The Oaks Waterfront Hotel Review: Eastern Shore Luxury

Trying to find your subsequent Chesapeake Bay getaway? My Oaks Waterfront Lodge evaluate covers three days at this intimate property in Easton, MD that stunned us with impeccable service and real Jap Shore attraction.

The Oaks Waterfront Lodge Assessment – Easton, MD

Impressive white colonial revival hotel building featuring multiple gables, black shutters, and covered entry portico supported by columns. The circular driveway is paved with dark asphalt and includes golf cart parking areas. Manicured landscaping with foundation plantings and a brick-edged entrance create an elegant arrival experience. — The Oaks essential lodge constructing with arrival space | Photograph: Higher Residing

Tucked away on a quiet cove simply off the Chesapeake Bay, The Oaks Waterfront Lodge delivers a serene escape that appears like your individual personal nook of Maryland’s Jap Shore.

After spending three days right here, I can confidently say this boutique property stunned us in the very best manner.

What caught me off guard was how a lot it jogged my memory of a few of the world’s best resorts. The Oaks could also be a boutique property quite than a sprawling resort, however the degree of service and a focus to element rivaled what I’ve skilled at resorts like The 4 Seasons or The Ritz-Carlton.

Bright, elegantly furnished lobby featuring cream-colored sofa and plaid upholstered armchairs arranged around a round glass coffee table. Large windows with neutral Roman shades frame views of green lawn and water beyond. The space includes warm wood floors, neutral area rug, and coastal-themed artwork on pale gray walls. — The foyer at espresso station in the principle home at The Oaks | Photograph: Higher Residing

Recent flowers seem all through the property every day. The restaurant and bar are all the time set as much as look image good. The foyer welcomes you with espresso, tea, and snacks that make it inviting from the second you arrive. In every single place you look, the property seems pristine and nearly model new. Premium facilities fill the rooms – high quality furnishings, linens, and robes that add further consolation. Getting round is easy with golf cart rides throughout the grounds or a luxurious SUV on name for procuring and eating. Their very own yacht waits on the pier. Nice eating and signature cocktails occur on web site, all delivered with service that appears like having your individual private concierge.

Like these big-name properties, every little thing is solely taken care of and ready for you on arrival. It’s all very considerate and splendid. The distinction is that The Oaks delivers all of it with real heat as an alternative of polished formality.

What Makes The Oaks Particular

Expansive green lawn stretching to waterfront with multiple groupings of white Adirondack chairs positioned under beige umbrellas for sun protection. A covered boat slip houses a dark-hulled yacht, while mature trees provide natural backdrop. The peaceful setting emphasizes relaxation and water access amenities. — Waterfront grounds with garden seating and yacht dock | Photograph: Higher Residing

The Oaks sits on 10 acres of waterfront property with a captivating historical past relationship again to a 1680 land grant from Lord Baltimore. The primary constructing, a colonial revival construction from 1902, underwent a $10 million renovation that exhibits in each nook, but it by no means appears overdone. Its current inclusion in Historic Lodges of America displays each its historic significance and dedication to preservation.

The property gives 11 rooms and suites in the principle constructing, plus 4 waterfront cottages for final privateness. We stayed in Cottage 3, and it rapidly grew to become clear why these lodging are in such excessive demand.

The Oak Room gives elevated delicacies with water views, and the breakfast alone makes it price beginning your day on the lodge.

The property additionally gives curated experiences – together with water sports activities, yacht charters, clay capturing, and golf, that immerse you within the Chesapeake Bay life-style.

What stood out most was the employees. They knew our names immediately and have been sharing tales in regards to the property’s centuries-long historical past by the point we had settled in. The identical crew that checked us in later helped with our meals, organized restaurant outings in St. Michaels, and drove us from the parking space to our cottage with our baggage in a golf cart. Their attentiveness and real heat made us really feel actually welcomed.

