Looking for the best family beaches in Maryland?? Here’s the list with all the travel information you need to plan a family vacation.
These beautiful beaches in Maryland make for the perfect day trip or weekend getaway. They offer everything from swimming and boat rentals to sandy beaches that are great for toddlers. Regardless of your age, you’ll be sure to find the perfect beach for your family.
Families can head to the beaches on the Chesapeake Bay, where the water is calmer and features picnic tables.
The most popular family beaches in Maryland are Assateague Island National Seashore, Betterton Beach, Ocean City Beach, Hammerman Area Beach, and Janes Island State Park Beach.
You can go swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, boating, surfing, paddleboarding, dolphin watching, whale watching, and camping with your family on these beaches.
Let’s discover the complete list of the best family beaches in Maryland. Just check the list and add them to your bucket list.
Family Beaches in Maryland
1. Family Beaches in Maryland: Assateague Island National Seashore Beach, Berlin
If you’ve never been to Assateague Island National Seashore, you’re missing out on one of Maryland’s most beautiful and unique natural attractions.
This long barrier island is home to scenic Atlantic beaches, dunes, and forest trails. Hiking trails in the surrounding area lead to wild ponies, bald eagles, and migratory birds.
At the working 19th century Assateague Lighthouse, you can learn more about the history, sea turtles, and other marine life. So, it is totally worth visiting with your kids.
The Assateague Lighthouse was built in 1833 and is 142 feet tall. The tower could be seen from up to 19 miles away and was lit every night.
Today, you can only visit the lighthouse a few times a year, so be sure to plan ahead. While visiting Assateague, be sure to plan a few extra hours to explore the island’s rich culture and history.
If you’re a fan of scuba diving or surfing, you’ll find that Assateague is home to some of the best swells in the area. To get the best ride, take advantage of the rental facilities on Assateague Island.
However, before renting a surfboard, check with park rangers for current conditions and check out their beach safety page.
Insects are a common problem in Assateague Island National Seashore. If you’re camping out on the beach, make sure to bring DEET-based insect repellent. Mosquitoes are particularly troublesome, and they can cause severe itching. So, prepare for that.
If you plan to spend the night at the beach, make sure you purchase a camp permit in advance. You can even reserve campsites online if you’re not planning to stay on the beach overnight.
Be sure to reserve ahead of time. Reservations open about six months in advance. Especially during holidays and weekends, bookings fill up fast.
Address: 7206 National Seashore Ln, Berlin, MD 21811, United States Phone: (443) 614-3547
Family Beaches in Maryland
2. Family Beaches in Maryland: Betterton Beach
A trip to Betterton Beach in Maryland is a must for anyone who enjoys the outdoors.
Located on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, this bayside community offers some of the best swimming beaches in the state.
The town’s 500-foot boardwalk and public beach area are family-friendly, and the park features two playgrounds and benches.
Betterton Beach is also open all year round, and pets are welcome. In addition to being a great beach destination, Betterton offers plenty of amenities for the whole family to enjoy.
The town of Betterton has an expansive bayside beach, which is free from jellyfish. During the summer, you can enjoy a day on the beach or relax on one of the many piers and boardwalks.
Whether you want to go for a swim or spend the day relaxing on the beach, there are many things to do in the area. In addition to a relaxing day on the beach, you can also check out the local restaurants.
On the other hand, the area around Betterton is known for its historical significance. The town’s waterfront is a natural setting and has many places of historical importance. So, you can visit them too.
Address: Ericsson Avenue, Betterton, MD 21610, United States Phone: (410) 778-1948
Family Beaches in Maryland
Looking for more beaches in Maryland?? Here’s the list; just check and add them to your bucket list.
3. Family Beaches in Maryland: Ocean City Beach, Ocean City
Ocean City Beach is one of the most popular family beaches in Maryland.
The 3 miles of shoreline is filled with boardwalk attractions and delicious street food. And this beach is also a great place to enjoy the sunset.
It is ranked as one of the best beaches in the United States. If you are looking for a fun and affordable family vacation, consider Ocean City Beach in Maryland.
