Laurel MarylandBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Laurel, Maryland.
1. Riverfront Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATIONAL ESCAPE
Riverfront Park is a 30-acre riverside oasis running alongside the scenic Patuxent River in Laurel. It features picnic pavilions, hiking and biking paths, play areas, and historic dam ruins, making it a favorite locale for outdoor recreation and riverside relaxation. Visitors can enjoy beautiful wetland views and easy access to the water while exploring the park's natural and historic highlights.
2. Laurel Municipal Pool
FAMILY-FRIENDLY SWIMMING SPOT
Laurel Municipal Pool offers a classic swimming experience adjacent to Riverfront Park, perfect for families seeking a cool dip on a hot day. The pool area features lanes for serious swimmers as well as a recreational section, providing fun and relief from summer heat. Its convenient location next to major parks makes it a staple for locals looking for accessible aquatic recreation.
3. Sandy Point State Park
ICONIC CHESAPEAKE BEACH
Sandy Point State Park is a premier waterfront destination on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay, renowned for its wide sandy beach and swimming areas. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the Bay Bridge, picnic areas, and opportunities for boating and fishing. This park is a beloved summer escape within easy reach of Laurel and the Baltimore-Washington corridor.
4. North Beach
CHESAPEAKE BAY BOARDWALK
North Beach is a charming Chesapeake Bay town featuring a scenic boardwalk, sandy beach, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere. Visitors can swim, relax by the water, and stroll the boardwalk while enjoying local shops and eateries. Its family-friendly vibe and unique bayfront setting make it a popular spot for a day trip from Laurel.
5. Chesapeake Beach
HISTORIC WATERFRONT RETREAT
Chesapeake Beach offers visitors a beautiful public beach along the Chesapeake Bay, complemented by a blend of resort-town nostalgia and modern amenities. The town is known for its beach area, fishing opportunities, and marina, as well as a lively boardwalk scene. This waterfront escape is accessible from Laurel and perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers.
6. Greenbrier State Park
LAKESIDE SWIMMING BEACH
Greenbrier State Park is celebrated for its crystal-clear lake and sandy beach, making it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Set against the backdrop of South Mountain, the park provides a scenic retreat with ample water-based recreation. Families benefit from amenities like lifeguards, bathhouses, and shaded spots for an all-day outing.
7. Gunpowder Falls State Park, Hammerman Beach
EXPANSIVE RIVERSIDE BEACH
Hammerman Beach, within Gunpowder Falls State Park, boasts a long sandy shoreline on the Gunpowder River. Visitors flock here for swimming, canoeing, and beach volleyball, with plenty of space for family picnics and group gatherings. The park's natural setting and well-maintained facilities make it one of the region's top riverside escapes.
8. Kilgore Falls at Rocks State Park
SCENIC WATERFALL SWIMMING HOLE
Kilgore Falls is a hidden gem within Rocks State Park, offering a pristine swimming hole beneath a dramatic waterfall. This natural pool is fed by Falling Branch creek, providing refreshingly cool water and a scenic spot for wading and picnicking. Adventurers can hike the trail to the falls and enjoy a tranquil escape surrounded by forested beauty.
9. Allen Pond Park
LAKESIDE FAMILY PARK
Allen Pond Park centers around a scenic lake, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and lakeside picnics in a community-oriented setting. While swimming is not permitted, the park's waterfront location and family-friendly amenities make it a popular escape for relaxation and outdoor fun. Walking trails and playgrounds offer additional activities for visitors of all ages.
10. Centennial Lake at Centennial Park
PEACEFUL LAKESIDE TRAILS
Centennial Park features a large, tranquil lake with well-maintained walking and biking trails skirting the shoreline. Popular for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking, the lake draws locals seeking waterside relaxation and wildlife viewing. While swimming is not allowed, the park's natural beauty and accessible recreation make it a must-visit for waterfront leisure.