Sunset in Annapolis: Best Waterfront Drinks & Golden Hour Experiences

Sunset in Annapolis: Best Waterfront Drinks & Golden Hour Experiences

Beth Glosner  | 

Golden Hour, Annapolis Style: Where Sails, Spirits, and Sunsets Shine

If you’re looking for the perfect way to wind down your day in Annapolis, it doesn’t get better than a sunset cruise and a cocktail. Whether you’re on a classic schooner or sipping local spirits at a dockside café, this historic town knows how to toast the sunset. Consider this your insider’s guide to golden hour on the water — where to sail, sip, and soak up the best views in town.

Let’s dig in.

Disclaimer

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below. See full disclosure here

Why Annapolis Does Sunset Better

With its historic harbor, charming waterfront, and nonstop sailboat sightings, Annapolis is practically made for sunset lovers. But the trick is knowing where to be when the sky turns to gold. The locals know it’s not just about the view — it’s about the vibe: music playing, sails catching the last breeze, a cold drink in hand.

In this guide, we’ll break down:

So whether you’re planning a date night, a group hangout, or a solo adventure, Annapolis delivers big-time beauty with plenty of buzz.

Set Sail on the Schooner Woodwind

The Schooner Woodwind is Annapolis’s gold standard for sunset cruises. This 74-foot sailing yacht lets you experience the Chesapeake Bay the way it was meant to be — with the wind in your hair and a front-row seat to the setting sun. The crew even lets guests help raise the sails!

Sunset, salt air, and smooth sailing.

Pro Tip: Book early, especially for Friday and Saturday cruises. The best spots sell out fast during warm months.

Preserve: Seasonal Sips and Thoughtful Bites Near the Harbor

Just up Main Street from the waterfront, Preserve offers a fresh, locally driven menu and some of the most creative cocktails in town. With a modern farmhouse vibe and standout service, it’s the perfect spot to start or end your golden hour walk. Try a rotating seasonal spritz or one of their house infusions — and don’t skip the Preserve Pickles appetizers (a local favorite).

Fresh and local

Pro Tip: Head to the water before or after dinner — you’re just steps from the harbor and prime sunset photo ops.

Level: Cozy Café Vibes with a Craft Cocktail Twist

If you prefer a stylish lounge over a rowdy taproom, Level :A Small Plates Lounge, is your spot. Just a short walk from the harbor, Level serves up inventive cocktails in a cozy-chic setting. Their drink menu rotates seasonally, with options like elderflower spritzes, bourbon infusions, and zero-proof mocktails for non-drinkers.

Not into beer? Sip something smarter at Level..

Pro Tip: Make a reservation for a table on weekends — their small plates pair perfectly with a craft cocktail.

Bonus: DIY Sunset Picnic on the Docks

Not into crowds? Pack your own snacks and drinks and find a bench along Susan Campbell Park, right at the edge of the harbor. It’s low-key, beautiful, and free. You’ll get the same epic views as the bars without the bar tab.

Pro Tip: Bring a small Bluetooth speaker for tunes — but keep it low and mellow. You’re not throwing a rave.

Your Golden Hour Game Plan

Whether you’re sailing into the sunset, sipping rum by the dock, or enjoying a hand-crafted cocktail under soft lighting, Annapolis sunset experiences are hard to beat. It’s the kind of moment that makes you stop, breathe, and smile.

Ready to plan your perfect Annapolis evening? Book that cruise, text your crew, and find your spot on the dock. And if you’re looking to turn golden hour into a golden day, don’t miss my blog 24 Hours in Annapolis: Perfect Day Trip—it’s your guide to soaking up every last drop of this charming town.

Just don’t forget to tag your favorite moments with #SipAndSailAnnapolis.

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!

-Beth
Top Things to Do in Bethany Beach, Delaware

Top Things to Do in Bethany Beach, Delaware

Beth Glosner  | 

Your Complete Guide to Attractions, Activities & Coastal Fun

Welcome to Bethany Beach: A Chill Escape on the Delaware Coast

Bethany Beach, Delaware, isn’t just another beach town. It’s where cozy vibes meet salty air, and every street feels like summer. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a full-on family vacation, there’s so much waiting for you to explore, enjoy, and eat.

