Maryland, the Old Line State, is a coastal paradise where Southern hospitality meets fresh Chesapeake Bay flavors, making it a culinary gem for seafood lovers. With over 3,100 miles of shoreline, including the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay, Maryland boasts some of the East Coast’s most inviting beaches. From family-friendly shores to hidden gems, these best beaches in Maryland offer sun-soaked sands, wildlife encounters, and endless activities. Whether you’re searching for the prettiest beach in Maryland, exploring Maryland beaches near me, or wondering what beaches are in Maryland, this guide to the 7 best beaches in Maryland will help you plan an unforgettable trip. Use our map of beaches in Maryland to discover public beaches in Maryland, Maryland beaches for families, Maryland ocean beaches, Chesapeake Bay beaches Maryland, best beach towns in Maryland, and more. Discover what is the prettiest beach in Maryland, Maryland public beaches, beaches near Baltimore MD, and why Maryland beach vacations are perfect for this year.

This guide highlights Maryland beach attractions, Maryland beach activities, and culinary ties, ensuring your best beaches in Maryland adventure is both relaxing and exciting. Let’s dive into the top beaches in Maryland!

Why Maryland’s Beaches Are a Must-Visit This Year

Maryland’s beaches stretch along the Atlantic and Chesapeake Bay, offering a mix of lively resorts and serene escapes. Maryland, the Old Line State, is a culinary gem where Southern hospitality meets diverse flavors, with fresh crabs, oysters, and boardwalk treats enhancing every visit. Summer 2025 brings warm waters (70–80°F) and events like the Maryland Seafood Festival, while fall offers fewer crowds and mild weather. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly beaches in Maryland like Ocean City or hidden gem beaches in Maryland like Assateague, these shores cater to all. No beaches in Baltimore MD exist due to its inland location, but beaches near Baltimore MD like Sandy Point are just a 45-minute drive.
This guide features the 7 best beaches in Maryland, based on traveler reviews from Tripadvisor and VisitMaryland.org. Use a map of beaches in Maryland to plan your route and pair beach days with Maryland beach activities like crabbing and kayaking.

Ocean City Beach: The Classic Boardwalk Destination

Ocean City Beach, stretching 10 miles along the Atlantic, is often called the prettiest beach in Maryland for its wide sands and vibrant energy. It’s a top best beach town in Maryland and Maryland beaches for families.

Why Visit Ocean City Beach?

• Features: Soft white sands, gentle waves, and lifeguard-patrolled areas from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
• Activities: Swimming, surfing, and exploring the 3-mile boardwalk with rides at Trimper’s Rides and mini-golf.
• Culinary Connection: Maryland is a culinary gem, and Ocean City’s Thrasher’s French Fries with Old Bay-seasoned crabs are must-tries, per VisitMaryland.org.
• Access: Free public access; parking $3/hour in summer.

Summer Tip

Ocean City’s events include Sunfest in May and the Seafood Festival in September. Book parking early for this public beach in Maryland, as it’s a top Maryland beach vacation spot.

Assateague Island National Seashore: Wild Ponies and Pristine Shores

Assateague Island National Seashore, shared with Virginia, is a hidden gem beach in Maryland famous for its wild ponies and untouched dunes. It’s the prettiest beach in Maryland for nature lovers.

Why Visit Assateague Island?

• Features: 37 miles of pristine Maryland ocean beaches, marshes, and forests in a protected area.
• Activities: Beachcombing, kayaking, and pony spotting; hiking trails like Life of the Marsh.
• Culinary Connection: Pack a picnic with Chesapeake Bay oysters from nearby Chincoteague, or dine at Assateague Crab House.
• Access: $25 vehicle pass (7 days); free pedestrian entry.

Summer Tip

Assateague’s 2025 pony swim in July draws crowds; visit in early summer for solitude. It’s a Maryland beaches for families favorite with educational programs, per NPS.gov.

Sandy Point State Park Beach: Chesapeake Bay Gem Near Annapolis

Sandy Point State Park Beach, on the Chesapeake Bay, is one of the best Chesapeake Bay beaches in Maryland and a convenient beach near Annapolis MD. It’s ideal for Maryland beaches for families.

Why Visit Sandy Point State Park Beach?

