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The Official Newsletter of Bay Creek, Cape Charles, Virginia
In This Issue: A Message from the Developers
Winter 2026 | Issue 30
LETTER FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER
Meet the Leadership Team Capital Improvements From The Club Golf Update Real Estate at Bay Creek Nature Corner Chef’s Corner Savoring the Flavor of Cape Charles Convenient Health & Care on the Eastern Shore
Bay Creek Soundings is published quarterly by Bay Creek Realty. Drop us a line at info@BayCreekLife.com or call toll free 844.620.2900 Or you can always see us at BayCreekLife.com
The Next Chapter of Bay Creek Begins Now… Beautiful things are happening at Bay Creek along Virginia’s spectacular Eastern Shore. Some are to be expected: celebrations and get-togethers as we say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new, community traditions like golf tournaments and club gatherings, and there’s a general festive glow about things. We enjoy many winter delights here like hiking the nature preserve and bundling up to look for shells or beach glass along the bayfront shores. Bay Creek is a natural wonderland that has beauty to offer in every season. Continued on next page...
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Soundings
Bay Creek residents, adventurous visitors, and Cape Charles locals realize that winter on the Eastern Shore is one of those secret delights that few know about. Anyone who has ever witnessed our fiery wintertime sunsets over the Bay knows what I mean!
Samuel Silverman. They are uniquely equipped to lead the community into its most exceptional era yet. Their deep knowledge and experience in the development and financing of premier golf, resort, and lifestyle communities is just the beginning.
During this season and beyond, we are ushering in some transformational new developments here at Bay Creek and I’m excited to share that with you. This community began as a singular vision, tucked away on an uncommonly stunning stretch of the sparkling Chesapeake Bay. Throughout the years, the property itself has been elevated from a ‘great spot on the Eastern Shore’ to a worldclass destination. More importantly, it has become a beloved home and retreat for generations of families. With every year, there come changes that serve to make Bay Creek even more extraordinary. From the groundbreaking decision to create a 350-acre Nature Preserve in recent years, to the addition of significant amenities, services and elegant new neighborhoods…Bay Creek has become more dynamic with every passing year. It’s hard to overstate the significance of the next new chapter at Bay Creek. I am pleased to announce the addition of two incredible development professionals who are recognized as experts in their field—Michael Schoenfeld and
Sam brings decades of experience in real estate, investment, and a diverse work portfolio that includes management consulting, financing, and brokerage. Michael has a long record of success in private equity investment, business diligence, management consulting, and entrepreneurship. Their vision for Bay Creek is exciting: rooted in sustainable growth, thoughtful design, and strengthening the innate sense of community and belonging that makes life in Cape Charles so special. I’m now pleased to share with you an announcement and update from our Bay Creek Development Principals about this exciting upcoming era in the life of our community. Here’s to a wonderful 2026!
Bobby Masters General Manager, Bay Creek
Winter 2026 | Issue 29
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A MESSAGE FROM THE DEVELOPERS
Mike Schoenfeld and Sam Silverman We are pleased to be a part of the exciting new developments at Bay Creek. One of the first things we recognized about Bay Creek was that it has an amazing identity that is uniquely its own. From our earliest conversations, we agreed that our work in this community will preserve that authentic Bay Creek identity while carefully expanding and enhancing its unique amenities and atmosphere. After working for many months in strategic planning, we’re pleased to announce a significant capital improvement cycle is now underway. This work will further enhance amenities, facilities, and lifestyle offerings. We understand that Bay Creek isn’t a ‘product.’ It’s a lifestyle and most importantly, home to many hundreds of people, and host to families who visit and return year after year. To put it simply, our plans mean there will be even more authentic Bay Creek pleasures to enjoy. We believe that resident input is crucial. After all, they are the very heart of this community. We have been conducting surveys and enjoying direct dialogue with residents, members and owners. We are inviting residents to help shape the sequencing and scale of many upcoming projects here in
the community they call home. Our goal is to deliver meaningful progress, follow through on commitments, and ensure long-term value for each homeowner and member. Our background in the development of resort communities that focus on amenities, golf and lifestyle has allowed us to step into Bay Creek with a clear and proven vision for its future. We have a long track record of involvement in the development and financing of communities across the country—from 55+ communities in the Southeast, outside Charlotte and Atlanta, to premier golf-based resort neighborhoods like Snake River Sporting Club, Tamarack Resort, and Wohali. We understand that communities may share similar amenities but no two are the same. That’s especially true of Bay Creek. The rarity of the location on the Eastern Shore coupled with the town of Cape Charles, itself, is extraordinary and revered. And we honor that. “We are pleased to join the leadership team at Bay Creek. This community is a true gem, and we are committed to realizing its full potential as a vibrant, inclusive, and timeless destination.”
“Bay Creek is an especially exciting endeavor for us because of our connection to the southeast. Mike grew up in North Carolina and spent many summers exploring coastal towns along the Outer Banks and the Carolinas. For him, Bay Creek feels like coming home. I bring a background in golf course development, including work with Jack Nicklaus over a decade ago. Together, we’re bringing passion and experience to ensure Bay Creek thrives for generations to come.” ~ Sam Silverman, Owner/Developer of Bay Creek
Soundings
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MEET THE
Bay Creek LeadershipTeam
Michael Schoenfeld
Sam Silverman
Travis Lynk
Owner
Owner
Director of Operations
Bobby Masters
Mark Matthews
Mark Brambell
General Manager
Chief Financial Officer
Director of Development
The Bay Creek Executive Team is comprised of respected professionals across a vast field of expertise: land planning, development, club operations, member services, and marketing. With global experience in master-planned communities, the team is working in unison to fulfill Bay Creek’s mission to deliver a vibrant, high-quality lifestyle for residents, members, and guests. Wade Adler Director of Marketing / Managing Broker
Winter 2026 | Issue 29
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS Here’s a Glimpse of What’s New & Next at Bay Creek
Now Complete! Pickleball Coach House Roof Replacement Climate Controlled Golf Bag Storage Life Center Sauna
Anticipated in Early 2026 Coach House Locker Room Addition (Men’s & Women’s Locker Rooms) Golf Course Improvements: Palmer #18th Hole Bridge Repairs Community Dog Park
Future Plans Life Center Indoor Pool Addition, Winter 2026/2027 Pavilion and Food & Beverage Gathering Space 2026/2027
Men’s Locker Room – Artist’s Rendering
Women’s Locker Room – Artist’s Rendering
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Soundings
FROM THE CLUB
Welcome, New Year and New Plans! Bob Ewing, General Manager of Bay Creek Resort & Club, has ushered our members and guests through a beautiful fall season. Now, the new year is peeking around the corner, and while the golf season has wound down, Bob and his team of professionals are working hard through the winter to make sure everything is prepped for a fabulous new year! Bob is in his element here —working with his team to make sure the courses are maintained, planning events, requesting members’ feedback and preparing for the many beautiful things to come in 2026.