Our Keep in Cottage 3 at The Oaks

Bright, elegantly furnished cottage living room featuring cream-colored sofa and plaid upholstered armchairs arranged around a round glass coffee table. Large windows with neutral Roman shades frame views of green lawn and water beyond. The space includes warm wood floors, neutral area rug, and coastal-themed artwork on pale gray walls.

We stayed in Cottage 3, and the format is excellent. It’s spacious, shiny, and cozy, with two TVs and a lined porch the place you’ll be able to watch the water roll by on Oak Creek. Even on a wet afternoon, the porch grew to become the coziest spot to only sit and benefit from the peaceable views.

The lavatory deserves its personal point out. Heated flooring really feel unimaginable underneath naked toes, the walk-in bathe is spacious, and the soaking tub is actually deep sufficient to chill out in. The bathroom has its personal separate room, so two individuals can use the area with out awkward encounters. The robes and towels have been splendidly plush, including an additional contact of consolation.

Serene master bedroom featuring a platform bed with white linens and plaid accent pillow, positioned between large windows overlooking green grounds. The room includes neutral paint, decorative Roman shades with geometric patterns, hardwood floors with area rug, modern chair, and artwork depicting waterbirds. Clean lines and natural light create a peaceful retreat atmosphere. — Cottage 3 bed room with woodland views and luxurious facilities | Photograph: Higher Residing

The king mattress supplied a few of the most restful nights of sleep we’ve had anyplace. With high-quality linens and pillows, temperature management, and full quiet, it created ultimate circumstances for deep relaxation.

The eating space seats 4 comfortably and features a sink, espresso station, and full-size fridge with freezer. This was handy for storing leftovers from all of the implausible eating places we found. A particular tip: the rooms are stocked with a few of the finest chocolate chip cookies you’ll ever style. They’re baked onsite, and the employees are blissful to convey extra on request.

Intimate dining space with round gray wooden table surrounded by upholstered chairs, illuminated by a large nautical-style pendant light with brass accents. A prominent landscape painting depicting marshland and waterways dominates one wall, while windows with patterned valances provide natural light. Built-in cabinetry with sink and small appliances line the opposite wall. — Cottage 3 eating space with marsh panorama paintings | Photograph: Higher Residing

The saltwater pool, positioned simply off the principle home, offers a refreshing choice throughout summer time visits. It’s completely positioned for a fast dip once you need a break from all that leisure.

What we liked most was the outside waterfront seating. Whether or not having fun with morning espresso or night wine, the views of the water, pier, grounds, and fireplace pit create an excellent setting for doing completely nothing in any respect.

Eating at The Oaks

Elegant white ceramic plate featuring house-made pasta topped with chunks of fresh lobster meat, crispy golden pancetta pieces, and fresh herbs. A silver fork rests beside the dish, and the pasta appears to be in a light sauce with visible herbs and pancetta creating textural contrast against the tender lobster and pasta.

The Oaks delivers a eating expertise that rivals a lot bigger resorts, anchored by Chef Dave’s inventive delicacies in The Oak Room and an distinctive breakfast program that units the tone for every day. With Sujoy’s cocktail artistry behind the bar and repair that anticipates each want, meals right here turn out to be memorable experiences. The Tuesday by means of Thursday dinner schedule creates an intimate environment, whereas the complimentary breakfast showcases native substances with waterfront views that make early mornings worthwhile. For these arriving by boat, the property’s personal pier gives handy dock and dine entry to The Oak Room.

Complimentary Breakfast at The Oaks

Artfully plated breakfast dish featuring perfectly poached egg with runny golden yolk atop rösti potatoes, smoked salmon, and sliced avocado. The white ceramic plate is garnished with microgreens and colorful edible flowers, with bright yellow yolk creating dramatic color contrast. Professional fine dining presentation demonstrates culinary attention to detail. — Poached egg and smoked salmon breakfast at The Oak Room | Photograph: Higher Residing

Breakfast is served from 8:30 to 9:30 AM within the Oak Room with sweeping waterfront views. This isn’t your typical lodge breakfast. It’s one thing price planning your morning round.