• Features: 750 acres with a sandy beach, Bay Bridge views, and shallow waters.
• Activities: Swimming, crabbing, fishing, and picnicking; birdwatching on the Atlantic Flyway.
• Culinary Connection: Enjoy Maryland crabs at nearby Boatyard Bar & Grill in Annapolis.
• Access: $5/person or $7/vehicle in summer; reservations required weekends/holidays starting Memorial Day 2025, per DNR.Maryland.gov.

Summer Tip

Sandy Point’s 2025 Maryland Seafood Festival in September features crab feasts. It’s a top public beach in Maryland just 45 minutes from Baltimore.

North Beach and Chesapeake Beach: Twin Bayfront Towns

North Beach and Chesapeake Beach, on the Western Shore, are charming best beach towns in Maryland with sandy shores and family vibes, about an hour from D.C.

Why Visit North Beach and Chesapeake Beach?

• Features: Calm Chesapeake Bay waters, boardwalks, and historic charm.
• Activities: Swimming, fishing from the pier, and exploring the Maritime Museum.
• Culinary Connection: Savor soft-shell crabs at Boardsailors Restaurant in North Beach.
• Access: Free public access; parking $10/day in summer.

Summer Tip

These Maryland public beaches host summer concerts; visit for a relaxed Maryland beach vacation away from the ocean crowds, per VisitMaryland.org.

Janes Island State Park Beach: Tranquil Bay Escape

Janes Island State Park Beach in Crisfield is a serene Chesapeake Bay beach in Maryland, perfect for hidden gem beaches in Maryland and birdwatching.

Why Visit Janes Island State Park Beach?

• Features: 3,000 acres of marshes, a sandy beach, and over 100 miles of shoreline.
• Activities: Kayaking through creeks, fishing, and hiking; spot bald eagles and ospreys.
• Culinary Connection: Crisfield’s Ward Brothers Seafood for famous soft-shell crabs.
• Access: $3/person or $5/vehicle; boat launch available.

Summer Tip

Janes Island’s low crowds make it a Maryland beaches for families haven. Rent kayaks for 2025’s summer bird migration, per DNR.Maryland.gov.

Betterton Beach: Historic and Secluded Bay Spot

Betterton Beach in Kent County is a peaceful public beach in Maryland with low salinity waters, ideal for family-friendly beaches in Maryland.

Why Visit Betterton Beach?

• Features: 300 feet of sandy beach at the Sassafras River mouth, with a boardwalk.
• Activities: Swimming, picnicking, and exploring the historic town.
• Culinary Connection: Betterton’s Dutch’s Tavern for Chesapeake Bay blue crabs.
• Access: Free entry; parking available.

Summer Tip

Betterton’s calm waters are perfect for kids; visit for 2025’s summer fireworks. It’s a beach near Baltimore MD alternative, about 1.5 hours away.

Point Lookout State Park Beach: Tranquil Peninsula Retreat

Point Lookout State Park Beach, on a peninsula between the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay, is a historic Maryland public beach with serene vibes.

Why Visit Point Lookout State Park Beach?

• Features: Sandy shores, fishing pier, and Civil War history.
• Activities: Swimming, boating, crabbing, and hiking 2.5 miles of trails.
• Culinary Connection: Point Lookout’s Lighthouse Restaurant for Bay seafood.
• Access: $3/person or $5/vehicle; reservations for peak weekends.

Summer Tip

Point Lookout’s 2025 fishing tournaments draw anglers; it’s a Maryland beaches for families spot with calm waters, per DNR.Maryland.gov.

In Summary

Maryland’s 7 best beaches in Maryland, from the vibrant Ocean City to the wild Assateague, offer endless coastal charm. Maryland, the Old Line State, is a culinary gem where Southern hospitality meets diverse flavors, pairing sands with crabs and oysters. Whether seeking the prettiest beach in Maryland, Maryland beaches near me, or family-friendly beaches in Maryland, this guide covers Maryland ocean beaches and Chesapeake Bay beaches Maryland. Use a map of beaches in Maryland for best beach towns in Maryland and plan your 2025 Maryland beach vacation. Discover what is the prettiest beach in Maryland, Maryland public beaches, and Maryland beach activities for an unforgettable escape!