Winter 2026 | Issue 29
This time of year, there’s always an expectation of new beginnings and ‘change.’ In our case at Bay Creek, the shifts of the season and the new changes to our community are especially exciting this year! With the support of the leadership of Bay Creek Development, we have many new and amazing things happening. And all of them serve to enhance our already fantastic bayside community. From discussions about a planned new indoor pool with a wellness space at the Life Center, to the now complete Pickleball courts (that folks are loving!) graced with benches, sun shades and beautiful landscaping—there is an enormous amount of expectation and excitement in the community.
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friendly competition and fun. Our members and guests are a diverse population and these additions and enhancements mean something different to everyone: the pickleball courts and the environment around them are bringing neighbors together for fun and fitness like never before. The golf experience improvements have given that extra ‘ease’ when playing a round. And that’s just the beginning. I encourage you to take a look at the list of all the upcoming and in-progress enhancement projects which are shared in a Letter from the Developer on page 5.
Bay Creek at its Best As exciting as change can be, there’s also a great joy and comfort in the tried and true. Here at Bay Creek, this season has been one for the ages, with all the Club’s beloved traditional happenings filling the past months with an opportunity to enjoy, reconnect with friends, and celebrate.
As General Manager, I couldn’t be more thrilled about the many plans in the works that will be completed in the coming year. Just to name a few things: three-person Infrared Saunas are being added to the Life Center men’s and ladies’ locker room. These saunas were completed in the fall of 2025, and folks are already enjoying them! This is a meaningful addition to the health and wellness offerings at the Life Center, which seem to grow more exceptional with every passing year. If you’ve golfed with us lately, you’ve likely enjoyed the new Bag Storage unit. This great new temperature-controlled bag storage area next to the Golf Shop accommodates 300 bags. It is now complete and we’re hearing great comments from members and guests. And speaking of playing a great game, we’ll be creating a new ‘Digital Trophy Wall’ which I’m sure will inspire a lot of
Our events and gatherings cover a wide variety of interests. And our fantastic members haven’t missed a minute of the fun—from annual golf tournaments, the Trackman League, Lunchand-Learns gatherings,’ special dinners, club gatherings, and holiday fun. To see more, take a look at the Bay Creek Golf Update from our Director of Golf, Zach Pfingst, PGA on page 8. The coming months will be a busy and exciting time for projects and plans at the Club, and we look forward to sharing each milestone with you. On behalf of everyone here at the Bay Creek Club, may your new year be the best one yet! We look forward to seeing you at Bay Creek! Bob Ewing General Manager, Bay Creek Resort & Club
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Soundings
GOLF UPDATE FROM
Zach Pfingst, PGA BAY CREEK’S DIRECTOR OF GOLF
Bay Creek’s beloved and state-of-the-art golfing experience fills the year with incredible opportunities for fun, learning, getting to know fellow members, and giving back to the community. It may be winter but there’s still a lot going on with Bay Creek golf… from indoor play, instruction, and planning and preparing for the next amazing season! Zach Pfingst, Director of Golf at Bay Creek, shares the latest golf happenings on the course, in the Pro Shop, and beyond.
Winter 2026 | Issue 29
In the Presence of Excellence: A Trip to the Home of Titleist and a Rare Look Behind the Scenes In Fairhaven, Massachusetts In early September, I had the incredible privilege of traveling to Titleist Headquarters in Fairhaven, Massachusetts for a full tour of their facilities. The experience was incredible and I wanted to share a bit of it with you. From start to finish, the trip was inspiring, eye-opening, and gave me a whole new appreciation for what it truly means when something carries the Titleist name. Ball Plant III – The Heart of the #1 Ball in Golf Walking through the Ball Plant was nothing short of amazing. The precision, care, and craftsmanship that go into every single golf ball is astounding. It’s a level of detail that gave me a whole new respect for the Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x that so many of us trust in our games. I also learned that all Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x are manufactured in Fairhaven, Massachusetts. Performance & Innovation on Full Display My time at the Titleist Performance Center at Manchester Lane was jaw-dropping. This facility is where golf ball aerodynamics, testing, and advanced fitting practices take place. This is also where most Titleist PGA Tour Staffers are fit. Seeing firsthand the research and data that support each product’s performance was truly impressive.
