It’s easy to forget that there is an array of beautiful islands in Virginia, many of which have never been traveled by lifelong residents of the Old Dominion. Today, we’ll introduce you to one of the more breathtaking Virginia islands, Gwynn’s Island. Located in the Chesapeake Bay in Mathews County, Gwynn Island measures approximately three miles long and two miles wide. This little-known destination is filled with history, charm, and natural beauty, and it’s a place that every Virginia resident should visit at least once. Check out all the things to do on Gwynn’s Island in Virginia.

Gwynn's Island is located along Virginia's middle peninsula at the mouth of the Piankatank River.
Google Maps
Though modest in size, the island has an extraordinary amount of natural beauty. Its recent history dates back to 1640, when the land was acquired by Colonel Hugh Gwynn.
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Prior to colonization, Gwynn's Island was home to Native Americans for centuries. Artifacts, tools, and pottery found on the island suggest that humans lived here as early as 10,000 B.C.
The island is most prominently known for its fishing industry, agriculture, shipbuilding, and tourism, although recently, many of these have dwindled. The permanent population is around 600.
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There are still plenty of local businesses located on the island, although many are only open seasonally. One beloved landmark is a restaurant called Hole In The Wall.
Tom Sawyer/Google
With vacation homes and cottages, the island still maintains its identity as a leisure destination, although not to the extent that it once was. Even still, there's no denying the abundant beauty of this tiny Chesapeake island.
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There are idyllic little beach areas where you can relax, get some sun, and listen to the waves gently lapping against the shore.
Douglas W. Reynolds Jr/Google
So if you haven't yet had an opportunity to visit this extraordinary destination in Virginia, you should plan on doing so as soon as possible. You won't be disappointed!
Gwynn's Island RV Resort/Facebook

Check out the views on this beautiful island:

For more information about Gwynn’s Island in Virginia, you can visit the official Gwynn’s Island Museum website. Have you visited Gwynn’s Island before? If so, we’d love to hear from you in the comments! Be sure to check out some of these wonderful beaches in Virginia.

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Intriguing Attractions in Virginia

Will Suphan | December 11, 2023

What are some hidden gem attractions in Virginia?

Hidden gem attractions in Virginia include:

  • James Madison’s Home in Montpelier. This old house was restored in 2008 and the surrounding forest has remained intact since the 1700s.
  • Mount Rogers Recreation Area. This is the highest peak in the state and there are wild highland horses that roam the area.
  • The Old Cape Henry Lighthouse. This was the first lighthouse that the U.S. built in 1792 and it has been rebuilt but still uses the original light.
  • Wilderness Road State Park in Ewing. This is an interactive living history site that shows what life was like for pioneers in the 1700s.

Learn more about these and other hidden gem attractions in Virginia. 

What are some bucket list natural wonders in Virginia? 

Bucket list natural wonders in Virginia include:

  • Devil's Marbleyard. This is a mountain of boulders That was formed during the last Ice Age and is made up of broken ancient bedrock. 
  • Great Falls Park. This is a gorgeous natural area that is popular among locals for hiking and kayaking.
  • Luray Caverns. These beautiful caves were discovered in 1878 and it has a pool where the water looks like a sapphire gem. 
  • Assateague Island National Wildlife Refuge. The beautiful and rugged terrain here is on a barrier island shared by Maryland and Virginia. 

Find out more about bucket list natural wonders in Virginia. 

What are the most charming general stores in Virginia?

The most charming general stores in Virginia include:

  • The Bluemont General Store in Bluemont. This store opened during the 1840s and has been serving customers since they arrived by carriage and train.
  • Philomont General Store in Philomont. This general store has been open since 1913 and carries wines, gourmet food, local crafts, and so much more.
  • Fox Creek General Store in Troutdale. This store has farm supplies, fuel, hardware, groceries, feed, and more for a rural lifestyle.
  • The Floyd Country Store in Floyd. This old store has been around for over 100 years and has barrels full of old-fashioned candy and more.

Find out more about the most charming general stores in Virginia. 

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Gwynn Island, Gwynn, VA, USA