08/28/2026
🏖️ National Beach Day is August 30 — skip the Bay Bridge traffic!
Maryland has some seriously underrated spots less than 2 hours away — here are 6 to add to your list 👇
🌊 Greenbrier State Park (Boonsboro) — A clean, white-sand beach on a spring-fed lake.
🌊 Cunningham Falls State Park (Thurmont) — Swim at Hunting Creek Lake, then hike to Maryland’s tallest cascading waterfall while you’re there.
🌊 Downs Park (Pasadena) — Chesapeake Bay views with a fishing pier, playground, and miles of walking trails. Great for a full day out, not just a swim.
🌊 Fort Smallwood Park (Pasadena) — Where the Patapsco River meets the Bay. Shallow, sandy beach plus a historic fort, fishing pier, and playground — even a dog beach.
🌊 Miami Beach Park (Middle River) — A sandy Chesapeake cove with a swim area and kayak/paddleboard rentals.
🌊 Rocky Point Park & Beach (Essex) — 300 feet of sandy beach at the mouth of the Back and Middle Rivers, with sweeping views toward Hart-Miller Island.
📌 Pro tip: hours, lifeguard schedules, and closures can change — check each park’s website before you head out!
📍 All within a 2-hour drive of the DMV — no bridge, no backup, just sand and water. Which one are you hitting first? 👇
I’m Tracy Edwards | Maryland Realtor® - your Central Maryland real estate agent and resource! Follow me for more local spots and real estate tips.