Buttonwood Beach is a peaceful and charming destination that may not be on every traveler’s radar, but it holds a special place for those who know it. If you’re wondering where Buttonwood Beach is, the answer reveals more than just geography it leads to a quiet, waterfront community ideal for family relaxation and summer living. This serene spot offers a blend of natural beauty, coastal views, and a close-knit atmosphere. Exploring the location and surrounding features of Buttonwood Beach helps uncover why it’s considered a hidden gem on the Chesapeake Bay shoreline.
Location of Buttonwood Beach
Buttonwood Beach is located in Earleville, in Cecil County, Maryland, United States. Nestled along the upper shoreline of the Chesapeake Bay, this private residential beach community offers picturesque views and a secluded retreat away from busy cities. It’s a gated neighborhood known for its calm environment, making it a perfect getaway for seasonal residents and nature enthusiasts.
Geographical Coordinates
- Latitude: 39.4445° N
- Longitude: -75.9647° W
Nearby Towns and Cities
- Chesapeake City, MD: Located to the northeast, about 15 miles away.
- Elkton, MD: Roughly 25 miles north of Buttonwood Beach, it serves as the county seat.
- Middletown, DE: About 18 miles east, a convenient place for shopping and dining.
- Philadelphia, PA: Around 60 miles north, reachable within 1.5 hours by car.
How to Get to Buttonwood Beach
Although Buttonwood Beach feels remote, it’s relatively easy to reach by road from major cities in the Mid-Atlantic region. However, because it is a private, gated community, access is restricted to residents and their guests.
By Car
The most direct way to reach Buttonwood Beach is by driving. It is accessible via Maryland Route 282 (Crystal Beach Road), with local roads leading into the gated entrance of the community. The area is well-marked with signage near Earleville.
By Air
For those flying in, the nearest major airport is Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), which is about 65 miles away. From there, a rental car is the best option for reaching the beach community.
By Public Transport
There are no direct public transportation options to Buttonwood Beach due to its private nature and rural surroundings. Visitors typically need to arrange private transportation or car rentals to reach the area.
What Is Buttonwood Beach Known For?
Buttonwood Beach is primarily known for being a quiet, family-friendly beach community that offers a secure, natural setting. It’s not a commercial beach, but rather a residential neighborhood with a strong sense of community and shared values around outdoor recreation and water enjoyment.
Private Community Features
- Gated Access: Only homeowners and registered guests are permitted entry, providing safety and exclusivity.
- Private Beach Area: Clean, well-maintained waterfront along the bay for sunbathing, wading, and social events.
- Boating Facilities: Boat ramps, slips, and a marina area available to community members.
Recreational Activities
The community offers several recreational options, particularly in the warmer months. Residents enjoy:
- Kayaking and canoeing in calm bay waters
- Swimming and sunbathing along the sandy beach
- Fishing from docks and boats
- Walking or biking along quiet community roads
Seasonal Living and Amenities
Most of the homes in Buttonwood Beach are used seasonally, with residents returning each summer to enjoy the outdoors and reconnect with neighbors. While the beach itself is the main attraction, the neighborhood also provides other amenities that make it a comfortable place to stay for weeks or months at a time.
Community Spaces
- Clubhouse and Picnic Areas: Used for social gatherings, potlucks, and community events.
- Playgrounds and Open Fields: Great for families with children looking for safe outdoor play.
- Bathhouses and Laundry Facilities: Convenient support for seasonal living.
Events and Social Life
Buttonwood Beach often organizes summer events, including barbecues, holiday fireworks, craft markets, and game nights. These gatherings foster a strong sense of belonging and help create lasting memories among families and neighbors.
Natural Surroundings
Buttonwood Beach is admired not just for its human-friendly design, but also for its close relationship with nature. It offers stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay, and the area is home to a variety of wildlife and plant life native to Maryland’s eastern shore.
Scenic Beauty
Sunsets over the bay, views of sailboats on the water, and gentle coastal breezes all contribute to a peaceful and rejuvenating environment. Many residents choose Buttonwood Beach precisely for this slower pace and connection to nature.
Birdwatching and Wildlife
The area supports diverse bird species such as ospreys, herons, and bald eagles. Occasionally, residents might also spot deer, foxes, or turtles near the wooded edges of the community.
Is Buttonwood Beach Open to the Public?
No, Buttonwood Beach is a private community. Unlike public beaches along the Chesapeake Bay, this location is reserved for homeowners, their families, and invited guests. The privacy is one of the main reasons the community remains clean, safe, and quiet throughout the year.
Real Estate and Property Ownership
Buttonwood Beach operates as a co-operative association. Property owners typically lease their lot through the cooperative while maintaining their own seasonal residence. New residents must go through an approval process before purchasing within the community.
Why Visit or Live Near Buttonwood Beach?
Although not open to the general public, Buttonwood Beach’s appeal lies in its exclusivity and preserved coastal charm. It’s ideal for people who value peacefulness, nature, and neighborly community life.
Key Benefits
- Tranquility: Far from busy highways and crowded beaches
- Water Access: Direct views and access to the Chesapeake Bay
- Family Atmosphere: A safe place for children and multi-generational living
- Low Commercialization: Emphasis on nature rather than nightlife or retail
Buttonwood Beach is located in Earleville, Maryland, on the peaceful shores of the upper Chesapeake Bay. It’s a private, gated community known for its friendly atmosphere, waterfront living, and natural beauty. While it’s not a destination you can simply walk into without an invitation, those who are part of the Buttonwood Beach community often describe it as their summer sanctuary. For anyone seeking a seasonal escape from urban stress where evenings are spent watching the sunset over calm waters Buttonwood Beach remains one of Maryland’s best-kept coastal secrets.