Welcome to Smith Island, MD, the village of Ewell — a hidden gem in the heart of the Chesapeake Bay where time slows down and nature takes center stage. Accessible only by boat, this peaceful island is known for its rich maritime heritage, stunning sunsets, warm, welcoming community, fishing, crabs, and oysters. You’ll find a true escape from the everyday at our cozy getaway. It is the perfect home base to experience all the beauty and charm Smith Island and the Chesapeake Bay have to offer.
We are happy to share with you our newly renovated home with gorgeous water views. It is 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, and has a fully equipped kitchen. We are a short walk to the museum, Smith Island Bakery, church, and restaurants. Enjoy the decks on the front and the back of the house. Whether you want to just relax and slow down, explore the island with a bike ride, kayak, enjoy photography, or need a base for fishing trips, this is the place for you! Experience all that Smith Island and the Chesapeake Bay have to offer when you stay at Pelican Cove.
Traveling by private vessel? A boat slip may be available for your use. Please inquire in advance to check availability and details.
A golf cart is available for guest use as a COURTESY when operational. We do everything we can to make sure that one is always available. Its availability is not guaranteed and is subject to maintenance, repairs, and other circumstances. The golf cart is provided as a complimentary amenity and is not included as a guaranteed component of the rental accommodations. NO REFUNDS, DISCOUNTS, or ADJUSTMENTS to the reservation rate will be provided if the golf cart is unavailable during your stay. Guests must sign the required waiver before use.
Bedroom 1 “Captains Quarters”: King Bed, room darkening blinds, TV, sheets/blankets, body pillow, extra pillow/blanket, hangers, white noise sound machine, full length mirror
Bedroom 2 “Crews Quarters”: Queen Bed, room darkening blinds, TV, sheets/blankets, body pillow, extra pillow/blanket, hangers, white noise sound machine, full length mirror
Bathroom: Bath towels, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toilet paper, hair dryer
Living Room: TV, games, books, sofa (sleeps 2), dedicated workspace, (1) large dog crate with dog essentials
Kitchen: Keurig coffee maker, K-cups, air fryer, toaster, microwave, hand held mixer, crockpot, blender, full-size fridge, stove/oven, dishware, flatware, bakeware, cooking utensils, trash bags, paper towels, kitchen table with seating for 6, cookware, salt/pepper, herbs/spices, oil, spray oil
General: Wifi, AC/heat, iron, ironing board, washing machine, dryer
Outdoors: Kayaks (2), bikes (2), cornhole boards
*Guests use kayaks and bikes at their own risk. Owner is not responsible for injury or death as a result of use.
Check-in: 1:00pm
Check-out: 7:15am (ferry departs Ewell at 7:30am)
GETTING TO SMITH ISLAND
Smith Island is ONLY accessible by private vessel or passenger ferry.
The ferry is PASSENGER ONLY — no vehicles. Reservations are required, and guests are responsible for making their own ferry reservations and paying the cost of the ferry ride.
Two ferries depart Crisfield daily at 12:30 PM.
Check-in: 1:00 PM
Check-out: 7:15 AM — the ferry departs Ewell at 7:30 AM. Upon confirming transportation if your ferry departure time is anything other than 7:30 AM please let us know, a later check-out time may be available.
Boat captain information and parking information will be provided upon booking.
Arriving by private vessel? Please let us know and docking information will be provided upon booking.
FOOD & DINING
Please plan ahead for food. Grocery options on Smith Island are very limited. Guests should bring their own groceries or arrange catering with a local restaurant or chef.
Restaurants are seasonal and generally close around 4:00 PM, so please plan accordingly.
PETS
Pelican Cove is pet-friendly — dogs only, maximum 2 dogs.
A $50 additional cleaning fee applies for guests traveling with dogs.
A FEW THINGS TO KNOW
Smith Island is a DRY ISLAND. You may bring alcohol with you, but please consume it responsibly and respectfully within the community.
Pelican Cove is not just a rental—it is our personal vacation home that we use often. We kindly ask that you respect the space and take care of the home and its belongings during your stay.
This is a smoke-free property. Smoking or vaping, including marijuana use, is strictly prohibited inside the home. Evidence of smoking, vaping, or marijuana use indoors—including odors, ashes, residue, or paraphernalia—may result in additional cleaning fees.
No events, parties, or large gatherings.
Guests must be at least 21 years old to book.
THINGS TO DO
• Fish
• Catch your own crabs or order steamed crabs
• Spend the day on the water with a local waterman
• Take a boat tour
• Visit Tylerton
• Visit the Smith Island Cultural Center and learn how to talk like an islander
• See the pelicans and other birdwatching
• Enjoy the peace, wildlife, and natural beauty of Smith Island
Once your reservation is confirmed, we’ll provide additional information to help you plan your stay, including local restaurants and groceries, fishing and crabbing, boating, and other things to do on Smith Island.