Maryland’s stunning coastline stretches over 3,100 miles, offering a variety of beaches to suit every kind of beach-lover. From the roaring waves of the Atlantic Ocean to the calmer shores of the Chesapeake Bay, here’s our guide to Maryland’s best beaches to help you plan your perfect day by the water:
1. Assateague Island National Seashore
Location: Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland
Unique Features & Attractions: Wild horses: The island is famous for its herd of wild horses, descendants of ponies that may have survived shipwrecks or been intentionally released. Diverse wildlife: Assateague is home to various wildlife, including deer, birds, and marine life. Beachcombing: The pristine beaches offer opportunities for beachcombing and searching for seashells and other treasures. Fishing: Both surf fishing and bay fishing are popular activities. Camping: The park offers camping options, including both traditional and primitive campsites. Hiking and biking: Trails wind through the island’s diverse ecosystems, allowing for hiking and biking. Boating and kayaking: The calm waters of the Sinepuxent Bay are ideal for boating and kayaking. Birdwatching: The island is a haven for birdwatchers, with numerous species calling it home or migrating through.
Amenities Offered: Visitor center with exhibits and information. Campground with restrooms and showers. Picnic areas. Boat ramps. Fishing piers. Nature trails.
The Best Time to Visit: Shoulder seasons (spring and fall): Offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal for exploring the island’s natural beauty. Summer: Popular for swimming and other water activities, but expect larger crowds. Winter: Quieter time, suitable for wildlife viewing and off-season activities.
Recommended Packing List: Sunscreen and insect repellent, beach gear (towels, chairs, umbrellas), warm clothing for cooler evenings, water and snacks, binoculars for wildlife viewing, and a camera to capture the beauty of the island.
Entry Fees: There is a fee to enter Assateague Island National Seashore. Fees vary depending on the type of vehicle and the length of stay.
Lifeguards on Duty: Lifeguards are typically on duty during the summer months at designated swimming areas.
Want to learn more? Check out our comprehensive guide to Assateague Island here.
2. Calvert Cliffs State Park
Location: Calvert County, Maryland
Unique Features & Attractions: Massive cliffs overlooking the Chesapeake Bay. Fossil-rich shoreline with abundant shark teeth and other marine fossils. Sandy beach for swimming and sunbathing. Hiking trails for exploring the park’s diverse landscapes. Tidal marshlands and freshwater ponds. Recycled tire playground for children.
Amenities Offered: Picnic areas with grills. Restrooms. Visitor center with information and exhibits. Boat launch. Fishing opportunities.
The Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer for swimming and beach activities.
Recommended Packing List: Sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, water bottle, comfortable walking shoes, and fossil hunting tools (if desired).
Entry Fees: Day-use fee: $5 per vehicle for Maryland residents, $7 per vehicle for non-residents.
Lifeguards on Duty: No lifeguards on duty. Swim at your own risk.
3. Ocean City Beach
Location: Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland
Unique Features & Attractions: Boardwalk: A classic 3-mile boardwalk with amusement parks, arcades, shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Ocean City Inlet: A popular spot for fishing, boating, and jet skiing. Northside Park: A large public park with a playground, splash pad, picnic areas, and a fishing pier. Northside Park, Ocean City, Maryland, USA Assawoman Bay: A calm bay for kayaking, paddleboarding, and other water sports.
Amenities Offered: Lifeguard-protected swimming areas. Beach wheelchair access. Public restrooms and showers. Boardwalk shops and restaurants. Amusement parks and arcades. Mini-golf courses. Fishing piers. Boat rentals.
The Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-August): The most popular time to visit, with warm weather and plenty of activities. Shoulder Seasons (Spring and Fall): Less crowded and more affordable, with comfortable temperatures. Winter: Quietest time of year, with opportunities for off-season deals and fewer crowds.
Recommended Packing List: A swimsuit, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, beach towel, water bottle, comfortable shoes for walking on the boardwalk and beach, and a light jacket or sweater for evenings.
Entry Fees: The beach itself is free to access. Some attractions on the boardwalk and in town may have admission fees.
Lifeguards on Duty: Lifeguards are typically on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and sometimes during weekends outside of those dates. Check with local authorities for specific dates and hours.
Want to learn more? Check out our guide about the Best Things to Do in Ocean City, MD, here.
4. North Beach
Location: Calvert County, Maryland
Unique Features & Attractions: A laid-back atmosphere and small-town charm. Half-mile boardwalk with stunning views of the Bay. Public fishing pier. Boardwalk shops and restaurants. Chesapeake Beach Railway Station (historic landmark). Chesapeake Beach Waterpark (nearby attraction).
Amenities Offered: Public restrooms. Lifeguard stations (seasonal). Parking (fees may apply). Picnic areas. Playground.
The Best Time to Visit: Summer months (June-August) for warm weather and beach activities. Shoulder seasons (Spring and Fall) for milder temperatures and fewer crowds.
Recommended Packing List: A swimsuit, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, beach towel, water bottle, comfortable shoes for walking on the boardwalk and beach, and a light jacket or sweater for evenings.
