Upper Marlboro MarylandBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Upper Marlboro, Maryland.
1. Watkins Regional Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY NATURE ESCAPE
Watkins Regional Park offers extensive recreational facilities in Upper Marlboro with natural areas for outdoor enjoyment. Visitors can explore nature trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas spread throughout the expansive grounds. The park provides a perfect setting for families looking to spend quality time outdoors while enjoying various amenities.
2. Patuxent River Park
RIVERSIDE WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Patuxent River Park stretches along the scenic Patuxent River offering water activities and nature observation opportunities. Visitors can kayak or canoe along the river, observe wildlife in their natural habitats, or hike through the diverse ecosystems. The park serves as an important conservation area while providing recreational opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
3. Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary
PRISTINE WETLAND PRESERVE
Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected natural area featuring wetlands, forests, and fields along the Patuxent River. The sanctuary is renowned for its impressive Canada goose population and various other wildlife that can be observed throughout the seasons. Visitors can explore miles of trails that wind through diverse habitats while learning about conservation efforts.
4. Rosaryville State Park
HISTORIC WOODLAND RETREAT
Rosaryville State Park encompasses over 982 acres of woodland offering numerous recreational opportunities near Upper Marlboro. The park features extensive trail systems for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding through beautiful forest landscapes. History enthusiasts can also appreciate the restored Mount Airy Mansion located within the park grounds.
5. Breezy Point Beach
BAYFRONT FAMILY DESTINATION
Breezy Point Beach offers a half-mile of sandy shoreline along the Chesapeake Bay with netted swimming areas for safe enjoyment. Visitors can fish or crab from the 200-foot pier while enjoying views of the bay and abundant wildlife. The beach features family-friendly amenities including playgrounds, picnic areas with grills, and convenient facilities for day trips.
6. Sandy Point State Park
CHESAPEAKE BAY GATEWAY
Sandy Point State Park provides a beautiful beach setting at the western end of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge with panoramic water views. The park's sandy shores offer swimming opportunities supervised by lifeguards during summer months alongside boating and fishing activities. Visitors can enjoy picnic facilities, concessions, and nature trails while taking in the magnificent views of the bay.
7. North Beach
CHARMING BAYSIDE TOWN
North Beach welcomes visitors with a family-friendly waterfront featuring a seven-block boardwalk along the Chesapeake Bay. The beach town offers swimming areas, fishing opportunities, and various waterfront activities in a quaint setting. Nearby restaurants, shops, and regular events create a vibrant atmosphere for both day trips and longer stays.
8. Gunpowder Falls State Park
DIVERSE AQUATIC PLAYGROUND
Gunpowder Falls State Park's Hammerman Beach area provides a freshwater swimming experience on the shores of the Gunpowder River. The park encompasses diverse water features including beaches, marshes, and rapids spread across multiple areas. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing while exploring one of Maryland's largest state parks.
9. National Harbor
WATERFRONT ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT
National Harbor presents a vibrant waterfront destination along the Potomac River with stunning views and numerous attractions. Visitors can enjoy waterfront dining, shopping, entertainment venues, and seasonal activities throughout the year. The development features a marina, public art installations, and the iconic Capital Wheel offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
10. Assateague Island National Seashore
WILD COASTAL PARADISE
Assateague Island National Seashore offers pristine beaches, maritime forests, and coastal bays on a barrier island famous for its wild horses. Visitors can swim in the Atlantic Ocean, explore undeveloped beaches, or observe diverse wildlife in their natural habitats. The park provides camping opportunities and various recreational activities while preserving the unique island ecosystem.