From Concept to Customer: The Custom Ball Department The Custom Department tour gave me a new perspective on how many talented people are involved in making sure every order—from golf balls to clubs—arrives perfectly fit and personalized. It was a unique behind-the-scenes look at the dedication required to deliver the best to every golfer. Exploring the Titleist Tour Van One of the most unique highlights was stepping inside the Titleist Tour Van, the same mobile workshop used on the PGA Tour. Watching how quickly and precisely the team can build or adjust clubs for the world’s best players was incredible. While I was there, the van was getting ready for its trip to the Ryder Cup at Bethpage. Product Knowledge Seminars Throughout the trip, I was able to participate in product knowledge seminars, learning about the science and innovation that goes into Titleist
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products. The depth of knowledge and passion from every Titleist staff member was inspiring and reinforced why their reputation for quality is unmatched. I have enjoyed sharing what I learned with our Bay Creek members and guests. A Final Thought Every step of the way, the staff was welcoming, accommodating, and incredibly knowledgeable. The attention to detail, pride, and passion they displayed left a lasting impression on me. This trip gave me a much deeper understanding of what it really takes for a product to earn the Titleist name, and I look forward to carrying that experience back to Bay Creek and sharing it with our golfing community. Golf lovers, if you’re ever in the Fairhaven, Massachusetts area, consider setting up a tour of this amazing place! It’s my pleasure to make your golf experience at Bay Creek memorable and the very best it can be. Thinking of planning a visit to Bay Creek? Feel free to reach out to us with any questions you may have. We love talking with folks about the incredible golf scene here at Bay Creek—in every season! Zach Pfingst, PGA Director of Golf, Bay Creek
Soundings
Winter 2026 | Issue 29
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With the TrackMan Simulator, the Golf Doesn’t Stop for Weather! At Bay Creek, we don’t let winter conditions keep our members from enjoying the best golf in the world! Our TrackMan Simulator is a year-round powerhouse of great golf. Whether you’re training, taking lessons to up your game, getting a custom fitting, or just having some fun with buddies, TrackMan takes it all to the next level—in every season! Curious about the TrackMan Golf Leagues? Here’s what you’ll want to know! Bay Creek’s TrackMan Leagues are a great way to stay active, have fun, and enjoy friendly competition throughout the off-season. These events are open to all Bay Creek Golf Members and are played as two-person team scrambles. Each league lasts one month, and teams must complete one tournament round every 10 days within that month. Tees are set separately for men and women for each round.
The format is a Two-Person Scramble. We have a maximum of 18 two-person teams per month. It’s easy to get started. Participants simply complete their Trackman app profile and then make reservations to play! And where will Trackman League players tee off? Round one takes us to Bandon Dunes, then it’s off to Old McDonald for round 2, and Bandon’s Pacific Dunes for round 3. There’s nothing like enjoying world-class golf scenery and play on the world’s most exceptional courses in a climate-controlled atmosphere—in the middle of winter!
“With the Trackman, Bay Creek golf isn’t confined to the fairways. It’s a year-round affair!”
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REAL ESTATE AT BAY CREEK
Winter 2025/2026 We’re pleased to share that 2025 was an incredible year here at Bay Creek. We welcomed almost 100 new families to our community this year and have many more who are visiting, exploring and thinking about finding their dream home here on the gorgeous Eastern Shore. The neighborhoods in Bay Creek are diverse, each offering a distinct personality. There’s an amazing variety of options here to suit the many different lifestyles, desires and budgets that those who are thinking of owning at Bay Creek. With a choice selection of new homes, homesites and properties now emerging in some of our most sought-after neighborhoods, it is an opportune time to visit and consider what your future Bay Creek retreat might look like. The unique blend of lifestyle and scenic beauty that can only be found here on the Eastern Shore must be experienced to be believed. The Bay Creek Real Estate Discovery Visit is an ideal
way to see, feel and be inspired by the community and to experience beautiful Cape Charles. We welcomed many Discovery Visit guests in 2025, who have now become Bay Creek owners! No matter what kind ‘Bay Creek’ home is ideal for you—a custom residence from one of our Builders Guild members, a right-sized no-maintenance villa, a move-in ready home or cottage near the Bay…you’ll find it here in our celebrated Eastern Shore retreat. The following pages feature just a few of the premier properties available, which are as diverse as they are lovely. If you’d like to learn more about the Bay Creek lifestyle, its world-class amenities, and the many spectacular homes and homesites, simply reach out to us at Bay Creek Realty.
844.620.2900 | info@ BayCreekLife.com
Winter 2026 | Issue 29
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S CHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL
Real Estate Discovery Visit Please be our guest and explore the abundant lifestyle that awaits you at Bay Creek.
Set upon 1,720 lush acres along the magnificent Chesapeake Bay, Bay Creek is a master-planned community that brings families together to live their best life through a connection with its coastal landscape, nature, phenomenal club amenities managed by Troon Privé and active lifestyle programming.
EXPERIENCE THE ABUNDANT LIFESTYLE OF BAY CREEK! Priced from $349 to $699 • VIP Real Estate Tour of Bay Creek • Onsite Accommodations for 2 Nights • Choice of a Round of Golf for Two, Boat Ride on the Chesapeake Bay or Guided Nature Walk • $50 Gift Card for The Coach House Tavern • Welcome Gift • Cape Charles Golf Cart Experience (subject to availability) • Member for a Stay Privileges at the Bay Creek Club
Schedule your Personal Discovery Visit, call 844.620.2900 | BayCreekLife.com Obtain the Property Report required by Federal Law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or values, if any, of the property. This is not intended to be and does not constitute an offer in any state or jurisdiction where prohibited by law. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Prices are provided for reference only and are subject to change. Package only available for first time visitors and guests of Bay Creek Realty. Offered on a first come first served basis, limited availability. Restrictions and blackout dates may apply. Weekday check-in: Sunday–Wednesday, Weekend check-in: Thursday–Saturday. Subject to change without notice. Sales by Bay Creek Realty/Broker. ©2026 Bay Creek. All rights reserved.
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Village of Muirfield The seaside village of Muirfield offers beauty and proximity to amenities, along with a variety of homesites. Golf, lake, and interior homesites are all within a stone’s throw of the beautiful Bay with its amazing sunsets and fresh breezes. Imagine sitting on your back porch enjoying views of a gorgeous lake, an emerald green fairway, or a forested conservation area with nature views. The possibilities are endless. Set near some of Bay Creek’s most desired amenities—the Life Center with its pools, fitness center, classes and Members’ Lounge, the Bay beaches, and walkable village streets— Muirfield is ideally located and offers lovely homesites and its own distinct personality.