Throughout our keep, we tried practically every little thing. The Jap Shore Omelette with jumbo lump crab, white cheddar, roasted tomatoes, spinach, and skillet potatoes highlights the perfect native substances. The Granola Bowl with Greek yogurt, contemporary berries, and house-made granola was lighter however simply as satisfying. The Breakfast Sandwich, served on a toasted delicate pretzel with scrambled eggs, Crimson Dragon cheddar, caramelized onions, and your alternative of meat, is inventive consolation meals. It even is available in a takeout container if you happen to’re on the go.

For one thing a little bit extra subtle, the Poached Egg and Smoked Salmon over rösti potatoes with avocado was a standout. The French Toast made with brioche, Chantilly cream, and berries felt indulgent with out being heavy.

Service was excellent. Our water was all the time topped off and our espresso cups have been by no means empty and all the time sizzling. A tip is to reach early to seize a seat with water views or get pleasure from breakfast on the lined porch when the climate permits.

Beginning every day with views of the water, meals this good, and hospitality this considerate set the proper tone for 3 days of full leisure.

Dinner at The Oak Room

Intimate two-person dining table set with white linens, wine glasses, and formal place settings positioned beside large windows overlooking Oak Creek. The "Overcomer" yacht is visible at the dock, while warm evening light filters through the space. Professional table setting and scenic water views create an elegant fine dining atmosphere. — Waterfront eating room desk at The Oak Room with sundown yacht views | Photograph: Higher Residing

The Oak Room is open for dinner Tuesday by means of Thursday from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and eating right here grew to become one in every of our journey’s highlights. The area is elegant but welcoming, with dramatic sundown views of Oak Creek and a mixture of {couples} having fun with every little thing from vigorous conversations to quiet, intimate meals. Mellow background music stays low sufficient for dialog, and the service right here is impeccable.

We selected sales space seating within the bar space for front-row views of the motion behind the bar. Chef Dave ready a particular tasting menu and got here out to elucidate every dish, making the expertise extra private and fascinating.

Artfully plated tuna tartare on white ceramic plate featuring diced raw tuna mixed with sesame seeds, lime, and tamari, topped with bright green caviar and sliced cuvumbers. The dish is accompanied by cucumber ribbons, avocado mousse dollops, and a golden crispy wonton chip. Two forks frame the colorful presentation on a warm wood table surface. — Tuna tartare with avocado mousse and crispy wonton | Photograph: Higher Residing

The Caramelized Watermelon Salad with arugula, pistachio, watermelon radish, and lime and agave French dressing was an sudden delight – candy watermelon enjoying towards peppery arugula and crunchy pistachios. The Tuna Tartare with avocado mousse, cucumber, sesame seeds, lime, caviar, and tamari was nice for sharing. The Corn and White Truffle Agnolotti featured an enormous piece of lobster claw with butter-poached lobster and crisp prosciutto – pure indulgence achieved proper.

Sophisticated dinner plate featuring sliced duck breast cooked to perfect medium-rare with pink interior, accompanied by bright orange sweet potato puree, seared royal trumpet mushrooms with crosshatch scoring, pickled blackberries, and decorative microgreens. Rich brown port wine reduction sauce pools around the elements on the pristine white ceramic plate. — Duck breast with candy potato puree and royal trumpet mushrooms | Photograph: Higher Residing

The Maple Leaf Farms Duck Breast got here expertly cooked with candy potato purée, royal trumpet mushroom, pickled blackberry, and port wine jus. From the common menu, the Bolognese with Marble Head Farms floor beef, pancetta, linguini, parmesan, and grilled baguette proved that consolation meals may be elevated with out dropping its soul.

White ceramic ramekin containing strawberry crisp dessert topped with vanilla ice cream and garnished with fresh strawberries and crumble topping. A spoon holds a bite of the dessert showing the layered textures. In the background, a chocolate martini with rich brown color and chocolate rim garnish sits on the signature "1902" coaster. — Strawberry crisp dessert with vanilla ice cream and chocolate martini | Photograph: Higher Residing

For dessert, the Strawberry Crisp gained us over with contemporary, gentle flavors, although the Spiced Bread Pudding with vanilla anglaise, fig gastrique, and caramelized peach was equally spectacular.

