of the comforts of home and much more in a relaxed atmosphere designed to create a sense of tranquility and peace for our guests. Our Inn has modern amenities yet has preserved the charm and character of the 19th century time period when it was built.

Our bed and breakfast has three bedrooms all with queen or king sized beds and large private en suite baths and decorated in period antiques.

Our grandmothers who showed us the value of hard work, the art of cooking good food, the knowledge and wisdom that could be acquired over a hot cup of coffee at a worn kitchen table, and the importance of hospitality. Our guests can now enjoy new found friends all the comforts of home here at Smith Island Inn.

Special Needs Accommodations

The Smith Island Inn and Cottages provide the only island wheelchair accessible facilities and disability-oriented services. In addition, the Davidson’s youngest son, Grant, has spastic quadriplegia cerebral palsy, which has made them uniquely aware of the services and support needed for guests with a variety of special needs. Michele’s House offers a story and a half spacious 3 bedroom cottage complete with a wheelchair ramp entry, 36 " doorways throughout, main level master bedroom, accessible open floor plan, and a wheelchair accessible bathroom, with a low entry shower. With advanced notice, we are able to provide care assistant services, Chemocations, and hospice trips for guests wishing to travel to the island, contact Michele for additional information on these services.

contractors

Since 2012, we have provided professional contractors with accommodations to ensure the Island has the essential services needed.  We also provide accommodations for various college groups, including Washington College’s Chesapeake Semester. While there are no hotels located on the Island, we are able to accommodate up to 32 guests at maximum occupancy (this includes double occupancy with shared beds).  We have single room space for up to 12. We can accommodate larger groups through Island networking to obtain additional homes and space as needed.  Our contractor program has a great deal of flexibility, including the ability to provide contractors packages with complete meal services (including packed lunches) and cleaning services. We are able to accommodate contract workers with food allergies or medically- indicated dietary needs. We can also assist companies with arranging transportation to and from the Island, and rental vehicles while here.