On the southern bank of the Choptank River, in Cambridge, Maryland, you’ll want to experience the luxury of the recently remodeled Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Golf Resort, Spa and Marina. With fabulous sunrises, expansive grass lawns and more than a mile of waterfront property, there’s bound to be something here to appeal to everyone.

We had the good fortune to be hosted here recently by the Hyatt, and we tried to take in everything we could over three days – but we failed.  We left, still wanting to do more. Between hotel amenities and local attractions, there’s no lack of things to keep you busy.

First impressions

Driving down US 50 from Baltimore or Washington, you’ll get your first glimpse of the resort as you drive across the Choptank Bridge. Look to your left and most everything you see along the far shore is resort property.

In a few moments, you’ll be pulling in the long winding, wooded drive to the resort.  Watch along your right side for the nicely carved animals and birds in the old tree alongside one of the bridges. Pull up under the porte-cochere and a valet will help you unload and prepare to unwind – that’s what you came for – right?

Entering the six-story main building, one will be immediately impressed with the view of the expansive 18th green on the golf course and the river beyond. A balcony, overhanging a restaurant downstairs, adds another dimension to the already spacious lobby and a prominent bronze eagle with spread wings hints at the sights you’ll likely see in this part of Maryland.

Up to our room

We rode up the elevator to the sixth floor in this pet-friendly hotel and called Room 6522 our home for the next three days. The “View” room boasted 400 square feet and a wonderful view of the property and the water.  We could see the pools, the patio, the marina and from our northeast-facing room, I knew there were going to be some great sunrise photos in the future. A mini balcony was just big enough to step out onto and look straight down to the patio area below.

The room was generous in size and laid out well.  A king-sized bed awaited us with great reading lamps, alongside a good-sized sofa for TV viewing. Across from the bed was a beautiful live-edge wooden desktop alongside a long dresser with flat-screen TV.  Across from the bath was a nice refreshment area with usable refrigerator, coffee pot and mini safe. Microwaves can be requested from the front desk if desired. Decent speed, free Wi-Fi is available throughout and you could double your speed for an extra charge.

The restroom was nicely set up with deluxe complimentary toiletries; oversized magnifying makeup mirror; large, rounded granite top vanity; and a soaking tub with waterfall showerhead and a bowed curtain rod.

We were going to be quite comfortable here.

Dining

Perusing the resort’s mini-map, it was going to be tough to decide what to do first.  We decided to discuss it over some food, but that didn’t make the decision any easier, as they have a half-dozen places to dine.  From pub-style areas to more formal dining rooms, there were places to eat in the main building, outside on the deck, down by the pool or a nearby walk to the Blue Point Provision Company.

We opted for the lovely, two-story Michener’s Library where they served appetizers and drinks that were the perfect size for a light late lunch. Maureen enjoyed the cobb salad, and I enjoyed their crab dip with abundant melted cheese and hot, baked pretzel rolls.

Spa

Maureen made an appointment for a spa treatment, selecting the hot stone massage in the Sago Spa and Salon. A number of people were here for weekend weddings, so the spa time slots were limited. Note to self, next time, make a spa reservation even before arriving if your schedule isn’t real flexible. Also, early in the week will probably avoid many of the large wedding parties you might encounter on the weekends.

If you have signed up for a treatment, the spa facilities are open to you for the entire day.  Come, relax, read a book, soak in the ambiance – either before or after your treatment – or both. Even if you don’t want to spend the entire day, arrive early, relax and prepare to be taken even deeper into a state of requiescence. The sights, the sounds, the fragrances and the talented technicians will make it a time to remember.

Photo of spa waiting area - courtesy of Hyatt Regency

The River Stone Massage dates back at least as far as the early Native Americans, who discovered the physical benefits of heated stones laid upon the body.  Sago’s interpretation was the highlight of the day for Maureen.

Afterwards, she especially enjoyed the aromatherapy showers with her personal scent selection.

The spa is open every day from 9 a.m. until 6 or 7:00 p.m. With 13 treatment rooms, they offer dozens of choices for both men and women.

Pools

If you aren’t too relaxed from the spa, there are an abundance of pools – parent-type infinity pool, kid-type pools with water slides, a huge indoor pool and indoor and outdoor hot tubs.  I especially enjoyed the large outdoor hot tub – watching the stars come out late in the evening. The outdoor hot tub closes at 10 p.m.

 

But, there’s so much more

Believe it or not, we’ve only begun to scratch the surface.   At the marina you can rent a boat, jet ski, swan pedal boat and more.

The beautiful River Marsh Golf Club parallels the water for its final two holes and twists around the property before that. Listed as one of the “Best Places You Can Play in Maryland” by Golfweek Magazine, it’s one you won’t want to miss. Inquire at the Pro Shop about lessons and clinics.

Near the pools, a mini golf course is available anytime the main pool is open. Beach volleyball, outdoor playgrounds, and tennis courts add to the options. Inside there are game rooms available should there be inclement weather. A business center is also available if you just can’t get away from the office.

Hiking trails are available on the property and worth the walk.  The grounds are lovely and you’ll likely see deer and a variety of shorebirds.

 

A large well-equipped fitness room features Life-Cycle equipment, and plenty of it.  All that seafood can add a couple calories – so leave them here. Into Yoga?  You’ll find multiple opportunities and instructors available.

A couple large piers stretch way out into the river, making for a relaxing walk with a large gazebo at the end of one.

Care to leave?

If you drove, and want to see the surrounding area – you’re in luck.  Nearby is the recently completed Harriet Tubman Underground Railway Visitor Center – with its moving displays and programs.

The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is also nearby and is a great place to spot water birds and American Bald Eagles. I honestly saw more eagles here this trip than I did in two weeks in Alaska.

Before you venture too far afield, make a stop at the Dorchester County Visitors Center at 2 Rose Hill Place; Cambridge, MD (less than 10 minutes from the resort) and pick up maps, brochures and advice to maximize your time in the heart of Chesapeake Country.

Ready to go back

We’ve only been gone from the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay for three weeks now, but I can’t wait to get back there.  From the freshest seafood to the beautiful sunrises to the late night hot tub soaks – it is truly a place to relax and recharge your inner self.

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Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay

100 Heron Blvd.

Cambridge, MD 21613
(410) 901-1234

Currently published rates range from $190 to $500 for a suite.

Disclosure:  Hyatt provided us with two nights’ accommodations so we could complete this review; but, as always, all opinions are strictly our own.