Your Visit to Island View Waterfront: Hotels, Parking, FAQs & Things to Do
Island View has been part of our family for four generations,
and it’s the kind of place that instantly slows you down when you arrive.
From our waterfront views to our family-run hospitality,
we want you to feel relaxed, welcomed, and ready to enjoy the Chesapeake Bay.
This guide has everything you need for a smooth visit —
parking, nearby hotels, local attractions, policies, and a little bit of our story.
Welcome to Our Family Property
Island View has been in our family since 1968, when my grandparents, Tom and Fran Laing, turned a little waterfront tavern into the gathering place it still is today.
My parents, Bruce and Melissa, carried it forward as the second generation, keeping the family vision alive and raising their own kids right on the property.
Now, I’m here — third generation, Jessica — running the day-to-day with my own kids, the fourth generation, learning the ropes and growing up on the waterfront alongside me.
Whether you’re visiting for a wedding, a party, or just a weekend by the Chesapeake, we want you to feel like you’re stepping into a place that’s been loved, cared for, and celebrated for over 50 years. Because you are.
Island View Through the Years
1928–1940: Goth’s Grove
1940–1965: Mac’s Grove
1965–1968: Gaff’s Grove
1969–1983: Tom’s Tavern - this is where our family business started
1983–2000: Island View Inn
2000: Renovated and reopened as Island View Waterfront Café
2021: Expanded into Island View Waterfront Weddings & Events
Address:
Island View Waterfront
2542 Island View Road, Essex, MD 21221
Coordinates (lat, long): 39.2690137, -76.3961228
Getting to Island View Waterfront is easy whether you’re driving or arriving by water — and we’ve got spots for everyone.
Parking Options:
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Gravel Lot (on-site): Reserved for the wedding party, vendors, and handicap or elderly guests.
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Grass Lot (across the street): For general guests, overflow, and vehicles that may be left overnight.
Arriving by Boat:
Guests are welcome to arrive by boat! Our waterfront can accommodate boats up to 32 ft in length, with a water depth of 2–3 ft. Docking is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so plan ahead if you’d like to tie up by the venue.
Coordinates (lat, long): 39.2690137, -76.3961228
Tips for a Smooth Arrival:
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Arrive 10–15 minutes early to find your preferred parking and enjoy the waterfront views before your event begins.
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Ride-share drop-off is available at the main entrance.
White Marsh, Maryland Hotels
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Hilton Garden Inn - White Marsh
5015 Campbell Blvd, Baltimore, MD 21236
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Hampton Inn - White Marsh
8225 Town Center Dr, Baltimore, MD 21236
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Home2 Suites - White Marsh
10465 Philadelphia Rd, White Marsh, MD 21162
https://www.hilton.com/en/locations/usa/maryland/white-marsh-station/
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Holiday Inn Express - White Marsh
10542 Philadelphia Rd, White Marsh, MD 21162
Downtown Baltimore Hotels
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Sagamore Pendry
1715 Thames St, Baltimore, MD 21231
https://www.pendry.com/baltimore/accommodations/
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Kimpton Hotel Monaco
2 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21201
https://www.monaco-baltimore.com
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Hotel Revival
101 W Monument St, Baltimore, MD 21201
Airbnbs near Island View Waterfront
Turkey Point Area
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Airbnb #1 – Cozy waterfront home with modern amenities, perfect for couples or small groups.
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Airbnb #2 – Charming home near the water with easy access to local dining and attractions.
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Airbnb #3 – Bright and spacious home with water views, ideal for families.
Holly Neck Area
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Airbnb #4 – Waterfront retreat with modern comforts, great for small groups or families.
Middle River Area
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Airbnb #5 – Quaint riverside property with charming outdoor space, perfect for weekend stays.
Hotels & Lodging Near Island View Waterfront
Outdoor & Waterfront Spots
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Rocky Point Park & Beach – 1050 Rocky Point Rd, Essex, MD 21221
Relax along the Chesapeake Bay with walking trails, picnic areas, and a small beach for families and friends. -
Gunpowder Falls State Park – 12801 Manor Rd, Middle River, MD 21220
Scenic hiking trails, kayaking, and wildlife observation along the Gunpowder River, just minutes from Island View.
