The Top Beaches in Maryland

Maryland boasts beautiful coastal getaways, with options for everyone. Ocean City's famous boardwalk and wide sandy stretches are a classic. For quieter vibes, Assateague Island offers wild horses and serene beach experiences. North Beach and Betterton Beach provide Chesapeake Bay charm, ideal for families and shoreline relaxation. Consider these beach destinations for your next Maryland vacation.

Ocean City: Maryland's Premier Beach Destination

No discussion of Maryland beaches is complete without mentioning Ocean City. This iconic beach town offers miles of golden sand, a vibrant boardwalk, and endless entertainment options. The Ocean City beach is renowned for its cleanliness and gentle waves, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The boardwalk, a three-mile stretch of shops, restaurants, and arcades, provides a lively backdrop to your beach day. Whether you're looking to ride the waves, build sandcastles, or simply soak up the sun, Ocean City delivers a classic beach experience.

Assateague Island National Seashore: Wild Beauty and Wild Horses

For a more natural and secluded beach experience, head to Assateague Island National Seashore. This barrier island is famous for its wild horses, descendants of domesticated animals that adapted to the island's harsh environment. The Assateague beach offers pristine stretches of sand, perfect for long walks, birdwatching, and shelling. Keep an eye out for the wild horses grazing along the dunes or wading in the surf. Camping is available on the island, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Assateague Island. Remember to maintain a safe distance from the horses and avoid feeding them.

Sandy Point State Park: Chesapeake Bay Beach Fun

Located near the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, Sandy Point State Park offers a convenient and accessible beach for residents of the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area. The Sandy Point beach features a swimming area, picnic areas, and stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. It's a popular spot for swimming, boating, fishing, and crabbing. The park also has a boat launch and marina, making it easy to explore the bay by water. With its family-friendly atmosphere and convenient location, Sandy Point State Park is a great choice for a day trip or weekend getaway.

North Beach: A Charming Bay Town Beach

North Beach, a small town on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, offers a charming and laid-back beach experience. The North Beach is known for its calm waters, perfect for swimming and kayaking. The town has a quaint boardwalk with shops and restaurants, creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. North Beach is a great option for those seeking a quieter and more authentic Maryland beach experience away from the crowds of Ocean City.

Betterton Beach: Serenity on the Upper Shore

Located on the upper Eastern Shore of Maryland, Betterton Beach provides a tranquil escape with stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay. The Betterton beach features a sandy shoreline, a fishing pier, and a playground, making it ideal for families. The calm waters are perfect for swimming and wading. Betterton is a hidden gem offering a peaceful and relaxing beach experience.

Top Maryland Beaches: At A Glance

Here's a quick comparison of some of the best beaches in Maryland to help you choose the perfect spot:

Beach Name	Key Features	Activities	Best For
Ocean City	Wide sandy beach, lively boardwalk, amusement parks. The beach stretches for miles, offering plenty of space to spread out.	Swimming, sunbathing, surfing, boardwalk games, shopping, dining. Popular events and festivals are held throughout the summer months.	Families, tourists, those seeking a classic beach vacation with plenty of entertainment. Suitable for individuals of all ages and interests.
Assateague Island	Pristine natural beach, wild horses, undeveloped landscape. This island offers a unique opportunity to experience nature in its rawest form.	Hiking, birdwatching, camping, shelling, wildlife viewing (especially wild horses), stargazing. Kayaking and canoeing are also popular activities.	Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, campers, those seeking a secluded beach experience. Requires a sense of respect for the natural environment.
Sandy Point State Park	Convenient location, views of Chesapeake Bay Bridge, calm waters. Features picnic areas, playgrounds, and boat launch facilities.	Swimming, boating, fishing, crabbing, picnicking, birdwatching. Often hosts local events and concerts.	Families, residents of the Baltimore-Washington area, those looking for a quick and easy beach getaway. Perfect for a day trip.
North Beach	Charming small town, calm waters, quaint boardwalk. A quieter and more relaxed atmosphere compared to larger beach towns.	Swimming, kayaking, sunbathing, exploring local shops and restaurants. Regular community events and festivals.	Those seeking a peaceful and authentic beach experience, families with young children, history buffs. Offers a glimpse into local Maryland culture.
Betterton Beach	Tranquil setting, fishing pier, playground, scenic views of the Chesapeake Bay. A hidden gem on the upper Eastern Shore.	Swimming, fishing, sunbathing, picnicking, relaxing. Ideal for a quiet day by the water.	Families, those seeking a peaceful escape, birdwatchers. A great place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Chesapeake Bay.

From the bustling boardwalks to the serene shores, Maryland beaches offer something for everyone. So, whether you're planning a family vacation or a solo getaway, be sure to explore the diverse and beautiful coastline of Maryland.