Escape the city and relax at beaches near Washington, DC. Enjoy sandy shores, swimming, and scenic views at destinations like Sandy Point State Park, Chesapeake Beach, and North Beach. These coastal getaways offer family-friendly fun, waterfront dining, and easy day trips just a short drive from the nation's capital.

⮕ Beaches You Can Reach in Under 1 Hour from DC

Take a morning drive to one of these beaches for a relaxing day out.

Beaches You Can Reach in Under 1 Hour from DC

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Leesylvania State Park – 38–52 minutes from DC:
Set along the Potomac River, Leesylvania State Park offers historic trails, scenic fishing spots, and peaceful waterfront picnic areas.

Sandy Point State Park – 43–51 minutes from DC:
Located on the Chesapeake Bay, Sandy Point features beach access, boating, and stunning views of the Bay Bridge.

⮕ Around One Hour from DC

Stroll the boardwalk or fish off the pier on a quick affordable getaway.

Around One Hour from DC

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Chesapeake Beach – 1 hour 1 minute from DC:
A charming town on the bay, Chesapeake Beach boasts a waterfront boardwalk, marinas, and family-friendly attractions.

North Beach – 46–47 minutes from DC:
With a walkable shoreline, North Beach offers bayfront views, a fishing pier, and a lively weekend market scene.

⮕ Beaches That are 1 - 3 Hours by Car from DC

Bring the kids or enjoy bay views on a fun and cheap afternoon.

Beaches That are 1 - 3 Hours by Car from DC

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Matapeake Park and Beach – 1 hour 1 minute from DC:
On Kent Island, Matapeake Park offers a pet-friendly beach, wooded trails, and panoramic bayfront scenery.

Breezy Point Beach – 1 hour 16–24 minutes from DC:
A favorite summer spot, Breezy Point Beach features a half-mile sandy beach, fishing pier, and picnic areas along the Chesapeake Bay.

Assateague Island National Seashore – 2 hours 49 minutes from DC:
Famous for its wild horses, Assateague offers undeveloped beaches, coastal camping, and tranquil wildlife viewing on Maryland’s Atlantic coast.

⮕ More Than 3 Hours from DC

Surf the waves or stroll the boardwalk on an exciting coastal vacation.

More Than 3 Hours from DC

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Virginia Beach – 3 hours 18–4 hours from DC:
A classic coastal destination, Virginia Beach boasts a three-mile boardwalk, oceanfront fun, and family-friendly attractions.

Kiptopeke State Park – 3 hours 38–4 hours 15 minutes from DC:
Located on the Eastern Shore, Kiptopeke offers coastal trails, birdwatching, and beach access with views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel.

Ocean View Beach Park – 2 hours 58–3 hours 40 minutes from DC:
Nestled in Norfolk, Ocean View features a wide sandy beach, gentle surf, and seasonal live music near the Chesapeake Bay.

FAQ:

  • What makes the Chesapeake Bay shoreline special?
    • The stunning shores of the 200-mile-long Chesapeake Bay offer over 11,000 miles of shoreline.
    • Many of these sites remain undeveloped, providing hidden gem getaways away from the crowds of other East Coast destinations.
  • What attractions do Chesapeake Bay beaches offer?
    • These beaches and beachfront cities offer a range of activities, including:
    • Family-friendly attractions.
    • Public special event programming.
    • Plenty of opportunities for outdoor summer fun.
  • Where are the best beaches near Washington, DC?
    • Check out our list of the best beaches to visit near DC.

Best Time to Visit Beaches Near Washington, DC

  • June to August – Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and family-friendly beach outings.
  • July & Early August – Peak season with festivals, boardwalk fun, and vibrant beach scenes.
  • May & September – Warm but less crowded, great for relaxed beach days and scenic drives.
  • October to April – Quieter and cooler, perfect for peaceful walks and coastal photography.
  • Late May – A sweet spot for enjoying warm weather before the busy summer rush.


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Summer (June-August) – Peak season with warm weather and the best beach conditions. Hyatt Place Dewey Beach – A modern stay close to the shore. Visit Rehoboth Beach – Enjoy the boardwalk, restaurants, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Spring (March-May) – Milder temperatures with fewer crowds. The Tides Inn – A charming waterfront resort in Virginia’s Northern Neck. Explore Assateague Island – See wild horses and enjoy the unspoiled coastline.
Fall (September-November) – Warm waters linger, and the crowds thin out. Inn at Perry Cabin – A luxury retreat in St. Michaels, Maryland. Relax at Bethany Beach – A quieter alternative with soft sand and peaceful vibes.
Winter (December-February) – Cold but great for scenic walks and solitude. Virginia Beach Oceanfront Hotels – Various stays with off-season deals. Walk Along Chesapeake Beach – Enjoy picturesque views and fresh seafood.

Plan Your Trip