An aerial shot of a beach with water in the background

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Sandy Point State Park

Looking for a day of fun in the sun with your family this summer? Sandy Point State Park could be just what you had in mind. The 786-acre treasure on the northwestern shore of the Chesapeake Bay offers a little something for everyone. Individuals are invited to swim, fish, crab, picnic, and launch their boats from the park from 7:00 a.m. until sunset seven days a week.

QUICK FACTS:

  • Day-use admission Fee

    • May 1- September 30 - Weekends and holidays: $5/person, Weekdays: $4/person

    • October 1 - April 30 - $3 per vehicle

  • The boat ramps and fishing areas are open 24 hours. Fishing after-hours requires that all persons must be actively fishing including children. To learn more, check out our BoatingFishing, and Crabbing pages.

  • Pets are not permitted in the park between May 1 - September 30. To learn more about the Maryland Park Service Pet Policy, click here.

  • Alcohol and glass containers are not permitted in the park.

  • Visiting the Picnic Area

  • Lifeguards are on duty from 10 am to 6 pm, Memorial Day through Labor Day, all other times are swim at your own risk. For your safety, swim in designated areas only. To learn more about visiting the beach/swimming area, click here.

  • Visiting the Beach/ Swimming Area

A sunrise over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and Sandy Point State Park
Sunrise at Sandy Point State Park.
Image courtesy of Jarvin Photography.

 

Cooling off in the Chesapeake Bay is a popular activity at Sandy Point. The mile-long public swimming beach provides hours of fun and beautiful views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Beach chair and umbrella rentals are available, and restroom and shower facilities make it easy to prepare for the trip back home. Returning visitors will notice fresh new landscaping. Young families are likely to make a b-line to the new Bay-themed playground. 

Family members intent on reeling in the big one can fish from a designated section of the beach or from the nearby jetty. Other adventurers may elect to cast their lines from the fishing and crabbing pier in the park’s marina area. 

Thinking of a picnic? Sandy Point has you covered. You can pack your own lunch or order your favorite snack from the concession stand. If you’re feeling especially industrious, you’re welcome to set up your own grill and cook your favorite creations in the large grassy, alcohol-free picnic area that’s a popular gathering place on a warm summer’s day. Need more space? Sandy Point features 12 shelters that are expected to be available for rental in July by advance reservation only. 

 

A peaceful calm bay with a bridge in the background and a woman standing at the edge of the water during the winter
Even during the off-season, Sandy Point State Park is still an inspiring place to visit.
Image courtesy of Hurricane Shayne Photography.

 

If you're anxious to get your boat out on the water, you have a friend at Sandy Point State Park. With 22 public boat ramps, the park’s marina offers quick and convenient access to the Chesapeake Bay. A separate small craft launch ramp in the park’s South Beach area makes launching kayaks, canoes, standup paddleboards, and other small craft a breeze. Currently, individuals are required to bring their own small crafts. Visit the park's Boating Page for more information.

Lifeguards are on duty at Sandy Point State Park from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. daily from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Feel free to bring your leashed pet to the beach from October 1 through April 30. Pets are not allowed on the beach during the busy summer months. Park admission is $5 per person on weekends and holidays and $4 per person on weekdays.