Winter 2026 | Issue 29
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119 Golden Bear Circle | 4 Bedrooms | 4.5 Bathrooms | 3,450 +/- SqFt Elegant, coastal living is in plentiful supply at The Peninsula, an exciting new home in Muirfield by Ruiz Homes. Elegant rooflines and exciting exterior elements—a large paver patio with fire pit, board and batten accents, and a handsome brick coursing—set the tone of fine craftsmanship and timeless quality throughout. Step onto the porch and enter through the gracious double front doors. The foyer flows seamlessly into a dining area and large family room with fireplace.
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230 Muirfield Drive | 4 Bedrooms | 3.5 Bathrooms | 3,065 +/- SqFt Showcase Builder Beacon Custom Homes presents Tupelo Park, the epitome of coastal craftsman elegance and comfort. Close to completion, this exquisite, 3,065-square-foot property features two large front porches to capture the Chesapeake Bay breezes and stunning sunset skies. It is located in the Muirfield enclave on a highly coveted homesite overlooking a pond and fountain. Artist’s conceptual illustration. Subject to change.
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214 Muirfield Drive | 3 Bedrooms | 3.5 Bathrooms | 2,460 +/- SqFt Step into relaxed coastal elegance with the Magnolia, a beautiful new residence crafted by Showcase Builder Keith Cash. Nestled within the embrace of Muirfield, Bay Creek’s newest and most picturesque neighborhood, the Magnolia sits amidst a landscape adorned by the beauty of the Nicklaus Signature golf course and serene water vistas. This stunning natural setting offers an unparalleled sense of tranquility and refinement.
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Soundings
Bayside Village Since releasing the highly anticipated next phase of the beloved Bayside Village, this one-of-akind bayside enclave has quickly come to life. Incredibly close to premier amenities like the Life Center and Bay beaches, Bayside Village is a perfect place to experience true Eastern Shore living. Choose from newly developed golf, water and park properties. All are spectacular… and one may be just right for your new home by the Bay.
306 Bayside Avenue | 4 Bedrooms | 3.5 Bathrooms | 2,387 +/- SqFt Welcome to The Hampton, one of Preserve Homes and Neighborhoods’ most popular plans. Located in the Bayside Village enclave just a short walk to the Life Center and Bay Creek’s private beaches. Step through the front door into the two-story foyer, while taking in the spacious family room with fireplace. Features include engineered hardwood flooring, 10’ ceilings on the main level and KitchenAid appliances.
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Winter 2026 | Issue 29
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204 Captain Orris Browne | 2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 1,065 +/- SqFt The Chesapeake Cottages are a collection of new homes from Virginia Builders. The Pearl is a coastal-inspired residence offering the perfect blend of modern amenities and Eastern Shore elegance. Designed to provide a cozy, intimate living experience without compromising functionality, style or comfort, this is a perfect second-home beachside retreat or full-time residence for those looking to right-size and simplify.
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216 Captain Orris Browne | 2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 1,065 +/- SqFt A part of the Chesapeake Cottages family, the Pearl is a coastal-inspired single family home, offering the perfect blend of modern amenities and Eastern Shore elegance. It’s a perfect secondhome beachside retreat or full-time residence for those looking to right-size and simplify. The Pearl has wonderful outdoor living areas, including a huge 30’ wide covered front porch that opens onto a park-like setting.
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212 Captain Orris Browne | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 1,418 +/- SqFt A part of the Chesapeake Cottages family, the Blue Point is a coastal-inspired residence offering the perfect blend of modern amenities and Eastern Shore elegance. Designed to provide a cozy, intimate living experience without compromising functionality, style or comfort, this is a perfect second-home beachside retreat or full-time residence for those looking to right-size and simplify.
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Soundings
NATURE CORNER WITH
Ranger Stan BAY CREEK’S PRESERVE RANGER Every season has its own kind of beauty here on the Eastern Shore. And while winter isn’t as showy as spring and fall or as active as summer, this season can be a very special time of year at Bay Creek. It’s a quiet time and it has its own spectacular moments if you know where to look. Ranger Stan shares the latest on the ‘different kind of beauty’ that we enjoy in this season.
Winter 2026 | Issue 29
Your Own Winter Wonderland “We typically don’t get much snowfall here on the Eastern Shore, but brisk lower temperatures bring an exciting energy to the community and make it an ideal time to get outside and explore all that nature has to offer. Everywhere there’s beauty…evergreens in the nature preserve, winter wildlife… Stargazing in the winter is magnificent because of the cooler temperatures that produce less atmospheric distortion. Longer, darker nights, and clearer views are ideal for viewing bright winter constellations like Orion, Taurus, Gemini and Canis Major.
Wonderful Wildlife “Bay Creek does get some visitors who come here especially for the winter: newcomers like our migrating waterfowl, which are very active this time of year. The birds we’re seeing now on the property have come to Bay Creek to overwinter in our protected natural habitat. “They come here for the same reason the fall migrators do — green space, food sources and protection. A lot of birds flying south will pass over us, see the Chesapeake Bay and say ‘on second thought, I’ll stay right here! “Bay Creek has a lot of freshwater habitats. We talk about it a lot because it’s very rare on the Shore. It makes Bay Creek a very attractive environment. Freshwater is an ecological asset—it’s what a lot of the wading birds and waterfowl that overwinter here really prefer.
Stargazing in the winter is magnificent because of the cooler temperatures that produce less atmospheric distortion. Longer, darker nights, and clearer views are ideal for viewing bright winter constellations like Orion, Taurus, Gemini and Canis Major.
Photo: ChesapeakeClub.org
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If you find yourself taking a winter wander, you may see a host of birds out and about. “At this time of year, you can spot mallards, buffleheads with their contrasting head markings that can appear iridescent in certain light, and hooded mergansers with distinctive fan-shaped hoods and high contrast plumage. They’re great to watch but you have to be very quiet to get close enough to observe them. “Owls are plentiful, now, too. At this time of year, I forego our usual ‘Owl Prowl’ walks through the nature preserve. Owls are territorial birds and if they feel their territory is threatened, they may migrate elsewhere. This is their breeding season so we don’t want to disturb them by making owl calls that may mistake as another owl invading its territory.