Historic & Cultural Baltimore
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Fort McHenry National Monument & Historic Shrine – 2400 E Fort Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230
Learn about the site that inspired the Star-Spangled Banner while enjoying views of the Baltimore waterfront. -
National Aquarium – 501 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202
Explore marine life and interactive exhibits in the heart of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. -
Inner Harbor – 201 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202
Waterfront destination with shops, restaurants, and scenic harbor walks along the Chesapeake Bay. -
Federal Hill Park – 800 E Fort Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230
Offers panoramic views of the Inner Harbor and the Chesapeake Bay, perfect for photos.
Golf
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Rocky Point Golf Course – 1050 Rocky Point Rd, Essex, MD 21221
Local favorite with a relaxed course and beautiful waterfront views along the Chesapeake Bay.
Restaurants & Local Eats
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Jake’s Tavern – 1006 Back River Neck Rd, Essex, MD 21221
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Casual dining near Baltimore’s waterfront.
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Laidback Lenny’s – 1814 Turkey Point Rd, Essex, MD 21221
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Low-key watering hole featuring bar bites such as wings, happy hour specials, and a jukebox.
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Loonasea – 207 Nanticoke Rd, Essex, MD 21221
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Waterfront eatery offering seafood, pub grub, and cocktails, plus live music.
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Charly’s – 2015 Turkey Point Rd, Essex, MD 21221
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Great local pub with craft beers and hearty menu options near the Chesapeake Bay.
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Carson’s Creekside – 1110 Beech Dr, Middle River, MD 21220
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Casual eatery & bar with water views, serving seafood/steak & American fare, with events & music.
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The Avenue at White Marsh – 8201 Perry Hall Blvd, White Marsh, MD 21236
Convenient for guests staying at nearby White Marsh hotels; multiple dining options and shopping nearby.
Q: Can I have my event at Island View Waterfront?
A: Absolutely! Island View Waterfront is available for weddings, private parties, and family celebrations. Our four-generation family-run venue on the Chesapeake Bay provides a beautiful, relaxed setting, and we work with you to make your event memorable.
Q: Where is Island View Waterfront located?
A: We’re at 2542 Island View Road, Essex, MD 21221, centrally located on the Chesapeake Bay. Easy to reach from Baltimore, the surrounding area, and even by boat for vessels up to 32 ft.
Q: Is there parking available?
A: Yes! We have two lots:
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Gravel lot (on-site): Reserved for wedding party, vendors, and handicap/elderly guests.
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Grass lot (across the street): Guest and overflow parking, including overnight vehicle parking.
Q: Can I arrive by boat?
A: Absolutely! Boats up to 32 ft are welcome. Water depth is 2–3 ft, and docking is first-come, first-served.
Q: Are children allowed?
A: Yes! Families are always welcome. Please supervise children near docks, water, and event setups.
Q: Can I bring my pet?
A: Service animals are always welcome. Other pets require prior approval from Island View Waterfront.
Q: Is outside alcohol allowed?
A: No, outside alcohol is not permitted. All beverages must be provided by Island View Waterfront. Guests must be 21+, show valid ID, and staff reserves the right to refuse, remove, address, and dispose of alcohol. Alcohol is not allowed in parking lots.
Q: Are there accessible areas for guests with mobility needs?
A: Yes, main event spaces are accessible, and our staff is happy to assist with any special needs.
Q: Can I take photos or videos?
A: Guests may take photos and videos in designated areas. Please stay within permitted zones and follow any guidance from staff.
Q: What about noise and trash?
A: Guests are asked to respect the property, staff, and family business, keep noise at a considerate level, and dispose of trash properly. Remember, you are a guest of Island View Waterfront and also of the couple/family hosting the event.
Q: Where can I stay nearby?
A: We recommend local hotels and Airbnbs in Essex, White Marsh, Turkey Point, Holly Neck, and Middle River. Guests can enjoy easy access to Island View Waterfront and the Chesapeake Bay.
Q: What else can I do while visiting?
A: Explore Baltimore attractions like Fort McHenry, the National Aquarium, and Inner Harbor, enjoy the Chesapeake Bay waterfront, or try Rocky Point Golf Course and local restaurants like Jake’s Tavern, Loonasea, Charly’s, Carson’s Creekside, and The Avenue at White Marsh.
Ready to Plan Your Visit?
We can’t wait to welcome you to Island View Waterfront —
whether you’re here for a wedding, family celebration, or just to enjoy the Chesapeake Bay. Our property is family-run, four generations strong, and we’re here to make your experience relaxed, fun, and memorable.
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