The Best Beaches Near Washington DC
What is the Most Popular Beach Near Washington DC?
If you’re searching for the best beaches near Washington, DC, you’re in luck. The capital’s proximity to the Atlantic Coast means that you have access to a variety of sandy shores, great for a getaway. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or an action-packed day on the water, you’ll find plenty of options from thrilling water sports to peaceful picnics and beachcombing.
Not only do these beaches offer sun and sand, but they also provide stunning scenery and a chance to unwind from the hustle and bustle of city life. So, pack your sunscreen, grab your shades, and get ready to explore the best coastal retreats near Washington, DC.
1. Sandy Point State Park
Views that capture the Chesapeake spirit
Good for: Families, Adventure
Sandy Point State Park offers a quintessential Maryland beach experience. Positioned on the western shore of the USA, it provides sweeping views of the iconic Chesapeake Bay Bridge, making it a haven for photographers seeking amazing sunset shots and families looking for a spot to relax by the water.
You can explore the shoreline, rich with shells and small rocks, offering delightful finds for beachcombers. The calm bay waters are excellent for paddle sports, making it an ideal spot for kayaking enthusiasts, and birdwatchers can spot migratory birds and marine wildlife. If you’re planning a visit, remember to bring your camera for those picturesque views and maybe a pair of binoculars for birdwatching.
Location: 1100 E College Pkwy, Annapolis, MD 21409, USA
Open: Daily from 7 am to sunset
Phone: +1 410-974-2149
Sandy Point State Park
2. North Beach
Boardwalk bliss with bayfront beauty
Good for: History, Couples, Unusual
If you love to mix education with leisure, head for the charming North Beach. Its historic boardwalk is lined with informative plaques about the local Chesapeake Bay ecology, offering visitors an engaging learning experience. The beach is also wonderful for evening picnics or romantic walks, thanks to its breathtaking sunsets over the bay.
If you’re looking for more, the beach offers volleyball courts and hosts community events like movie nights and art fairs. Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby Wetlands Overlook Park, where trails allow for quick transitions from sunbathing to birdwatching. For a memorable visit, bring a blanket for an evening picnic while enjoying the sunset views.
Location: 9023 Bay Ave, North Beach, MD 20714, USA
Open: Daily from 8 am to 8 pm
Phone: +1 410-286-3799
North Beach
3. Chesapeake Beach
History meets relaxation by the bay
Good for: Families, Luxury, Photo
Chesapeake Beach is steeped in history, sitting on the site of a once-bustling amusement pier. Today, remnants of its past are visible offshore, offering a glimpse into Maryland’s resort history that brings families and history buffs alike for its unique blend of leisure and nostalgia.
Enjoy shoreline fishing or take a leisurely walk along the Scenic Railway Trail, which winds through marshes and osprey habitats. Don’t forget to stop by the nearby Bruce Gabrielson Surf Art Museum to learn more. For a bit of shade, consider bringing a beach umbrella for shade as you explore the gentle sloping shoreline, fantastic for long wades and safe exploration for kids.
Location: 8200 Bayside Rd, Chesapeake Beach, MD 20732, USA
Chesapeake Beach
4. Point Lookout State Park
A beach with historic depths
Good for: History, Unusual, Budget
At Point Lookout State Park, where the Potomac River meets the Chesapeake Bay, visitors enjoy a unique dual-waterfront experience. This park is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, with nearby ruins and tales from its Civil War prison camp days adding intrigue to any visit. Don’t miss the Point Lookout Lighthouse, standing at the southern tip of the beach.
Remember to pack your binoculars for birdwatching as you’ll find this park an avian paradise, especially during migration seasons. And make sure you take a camera to capture the area’s historical and natural beauty.
Location: 11175 Point Lookout Rd, Scotland, MD 20687, USA
Open: May–September: daily from 7 am to sunset. October–April: daily from 8 am to sunset
Phone: +1 301-872-5688
Point Lookout State Park
5. Breezy Point Beach & Campground
Family fun by the bay
Good for: Families, Adventure, Photo
The netted swimming area of Breezy Point Beach & Campground provides a jellyfish free area that makes it an excellent family-friendly destination. This beach is great for those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure and its long fishing pier, extending into the bay, adds visual interest for artists and photographers.
