Historic resort town on the western shore of Chesapeake Bay known for its water park, fishing charters, and marina. Limited public beach access with primary beach access through the Chesapeake Beach Water Park (seasonal operation with admission fee).
MD Beaches
Calvert Cliffs State Park
Named for the impressive 24-million-year-old fossil-bearing cliffs. Features a small beach accessible via a 1.8-mile hike, popular for fossil hunting and swimming. Limited facilities at beach area with main amenities at the park entrance.
Matapeake Beach
Quiet Chesapeake Bay beach on Kent Island with panoramic views of the Bay Bridge. Features a separate dog-friendly beach area, fishing pier, and historic clubhouse. Less crowded alternative to Sandy Point with small entry fee.
Betterton Beach
Five-acre waterfront park on the Chesapeake Bay with 700 feet of shoreline and one of the Bay’s few nettle-free beaches. Features a fishing jetty, gazebo, picnic facilities, and bath house. Free admission with ample parking.
Hart-Miller Island
Remote island in Chesapeake Bay accessible only by boat featuring a 3,000-foot sandy beach on the western shore. Offers primitive camping, hiking trails, and natural beach experience. No facilities except portable toilets during summer months.
Point Lookout State Park
Historic park at the southern tip of Maryland’s western shore where the Potomac River meets Chesapeake Bay. Features a beach area, fishing pier, boat launch, campground, and Civil War museum. Entry fee required with spectacular water views.
Gunpowder Falls State Park (Hammerman Area)
Popular swimming beach on the Gunpowder River with 1,500 feet of shoreline and designated swimming area. Features picnic facilities, playgrounds, canoe/kayak rentals, and hiking trails. Entry fee required with seasonal lifeguards.
Rocky Point Beach and Park
Baltimore County park on the Back and Middle Rivers featuring a swimming beach, fishing pier, boat ramps, and picnic areas. Offers beautiful water views with pavilion rentals available for events. Entry fee required with seasonal operation.
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.
Flag Ponds Nature Park
Calvert County park featuring a sandy beach popular for fossil hunting, especially prehistoric shark teeth. Includes hiking trails, observation platforms, and fishing areas. Limited facilities with entry fee required and half-mile hike to beach.