Gaithersburg MarylandBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Gaithersburg, Maryland.
1. Greenbrier State Park
LAKESIDE PARADISE NEAR GAITHERSBURG
Greenbrier State Park offers a guarded beach on a serene man-made lake within an hour's drive from Gaithersburg. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, beach games, picnics, and water sports in this popular summer destination. The park also features hiking trails around the lake, fishing opportunities, and overnight camping facilities for those wanting to extend their stay.
2. Sandy Point State Park
CHESAPEAKE BAY RETREAT
Sandy Point State Park provides a beautiful beach experience on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay within an hour from Gaithersburg. The park features swimming areas with lifeguards, picnic facilities, and panoramic views of the Bay Bridge. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and wildlife observation while experiencing the unique ecosystem of the Chesapeake Bay.
3. Ocean City Beach
MARYLAND'S PREMIER OCEAN DESTINATION
Ocean City Beach offers 10 miles of pristine Atlantic Ocean shoreline and is Maryland's most famous beach destination. The beach is complemented by a bustling boardwalk filled with restaurants, shops, and amusements for visitors of all ages. Though further from Gaithersburg than other options, Ocean City remains a popular weekend getaway for those seeking a true ocean beach experience.
4. Assateague Island National Seashore
WILD HORSES AND WAVES
Assateague Island National Seashore features untouched beaches where wild horses roam freely along the Atlantic coastline. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, and beachcombing in a natural setting unmarred by commercial development. The island also offers camping opportunities, allowing guests to fall asleep to the sound of waves and possibly wake up to horses walking past their campsite.
5. Gunpowder Falls State Park, Hammerman Beach
RIVERFRONT RECREATION AREA
Gunpowder Falls State Park's Hammerman Beach area offers a sandy shoreline along the Gunpowder River with designated swimming areas. Visitors can rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards to explore the river beyond the swimming area. The park also features picnic facilities, hiking trails, and fishing opportunities in a natural setting not far from Gaithersburg.
6. North Beach
CHARMING CHESAPEAKE BAY TOWN
North Beach offers a family-friendly waterfront experience on the Chesapeake Bay with a well-maintained public beach and fishing pier. The charming town features a boardwalk with shops, restaurants, and regular events that complement the beach experience. Visitors from Gaithersburg can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding while taking in views of the bay in this quaint waterfront community.
7. Chesapeake Beach
HISTORIC BAY DESTINATION
Chesapeake Beach is a historic resort town offering beach access and water recreation on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay. Visitors can enjoy the public beach, fishing opportunities, and water activities while learning about the area's history as a popular resort destination in the early 20th century. The town also features a water park, making it a versatile destination for families seeking waterfront fun within driving distance of Gaithersburg.
8. Inspiration Lake
GAITHERSBURG'S URBAN OASIS
Inspiration Lake is part of a system of scenic lakes in the Kentlands neighborhood of Gaithersburg that provides a peaceful water setting. While not primarily a swimming destination, the lake offers beautiful walking paths, benches, and scenic views for relaxation and recreation. Locals and visitors appreciate this urban oasis for its tranquil atmosphere and the opportunity to connect with nature right in Gaithersburg.
9. Water Park at Bohrer Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY AQUATIC ADVENTURE
The Water Park at Bohrer Park offers a refreshing alternative to natural beaches with its water slides, splash pools, and recreational swimming areas. Families enjoy the controlled environment, lifeguards on duty, and various water features designed for different age groups and swimming abilities. The facility includes picnic areas, concessions, and shade structures, making it a complete day destination for water fun right in Gaithersburg.
10. Rio Washingtonian Center
LAKEFRONT SHOPPING AND ENTERTAINMENT
Rio Washingtonian Center is a lakefront destination that combines shopping, dining, and entertainment around a central body of water in Gaithersburg. Visitors can enjoy paddleboat rides on the lake, stroll along waterfront pathways, and dine at restaurants with lake views. The center provides a unique urban waterfront experience with its blend of retail therapy and lakeside recreation just off I-270.