Family Matters: Hosting A Reunion at the Tides Inn
September 02, 2025
You’re probably familiar with the phrase “You can’t please everyone.” But when you’re planning a family reunion, that’s the goal: You want everyone to have fun, connect with one another and be happy.
With our central location, wide variety of activities for all ages and spacious accommodations and meeting spaces (hello, family movie night), the Tides Inn is the perfect setting to bring everyone together and satisfy their varied interests. “With views of Carter’s Creek and shared meals with loved ones,” says Allie Hobbs, director of events and planning at the Tides Inn, “you’ll create the kind of memories that will last long after the weekend ends.”
Now that you have the location decided, follow these three steps to ensure the event goes off without a hitch.
Planning six months to a year ahead of time will help us set aside the right number of rooms and even block off a combination of rooms and mini suites on the same floor so you can all be together. Plus, all your family members can mark their calendars well in advance.
While summer is always a wonderful time to visit Virginia’s Chesapeake Bay region, Allie recommends October for family gatherings. The resort is a bit quieter, the temperatures are pleasant and the vibrant fall foliage creates a stunning backdrop for any event. “Autumn also ushers in oyster season, giving guests the chance to enjoy one of the many experiences that make the Tides Inn so special,” Allie says.
Our programming and events teams work hand-in-hand to help families create unique reunions. Enjoy custom experiences designed around your family’s interests, from activities such as pickleball tournaments or private dinners crafted by our culinary team, to a photo scavenger hunt (the programming team will even create a slideshow of all the images as a keepsake).
Round out those bespoke moments with only-at-Tides experiences, like a family stroll along the Shoreline Trail, a sunset cruise or a small group Chesapeake Gold oyster outing.
There is so much to discover at the Tides Inn and nearby, so don’t overfill the itinerary. The grandkids may not know they’re into crabbing until they’ve tried it. Aunt Sally may learn that she has a knack for throwing pottery after checking out the Maker Space. Beautiful weather could inspire a leisurely ride to explore town on our complimentary bikes. Leaving room for spontaneity will make the trip even more special—and create opportunities for stronger relationships to be built.
To start planning your next family reunion at our waterfront resort, reach out to Allie and our events team at (804) 438-4455 or sales@tidesinn.com.