Entry Fees: There may be parking fees and beach access fees for non-residents. Check the town’s website for current rates.
Lifeguards on Duty: Lifeguards are typically on duty during the summer months. Check the town’s website for specific dates and hours.
5. Sandy Point State Park
Location: Anne Arundel County, Maryland
Unique Features & Attractions: Large sandy beach with breathtaking views of the Chesapeake Bay. Historic Sandy Point Farmhouse, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Sandy Point Shoal Lighthouse is located in shallow waters near the beach. Variety of wildlife, including migratory birds and waterfowl. Scenic hiking trails through Corcoran Woods.
Amenities Offered: Swimming beach with lifeguard supervision during peak season. Picnic areas with grills and shelters. Playground. Marina store and boat rentals. Fishing and crabbing piers. Restrooms and showers. Food concession stand.
The Best Time to Visit: Summer months (June-August) for warm weather and beach activities. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) for milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter (November-March) for peaceful solitude and opportunities for birdwatching.
Recommended Packing List: A swimsuit, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, beach towel, water bottle, comfortable shoes for walking on the boardwalk and beach, a light jacket or sweater for evenings, and hiking shoes (if desired).
Entry Fees: There is a daily vehicle entrance fee to the park. Maryland residents receive a discount on the entrance fee.
Lifeguards on Duty: Lifeguards are typically on duty during the peak summer season, usually from Memorial Day to Labor Day. It’s best to check the park’s website or call ahead for the most accurate information.
6. Breezy Point Beach & Campground
Location: 5300 Breezy Point Road, Chesapeake Beach, MD 20732
Unique Features & Attractions: Half-mile of sandy beach with netted swimming area. 200-foot fishing and crabbing pier. Playground for children. Shaded picnic areas. Short-term camping with bay-front views.
Amenities Offered: Restrooms. Outdoor showers. Charcoal grills. Beach wheelchair available with prior notice. Beach chairs, umbrellas, kayak, and paddle board rentals are available.
The Best Time to Visit: Summer months (June-August) for warm weather and peak activity. Weekdays for less crowded conditions. Weekends and holidays for a more lively atmosphere.
Recommended Packing List: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, beach towel, bathing suit, water shoes, snacks and drinks, fishing gear (if desired), and camping gear (if camping).
Entry Fees: Free parking. Camping fees apply (see website for details).
Lifeguards on Duty: Lifeguards are on duty during peak season (typically June-August).
7. Deep Creek Lake
Location: Deep Creek Lake State Park, Maryland
Unique Features & Attractions: Large sandy beach. Lifeguards on duty during peak season. Picnic areas. Shallow water is ideal for families with children. Discovery Center with educational exhibits and activities for kids.
Amenities Offered: Restrooms. Snack bar. Kayak and paddleboard rentals. Boat launch. Playgrounds. Picnic tables and grills.
The Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to August) for swimming and water activities.
Recommended Packing List: Swimsuit, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, towel, water shoes (optional), and snacks and drinks.
Entry Fees: There is a day-use fee to enter Deep Creek Lake State Park.
Lifeguards on Duty: Lifeguards are on duty during peak season (summer months).
Want to learn more? Check out our guide to Planning Your Visit to Deep Creek Lake, MD, here.
8. Rocky Point Beach and Park
Location: Essex, Maryland
Unique Features & Attractions: Expansive views of the Chesapeake Bay, Hart-Miller Island, and Craighill Light. Sandy beach with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Variety of recreational activities including boating, fishing, kayaking, and volleyball. A fishing pier for anglers to cast their lines. Playground for children. Picnic areas with pavilions and grills. Sailing center for lessons and rentals. Boat ramps for easy water access.
Amenities Offered: Restrooms and showers. Lifeguard stations (during peak season). Parking lot. Picnic tables and grills. Playground equipment. Volleyball courts. Boat ramps. Sailing center. Fishing pier.
The Best Time to Visit: Summer months (June to August) offer warm weather and ideal conditions for swimming and other water activities. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities without the crowds.
Recommended Packing List: Swimsuit, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, towel, water bottle, snacks, beach chair or blanket, fishing gear (if desired), and boating equipment (if desired).
Entry Fees: There is a fee to enter the park, which varies depending on the season and type of activity. Additional fees may apply for parking, boat launching, and other services.
Lifeguards on Duty: Lifeguards are typically on duty during peak season (summer months). It is important to check with park officials for the most up-to-date information on lifeguard availability.
9. Matapeake Clubhouse and Beach
Location: 2010 Sonny Schulz Blvd, Stevensville, MD 21666
Unique Features & Attractions: Very small beach with a strip of sand that can fit 70 people max. Nicer sand than at Sandy Point. Free entry and free parking. Boat launch and fishing spots. Dog-friendly.
Amenities Offered: Restrooms. Picnic tables. Dog-friendly areas. Wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking.
The Best Time to Visit: Open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM every day. The best time to visit is when the weather is warm and sunny.
Recommended Packing List: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, water bottle, snacks, towel, and beach chair.