It’s a wonderful place for connecting to nature as beachcombers will delight in hunting for fossils and shark teeth along the shoreline and the adjacent campground offers the unique experience of camping right on the sand. Budget-conscious visitors should take advantage of weekday specials and discounted entry. If you’re planning a stay, consider bringing a tent to enjoy waterfront camping and waking up to the sound of waves.
Location: 5300 Breezy Point Rd, Chesapeake Beach, MD 20732, USA
Open: Hours vary by season
Phone: +1 410-535-0259
Breezy Point Beach & Campground
6. Colonial Beach
A riverside retreat with a tropical twist
Good for: Families, History, Nightlife
Colonial Beach is Virginia’s second-longest public beach, offering diverse experiences across its multiple zones. From quiet coves to lively boardwalks, there’s plenty to explore. Its unique dual waterfront also provides stunning sunrise and sunset views.
You’ll be greeted by palm trees lining the beach, giving it an unexpected tropical feel. Explore the town’s five distinct beach zones, each offering tailored experiences. For a relaxing day, stroll along the fishing-friendly municipal pier or relax under a palm tree. A visit to Colonial Beach isn’t complete without taking in the beautiful views, so bring a camera for capturing these picturesque moments.
Phone: +1 804-224-7181
Colonial Beach
7. Rehoboth Beach
A classic boardwalk adventure
Good for: Families, Shoppers, Nightlife
The historic boardwalk of Rehoboth Beach bustles with events and activities. Discover live music and sandcastle contests that perennially delight visitors. The beach itself is just as vibrant, with designated zones for surfing and beach volleyball, it beckons sports enthusiasts and families alike.
This eco-friendly beach is consistently praised for its cleanliness and sustainability efforts. You can enjoy collecting shells along the shore or venture to nearby Cape Henlopen State Park for dune trails and secluded spots. For those seeking a nature escape, consider a short bike ride to the state park for a full-day adventure.
Phone: +1 302-227-6181
Rehoboth Beach
8. Assateaque Island National Seashore
Wild beauty and untamed shores
Good for: Adventure, Photo, Unusual
Wild horses roam freely along the 37 miles of the untouched Assateague Island National Seashore. This natural paradise is incredible for those seeking solitude and unspoiled beauty, with opportunities for long hikes and wildlife photography.
At night, the island’s remote location also makes it an ideal spot for stargazing, offering crystal-clear views of the starry sky. For an unforgettable experience, consider camping on the beach to enjoy the stunning celestial displays. If you have one, pack a telescope for a closer look at the stars.
Open: Hours vary by season
Phone: +1 410-641-1441
Assateaque Island National Seashore
9. Bethany Beach
A relaxing getaway with community charm
Good for: Couples, Luxury, Food
Bethany Beach is a charming, family-favorite beach that hosts free movies and concerts, creating a lively, welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
Stroll along the half-mile boardwalk, which offers oceanfront seating and shaded areas. The nearby Nature Center trails lead to the beach, providing a seamless transition from ecological exploration to ocean relaxation. For a rejuvenating visit, join a sunrise yoga session on the sand and embrace the beach’s wellness culture. Be sure to bring a yoga mat and enjoy a mindful moment by the sea.
Bethany Beach
10. Virginia Beach
A coastal playground with endless possibilities
Good for: Families, Nightlife, Shoppers
The renowned Virginia Beach is the world’s longest pleasure beach, offering diverse experiences along its 35 miles of coastline. From the bustling boardwalk to the serene Sandbridge Beach, there’s a spot for every type of beachgoer.
Check out the Wavegarden surf lagoon for artificial surfing or explore the First Landing State Park for a mix of hiking and beach time. Don’t miss the iconic Neptune statue anchoring the boardwalk, where concerts and festivals abound. For a quieter retreat, head to Sandbridge Beach and enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife.
Location: 1700 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, USA
Virginia Beach
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