Chesapeake Bay is an all-encompassing name that includes the likes of Baltimore and Annapolis in Maryland as well as Norfolk and Virginia Beach, in Virginia. The bay itself is huge, making for a scene of rich activities, history and wildlife fit for a steady stream of vacationers. If you’ve yet to visit, consider checking out a quiet corner of the bay sometime. Specifically, if you find yourself actually needing a vacation and not just half-heartedly accepting one, rent yourself a waterfront retreat that will reward you for all your hard work in more ways than one.

There’s no doubt about it, life is simpler, kinder and gentler by the water. Bay front homes invite easier breathing at first sight, and their tendency to bring people together for games, meals and laughter is pretty universal. As you’ll see when you arrive, having a home rather than a hotel room will add a sense of fortune and enchantment to your gathering, so bring the whole crew along and see what merriment occurs.

Larger homes make great excuses for family reunions, formal or informal. Maybe, in this day in age, getting mom, dad, and the kids all in the same room can seem practically impossible, so accomplishing it during your upcoming trip will be like a reunion of epic proportions. Many vacation rentals are pet-friendly, too, so even Rover will be able to join in the fun.

But back to Chesapeake Bay, picture a gem of a vacation rental located along the east shore; a short drive from DC, St. Michaels, and Easton. These towns have all you’ll need as far as restaurants, nightlife, marinas and festivals, but you won’t be spending all of your time there by any means. Nope; believe it or not, you might end up pretty attached to your beach front estate. The fact that is has a kitchen for whipping up quick meals, a room filled with games, a luxurious patio overlooking the serene bay views, and even a heated pool in the backyard all mean that everyone will be perfectly satisfied with spending a day (or two, or three…) at “home."

If you fancy yourself more of an upper shore person, there’s a place for you, too. Located on the Elk River, a great spot for canoeing and kayaking, you’ll find a restored 1850’s farmhouse that might make your heart flutter. It also has a heated pool, as well as a screened in porch, central air, and a DVD player. Conveniently located near a boat slip, you’ll be able to head to the Delaware Canal in the space of just 10 minutes. This region is a hotspot for antiques, and a theatre and several dining establishments will help to make each day complete.

Even if you’re taking an intimate trip with your significant other, the one who you can barely remember thanks to both of you being so busy lately, there’s a rental to fit your needs. Properties come in all shapes, sizes and price ranges, including mini, cute, and affordable. Get cozy with your sweetheart in a tastefully decorated cottage a mere 50 feet from the water’s edge and about thirty miles from Washington. You may want to take a trip to the city, or you may end up snuggling your days away. The point is, it’s your choice.

If you’re picky about where you stay, go online to check out detailed pictures, descriptions and reviews of all the Chesapeake Bay Vacation Rentals available. You’ll surely come across something that speaks to you, so get ready to make a reservation sooner rather than later.