This beach town has everything you could want in a beach vacation, without the hassle of booking hotels or renting cars. The ocean is just a short drive away, and the weather is ideal year-round.
Ocean City Beach is usually busy and crowded, but the small-town vibe of Ocean City makes it an ideal place to spend your family holiday.
On your Ocean City Beach tour, you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, building sandcastles, surfing, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and many other fun things with your family.
Address: Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842, United States Phone: (410) 250-0125
Family Beaches in Maryland
4. Hammerman Area Beach, Middle River
Hammerman Area Beach Park is one of the most visited spots in Maryland.
The Hammerman Area is a 1,500-foot sandy beach along the Chesapeake Bay and is ideal for swimming, surfing, kite-surfing, and fishing. It’s also a great place to spend the afternoon if you’re looking for a day out on the water.
And obviously, the area around Hammerman Beach is perfect for families. There are playgrounds and picnic pavilions in the park.
There is a large boathouse on the property for the active type that rents out water sports equipment and offers lessons and classes. So, you can boat, kayak, and paddleboard with your family.
The public restrooms are located near the concession stand, while the Riverside Grill serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. And Hammerman Area Beach is open year-round, but there are seasonal hours.
It’s open from 10 AM until sunset in the winter and from 8 AM to midnight in the summer. Dogs aren’t allowed at this beach, so plan your vacation accordingly.
Address: 7200 Graces Quarters Rd, Middle River, MD 21220, United States Phone: +1 410-335-3461
Family Beaches in Maryland
5. Family Beaches in Maryland: Janes Island State Park
If you are looking for public recreation on the Chesapeake Bay, you should check out the Janes Island State Park in Maryland.
This scenic park is located in Somerset County and adjacent to the city of Crisfield. The island is surrounded by the water and features a pristine, isolated beach.
The island also features over 30 miles of water trails that lead to pristine beaches. So, you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes to get to the best spots.
Janes Island State Park also offers a variety of activities and attractions. Janes Island State Park is the perfect destination if you enjoy the outdoors.
You can camp, rent cabins, and go hiking along miles of trails and water trails. It is ideal for spending a relaxing day outdoors with family and friends.
There are also picnic areas and water sports for those who love kayaking. This park also has a conference center and campground that you can use to host meetings or events.
Janes Island State Park has a variety of lodging options. There are 103 campsites, 49 electric, and four camper cabins.
In addition, there are two full-service cabins and one lodge with heated baths. All are accessible by boat, and there are restrooms and showers in the lodge.
On the other hand, there is a playground, nature center, and a boat ramp too.
Address: 26280 Alfred J Lawson Dr, Crisfield, MD 21817, United States Phone: +1 410-968-1565
Family Beaches in Maryland
6. Calvert Cliffs State Park Beach, Lusby
Located in Lusby, Calvert County, Maryland, Calvert Cliffs State Park is a popular public recreation area.
Located on the Chesapeake Bay, Calvert Cliffs State Park has a beautiful sandy beach, unique fossils, and a recycled tire playground. The park is also home to 13 miles of hiking trails.
The park protects a section of the cliffs, which stretch for 24 miles along the eastern flank of the peninsula, west of the Chesapeake Bay, and south to Drum Point. Visiting the park is a beautiful experience that will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.
You can walk down the bluffs to see the cliffs and find a fossil. This beach has over 600 species of fossils. The most common fossils are shark teeth.
There are also picnic areas and playground equipment for children. The park is accessible on Maryland Routes 2 and 4.
Pets are allowed. A parking fee applies.
Calvert Cliffs State Park is not a dog park, so make sure to clean up after they’ve visited the beach.
Address: 10540 H G Trueman Road, Lusby, MD 20657, United States Phone: (443) 975-4360
Family Beaches in Maryland
7. Sandy Point State Park Beach, Annapolis
Located on the Chesapeake Bay at the western end of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, Sandy Point State Park Beach is a popular destination for swimming.
The area receives over 1 million visitors a year. Here are some tips for visiting this beautiful beach.