American Holly
Holly, Jolly Beauty
Photo: Alexandre Daoust
Mallard
Bufflehead
Photo: Cara Denison
Hooded Merganser
Photo: Martin Odino
Photo: Erik Karits
Owl
“The winter is, of course, a different experience here on the Shore. Nature-wise, things are starting to go to sleep, to go dormant. But for one of our showy winter plants, it’s time to shine! The hollies are beautiful this time of year. We have two evergreen hollies in the Preserve. These are the American hollies (Ilex opaca) that you think of as the traditional Christmas holly with its spiky leaves and festive red berries. Anyone who has visited Bay Creek has seen the many large, beautiful hollies that thrive on the property. “But there’s a less showy holly that I’m partial to: the Yaupon holly. It’s an incredibly hardy and versatile plant—with a fascinating history. I recently did a talk on it here at Bay Creek. It has smaller leaves than the American holly and is the only plant native to North American that produces caffeine. It is believed to have been used for thousands of years: Native Americans used it in rituals, and it was utilized by colonists for its stimulant effects in place of coffee or tea, especially after the Revolution. It was used during the depression era, too, when tea and coffee were too expensive. In fact it became something of an insult to call someone a “Yaupon
Winter 2026 | Issue 29
Here’s the Tea on Yaupon Tea!
Yaupon Holly
“The winter is, of course, a different experience here on the Shore. Naturewise, things are starting to go to sleep, to go dormant. But for one of our showy winter plants, it’s time to shine!”
drinker,” even though it tastes wonderful and has less side effects than other caffeinated drinks. “The Yaupon holly is a beautiful evergreen garden plant. The female plants produce lovely berries in the winter, and both the male and female plants flower in the spring. It doesn’t grow very large. Here in Bay Creek, it stays to about 20 feet. It can do the work of a boxwood in that it makes beautiful, pruned hedges and it can tolerate shade, wet, and dry soils. If you’re interested in learning more about the Yaupon plant, or Yaupon tea, reach out to Ranger Stan for more information!
There are immense benefits to Yaupon tea. It has slightly less caffeine than coffee but it contains theacrine which gives your body a different kind of energy, with better focus. Studies suggest that it may also have potential benefits for cognitive function and combatting fatigue. And there are no tannins in it so you’re not getting that toxicity as you can with some coffees. It’s a great plant with a terrible name! The Latin name for the Yaupon Holly is Ilex Vomitoria—but don’t let the name fool you! It was named this because Native Americans used it for rituals where they would mix it with other substances that induced vomiting. Whoever could hold out the longest was the victor! It does not induce vomiting on its own…and it actually has a really nice taste to it!
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Soundings
Upcoming Events It may be winter, but Ranger Stan is still very active with memorable events and enriching activities. Here are just a few of the exciting things happening at Bay Creek:
Art from the Earth
Bay Creek Talents on Display
We’ve started doing pottery events here at Bay Creek. This past summer, I worked with young campers to locate, gather and refine locally occurring clay. They made vessels using clay and we fired their creations in a campfire. We’ll be doing some upcoming workshops where we’ll harvest natural clay from on property and make earthenware ceramics with it… plates, mugs, vessels, and figures. Then we’ll fire it in the kiln and glaze it.
“I’m very excited about our annual Bay Creek Artists Exhibition on January 17th. The participating artists, all of whom live in Bay Creek, submit their works. I hang the show in our event space, Chesapeake Hall, and then we hold a reception where everyone comes out to see the art, talk to the artists about their work, and share ideas. The people who come to my workshops and plein air painting events can bring their work and show it off, too. This is the third annual show, and it gets bigger and better every year. There’s really a lot of hidden talent here at Bay Creek!
Refining Bay Creek’s natural clay is a big job. I harvest chunks of the clay which are a mixture of sand, clay, silt and other organic material. It’s quite a process to refine the clay for use in our projects, but it’s great fun! We recently held a workshop where participants made ceramic ornaments, and another where we made mugs and gathered round the campfire to enjoy steaming hot cocoa.
Lunch and Learn Series Our ‘Lunch and Learn’ events are always a great time and a worthwhile educational experience. We curate specialists who are professionals in their field, to share a presentation that is natureor culture-related. It’s a great opportunity to learn and have all your questions answered by true experts!
Winter 2026 | Issue 29
Embracing the Great Outdoors— in every Season! There’s always something new to discover no matter the season. In winter, we still enjoy getting out in nature with events like our Evergreen Plant Hikes. Our group sets out in the Nature Preserve and identifies trees from the bark and leaf litter. It’s easier to identify evergreens, of course, because they’re the only thing with leaves on them at this time! And it’s a great chance to just quietly be present in nature. Campfires are a year-round pleasure! In winter, instead of our Bicycle Beer Flight that takes participants through the nature preserve by bike, we do a cozier ‘Beer Tasting Holiday Bonfire.’ There’s no pedaling on this tasting event. We simply gather ‘round the campfire and raise a toast to friends and fun. On January 1st, I led our annual New Year’s Hike. This hike is quiet, reflective, and wonderfully simple. We travelled through the woods and talked about the nature around us. We always go early, so there are lots of birds out. We walk the shoreline and catch views of the sun coming up over Plantation Creek. It’s just an easy and inspiring way to begin the new year. The walk
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Polar Plunge
culminates just before the annual ‘First Day in the Bay” polar plunge for those who like to kick off their new year with both events. We’re looking forward to new events and activities in the coming weeks and are already planning exciting spring happenings. If you’d like to see Bay Creek in a new light, winter is certainly an opportunity to do that. You can see through the trees, there are longer vistas, and you can see a lot of interesting things that you may have never noticed before. There are fewer people out on the trails, and it can feel like you’re in a beautiful world all your own. It’s a great place to be.
