Small public beach on the Chesapeake Bay with limited public access (primarily open weekends and holidays during summer). Features picnic areas, pavilion, and kayak launch. Popular for weddings and special events with reservation system.
Beaches for Kayaking
Elms Beach Park
Quiet St. Mary’s County park on Chesapeake Bay featuring a sandy beach, fishing opportunities, and natural setting. Offers picnic facilities, portable toilets, and nature observation. Less crowded than many Bay beaches with limited facilities.
Matoaka Beach Cabins
Private beach area on the Chesapeake Bay with cabin rentals and beach access. Known for fossil hunting opportunities along the shoreline. Limited access through cabin rentals or special arrangements with owners. Popular for quiet getaways.
Bennett’s Pier
Remote beach area within Milford Neck Wildlife Area on Delaware Bay. Limited facilities with natural setting ideal for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife observation. Part of important migratory bird habitat with minimal development.
Sunset Beach
North Carolina’s southernmost beach town, featuring a wide, flat beach with abundant seashells. Known for beautiful sunsets, Bird Island Reserve, the Kindred Spirit Mailbox, and several nearby golf courses.
Fenwick Island State Park
Peaceful barrier island beach between the Atlantic Ocean and Little Assawoman Bay. Features 3 miles of barrier island beaches, bath facilities, food concession, and rental stands for umbrellas and chairs. Less crowded than some beaches.
Island Beach State Park
Preserved barrier island ecosystem with over 10 miles of natural beaches, dunes, and maritime forest. Features swimming beaches with facilities, nature programs, surf fishing, and kayak launch sites. Home to the state governor’s summer residence.
Orient Beach State Park
Natural beach on the tip of Long Island’s North Fork with maritime forest, salt marsh, and rare plants. Features kayak rentals, picnic pavilions, and a beach suitable for families with small children.
Third Beach
A gentle beach on the Sakonnet River with calm waters perfect for families with small children. Popular for windsurfing, kayaking, and other water sports with boat launch facilities available.
Mackerel Cove
A crescent-shaped beach on Conanicut Island (Jamestown) featuring clear waters and scenic views. Popular for swimming and kayaking with a family-friendly atmosphere and seasonal lifeguards.