From classic boardwalk fun to quiet kayak paddles, we’re diving into all the local faves and hidden gems that make Bethany Beach unforgettable. Let’s Dig In.

Disclaimer

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below. See full disclosure here

 Quick Look: Best Things to Do in Bethany Beach

Short on time? Here’s your bite-sized adventure checklist:

Read on for tips, photos, and exactly how to plan your perfect beach day.

 Bethany Beach Boardwalk

Classic Fun with Coastal Views

This charming, half-mile boardwalk is packed with nostalgia—think popcorn stands, mini golf, and families biking in the early morning light. It’s perfect for morning walks, beach views, and people-watching.

Boardwalk Fries = The good kind of salty.

Pro Tip: Visit at sunrise for peaceful vibes, then swing by in the evening for street performers and sweet treats.

Beach Days Done Right

Sand, Surf & Space to Stretch Out

Bethany’s beaches are wide, clean, and way less crowded than big-name beach towns. Bring your book, boogie board, or beach umbrella—and don’t forget the sunscreen.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Lifeguards on duty all summer
  • Perfect for families or solo sun-chasers
  • Keep your eyes out for dolphins!


Now boarding: destination relaxation.

 Free Things to Do in Bethany Beach

Live Music, Movies & Family Fun

When the sun dips, Bethany’s boardwalk comes alive. The bandstand near the beach hosts free concerts, movies under the stars, and even dance parties.

What You’ll Need:

  • Lawn chairs or beach blanket
  • Your favorite snacks
  • A hoodie for cool coastal nights

Music, waves, and pizza under the stars.

Pro Tip: Grab a slice from Grotto Pizza and snag your spot early!

 Kayak the Assawoman Canal

Peaceful Paddling for All Skill Levels

  • Yes, the name makes everyone giggle. But the Assawoman Canal is seriously stunning—lined with trees, filled with wildlife, and just right for first-timers.

What to Expect:

  • Calm, flat water = easy paddling
  • Wildlife: turtles, egrets, herons
  • Beautiful marsh views
Awkward name, epic scenery.

Shop Small, Shop Local

Support Downtown Bethany Beach Businesses

Take a break from the beach and hit up the shops. From bookstores to quirky gift spots, downtown Bethany is full of indie gems.

Local Favorites:

Because souvenirs 

 Chase Views & Trails

Nature, Photos & Peaceful Moments

Just outside town is one of Bethany’s best-kept secrets: the Indian River Inlet Bridge and Delaware Seashore State Park. Whether you hike, bike, or drive, the views here are worth it.

Explore:

Exploring the  Burton Island Nature Trail

 Why Bethany Beach Is the Perfect East Coast Escape

Bethany Beach keeps it simple—in the best way. With clean beaches, free events, and a local-first vibe, it’s the kind of place where memories come easy and relaxation comes naturally.

Looking for your next bite-sized beach adventure? Start with this list, and check out the next blog:


👉 Bethany Beach: Where to Eat Clean and Coastal (coming soon!)

Let’s Hear From You!

Have you wandered the boardwalk or kayaked the canal? Share your favorite Bethany Beach moment in the comments!

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!

– Beth
Finding Cheap Flights: Insider Hacks to Save Big on Airfare

Finding Cheap Flights: Insider Hacks to Save Big on Airfare

Beth Glosner  | 

Welcome, Smart Traveler! Here’s How to Score Cheap Flights

You want to travel more without breaking the bank? You’re in the right place! Nothing kills travel dreams faster than overpriced plane tickets. But guess what? Scoring cheap flights isn’t just for travel hackers—it’s totally doable for you, too. You just need to know where (and how) to look.

The good news? I’ve got your back. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best websites, tools, and tricks to find jaw-droppingly cheap flights. Whether you’re planning a last-minute getaway or your dream vacation, these tips will help you save hundreds. Let’s dig in!

