A gem near the southern end of Virginia's Eastern Shore is Kiptopeke State Park, a paradise for both bird watchers and fishermen. Since 1963, the site has been a focal point for bird migration studies in Virginia. Sponsored by the Coastal Virginia Wildlife Observatory, volunteers capture, examine, weigh, band and release resident and migratory birds on the scenic peninsula each year. Famous for its peregrine falcons, coopers hawks, sharpshin hawks, and merlins, Kiptopeke's hawk observatory ranks among the top 15 raptor sites nationwide.

The park also offers nature trails, pristine beaches, swimming, and recreational access to the Chesapeake Bay. The concrete ships located off the park's waterfront offer some of Virginia's finest fishing. For the land-lubber, a large fishing pier with picnic tables and lights attracts good numbers of fish. The southern beach is great for surf fishing and beachcombing. A bait-selling concession stand is open throughout the summer. Guided hikes, canoe and birding programs and modest rental accommodations with spectacular views are also part of the mix.

Formerly the site of the northern terminus of the Virginia Beach to Eastern Shore Ferry, Kiptopeke, named after an "Accawmack" Indian who had befriended early settlers, received its calling in 1949 when the ferry terminus was moved there from Cape Charles. Purchased by the state in 1992, Kiptopeke is three miles from the northern end of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. For information on the park call 757-331-2267 or email resvs@dcr.state.va.us.