This 786-acre park is home to some of the best swimming beaches in Maryland. Picnic areas and a playground surround the sandy beach.
And the park also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including holiday cheer, live music, and family activities. Also, when you’re ready to head back to the beach, take a stroll through the scenic walking trails and picnic areas.
Sandy Point is an excellent place for family reunions and group outings. The beach is open year-round and offers plenty of beach chair rentals and shower facilities.
Sandy Point State Park also has a bay-themed playground too.
And don’t forget to bring your camera! If you are a nature lover, you’re going to love Sandy Point State Park Beach!
Address: 1100 E College Parkway, Annapolis, MD 21409, United States Phone: (410) 974-2149
Family Beaches in Maryland
8. Matapeake State Park Beach, Stevensville
When you visit the Matapeake State Park Beach in Maryland, you will have the opportunity to enjoy many fun things.
This Maryland beach is a must-visit if you are a fan of the water. There are a few beaches in the area, but none compare to Matapeake Bay. You’ll have plenty of options for a fun day out with your family.
For the best view of the bay, head to Matapeake State Park Beach.
This popular destination is located on Kent Island, and it features a public swimming beach, an outdoor amphitheater, and family picnic areas.
Matapeake State Park also has a one-mile nature trail through the woods that will take you to views of the Bay Bridge. The park’s beach is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
And the Cafe at the Matapeake Clubhouse is open daily but is closed during the off-season.
The public beach at Matapeake State Park is the perfect place for families. It offers the option of leash-free swimming, as well as a beautiful fishing pier.
This area is also dog-friendly, and pets are welcome. So, it is an ideal location for a family outing.
Address: 500 Marina Club Rd, Stevensville, MD 21666, United States Phone: +14106041933
Family Beaches in Maryland
9. Family Beaches in Maryland: Deep Creek Lake Beach, Swanton
If you are looking for a great beach in Garrett County, Maryland, look no further than Deep Creek Lake State Park.
This state park is located in Garrett County and covers more than a thousand acres of land. You can spend a day relaxing on the beach or enjoying the many recreational opportunities available in the area.
Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a family getaway, this park is sure to impress.
Deep Creek is a beautiful choice for family outings if you’re interested in participating in some outdoor activities. Its pristine waters make it an excellent destination year-round.
There are plenty of fun things to do in and around the lake, including fishing, kayaking, and even fly-fishing lessons.
The nearby Adventure Sports Center International offers a variety of water sports activities, such as kayaking and canoeing.
Hiking trails are available around the lake. You can choose between hiking trails or biking paths. There are plenty of places to stay close to the water and enjoy the scenery.
Also, you can even bring your dog to enjoy the fresh air and wildlife in the area.
Visiting Deep Creek Lake State Park during the warmer months is a beautiful way to enjoy the beautiful weather and beautiful surroundings.
Address: 898 State Park Road, Swanton, MD 21561, United States Phone: (301) 387-5563
Family Beaches in Maryland
10. Cunningham Falls State Park Beach, Thurmont
If you’re in the mood for a waterfall and a beach, Cunningham Falls State Park is the place to go.
Located in Thurmont, Maryland, this state park is home to the largest cascading waterfall in the entire state. It’s also home to a 43-acre manmade lake and the remains of an old iron furnace. The lake features a beautiful beach for you.
So, it’s an excellent place to relax with family and friends.
If you’re in the mood for a hike or a bike ride, Cunningham Falls State Park is a great place to do it. The trails are well marked, and the park offers plenty of shade.
It’s also a popular spot for boaters too. There’s a boat dock in the area, and visitors can launch watercraft there. The park is open from April 30 to October 14, so you can easily spend a day relaxing at the park.
If you want to see some beautiful waterfalls, Cunningham Falls State Park is the place to be. The waterfall is 77 feet tall, making it the largest in Maryland.
It trickles down rocks and has a wide variety of wildlife. The park is a great place to spend an afternoon. During your stay at the park, be sure to check out the Scales and Tales program.