Entry Fees: Free admission.
Lifeguards on Duty: No lifeguards on duty. Swim at your own risk.
10. Rocky Gap State Park Beach
Location: Rocky Gap State Park, Allegany County, Maryland
Unique Features & Attractions: Lake Habeeb, is known for its “bluest water in Maryland”. White sand beach. Hiking trails around Lake Habeeb. Scenic views of Evitts Mountain. Boating and fishing opportunities on Lake Habeeb.
Amenities Offered: Boat rentals. Picnic areas. Campground. Restrooms. Showers.
The Best Time to Visit: Summer for swimming and boating. Fall for beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures.
Recommended Packing List: Swimsuit, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, towel, water bottle, and hiking shoes (if planning on hiking)
Entry Fees: There is a daily park entrance fee. Camping fees may apply.
Lifeguards on Duty: Lifeguards are typically on duty during peak season (summer months).
11. Point Lookout State Park
Location: St. Mary’s County, Maryland
Unique Features & Attractions: Historical Significance: The park preserves the site of a Civil War prisoner of war camp and the Point Lookout Light, one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States. Natural Beauty: The park offers sandy beaches, rock jetties, seawalls, and diverse wildlife, including a variety of bird species. Recreational Activities: The park provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, camping, and picnicking.
Amenities Offered: Beach Facilities: Picnic areas, restrooms, showers, and a playground. Other Amenities: Boat launch, fishing pier, camp store, and a Civil War museum.
The Best Time to Visit: Summer (May to September): Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Spring and Fall (April-May and September-October): Pleasant weather for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the park’s historical sites. Winter (November to March): Quieter time for enjoying the park’s natural beauty and potential for winter birdwatching.
Recommended Packing List: Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, water bottle, snacks, camera, and fishing gear (if desired).
Entry Fees: There is a daily park entrance fee.
Lifeguards on Duty: Lifeguards are typically on duty during the summer months. It’s important to check the park’s website or contact park staff for the most up-to-date information on lifeguard availability.
12. Hammerman Beach
Location: Gunpowder Falls State Park, Baltimore County, Maryland
Unique Features & Attractions: 1,500-foot sandy beach on the Gunpowder River. Scenic views of the river and surrounding forest. Popular for kayaking, boating, fishing, hiking, and picnicking. Accessible facilities for people with disabilities.
Amenities Offered: Picnic pavilions and tables. Playgrounds. Canoe/kayak rentals. Food concessions (seasonal). Bathhouse.
The Best Time to Visit: Summer months (June-August) for swimming and sunbathing. Spring and fall for milder temperatures and less crowded conditions.
Recommended Packing List: Swimsuit, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, towel, water bottle, snacks, picnic blanket or chairs, and bug-repellent.
Entry Fees: There is a daily park entrance fee.
Lifeguards on Duty: Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months (typically Memorial Day to Labor Day).
13. Hart-Miller Island
Location: Hart-Miller Island State Park, Baltimore County, Maryland (Accessible by boat only)
Unique Features & Attractions: 3,000-foot sandy beach. Abundant birdwatching opportunities. Hiking and biking trails. Camping facilities. Fishing and crabbing. Boating and kayaking.
Amenities Offered: Restrooms. Picnic areas. Boat ramps. Campground with water and electricity.
The Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall for mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer for swimming and sunbathing.
Recommended Packing List: Boat (or access to one), sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, sunglasses, water, snacks, beach towels, swimsuit, and camping gear (if camping).
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to the park, but there may be fees for camping or other activities.
Lifeguards on Duty: No lifeguards on duty. Swim at your own risk.
Want to learn more? Check out our guide to Planning Your Visit to Hart Miller Island, MD, here.
14. Betterton Beach
Location: Betterton, Kent County, Maryland
Unique Features & Attractions: Large sandy beach for swimming and sunbathing. Fishing jetty and pier. Picnic pavilion with bay views. Beach volleyball court. Historic charm and scenic beauty.
Amenities Offered: Bathhouse with restrooms and showers. Boardwalk with benches and lighting. Handicap access. Public parking. Boat launch and pier.
The Best Time to Visit: Summer months (June-August) for warm weather and swimming. Shoulder seasons (Spring and Fall) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Recommended Packing List: Beach towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, bathing suit, beach chair or blanket, water bottle, snacks, and fishing gear (if desired).
Entry Fees: Free admission.
Lifeguards on Duty: No lifeguards on duty. Swim at your own risk.
15. North East Beach
Location: North East, Maryland
Unique Features & Attractions: Shallow water access to the Susquehanna Flats of the Chesapeake Bay. Canoe and kayak hand-launch area. Popular for birdwatching, including bald eagles. Picturesque sunsets.
Amenities Offered: Picnic tables. Grills. Restroom with cold showers.
The Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for swimming and sunbathing. Fall for birdwatching and cooler temperatures.
Recommended Packing List: Swimsuit, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, beach towel, water bottle, and snacks.
Entry Fees: Free admission.
Lifeguards on Duty: No lifeguards on duty. Swim at your own risk.