The Bar at The Oak Room: Sujoy’s Cocktail Artistry

Elegant hotel bar with rich dark wood cabinetry, marble countertop, and three large nautical-style pendant lights with cream shades and brass hardware. Wine bottles line built-in shelving, wine glasses hang from overhead racks, and decorative tree motif provides artistic backdrop. Two modern bar stools with curved backs face the professionally equipped bar station. — The Oak Room bar that includes nautical pendant lighting | Photograph: Higher Residing

Bartender Sujoy reworked our night into cocktail theater. Every drink was ready as a fastidiously crafted efficiency proper in entrance of us on the bar. The Chocolate Espresso Martini featured freshly grated chocolate falling onto the rim, wealthy and easy. The Lemon Drop hit that ultimate sweet-tart mixture, whereas the Spicy Margarita constructed warmth slowly with out overwhelming your palate. Every drink additionally paired nicely with Chef Dave’s plates.

What made the expertise much more memorable was studying that Sujoy drives the posh SUV in the course of the day and tends bar at night time, embodying the form of multi-role flexibility that makes The Oaks work so nicely. He guided us by means of every cocktail, explaining methods and genuinely caring about our expertise.

Hands squeezing fresh lemon peel over a pale yellow cocktail in a martini glass with salted rim. The citrus oils are visibly misting as they're expressed from the bright yellow lemon peel. The drink sits on a distinctive coaster marked "1902" referencing the hotel's founding year, positioned on a marble bar surface against a dark background. — Recent lemon zest garnish for a Lemon Drop cocktail at The Oaks bar | Photograph: Higher Residing

The bar space strikes that elegant-yet-casual steadiness, with sales space, high-top, and bar seating choices. Even the coasters bear “1902,” connecting to the property’s founding 12 months. We ended up lingering longer than deliberate, drawn into the relaxed environment and conversations with different friends.

Sujoy’s consideration to element and persona reworked what might have been simply drinks into an interactive expertise that made our dinner memorable. We’re already trying ahead to seeing what new cocktails he creates on our subsequent go to.

Exploring St. Michaels and Easton: Eating Past The Oaks

Colorful Victorian-era storefront with red and white striped trim and curved corner entrance displaying "WYE" signage. Two life-sized painted jockey statues in racing silks (one in red and blue, one in yellow and green) flank the entrance. Brick sidewalks, decorative planters with flowers, and traditional architecture create a charming small-town shopping atmosphere. — Buying in Easton, MD | Photograph: Higher Residing

The Oaks is nicely positioned between two of Maryland’s most charming Jap Shore cities, every with its personal persona and taste. St. Michaels is quaint and walkable, with picturesque streets and historic attraction. Easton has a barely bigger downtown filled with espresso outlets, parks, boutique procuring, and nice spots for lunch.

Dinner at Bistro St. Michaels

Charming restaurant exterior featuring a wraparound covered porch with white columns and green-and-white striped awning. The building has classic brick architecture with a prominent circular "Bistro St. Michaels" sign. Black metal patio furniture is arranged on the brick sidewalk, and decorative flower boxes with trailing plants add color to the white porch railings. — Bistro St. Michaels restaurant exterior in historic downtown | Photograph: Higher Residing

Since The Oak Room was closed on our first night time, Bistro St. Michaels was the pure alternative, simply 5 minutes away. The restaurant is like a part of the city itself, heat and welcoming with out being formal. Owned by Chef Doug Stewart and Normal Supervisor Jennifer Stevens, it embodies every little thing we love about Jap Shore eating.

Chef Doug’s cooking lets flavors develop naturally, leading to dishes which are scrumptious and satisfying. The Shrimp & Grits appetizer with stone-ground grits, andouille sausage, marinated prawns, and an fragrant shellfish broth was comforting and vibrant. Fried Inexperienced Tomatoes with crab meat, tomato lemon remoulade, and a contact of chile balanced crisp and contemporary flavors fantastically.

