Beaches in Maryland

Maryland

Faris/stock.adobe.com

What defines Maryland’s coastal landscape?
- Maryland is defined by its scenic waterways and 31 miles of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean and the magnificent Chesapeake Bay.
Are there small beaches near D.C.?
- Yes! The coastline is dotted with small sandy beaches that can be easily reached from Washington, D.C..
Where do vacationers go for waterfront fun?
- Popular destinations for serious waterfront fun include:
  - Ocean City
  - Sandy Point State Park
  - Assateague Island
  - North Beach
Are there secluded beach spots in Maryland?
- Yes! For those who prefer peaceful beach time, there are many parks with isolated stretches of sand, such as Hart-Miller State Park on the uninhabited Hart-Miller Island.
Are all of Maryland’s best beaches on the ocean?
- No! Some of the best beaches are located on riverbanks or man-made lakes, including:
  - Cherry Beach on the Nanticoke River
  - Rocky Gap State Park Beach on Lake Habeeb

Best Time to Visit the Beaches in Maryland

June to August – Best overall time for swimming, sunbathing, and classic boardwalk fun.
July & August – Peak summer with warm ocean water, festivals, and vibrant beach towns.
May & September – Comfortable weather, fewer crowds, and perfect for beachcombing and coastal biking.
October – Enjoy cooler temperatures, fall events, and peaceful shoreline walks.
November to April – Off-season with brisk air, quiet beaches, and scenic views of the Atlantic.

This post may include affiliate links. Click here for Affiliate Disclosure.

1. Relax on miles of Ocean City's sandy beaches

Relax on miles of Ocean City's sandy beaches

What is Ocean City?
- Ocean City is a resort town located between the Atlantic Ocean and Isle of Wight Bay, known for its 10 miles of sandy public beaches and a 3-mile-long boardwalk.
How many restaurants are in Ocean City?
- Ocean City boasts over 200 restaurants, offering a wide variety of dining experiences.
Is Ocean City a family-friendly destination?
- Yes! Ocean City is a popular family destination, offering a range of waterfront fun, including Trimper’s Rides on the southern end of the boardwalk.
What water activities are available in Ocean City?
- Visitors can enjoy kayaking and explore the waters on various tour boats that cruise off the beach.
Can visitors take boat tours to nearby locations?
- Yes! It is easy to hop onto a tour boat and visit nearby Assateague Island.
Are there live music and events in Ocean City?
- Music lovers can enjoy free summer concerts on the beach and special events such as Sundaes in the Park.

2. See magnificent wild horses on Assateague State Park

See magnificent wild horses on Assateague State Park

What is Assateague State Park?
- Assateague State Park is Maryland's only oceanfront park, located on a beautiful barrier island famous for its 2 miles of sandy beaches, diverse bird species, and magnificent wild horses.
Where is Assateague State Park located?
- The park is situated on the 37-mile-long Assateague Island, between Sinepuxent Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
What activities can visitors enjoy at Assateague State Park?
- Visitors can enjoy:
  - Swimming
  - Sunbathing
  - Beachcombing
  - Fishing
  - Surfing
Are there trails for hiking and exploration?
- Yes! The interior of the island features shady trails that are great for exploring on foot.
Can visitors explore by kayak or canoe?
- Yes! The park has small secluded coves that are perfect for kayaking and canoeing.
What wildlife can be found in Assateague State Park?
- The park is home to many animals besides the famous wild horses, including deer and various water birds.
Is there camping available at Assateague State Park?
- Yes! There is a campsite on the bay side of the island.

3. Have a picnic on the Betterton Beach Waterfront Park beach

Have a picnic on the Betterton Beach Waterfront Park beach

What is Betterton?
- Betterton was a famous beach resort town from the late 1800s until the early 20th century, known for its luxury hotels and stately homes perched on hills overlooking the ocean.
What is Betterton like today?
- Today, the village is mostly a retirement community, offering a peaceful and quiet atmosphere with a lovely beach overlooking the Chesapeake Bay.
Are there any historic homes still standing?
- Yes, while the big hotels are gone, a few Victorian homes still remain in the village.
What is Betterton Beach like?
- Betterton Beach Waterfront Park stretches along the shore at the point where the Sassafras River meets the sea.
- It features 5 miles of beautifully landscaped area, a bathhouse, a picnic pavilion, shaded benches, and picnic tables near the water.
Where is Betterton Beach located?
- Address: 100 Main Street, Betterton, MD 21610

