About Us
It all began in 2009…
Looking for a place to escape crowds, Chris and Nikki Wardius started exploring the Eastern Shore of Virginia in ‘03 and enjoyed being there most summer weekends. They had no intention of leaving Pennsylvania but are really glad they made the decision to try a new lifestyle because it rewarded them with lifelong friendships and breathed new life into the town of Wachapreague.
They bought the Inn in May 2009, then realized the place needed a “boat load” of work. The inn was built in 1962 as overflow to the original three-story hotel, and 47 years later it still looked like 1962 inside the rooms……so they put some toys into the room closest to the office, for their two small children, and got right to work. They replaced all of the beds (twice), donated the mattresses to needy families, renovated the office, replaced all the toilets, 260’ well, hot water heaters, gigantic roof, porch ceiling, posts, gutters, flooring, paint, fans, heater/AC units. When a guest accidentally drove their car into the building, they added the breezeway to the back parking lot, and painted the brick. They had both buildings next door lifted and set on new foundations. During the lifting, they renovated the Big House and built an addition. They bought countless TVs, blankets, curtains, lamps, mini fridges, microwaves, coffee pots, patio chairs, etc, and really transformed it into comfortable place to stay.
The Daytrippers business was started to partner with local captains and provide activities. They created a booming retail store filled with merchandise made by friends and guests. Their children rode bikes, fished and swam off the docks of a quaint seaside town, growing up in a close knit community, while learning the southern hospitality business.
They are a woman-owned and women-run business with the very best staff who works together like a winning team. They all get rave reviews from customers who make trips to Wachapreague a tradition and have made lifelong friends with guests who take them fishing, hunting, and bring them treats. Our return clients are delighted to see the changes and energy surrounding the small community. It’s easy to fall in love with this Little City by the Sea.