I welcome everyone to visit and explore the unique and unexpected natural beauty of winter here on the Eastern Shore. See you out there!
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CHEF’S CORNER
LindaWessels BAY CREEK EXECUTIVE CHEF
Bay Creek’s Executive Chef, Linda Wessells, understands how flavors go along with the seasons. A professional with decades of experience, she has an innate sense of flavors that complement one another. At this time of year, as one calendar year has ended and the new, exciting season begins, it’s an ideal time to take stock of classic favorite dishes and add new, adventurous—and delicious—creations. Linda has carried the festive mood of the holiday offerings that complement one another on the season seamlessly into the new year, and the menu. In these chillier months, hearty dishes dishes are spectacular. The new Coach House like her scratch made chicken pot pie and her Tavern dinner menu has been greatly received, bacon-wrapped meatloaf are perfect to warm the and why not? Take a look at just a few of the belly and lift the spirits. dishes Chef Linda has added…Veal Saltimbocca, a tender veal topped with prosciutto, spinach “I enjoy making dishes from scratch. I love and provolone over linguine; Salmon stuffed country cooking, and down-to-earth tastes. The with spinach, feta and sundried tomato on a bed most important thing is that the ingredients are of rice pilaf and green beans…and that’s just the fresh. That makes all the difference no matter beginning. What inspires her when she’s creating what’s on the menu.” a new menu? As for upcoming events, the Coach House will be “I love offering homecooked meals that are filling hosting wine dinners in the future, and is already and hearty this time of year. We’re offering soups preparing for the member events and occasions two to three times per week during this season. that happen regularly throughout the year. Linda We change it up often so our guests who come and her team are also incredible with catering — often can enjoy a good variety of flavors. Our whether it’s a golf tournament or a private party warm brownie sundae is very popular.” or a charity fundraiser. The menu at the Coach House right now is completely new and showcases Linda’s wide range of talents—not only in preparing the dishes, but in curating the combinations and
As with any new year, there is much to do and to celebrate. Linda has let us in on a bit of very exciting news that has us ready to head over to the Coach House now:
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“We’re excited to announce that Bay Creek now has a signature Ice Cream flavor that we are now serving at the Coach House. It’s called the ‘Arnold Palmer,’ and it’s a refreshing and smooth flavor. It is a lemon tea flavor with notes of Earl Gray. We worked with Brown Dog Ice Cream to create the signature flavor. They worked until they got it absolutely right for us. They really did a wonderful job. It’s delicious even in cold weather but I’m sure it’s going to be especially popular this summer. Brown Dog Ice Cream is a handcrafted smallbatch ice cream shop on Cape Charles’ famous Mason Avenue. They use fresh locally sourced ingredients and are one of the hottest spots in town in the summer. “I’d like to give a special thanks to Heather at Brown Dog who helped us get the flavor just right. We’re excited to watch people enjoy it! “We’re very excited for the new year—the menus, the events, and seeing people enjoy themselves and the food we’ve created.” Linda is passionate about cooking—it’s evident in everything she does. From the menus that offer such great variety and rich flavors to the satisfied folks that keep coming back meal after meal, Bay Creek is glad to have Linda at the helm of the Coach House tavern as we enter an exciting new year of food and fellowship on the beautiful Eastern Shore. Thank you to the talented Chef Linda and the entire Coach House Tavern team for creating a place that is always joyful, and always ready to welcome friends old and new.
The Coach House Tavern Reservations are recommended.
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Savoring the Flavor of Cape Charles RESTAURATEUR JON DEMPSTER KNOWS COMMUNITY & CUISINE Cape Charles is known to draw people to its uncommon and easy-going
way of life. Maybe it’s because of the unique character of the place— equal parts community, celebratory atmosphere, a dash of good old nostalgia, and an infusion of the new, now and amazing. The same can be said of the uniquely irresistible locales that make up a ‘fab four’ of Cape Charles establishments belonging to restaurateur and honorary native, Jon Dempster.
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If you’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting Cape Charles, you’ve very likely enjoyed a meal, a sweet treat, or raised a glass at one of Jon’s establishments: The Shanty, Deadrise Italian Kitchen, Brown Dog Ice Cream, and E&O Pub. Each is distinctly different in taste, atmosphere and style, yet they all share common threads. In each, Jon has created a vibe and energy all its own. He, of all people, understands how important it is for folks to feel welcome when they visit. Originally from a small town in Massachusetts, Jon’s work in the restaurant industry took him all over—Los Angeles, Seattle, Boston, and beyond. He certainly never expected to find himself in a small town called Cape Charles, Virginia. But a strange turn of the tide led him to the place he now loves calling home.
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“I didn’t really choose to open a place in Cape Charles... it chose me.” in,” Jon laughs. “By the end of the night, we had offers for places to stay, folks letting us borrow vehicles to go to the store, inviting us to join them for lunch the next day…it was incredible… and so welcoming.” “I didn’t really choose to open a place in Cape Charles…it chose me. I ended up bartending at Kelly’s for a while, actually trying to decide how to get out of the restaurant industry.” But there was something different in the cards for Jon. A close friend in Cape Charles encouraged Jon to open a seafood place at the Cape Charles harbor. He gathered his business partners together and in 2012, opened The Shanty right on the waterfront in Cape Charles Harbor. The Shanty is now an iconic and beloved gathering spot for locals and visitors alike, serving up fresh seafood, great views, and hospitality.