4. Enjoy the lovely sandy beach at Calvert Cliffs State Park

Enjoy the lovely sandy beach at Calvert Cliffs State Park

What is Calvert Cliffs State Park?
- Calvert Cliffs State Park is located near Lusby, Maryland, on the end of the Calvert Peninsula in Chesapeake Bay. It is named for the massive cliffs that dominate this 30-mile-long portion of the Chesapeake shoreline.
Why are the Calvert Cliffs significant?
- The area is famous for its fossils, with remains from 600 species dating back to the Miocene sub-epoch.
What natural features does Calvert Cliffs State Park have?
- The park is heavily forested and includes a small pond as well as lush wetland areas.
How many hiking trails are in the park?
- The park has 13 miles of hiking trails, with a lovely sandy beach located at the end of a 1.8-mile-long trail.
What activities can visitors enjoy at Calvert Cliffs State Park?
- The park is popular with fossil hunters searching for prehistoric remains.
- It is also a great location for birdwatching, with more than 160 species of birds spotted in the area.
Where is Calvert Cliffs State Park located?
- Address: 10540 H.G. Trueman Rd, Lusby, MD 20657
- Phone: 443-975-4360

5. Fish on the fishing pier at Cherry Beach, Maryland

Fish on the fishing pier at Cherry Beach, Maryland

What is Cherry Beach?
- Cherry Beach is a popular public park located in Sharptown, Maryland, on the shore of the upper Nanticoke River. It was originally donated to the town by A.W. and Ida Robinson for public recreation.
How far is Cherry Beach from Salisbury?
- Cherry Beach is located about 15 minutes from Salisbury.
What amenities does Cherry Beach offer?
- The park includes:
  - A fishing pier
  - A boat ramp
  - A large picnic pavilion with picnic tables
  - A nicely maintained beach area
What improvements were made during the 2009 renovation?
- The park received a kids’ pavilion and a walking trail linking the beach area to Cope Bennett Park.
Is Cherry Beach a good place for families?
- Yes! Cherry Beach is a popular spot for families to spend a warm, sunny day enjoying the natural beauty of the Nanticoke River.
Are pets allowed at Cherry Beach?
- Yes! Pets are allowed on the beach.
Where is Cherry Beach located?
- Address: 110 Cherry Beach Road, Sharptown, MD 21861

6. Enjoy the lake beach in Cunningham Falls State Park

Enjoy the lake beach in Cunningham Falls State Park

What is Cunningham Falls State Park?
- Cunningham Falls State Park is a popular nature retreat located near Thurmont, Maryland, in the heart of the scenic Catoctin Mountains. It is a favorite spot for city dwellers from Washington, D.C. looking for a weekend escape.
How is Cunningham Falls State Park divided?
- The park is divided into two distinct areas:
  - One area features a lake, waterfalls, and camping.
  - The other area has the Scales and Tales Aviary, a historic iron furnace, and additional camping facilities.
Does the park have a lake?
- Yes! A small, man-made lake in the park features a sandy beach, perfect for swimming, fishing, and canoeing.
Are there hiking trails in Cunningham Falls State Park?
- Yes! The park has shady hiking trails leading in various directions:
  - Visitors can explore the remnants of an old iron furnace.
  - Hikers can also visit Cunningham Falls, the largest cascading waterfall in Maryland.
Where is Cunningham Falls State Park located?
- Address: 8916 Chesapeake Ave, North Beach, MD 20714
- Phone: 301-855-6681

7. Swim and relax on the sandy lakeshore beach at Deep Creek Lake

Swim and relax on the sandy lakeshore beach at Deep Creek Lake

What is Deep Creek Lake?
- Deep Creek Lake is the largest inland body of water in Maryland, featuring nearly a mile of scenic shoreline and covering about 3,900 acres.
How was Deep Creek Lake created?
- The lake was man-made in 1920 as a result of the damming of Deep Creek. Today, it is part of Deep Creek Lake State Park.
What activities can visitors enjoy at Deep Creek Lake?
- The lake is great for fishing and birdwatching.
- During hot summer days, visitors can enjoy swimming on the sandy lakeshore beach.
Is there a boat ramp for public access?
- Yes! There is a public access boat ramp available for visitors.
What types of fish can anglers find in Deep Creek Lake?
- Anglers frequently visit the lake for:
  - Largemouth bass
  - Smallmouth bass
  - Rock bass
  - Northern pike
  - Other fish species
Where is Deep Creek Lake located?
- Address: 898 State Park Rd, Swanton, MD 21561
- Phone: 301-387-4111

8. Visit the beach in Greenbrier State Park

Visit the beach in Greenbrier State Park

What is Greenbrier State Park?
- Greenbrier State Park is located near Boonsboro, on the slopes of South Mountain, and is best known for the Appalachian Trail that passes through it.
Does Greenbrier State Park have a lake?
- Yes! The park features a 42-acre man-made lake with a lovely beach for swimming in the summer.
What activities can visitors enjoy at Greenbrier State Park?
- Popular activities include:
  - Swimming in the lake
  - Canoeing
  - Fishing
  - Hunting
Are there hiking trails in the park?
- Yes! There are many smaller trails running through the park that connect to the Appalachian Trail.
Does Greenbrier State Park offer camping and picnic areas?
- Yes! The park has a simple, rustic camping area as well as a picnic area with picnic tables and benches.
Where can visitors get maps of the park?
- The nearby park office provides maps for visitors looking to explore the network of trails.
Where is Greenbrier State Park located?
- Address: 21843 National Pike, Boonsboro, MD 21713
- Phone: 301-791-4767

