Maryland has a way of folding itself into quiet corners, where the world is reduced to the sound of the wind through the pines and the slap of waves against a dock. Shady Side, Fairhaven, Briansville—places that don’t beg for attention but hold onto their own the way an old oyster shell clings to the shore.
You don’t move here for convenience. You move here for space. For the kind of quiet that comes from knowing the rest of the world won’t find you unless you want it to.
So if you’re looking for a place where the streetlights are few, the neighbors mind their own business, and the only deadline is the tide, these ten neighborhoods might just be what you’re after.
10. Bozman – Seclusion Along the Miles River
Bozman is a quaint waterfront community that offers a serene lifestyle along the Miles River. This peaceful hamlet is known for its large waterfront estates that provide residents with stunning views and direct access to the water. With a population of just over 300 people, Bozman maintains a close-knit feel where neighbors know each other by name.
The area lacks commercial development, which adds to its quiet charm and allows the natural beauty to take center stage. Residents and visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and kayaking, making the most of the idyllic waterfront setting. Hidden coves and lush forests surround the neighborhood, creating natural barriers that enhance its privacy and seclusion.
Where is Bozman?
Bozman is located in Talbot County on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, nestled on a peninsula between the Miles River and Broad Creek. It’s just a short drive southwest of the historic town of St. Michaels, known for its maritime heritage and charming shops.
To get to Bozman from Annapolis, you can cross the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, head south on Route 50, and then take Route 33 through St. Michaels towards Bozman. The journey offers scenic views of the bay and surrounding countryside, making the trip as enjoyable as the destination itself.
9. Neavitt – Secluded Peninsula Living in Talbot County
Neavitt is a small, unincorporated community that epitomizes secluded waterfront living. Surrounded by the waters of Broad Creek and the Choptank River, this peaceful enclave offers large waterfront properties where residents can enjoy spectacular sunsets and a tranquil environment.
With a population hovering around 120 people, Neavitt exudes a quiet charm that’s hard to find elsewhere. The area is rich in natural beauty, featuring wetlands that are home to diverse wildlife, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Boating and crabbing are popular activities, and the lack of commercial development ensures that the serenity remains unspoiled.
Where is Neavitt?
Situated in Talbot County, Neavitt lies at the end of Route 579, about 15 miles southwest of Easton, Maryland. Its remote location on a peninsula provides a sense of isolation from the hustle and bustle of city life.
To reach Neavitt, you can take Route 33 from Easton towards St. Michaels, then follow Bozman Neavitt Road all the way to the community. The drive offers picturesque views of farmland and waterways, enhancing the feeling of retreat as you approach this hidden gem.
8. Linkwood – Agricultural Seclusion in Dorchester County
Linkwood is a rural community characterized by its vast agricultural lands and open spaces. With a sparse population of around 450 residents, it offers a quiet lifestyle amidst expansive fields and farms. The area’s low housing density means neighbors are spread out, providing ample privacy for those seeking solitude.
Linkwood’s connection to the land is palpable, with many residents engaged in farming and other agricultural pursuits. The natural settings include rolling fields and woodlands, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching. The absence of major highways and commercial zones further contributes to the community’s peaceful atmosphere.
Where is Linkwood?
Linkwood is located in Dorchester County on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, conveniently situated along Route 50. Despite its proximity to this major roadway, the community remains quiet and secluded due to the surrounding farmlands and low population density.
To get there from Annapolis, you can take Route 50 east across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and continue for about 60 miles. The journey showcases Maryland’s rural beauty, and upon arrival, you’ll find a place where time seems to slow down, and the stresses of everyday life fade away.
7. Still Pond – Historic Charm Meets Rural Seclusion
Still Pond is a small village that combines historic charm with the tranquility of rural living. With a population of approximately 200 residents, it’s a place where history and community are deeply valued. The neighborhood features large private lots and quiet country roads lined with well-preserved historic homes.
Its remote location away from commercial areas ensures a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those looking to escape the noise of the city. Residents enjoy a strong sense of history, with local landmarks and stories passed down through generations. Outdoor activities like hiking and cycling are popular, taking advantage of the serene landscape.
Where is Still Pond?
Located in Kent County, Still Pond sits on Maryland’s Upper Eastern Shore, not far from the banks of the Chesapeake Bay. It’s about 15 miles north of Chestertown, accessible via Route 292 off of Route 213.
The area is characterized by rolling farmland and scenic vistas, offering a picturesque drive to the village. Visitors can enjoy the quiet roads and perhaps stop by nearby historical sites, experiencing a slice of Maryland’s rich past in a peaceful setting.
6. Briansville – Hidden in the Heart of Calvert County
Briansville is a small, unincorporated community nestled in Calvert County, Maryland, with a population of around 300 residents.
Known for its peaceful atmosphere, this neighborhood offers residents an escape from the busy pace of suburban life while still being close to nature. The area is mostly residential with few commercial developments, which helps maintain its tranquility. The surrounding woods and farmland provide privacy and seclusion, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a rural lifestyle.
While the community is close-knit, it remains off the beaten path, offering a peaceful sanctuary with scenic country views. Outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and exploring nearby nature trails are common pastimes in this rural hideaway.
Where is Briansville?
Briansville is located in Calvert County, Maryland, just south of the larger town of Prince Frederick. The neighborhood is tucked away in the heart of the county, offering seclusion while being surrounded by lush woods and open fields. Its secluded nature is enhanced by its distance from major highways and its location off Route 4.