Jon (left) and Deadrise Italian Kitchen team
It was a dark and stormy night… Really! “The short version of the story is that one night, the boat I was in landed in Cape Charles instead of Tortola,” says Jon. “I had never heard of Cape Charles before that night back in 2009.” “A 6-seat golf cart painted like a taxicab picked us up in the rain and took us from the boat to what was then Kelly’s Gingernut Pub. There were five of us. It felt like the music stopped as we walked
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Soundings the trip implementing new things inspired by what I saw and experienced of London pub life.” “As a chef, it’s fun to play with what we’re doing with the food and drink. It gets me excited every day.” Jon’s establishments offer a lot of variety—a pub, a bespoke ice cream parlor, a hearty Italian restaurant, and the beloved Shanty. Each is as unique as Cape Charles, itself. With the established success of The Shanty, a different kind of proprietor might be tempted to open more locations in other ‘vacation towns.’ But that’s never been what Jon was about. “I’m passionate about serving this community— that has given me so much,” he explains. “The town has grown since I first got here. We get a lot of visitors, and we have year-round residents, too. I love seeing people come here and become a part of this community. It’s a special place…
Placemaking & Taste Making Now, The Shanty is joined by Jon’s three other establishments that are every bit as beloved by the locals and visitors who enjoy them: Deadrise Italian Kitchen, Brown Dog Ice Cream, and most recently, E & O Pub. The variety is part of the fun for Jon. Each one holds a special place in his heart, and each offers a distinct flavor and vibe. So, which is his favorite? “It rotates! Jon laughs. “They’re all so different. I don’t have a favorite because I love them all—it’d be like choosing a favorite child.” Jon lets his inspiration drive his involvement in each establishment. Recently, he took a trip to London, for continuing education, and to experience what pub life is like in the famous city. “I love to travel, and my trips always inspire me to try new ideas. I’ve been in E & O every day since
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people hold the door open for each other…we know each other,” says Jon. “There’s a certain kind of person who really enjoys it here. It’s not a bustling metropolitan area. My wife and I love to travel but we wouldn’t want to live anywhere but Cape Charles. The outdoors, nature, and the slower pace of life…we love it. It’s a true community. And you know when you go to the store for milk, it may take you a while because you’re gonna bump into ten people you know, and talk to each one,” he laughs. Jon’s expertise for serving and delighting the public is driven by his desire to give back— whether it’s welcoming people in for a great meal, a good conversation or a raising a toast to Eastern Shore living.
Cheers to Jon Dempster and the many great ‘favorite places’ he has brought to beautiful Cape Charles. We invite you to visit and immerse yourself in the flavors, hospitality and neighborliness of this very special community.
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A BRIEF NEWCOMER’S GUIDE TO
The Shanty
Brown Dog Ice Cream
Perched on the waterfront in Cape Charles Harbor, The Shanty has been an ‘institution’ for nearly a decade and a half. Prepare for a great variety of fresh seafood and great tastes. Virginia Blue Crab Dip, local oysters, crab cakes, lobster rolls, Softshell BLT and one of the best places in town to watch the sun set.
Named after the original founder’s chocolate lab, ‘Foster,’ Brown Dog Ice Cream has become a beloved cornerstone of Cape Charles since it opened in 2012. Jon was asked by its founder to continue the Brown Dog legacy and agreed to take the helm in 2023. It’s a place where friends and family and enjoy the simple pleasure of ice cream together. And it isn’t just any ice cream— expect unforgettable flavors that surprise and delight—Brown Dog Milk Chocolate, ESCC Coffee (with local eastern shore roasted coffee infused in cream with swirls of ground espresso, Lemon Streusel, Spotted Roxie (their famous butterscotch and dark chocolate chip blend). It’s often a ‘first stop’ on vacationers’ lists when they return to Cape Charles year after year.
When Jon’s boat ended up in Cape Charles completely by mistake, the local harbor master talked him into pursuing the dream. In Jon’s own words, “The Shanty was born with a commitment to being a sustainable seafood house, prioritizing this community, and building the best restaurant possible. A lot has changed since, but the values remain the same. We strive for great hospitality, to serve local seafood whenever possible, and to give back to the community that made our dream come true.” 33 Marina Road Cape Charles, VA shantyseafood.com
203 Mason Avenue Cape Charles, VA browndogicecream.com
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JON’S DELICIOUS DESTINATIONS
Deadrise Italian Kitchen Jon and his team have put together everything you’d want in an Italian eatery at Deadrise Italian Kitchen: amazing scratch made pizzas, chicken piccata, homemade lasagna, unexpected combinations, and great cocktails and spirits to match the mood of the food. Organic pizza dough and organic marinara sauce are made fresh daily. Flavorful handmade salads—try the Insalata Mista—roasted red pepper, feta, avocado, grape tomatoes and drizzled with a tangy red wine vinaigrette—or the Prosecco Poached Pear salad for a punchy start to a great meal. And for a sweet tooth, their tiramisu, zeppole, or cannoli with chocolate chip ricotta filling do not disappoint!
425 Mason Avenue Cape Charles deadrisecapecharles.com
The Elephant & Octopus Public House Known simply as E & O by locals and loyal return visitors, The Elephant & Octopus Public House is a pub with major atmosphere. This place is one of those ‘full circle’ stories for Jon. Named after the boat that serendipitously first brought Jon to Cape Charles, this hearty pub has been an immediate favorite from the moment it launched in April of 2025. It opened in what was Kelly’s Gingernut Pub —the pub Jon first walked into in the ‘strange harbor’ of Cape Charles so many years ago. The pub food and spirits are as unique as Jon’s journey to Cape Charles and the hospitality is second to none. Jon is a master of the authentic and the amazing and that’s just what you’ll find at E & O.
133 Mason Avenue Cape Charles eandopub.com
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Health and Care That’s Convenient on the Eastern Shore ALEX LOCKLEAR, PA-C MAKES THINGS ‘ALL BETTER.’ When choosing to move to a new area, one of the more practical considerations is the convenience of necessities. Medical care is one of the most important ‘necessities’ of all. Fortunately for those in Cape Charles, Alex Locklear relocated here and established the SIC Clinic & Aesthetics. SIC may be a little misleading—it’s an acronym for ‘Shore Immediate Care,’ which ideally reflects the convenience and ease that Alex’s practice has established here.
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Once patients learn more about Alex, the depth of knowledge and experience she offers is exciting. You could say the Virginia Beach native was born for this.
“I always loved the outdoors and had been environmentally minded. I knew med school wasn’t a fit for me because I wanted to be a mom and just have it all.”
