Manchester MarylandBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Manchester, Maryland.
1. Codorus State Park
LAKEFRONT OUTDOOR RECREATION
Codorus State Park features the expansive Lake Marburg, offering visitors a variety of water-based activities including swimming, boating, and fishing. The park has a dedicated swimming pool and beach area, ideal for families seeking a freshwater getaway. Its scenic lakeside setting and numerous picnic spots make it a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts from Manchester, Maryland, and beyond.
2. Gunpowder Falls State Park, Hammerman Beach
RIVERSIDE FAMILY BEACH
Gunpowder Falls State Park's Hammerman Area features a half-mile sandy beach along the Gunpowder River, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. This popular summertime destination offers grills, picnic areas, and a playground, making it ideal for families. Paddling, fishing, and hiking trails enhance the experience for visitors seeking a full day of waterfront fun.
3. Pine Grove Furnace State Park
MOUNTAIN LAKESIDE BEACHES
Pine Grove Furnace State Park boasts two mountain lakes with sandy beaches, inviting swimmers and kayakers alike. Surrounded by forested scenery, this spot provides a tranquil atmosphere for cooling off during warm months. Its well-maintained beach areas and amenities appeal to day-trippers and campers from the Manchester region.
4. Sandy Point State Park
CHESAPEAKE BAY BEACHFRONT
Sandy Point State Park is known for its large sandy beach on the Chesapeake Bay, providing panoramic views of the iconic Bay Bridge. The gentle waters are ideal for swimming, while fishing, picnicking, and boating opportunities add to the park's appeal. Its proximity to Manchester makes it a highly accessible and popular summer destination.
5. North Beach
CHESAPEAKE BOARDWALK ESCAPE
North Beach offers visitors a sandy shoreline plus a scenic boardwalk overlooking the Chesapeake Bay. The beach is family-friendly, featuring a fishing pier, playgrounds, and regular community events in summer. With its picturesque setting and variety of amenities, North Beach is a top choice for those seeking a relaxing waterfront escape.
6. Chesapeake Beach
BAYFRONT RESORT TOWN
Chesapeake Beach is a lively resort town with direct access to Chesapeake Bay beaches, making it a favorite spot for swimming and boating. Its waterfront parks, boardwalks, and waterpark offer plenty of choices for family fun. Visitors from Manchester enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and water activities close to home.
7. Olney Manor Recreational Park
COMMUNITY POOL & SPLASH
Olney Manor Recreational Park features a large outdoor swimming pool and splash playground, making it a go-to summer destination for families. Its extensive parklands provide additional opportunities for picnics and sports. The pool serves as a popular alternative for those looking for a controlled swimming environment near Manchester.
8. Gifford Pinchot State Park
LAKEFRONT NATURE RETREAT
Gifford Pinchot State Park is centered on beautiful Pinchot Lake, offering a designated swimming area and beach surrounded by rolling hills. Recreational opportunities include kayaking, fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation. The park's serene lakeside environment appeals to those seeking a peaceful outdoor adventure not far from Manchester.
9. Great Chesapeake Bay Swim
OPEN WATER SWIMMING EVENT
The Great Chesapeake Bay Swim is an annual open water swimming event crossing the Chesapeake Bay from Sandy Point State Park. Participants experience a unique and challenging waterfront adventure as they swim between the spans of the Bay Bridge. Spectators and swimmers alike are drawn to the dramatic scenery and the festive atmosphere of this riverside event.
10. Cherry Beach
RIVERSIDE SANDY RETREAT
Cherry Beach sits on the banks of the Nanticoke River, providing a quiet sandy beach for swimming, picnicking, and fishing. Its location in Sharptown makes it a pleasant day-trip destination from Manchester, especially for those seeking a laid-back riverside atmosphere. The park's facilities and tranquil river views create a perfect setting for family gatherings and water recreation.