9. Enjoy the 1,500-foot-long sandy Hammerman Beach

Enjoy the 1,500-foot-long sandy Hammerman Beach

What is Hammerman Beach?
- Hammerman Beach is a day-use area located within Gunpowder State Park, featuring a 1,500-foot-long sandy beach along the Gunpowder River.
Is there a lifeguard at Hammerman Beach?
- Yes! A lifeguard is on duty during the swimming season.
What family-friendly amenities are available?
- The area is popular for family outings and offers:
  - Kids’ playgrounds
  - Picnic pavilions
  - Kayak and canoe rentals
  - A concession area
Is fishing allowed at Hammerman Beach?
- Yes! Fishing is a popular activity, and many anglers visit the beach to try their luck.
Are there dining options nearby?
- Yes! The area has a boathouse and the Riverside Grille for visitors who get hungry.
Are there hiking trails at Hammerman Beach?
- Yes! There is a short and easy hiking trail for visitors to explore.
Is there a fee to use Hammerman Beach?
- Yes, there is a fee for beach access, and entry is limited due to the small parking area.
Where is Hammerman Beach located?
- Address: 7200 Graces Quarters Road, Middle River, MD 21220
- Phone: 410-335-3461

10. Hart-Miller State Park

Hart-Miller State Park

What is Hart-Miller State Park?
- Hart-Miller State Park is a 1,100-acre island park located in Chesapeake Bay on uninhabited Hart-Miller Island. It is situated near the mouth of Middle River and is accessible only by boat.
How can visitors access Hart-Miller State Park?
- The island can be accessed only by boat. There is safe mooring available on the western shore near the 3,000-foot-long sandy beach.
What areas are included in Hart-Miller State Park?
- The park also includes Pleasure Island and Hawk Cove.
Are there camping facilities on Hart-Miller Island?
- Yes! There are several campsites, which are especially popular with anglers looking to fish in the area.
Does the park have hiking trails?
- Yes! The south cell of the park features over eight miles of hiking trails that loop around a large, clear pond, providing spectacular views of Chesapeake Bay.
What is the Long Trail Loop?
- The 1.8-mile Long Trail Loop is a popular hiking path featuring interpretive signs about the park’s wildlife and ecosystems.
Where is Hart-Miller State Park located?
- Address: 2813 Jerusalem Rd, Kingsville, MD 21087
- Phone: 410-592-2897

Best Time to Visit	Places to Stay	Tips for Visiting
Summer (June-August) – Peak season with warm weather and beach activities.	Hilton Ocean City Oceanfront Suites – A luxury stay with direct beach access.	Visit Ocean City Beach – Enjoy the famous boardwalk, amusement parks, and water sports.
Spring (March-May) – Pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.	Francis Scott Key Family Resort – A family-friendly stay near Ocean City.	Explore Assateague Island – See wild horses and enjoy unspoiled beaches.
Fall (September-November) – Warm waters with fewer tourists.	The Inn at Perry Cabin – A luxury waterfront retreat in St. Michaels.	Relax at North Beach – A peaceful getaway with a charming boardwalk.
Winter (December-February) – Cool but great for quiet walks and coastal retreats.	The Lighthouse Inn – A historic stay in Chesapeake Beach.	Walk Along Chesapeake Beach – Enjoy scenic views and fresh seafood.

Map:

Maryland Weather by Month:

Month	High (°F)	Low (°F)	Precip. (in)	Conditions
January	40	25	3.0	Cold
February	45	28	2.5	Cold
March	55	35	3.5	Mild
April	65	45	3.8	Mild
May	75	55	4.0	Pleasant
June	82	65	4.5	Warm & Humid
July	85	70	4.8	Hot & Humid
August	82	68	4.2	Warm & Humid
September	75	55	3.8	Mild
October	60	40	3.2	Cool
November	45	30	3.5	Cold
December	40	25	3.0	Cold

Plan Your Trip

Table of Contents:

1. Relax on miles of Ocean City's sandy beaches
2. See magnificent wild horses on Assateague State Park
3. Have a picnic on the Betterton Beach Waterfront Park beach
4. Enjoy the lovely sandy beach at Calvert Cliffs State Park
5. Fish on the fishing pier at Cherry Beach, Maryland
6. Enjoy the lake beach in Cunningham Falls State Park
7. Swim and relax on the sandy lakeshore beach at Deep Creek Lake
8. Visit the beach in Greenbrier State Park
9. Enjoy the 1,500-foot-long sandy Hammerman Beach
10. Hart-Miller State Park