“My mom was a lifetime member of the Virginia Beach rescue squad, which is a volunteer service,” says Alex. “I grew up with her pulling volunteer duty every week. In high school, I worked as a lifeguard at Virginia Beach oceanfront in the summers. Then I became an EMT the summer I turned 17.”
So, Alex chose to attend Duke University for grad school in environmental management, health and safety and did environmental consulting for the Department of Defense. During that, she was still working as an EMT. A natural born medic, Alex volunteered as an EMT in all the various places her education and career took her…Florida, Nevada, and beyond.
On the Job Training That was only the beginning of what would become a lifelong passion for medicine and helping people. When you walk into an immediate care clinic, you may not expect to have a practitioner who has seen and done as much as Alex. After high school at Norfolk Academy, Alex started out as a biology major with pre-med classes at Suanne University.
From there she went to PA school at University of South Alabama and then worked in the ER and a trauma center in Pensacola for more than 15 years. She worked mostly weekend nights because she was also homeschooling her children. She opened a practice in 2019 while still working in the ER. But soon after, family matters called her back to the Tidewater region she loved.
Alex at a Glance Alex Locklear, PA-C is the owner and founder of The SIC (Shore Immediate Care) Clinic and SIC Aesthetics. She has thousands of hours of Emergency Medicine experience from inner city trauma centers to rural community medical centers. With years of trainings and conferences beyond her board certification in Aesthetic Medicine, she is a multifaceted health professional who has a natural born passion for helping people. She has been a boutique aesthetic medicine practice owner since 2019 and loves working with her clients and patients. As a PA and both an emergency medicine and aesthetics specialist, she loves studying the human body. She believes balance and function drive health and confidence.
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“I love being here, I love medicine, and I just love to help people.” ~ Alex Locklear
An Opportunity to Help When they left their farm in Milton, Florida, to move closer Alex’s family, they knew their lifestyle required space and room to roam. “We ended up buying a farm on Nassawadox Creek and have been working on that project ever since we moved here in May of 2024,” Alex says. Life is peaceful but also busy for the active family of four. “My daughter rides horses, does show jumping, and plans to ride in college. My son hunts a lot and races dirt bikes competitively. We travel all over the country for his races—it’s a lot of fun.” Alex found herself back on familiar turf and ready to, in her words, ‘settle into a slower pace and focus on just doing aesthetics,’ which she has been board certified for since 2019. “When I got here, I realized there was a great need for healthcare in this region. And I really wanted to escape the traditional healthcare model. We have a lot of visitors here, an aging population and a growing population… there was just such a need to provide help.”
While there are other medical clinics just minutes from Cape Charles, Alex’s SIC Clinic is different in several important ways. She charges a flat fee for care–at the time of this writing, the clinic charges a flat fee of $75 to see you, treat you, write prescriptions and more. Insurance is not required. “Of course, patients with insurance can use it but for our part, it’s simply $75,” she explains. For those who live in Bay Creek, the ease of being seen and treated by Alex is a huge benefit. Add to that her deep knowledge and innate desire to help others, and you have an ideal place ‘just around the corner.’ She does not turn anyone away. In a destination town like Cape Charles, Alex certainly sees her share of typical ‘vacation mishaps’ and enjoys getting folks back into ship shape. “I put thousands of stitches in visitors last summer… fishhooks, and other types of injuries that can happen on vacation. Many primary doctors won’t do sutures and have to refer people to the ER. My main goal is to keep people out of the ER!” When Alex does sutures, the visit is $75 and then five dollars or so per stitch. It’s really only enough
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to cover costs. But anyone who knows Alex knows she has never been in medicine for the money. Even more exciting for residents in Cape Charles, is convenient access to many medical amenities that can be cumbersome to deal with in primary care offices. “I have Bay Creek patients who have other providers and also enjoy coming to me,” she says. It goes back to direct contact with your provider and willingness to keep things simple: “There are some patients who would love to pay cash to get an MRI versus waiting for insurance approval. So, I can negotiate cash prices with those facilities and get things done more quickly,” Alex explains. Alex recently went to Bethesda, Maryland to learn about a full body MRI facility in the region. “It’s not for everyone, but a lot of my patients would love that kind of healthcare access…but they need an order, which I can provide.” It’s a perfect example of how Alex can make getting treated—and maximizing health—more expedient and enjoyable. And for those who live in Bay Creek and Cape Charles, add ‘majorly convenient’ to the list. Her clinic is located in the heart of Cape Charles inside the Rayfield’s Pharmacy building on Fig Street. Alex’s practice and the expertise, compassion and access it offers is a huge benefit to the Shore and all who live, work and visit here. And while medical matters can feel daunting at times, Alex has a talent for making the complex understandable and… just ‘making things better’—with her patients and the greater Eastern Shore community. 2 Fig Street, Cape Charles, VA 23310 757-695-0750 | paalex@sicclinic.com
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Beautiful! Alex’s aesthetic practice, SIC Aesthetics, is located in the same facility, offers a full range of services: aesthetic consultations, fillers, peels, medical weight loss, microneedling, and more. And of course every treatment comes with Alex’s incomparable ability to take time to explain things in a way that make the complex understandable. That means patients and clients who are well informed and at more at ease.
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“Best Coastal Community in Virginia” ~ ideal-LIVING
Set on 1,720 lush acres along the Chesapeake Bay, Bay Creek is a master-planned community where families come together to live their best life -surrounded by nature, coastal beauty, and meaningful connection. Bay Creek blends elegance and ease in every detail, offering scenic landscapes, active lifestyle programming, and exceptional club amenities managed by Troon Privé. Whether you’re exploring sparkling bay waters or hosting friends for dinner on the porch of your welcoming new home, life here is everything you’ve dreamed of— and more. We invite you to experience this coastal haven for yourself. At Bay Creek, residents connect, form lasting friendships, and pursue the passions that make life meaningful. There’s truly nothing else like it on the coast of Virginia.
BayCreekLife.com
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