To get there from Prince Frederick, take Route 4 south, then head east on Briansville Road, which leads you into the serene and private atmosphere of this charming rural enclave. The drive takes you through picturesque countryside, adding to the appeal of its peaceful setting.
5. Shady Side – Tranquil Waterside Living
Shady Side is a peaceful, unincorporated community located in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, with a population of just over 2,000 residents. This neighborhood offers a blend of rural charm and waterfront living, with many homes perched along the shores of Broadneck Bay in the Chesapeake Bay region. The area is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, as it offers activities such as boating, fishing, kayaking, and hiking.
The main industries in Shady Side are centered around tourism and local services, with residents largely involved in recreational activities or small businesses. What sets Shady Side apart is its remote atmosphere, where natural beauty and quiet streets provide a retreat from the noise of urban areas.
The community’s proximity to water and its laid-back vibe make it an ideal place for people looking to escape the fast pace of nearby cities like Annapolis and Washington, D.C.
Where is Shady Side?
Shady Side is located in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, nestled along the western shores of Broadneck Bay, a part of the Chesapeake Bay. Its location, far from the more densely populated areas of the county, enhances its secluded charm, making it an ideal place for those seeking solitude by the water.
The neighborhood is surrounded by nature preserves and farmland, with minimal commercial development.
To reach Shady Side, take Route 2 south from Annapolis, then turn onto Muddy Creek Road to head towards the waterfront community, passing through scenic farmland and wooded areas that further contribute to its peaceful atmosphere.
4. Woolford – Peaceful Living on the Eastern Shore
Woolford is a tranquil community that offers peaceful living amidst Maryland’s Eastern Shore landscapes. With a population of just over 100 residents, it boasts large parcels of land set among wetlands and forests. The area’s distance from urban centers and limited development contribute to its low traffic and serene environment.
Residents can enjoy the abundant wildlife and the opportunity for birdwatching, especially with the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge nearby. The community’s quiet roads and natural settings make it ideal for those desiring privacy and a strong connection to nature.
Where is Woolford?
Woolford is located in Dorchester County, about 10 miles south of Cambridge, Maryland. To get there, you can take Route 16 from Cambridge and follow it directly into Woolford.
The drive passes through scenic farmlands and marshes indicative of the Eastern Shore’s unique environment. Its remote location ensures that even though it’s not far from amenities, it remains a secluded and peaceful place to reside or visit.
3. Sabillasville – A Mountain Retreat in Frederick County
Sabillasville offers a secluded mountain retreat atop the Catoctin Mountains. With a small population of around 350 residents, it provides expansive rural landscapes and low housing density. The proximity to state parks like Cunningham Falls and Catoctin Mountain enhances its natural privacy and offers breathtaking views.
Residents enjoy a quiet mountain lifestyle, with opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and enjoying the changing seasons. The community’s elevation and forested areas create a natural barrier, adding to the sense of seclusion and tranquility.
Where is Sabillasville?
Sabillasville is located in Frederick County in Western Maryland, near the Pennsylvania border. It’s accessible via Route 550, off of Route 15 or Route 77, depending on your direction of travel.
The area is known for its scenic drives through mountainous terrain and charming rural roads. Sabillasville’s location makes it a convenient getaway from cities like Frederick or even Baltimore, offering a peaceful escape without venturing too far from urban centers.
2. Fairhaven – Hidden Retreat on the Bay
Fairhaven is a small, unincorporated community in Calvert County, Maryland, located along the Chesapeake Bay with a population of around 600 residents.
The neighborhood offers an idyllic, secluded environment with many homes directly facing the Bay, providing residents with sweeping views and easy access to water activities. The area is primarily residential, and outdoor recreation dominates the lifestyle, with activities such as boating, swimming, and fishing being popular pastimes.
There is little to no commercial development in the area, which preserves its rural and peaceful vibe. The community is known for its tight-knit atmosphere, where many families have lived for generations. What makes Fairhaven particularly secluded is its location, tucked away from busy urban centers, offering residents a quiet retreat with a connection to nature.
Where is Fairhaven?
Fairhaven is located in Calvert County, Maryland, along the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay. Its seclusion comes from being surrounded by water on one side and forested areas on the other, providing natural barriers that limit development. The neighborhood remains relatively untouched by commercial expansion, keeping it peaceful and quiet.
To get to Fairhaven from the town of Prince Frederick, head east on Route 4, then turn onto Fairhaven Road to wind your way toward the bay. The drive through rolling hills and wooded surroundings offers a scenic journey, leading to this tranquil waterfront retreat.
1. Taylors Island – A Secluded Waterfront Haven
Taylors Island is a remote community on Maryland’s Eastern Shore that offers a secluded waterfront haven. Surrounded by Chesapeake Bay waters and dense forests, it provides residents with a serene and private lifestyle away from urban centers. The area is known for its large waterfront properties that offer stunning views and direct access to the bay.
With a population of around 170 people, Taylors Island maintains a tight-knit community feel. The minimal commercial development allows the natural beauty of the area to shine, and residents can enjoy boating, fishing, and exploring the local wildlife. It’s a place where the rhythms of nature dictate the pace of life.
Where is Taylors Island?
Taylors Island is located in Dorchester County on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, about 15 miles southwest of Cambridge. To reach it, you can take Route 50 to Cambridge and then follow Route 16 and Taylors Island Road directly to the community.
The drive offers sweeping views of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, with opportunities to spot local wildlife along the way. Its remote location and surrounding natural barriers make Taylors Island a true escape for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with the Chesapeake Bay’s unique environment.
