Colmar Manor MarylandBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Colmar Manor, Maryland.
1. Bladensburg Waterfront Park
SCENIC RIVERSIDE RECREATION
Bladensburg Waterfront Park is a vibrant urban escape located along the Anacostia River, just minutes from Colmar Manor. The park features a riverside walk, boat rentals, kayaking, fishing piers, picnic spots, playgrounds, and connects to scenic hiking and biking trails. Visitors can enjoy guided boat tours that highlight the river's ecology and history, making this a top waterfront destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
2. National Harbor
RIVERSIDE ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX
National Harbor is a bustling waterfront district on the Potomac River, offering a mix of public beaches, outdoor events, restaurants, and a lively boardwalk experience. It features a marina, Capital Wheel observation Ferris wheel, and opportunities for paddleboarding or kayaking on the river. The area is ideal for visitors seeking waterfront dining, shopping, and entertainment along with scenic views.
3. Sandy Point State Park
CHESAPEAKE BAY BEACH
Sandy Point State Park features a popular sandy beach on the Chesapeake Bay, providing seasonal swimming, fishing, crabbing, and picnicking opportunities. The park is well-known for its panoramic bay views and direct access to the water for boating and kayaking. With full facilities and lifeguards on duty during peak summer months, it draws visitors from across the region seeking a classic beach day.
4. North Beach
BAYFRONT TOWN BEACH
North Beach offers a family-friendly sandy beach, fishing pier, and a boardwalk along the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay. Visitors enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and events like summer concerts and festivals in this quaint, walkable town. The waterfront is also lined with shops, cafes, and beautiful views, making it a perfect small-town coastal escape.
5. Quiet Waters Park
LAKEFRONT PARK RETREAT
Quiet Waters Park features picturesque lakes and riverside areas ideal for picnicking, kayaking, and paddle boating. The park's trails and rental facilities make it a serene escape for families seeking outdoor recreation near the water. Art galleries and seasonal outdoor concerts are also offered, adding to the park's community charm.
6. Great Falls Park
POTOMAC RIVER RAPIDS
Great Falls Park is renowned for its dramatic waterfalls and rugged river vistas along the Potomac River, just outside the DC metro area. The park offers hiking trails with multiple overlooks, as well as opportunities for kayaking and fishing in designated areas. It is a favorite destination for sightseeing and nature photography, especially for those drawn to powerful riverside landscapes.
7. Fletcher's Cove
RIVERSIDE BOATING AND FISHING
Fletcher's Cove, located along the C&O Canal and Potomac River, is a cherished spot for rowing, kayaking, paddle boating, and fishing. The area offers easy boat rentals, picnic spaces, and scenic river trails, making it popular for outdoor recreation close to downtown DC. Fletcher's Cove is especially renowned for its tranquil waters and excellent spring shad runs.
8. Lake Artemesia
URBAN LAKE AND TRAILS
Lake Artemesia is a peaceful lakefront park featuring paved trails, fishing piers, and marked wildlife observation areas. The lake is ideal for walking, jogging, and birdwatching, with catch-and-release fishing permitted along the shoreline. Its urban setting makes it a popular spot for quiet escapes and passive recreation amid natural surroundings.
9. Piscataway Park
POTOMAC RIVER SHORELINE
Piscataway Park offers tranquil beaches and marshes stretching along the Potomac River, with stunning views across to Mount Vernon. The park features wooded trails, a fishing pier, and opportunities for canoeing or kayaking in the river's tidal waters. It is also home to National Colonial Farm, blending natural beauty with cultural history.
10. Greenbelt Lake Park
LAKESIDE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Greenbelt Lake Park is centered around a scenic lake with a 1.25-mile loop trail, picnic areas, and designated fishing spots. The park provides a peaceful retreat for walking, birdwatching, and enjoying lakeside views. While swimming is not permitted, the lakeshore is perfect for relaxation and passive recreation close to Colmar Manor.