Part of Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, famous for wild ponies and pristine beaches. Features designated swimming areas, bicycle paths, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Entry fee required with limited facilities focused on natural experience.
Wildlife sanctuary on Chesapeake Bay featuring several shoreline access points but no designated swimming areas. Primarily focused on birdwatching, wildlife observation, and fishing. Limited facilities with nature as the main attraction.
Protected barrier island famous for its wild horses, undeveloped beaches, and diverse ecosystems. Features camping options, hiking trails, and pristine beaches. Split between Maryland and Virginia portions with different regulations and facilities.
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.
A diverse park featuring a crescent-shaped sandy beach, salt marsh, and rocky shoreline. Includes a unique stone pavilion built by the Works Progress Administration with camping and hiking trails.
A conservation area featuring a mile-long barrier beach extending from Watch Hill. Offers a natural beach environment with excellent bird watching, swimming, and hiking opportunities in a protected setting.
A picturesque beach beneath the historic Chatham Lighthouse with views of the constantly changing Chatham Bar and Atlantic Ocean. Popular for seal watching and long beach walks.
Part of the Cape Cod National Seashore featuring a wide sandy beach with access to bike trails. At low tide, visitors can sometimes see the remains of the shipwrecked Frances that ran aground in 1872.
A 6-mile barrier beach with diverse coastal habitats including maritime forest and salt marshes. Offers off-road vehicle access, primitive camping, and hiking trails through unique ecosystems.
Part of the Cape Cod National Seashore, featuring wide sandy beach and dunes with opportunities to spot whales offshore. Known for its spectacular sunsets and rolling surf on the Atlantic Ocean side.