Mount Rainier MarylandBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Mount Rainier, Maryland.
1. Sandy Point State Park
CHESAPEAKE BAY BEACHFRONT
Sandy Point State Park offers a wide, sandy beach along the Chesapeake Bay, making it a favorite summer destination for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The park also features boating opportunities, scenic views of the Bay Bridge, and ample facilities for families. Its proximity to Mount Rainier makes it a popular waterfront escape for residents of the DC and Maryland area.
2. Betterton Beach
QUIET BAYFRONT SANDS
Betterton Beach is a free public beach along the upper Chesapeake Bay, known for its peaceful setting and gentle waters. Visitors enjoy swimming, fishing, and picnicking, while the scenic overlook offers beautiful views of the bay. The beach is family-friendly, with ample parking and easy access.
3. Cove Road Beach
HIDDEN CHESAPEAKE GEM
Cove Road Beach offers a secluded waterfront escape along Maryland's Eastern Shore, featuring soft sands and calm, shallow waters. It's a perfect spot for families seeking less crowded swimming and beachcombing. The natural surroundings and easy access make it a peaceful beach day option close to the DC metro area.
4. Gunpowder Falls State Park Hammerman Area
RIVERSIDE BEACH PARK
The Hammerman Area at Gunpowder Falls State Park boasts a large sandy beach along the Gunpowder River, complete with lifeguards during the summer season. Visitors can swim, picnic, and take advantage of several playgrounds and grills throughout the park. This beach area is popular for its clean sand, family-friendly amenities, and natural beauty.
5. Greenbrier State Park
MOUNTAIN LAKESIDE BEACH
Greenbrier State Park features a tranquil man-made lake with a sandy beach popular for swimming and relaxing. The park offers picturesque mountain scenery, hiking trails, and plenty of spaces for picnics and recreation. Known for its clear water and gentle shoreline, it provides a classic lakeside summer experience.
6. Cunningham Falls State Park
FOREST LAKE SWIMMING
Cunningham Falls State Park is renowned for its fresh-water lake and sandy beach set amidst the Catoctin Mountains. The beach area is ideal for swimming, while the nearby trails and waterfall hike draw nature lovers throughout the year. The park's scenic setting makes it a favorite for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
7. Lake Needwood
SERENE URBAN LAKEFRONT
Lake Needwood, nestled within Rock Creek Regional Park, features a picturesque lake where visitors can swim, rent boats, and picnic along the shore. The park includes trails, playgrounds, and plenty of spots to relax by the water. Its accessibility from the DC area makes it a popular choice for a nearby lakeside retreat.
8. National Harbor Waterfront
POTOMAC RIVER ESCAPE
National Harbor Waterfront offers a vibrant atmosphere along the Potomac River, featuring a lively boardwalk, sandy riverfront area, and opportunities for swimming and water activities. Visitors enjoy outdoor concerts, restaurants, and panoramic river views. The location is ideal for an urban waterfront getaway just outside Mount Rainier.
9. Bladensburg Waterfront Park
ANACOSTIA RIVER PARK
Bladensburg Waterfront Park sits along the Anacostia River and provides kayaking, paddle boating, and scenic walking trails on the water's edge. The park is a peaceful spot for riverside picnics and birdwatching, easily accessible from Mount Rainier. Its historic setting and quiet ambiance offer a welcomed respite by the water.
10. Lake Artemesia Natural Area
NATURE-FILLED LAKESIDE TRAILS
Lake Artemesia Natural Area is known for its beautiful lake, paved trails, and abundant wildlife, creating a tranquil spot for walking, fishing, and enjoying nature. While swimming is not permitted, visitors are drawn to the lakeside views and peaceful picnic spots. Its proximity to Mount Rainier makes it a beloved escape for those seeking waterfront relaxation.