Sandy Point State Park

Sandy Point State Park offers one of the best family beach experiences on the Chesapeake Bay, with over a mile of sandy shoreline, supervised swimming areas with lifeguards, and spectacular views of the Bay Bridge. The park combines classic beach fun with excellent amenities including a playground, shaded picnic pavilions, and calm bay waters perfect for young swimmers who might find ocean waves intimidating.

• ✓Over a mile of sandy beach with lifeguard supervision during summer season
• ✓Calm Chesapeake Bay waters ideal for young or nervous swimmers
• ✓Playground and large grassy areas for non-beach activities
• ✓Stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, especially at sunset
• ✓Picnic pavilions and grills available for family cookouts

1. 1.Arrive before 10am on summer weekends to snag parking and a good spot,the park reaches capacity and closes its gates when full during peak season
2. 2.Bring water shoes as the bay bottom can have shells and pebbles in spots, making them essential for comfortable wading
3. 3.Head to the South Beach area for calmer waters and easier parking with younger children; North Beach tends to be busier with more amenities
4. 4.Pack a pop-up tent or beach umbrella as shaded spots fill up quickly, and there's limited natural shade on the beach
5. 5.The park offers fantastic kite-flying opportunities thanks to steady bay breezes,bring a kite for extra entertainment

Visit on weekday mornings from June through August for the best weather with manageable crowds. Early September offers warm water temperatures with significantly fewer visitors. Aim to arrive by 9-10am on weekends or expect potential closure due to capacity.

Day-use fees apply ($7 per vehicle for MD residents, $10 for out-of-state, Memorial Day-Labor Day). The park has bathhouses with changing areas and restrooms, but food options are limited to vending machines, so pack a cooler with meals and snacks.

Lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. The park is open year-round for beach walks and picnics, but swimming is only recommended during the supervised summer season. Beach facilities and bathhouses have limited hours or close in off-season months.

Mission BBQ (15 minutes away) offers kid-friendly portions and a patriotic atmosphere kids find fun, or head to Chick-fil-A on Jennifer Road for a quick post-beach meal with a playground.