A white ceramic plate showcasing expertly plated braised beef short rib sliced to reveal tender, pink interior meat. The dish is topped with golden-brown crispy fried onions and accompanied by vibrant green vegetables including broccolini. Rich, glossy brown sauce pools around the meat, and the presentation demonstrates fine dining plating techniques on a granite countertop. — Braised beef quick rib with crispy onions at Bistro St. Michaels | Photograph: Higher Residing

The well-known Braised Beef Brief Rib with caramelized Savoy cabbage, onion pommes purée, glazed carrot, thyme bordelaise, and bacon lardon felt like a masterclass in approach, whereas the Tilefish with Crimson Quinoa and broccolini let contemporary, easy substances shine. Dessert was the signature Bread Pudding A La Mode with vanilla gelato and house-made butterscotch sauce, wealthy and satisfying with out being heavy. Service was implausible and the area, with its granite bar and open kitchen, felt inviting and cozy.

See additionally

Lunch at Tiger Lily Easton

Vibrant restaurant interior featuring dark green palm leaf wallpaper, fishing net ceiling decoration with colorful paper lanterns, and red neon "Tiger Lily" sign as focal point. The space includes reclaimed wood bar seating, round tables, and eclectic lighting creating a fun, tropical atmosphere. An open kitchen and dining room are visible in the background, with string lights and tiki-inspired design elements throughout. — Tiger Lily restaurant inside with tropical tiki-bar environment | Photograph: Higher Residing

Easton gives an awesome collection of procuring, parks, and informal eating. Tiger Lily caught our consideration for its daring flavors and playful menu. Visiting on Taco Tuesday for lunch, we rapidly understood why locals adore it.

Silver aluminum takeout container holding three soft tacos filled with adobo-marinated pork, topped with fresh cilantro, white shredded cheese, and green salsa verde. A lime wedge provides citrus accent, and the tacos are garnished with additional herbs and appear to include pineapple pieces characteristic of al pastor preparation. — Al Pastor tacos Tiger Lily Easton | Photograph: Higher Residing

The Al Pastor Tacos with adobo-marinated pork and grilled pineapple have been smoky, candy, and addictive. Carne Asada Tacos delivered shiny, vigorous flavors, whereas Birria Tacos highlighted precision in conventional approach. The After Faculty Tacos with taco-seasoned floor beef, cheddar, lime-dressed cabbage, pico de gallo, and crema have been unexpectedly satisfying. A Trio of Dips with house-fried tortilla chips, guacamole, salsa, and queso set the tone for the meal. The informal, vigorous area, 80’s music, and ingenious menu made every dish enjoyable and memorable.

Between Bistro’s refined Jap Shore delicacies and Tiger Lily’s ingenious fusion, these two cities present a wide range of culinary adventures that pair fantastically with a keep at The Oaks.

Birding at The Oaks

Birdwatching equipment arranged on neutral carpet including black binoculars, blue "Chesapeake Bay Nature of the Estuary Field Guide" book, and red "Birds of Maryland & Delaware Field Guide" featuring a bright red cardinal on the cover. The guides are specifically focused on local Chesapeake Bay area wildlife. — Birdwatching facilities at The Oaks Waterfront Lodge | Photograph: Higher Residing

The Oaks offers a superb base for birdwatching, with the entrance desk offering binoculars and Jap Shore chook information books to friends. From our cottage and all through the property, we noticed herons, hawks, ospreys, blue jays, Carolina wrens, and even a pair of bald eagles. We liked being surrounded by the sounds and sights of plentiful nature, making each second outdoor really feel related to the Chesapeake Bay’s pure magnificence.