Address: 14039 Catoctin Hollow Road, Thurmont, MD 21788, United States Phone: (301) 271-7574
Family Beaches in Maryland
11. Family Beaches in Maryland: North Beach, North Beach
If you’re looking for something new to do in your free time, you might consider visiting the town of North Beach in Maryland. It’s a small beach town with a friendly vibe.
North Beach is an excellent choice for an extended getaway or a fun weekend getaway with your family.
Despite its popularity, it is still a classic family beach. This picturesque shoreline offers powdery sand, gentle waves, and plenty of amenities. This is one of the best places to take your children if you’re looking for a quiet beach.
You can spend the day relaxing on the white sand of the Chesapeake Bay in the town of North Beach, Maryland. Also, you can walk along its boardwalk, which is lined with flower beds and park benches.
On the other hand, you can fish from the pier, which is free to use. For souvenirs, try visiting the Shirt Shack.
This town takes pride in its colorful history, and the recreational opportunities it offers are numerous.
To get to the beach, you’ll need to purchase an entry pass for non-residents. However, the Calvert County area residents can take advantage of special discounts by purchasing a season pass.
There are plenty of nearby places for families to rent boats and go fishing, so you won’t have to spend a lot of money.
Address: 9023 Bay Avenue, North Beach, MD 20714, United States Phone: (410) 286-3799
Family Beaches in Maryland
12. Family Beaches in Maryland: Breezy Point Beach, Chesapeake Beach
When planning your family vacation, a stop at Breezy Point Beach in Maryland is necessary.
This campground is close to the city of Easton and features a beautiful downtown area.
The breezy beach is the perfect place to relax after a busy day on the town’s streets. The campground offers a playground, picnic tables, and boating and fishing opportunities.
If you’re looking for a quiet, bay-side beach near Washington, DC, look no further than Breezy Point Beach (only one hour away).
The Breezy Point Beach is located just south of Chesapeake, Maryland, and is one of the few beaches with full bath-houses and changing rooms.
It also has a refreshment stand and a 200-foot fishing pier. The beach also has a volleyball net and picnic area sheltered by cedar trees. A beach is an excellent option if you’re visiting with your family.
Address: 5300 Breezy Point Road, Chesapeake Beach, MD 20732, United States Phone: (410) 535-0259
Family Beaches in Maryland
13. Family Beaches in Maryland: Greenbrier State Park Beach
The public recreation area Greenbrier State Park is three miles northeast of Boonsboro, Maryland, in Washington County.
This park has hiking trails, camping, and a 42-acre man-made lake. The Department of Natural Resources of Maryland manages the park.
And Greenbrier State Park offers a variety of activities to keep visitors entertained. During the summer, you can enjoy fun activities like fishing, swimming, and boating.
The beach is wheelchair-accessible. And this park also offers picnic areas for people with disabilities.
In addition to the beach, the park features a visitors’ center, a nature center, and a campground. The state parks are litter-free, and some have accessible picnic areas.
A beach wheelchair is also available for those with disabilities.
Located in an Important Bird Area, the park is home to many species of birds, including red-breasted woodpeckers, crows, and other native species. You can learn more about birdlife at the Maryland Blue Ridge Bird Club’s free monthly meetings.
The Appalachian Mountains pass through the park, so you’ll find great hiking opportunities and mountain biking trails. If you’re looking for a quiet place to relax, Greenbrier is the ideal getaway.
Address: 21843 National Pike, Boonsboro, MD 21713, United States Phone: +1 301-791-4767
Family Beaches in Maryland
- Assateague Island National Seashore Beach, Berlin
- Betterton Beach
- Ocean City Beach, Ocean City
- Hammerman Area Beach, Middle River
- Calvert Cliffs State Park Beach, Lusby
- Sandy Point State Park Beach, Annapolis
- Matapeake State Park Beach, Stevensville
- Deep Creek Lake Beach, Swanton
- Cunningham Falls State Park Beach, Thurmont
- North Beach
- Breezy Point Beach, Chesapeake Beach
- Greenbrier State Park Beach
Family Beaches in Maryland
