The Best Beaches Near Washington DC

Washington DC - If you plan a vacation to the District, you should consider visiting one of the area's beach towns. Several places have sandy beaches in the area, including Colonial Beach, Rehoboth Beach, and Assateague Island National Seashore. Located just three hours from Washington, DC, these beaches offer plenty of activities for you and your family. Here are some of the best beaches near Washington, DC.


The Best Beaches Near Washington DC

 

Colonial Beach

If you're looking for a relaxing getaway, Colonial Beach in Washington DC may be the perfect destination. Located just 65 miles from Washington, DC, and 70 miles from Richmond, the resort is a charming riverside destination. Famous residents of Colonial Beach include Alexander Graham Bell, Sloan Wilson, Sherryl Woods, and the author of the novel The Love of My Life, Sloan Wilson. The town has marinas and many places to go fishing and boating with water on three sides. Its eclectic beachfront architecture is a draw for tourists and locals alike.



While strolling the pristine white sand, don't miss a chance to visit Colonial Beach Brewing Company. This family-owned brewery started in a garage and has since expanded to meet demand. It features a pet-friendly patio, live music, large televisions, and a wide selection of delicious beverages. Hurricane Mitzi DIPA is my favorite, and I recommend any of its beers if you're visiting the area.

Chesapeake Bay

If you're looking for a beach in the District of Columbia, the Chesapeake Bay beaches near Washington DC are perfect. Sandy Point State Park is just 38 miles away and is a popular spot for swimming and fishing. It's also a popular family destination for the many water activities available. Sandy Point also allows fishing in designated areas. After all, Washington is only a few hours away!



North Beach is a small town and public beach less than an hour from Washington, D.C. North Beach features a flower-lined boardwalk and the Bayside History Museum, which exhibits the area's history. The beach is open year-round, and there are 19 boat slips for free. Visitors can also enjoy fishing from the lower-level fishing deck. While you're at the park, make sure to pack a picnic lunch and a cooler.

Rehoboth Beach

If you're a resident of Washington, DC, and want to visit the beach, Rehoboth Beach is a great choice. The beach town is less than 39 miles from the White House and Capitol Hill and is also home to lighthouse Cove, where you can swim in the protected waters of Rehoboth Bay. You can also head to nearby Cunningham Falls State Park, which offers hiking trails, bike paths, and campgrounds.

Rehoboth Beach has swaths of sandy beaches, stretching from Henlopen Avenue to Prospect Street. The beach is free to use but lacks a changing facility. Locals and weeklong renters primarily visit the town. This is not a crowded beach but a great spot for a family vacation.

Assateague Island National Seashore

Assateague Island National Seashore is located about three hours from Washington, DC. The island is part of two separate states. The Maryland side is called Assateague State Park, and the Virginia side is called Chincoteague. This park preserves 41,346 acres of shoreline. More than a million people visit this site each year, and there's no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy here.



Aside from the white sand, Assateague is also known for its wild horses. The island has over 300 of these creatures. If you love birds, this is a place to visit. While you're there, you can also see wild ponies and other wildlife. The drive to this island is about two to three hours long but is well worth it.

North Beach

North Beach offers a short boardwalk and pier located about an hour outside the D.C. metropolitan area. While it has limited attractions, the neighborhood retains a charming charm and many good antique shops. For those on a tight budget, rideshare services are available in North Beach. And, a small fee to enter the beach! You can even purchase tickets for a movie night at a nearby theater.

The closest beach to Washington DC is Sandy Point, State Park. This 38-mile stretch of shoreline is popular for swimming, fishing, and boating. There are also several other beaches within the city limits. And, if you're in the mood for some outdoor summer fun, you can also visit Dundee Creek Marina. Its many activities include fishing, boating, and archery. And, it's open from dawn to dusk, so even the most harried vacationer can enjoy the water.

Ocean City

For those who love the water and want to explore a different side of the world, head to Virginia Beach or Ocean City, Maryland, two cities that offer great beaches and many activities. Virginia Beach is a 35-mile stretch of sandy beach that stretches along with the Chesapeake Bay's mouth. Visitors can explore nautical-themed shops and crab shacks on its charming boardwalk. Adventurers can try parasailing, going surfing, or kayaking with dolphins.

Those who want to get away from the city can also visit Sandy Point State Park, a beach 38 miles away from Capitol Hill. Sandy Point has miles of sandy shoreline and is lifeguarded most of the summer. There are designated fishing areas for those who enjoy fishing. It is also an ideal getaway for D.C. residents. There is a $5 Maryland entrance fee and an additional $6 for out-of-state visitors.