Night Magic and Assembly Fellow Vacationers

Circular stone fire pit surrounded by multiple wooden Adirondack chairs arranged on flagstone patio, with flames visible in the center. The scene is illuminated against dark evening sky, with mature trees and cottage lights creating ambient background lighting. Additional seating areas are visible in the distance, emphasizing the social nature of this outdoor gathering space. — Night fireplace pit gathering space with Adirondack chairs | Photograph: Higher Residing

As an intimate boutique lodge with simply 15 lodging whole, The Oaks creates pure alternatives to fulfill different friends. We had fantastic conversations with each fellow vacationers and employees all through our keep. The firepit space turns into significantly magical within the night, with Adirondack chairs organized across the flames and the water offering a peaceable backdrop for relaxed conversations underneath the celebrities.

The property does host many weddings, so weekends may be difficult to ebook. However this creates a chance – midweek stays typically provide higher charges and a extra relaxed environment well-suited for {couples} looking for a quiet getaway.

When Climate Adjustments Plans

Luxury white yacht with enclosed cabin and dark trim moored at wooden dock during golden hour. The 40-foot vessel features multiple windows, professional rigging, and classic yacht styling. In the background, the hotel's white buildings with multiple levels and balconies are visible across the manicured waterfront lawn dotted with white outdoor furniture. — The Hinckley yacht “Overcomer” at The Oaks personal pier | Photograph: Higher Residing

We had deliberate to make the most of the complimentary kayaks and paddleboards, and have been scheduled for a sundown cruise on their stunning 40-foot Hinckley yacht, Overcomer. Rain and wind had different concepts, however quite than being disillusioned, it simply gave us another excuse to plan our return go to. The Oaks is the kind of place the place climate can’t diminish the expertise. There’s all the time one thing fantastic occurring indoors.

Small Particulars, Huge Influence

Luxurious gown and selfmade cookies at The Oaks cottage | Photograph: Higher Residing

Generally the smallest touches depart the most important impression. These unimaginable chocolate chip cookies and occasional in our cottage grew to become a each day spotlight. The tremendous plush robes made lazy mornings much more indulgent. The heated lavatory flooring turned each bathe right into a spa expertise. These particulars, individually small, mixed to create an environment of consolation and ease that elevated our keep.

Planning Your Go to

Six cream-colored cruiser bikes with brown leather seats lined up along white wooden fencing, with vibrant flower beds in foreground. Beyond lies expansive green lawn leading to waterfront with white Adirondack chairs under umbrellas, boat dock with covered pavilion, and luxury yacht moored at pier. Trees frame the scenic Chesapeake Bay setting. — Waterfront garden with complimentary bicycles and yacht entry | Photograph: Higher Residing

The Oaks shines year-round, however spring by means of fall gives optimum climate for outside actions and yacht excursions. The waterfront cottages present most privateness and gorgeous views – ebook nicely upfront, particularly for weekends and peak seasons.

Three days allowed us to expertise The Oaks totally whereas exploring each St. Michaels and Easton with out feeling rushed. Two nights works for a romantic getaway, however you’ll possible end up wishing for extra time.

Why Select The Oaks for Your Jap Shore Getaway

Two modern farmhouse-style cottages with white siding, dark roofs, and covered porches set on expansive green lawn. Vibrant pink roses bloom in the foreground, and mature trees frame the background. A paved walkway connects the buildings, and white outdoor furniture is visible on the lawn, creating an idyllic waterfront resort setting. — Waterfront cottages with rose gardens at The Oaks | Photograph: Higher Residing

The Oaks delivers one thing sudden – a boutique property the place you’ll be able to merely chill out in luxurious and let the employees pamper you. It’s good for a fast getaway the place each element is dealt with and also you don’t have to consider something besides having fun with your self.

The peace and leisure we discovered right here, mixed with culinary artistry, creates the kind of getaway that stays with you lengthy after checkout.

The worst a part of our keep was leaving, however we’re already excited to return when the seasons and menus change. Carry your urge for food and put together to be stunned by what you’ll uncover tucked away on Maryland’s Jap Shore.

Plan Your Escape to The Oaks Waterfront Lodge

Calm down by the water, get pleasure from distinctive eating, and unwind within the coronary heart of Maryland’s Jap Shore.

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Instructions To The Oaks

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