Disclaimer

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below. See full disclosure here

1. The Best Websites for Cheap Flights (And Why They Work)

Not all flight search engines are created equal. Some favor certain airlines, others don’t show budget carriers, and some mark up prices. These are the ones that consistently deliver the best deals:

Google Flights: The King of Flight Searches

Google Flights is the ultimate tool for quick searches. It scans hundreds of airlines and travel sites in seconds.

🔹 Why it’s great:

  • The calendar tool lets you spot the cheapest dates instantly.
  • You can track flights and get alerts when prices drop.
  • The “Explore” feature helps you find cheap flights to random destinations.

 Pro Tip: Google Flights doesn’t show Southwest Airlines, so check their website separately!

Skyscanner: Great for Flexible Travelers

Skyscanner is another powerhouse for finding budget-friendly flights, especially for international travel.

🔹 Why it’s great:

  • The “Everywhere” search helps you find the cheapest destinations from your airport.
  • Includes budget airlines that other sites miss.
  • Price alerts keep you in the know about fare drops.

Momondo: The Underdog with Deep Discounts

Momondo often finds fares that other search engines miss, thanks to its wider range of travel partners.

🔹 Why it’s great:

  • Finds hidden fares by searching small booking agencies.
  • Offers a price trend graph to help you decide when to book.

2. When to Book Flights for Maximum Savings

Timing is everything! Booking too early or too late can cost you hundreds. Here’s how to find the sweet spot:

  •  Domestic flights: Book 1-3 months in advance. 
  •  International flights: Book 3-6 months in advance. 
  •  Avoid peak season: Flights around holidays skyrocket in price. 
  •  Fly midweek: Tuesdays and Wednesdays are usually the cheapest days to fly.

 Pro Tip: Use Google Flights’ price tracker to monitor fares over time. If you see a sudden drop, book ASAP!

3. Hidden Travel Hacks to Slash Airfare Costs

Sometimes, the best deals require thinking outside the box. Try these advanced tactics:

Use Budget Airlines (But Watch for Fees!)

Budget airlines like Spirit, Frontier, and Ryanair offer dirt-cheap fares—but beware of extra fees for baggage, seat selection, and even printing your boarding pass!

 Pro Tip: Always check baggage fees before booking. A “cheap” ticket can quickly become expensive if you’re not careful.

Book One-Way Tickets Instead of Round-Trips

Sometimes, booking two separate one-way flights (even on different airlines) is cheaper than a round-trip ticket.

Leverage Airline Mistake Fares

Airlines sometimes accidentally publish super low fares—if you catch one, book it fast before they fix it!

🔹 Where to find mistake fares:

 Pro Tip: If you book a mistake fare, wait a few days before making non-refundable plans. Airlines occasionally cancel these tickets.

4. Should You Use a VPN to Get a Cheap Flight?

Some airlines charge different prices based on your location. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) can help you find cheaper flights by changing your browsing location.

   How to do it:

  1. Connect to a VPN and set your location to a low-cost country (e.g., Mexico or India).
  2. Search for your flight on airline websites.
  3. Compare prices with and without the VPN.

5. Final Tips for Booking Cheap Flights Like a Pro

Use incognito mode when searching for flights. Travel websites sometimes track your search history with cookies and may increase prices if they notice repeated searches for the same route. Browsing in a private or incognito window helps you avoid dynamic price hikes.

  •  Be flexible with airports: Flying into a nearby airport can save you hundreds.
  •  Use airline miles and credit card points: Travel rewards can get you free flights!
  •  Book in incognito mode: Prevent sites from tracking your searches and raising fares.

Ready to Book Your Next Cheap Flight?

Finding cheap flights isn’t magic—it’s a mix of timing, smart searching, and a few insider tricks. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical escape or a European adventure, these tips will help you book flights without blowing your budget.

Want to take your travel game even further? Don’t miss the blog post:
Turn Your Travels Into a Thriving Blog: A Step-by-Step Guide — it’s packed with tips to help you not only explore more, but also share your adventures in a meaningful (and maybe even money-making) way.

So, what’s your next destination? Drop a comment below and share your best flight deal find! And if you loved this guide, pass it along to your fellow travelers — because great tips are meant to be shared.

Until next time—

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!

–Beth