Little Creek Inlet

About

Introduction:

Little Creek Inlet is located near the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay and is just three miles west-southwest of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel; a popular fishing spot for local anglers. As such, many of the facilities in Little Creek are geared toward fishing boats and large sportfish boats, but all nine marinas in the creek accept transient guests at their slips - cruisers included. of those nine, five facilities have lifts starting from seven tons all the way up to 50 tons for haul-outs and related repair services.

Navigating the Water:

Use NOAA Chart 12254.

Little Creek is approached from the north via a passage off Thimble Shoal Channel, which runs through the main southerly tunnel of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. From Thimble Shoal Channel, exit to the south at flashing green buoy “1” and set an approximate course of 213 degrees magnetic for 1.3 miles until you sight quick flashing green buoy “1LC.” From this buoy, you will continue toward the south on an approximate course of 208 degrees magnetic for about two miles to pick up flashing red buoy “2.”

The last course change to the south will lead you into the inlet jetties at flashing green “3” and flashing red “4” on the east and west jetties, respectively. In past the inlet jetties you will see flashing green “5” and flashing red “6,” which lead farther south to flashing green “7” and flashing red “8.” It is at this point that you will make the west (starboard) turn into Fishermans Cove where all of the marina facilities are located.

South of this point is a restricted area due to the Navy Harbor Defense unit, which is located at the far southern portion of Little Creek. This in mind, also be aware that Naval vessels departing and arriving to Little Creek maintain a security perimeter while underway.; keep your distance.

Local Notices to Mariners:

Local Notices to Mariners are available online from the U.S. Coast Guard.