11 Best Beach Towns to Live in Maryland
- Ocean City
- Annapolis
- Chesapeake Beach
- North Beach
- St. Michaels
- Crisfield
- Oxford
- Solomons
- Betterton
- Kent Island
- Stevensville
Ocean City
Ocean City is the best beach town in Maryland. It only has a year-round population of 6,900 but transforms into the second most populated municipality in Maryland during the summer. This vibrant coastal destination is known for its sandy shores and lively atmosphere.
Notable attractions include the Ocean Bowl Skatepark and Trimper's Amusement Park, adding excitement to the beach experience.
Additionally, sports enthusiasts gather at Ocean City for the Brine Beach Lax Festival, making it a hub for lacrosse enthusiasts. Whether it's the thrilling amusement parks or the sun-soaked beaches, Ocean City offers a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment.
Annapolis
Annapolis, the capital city of Maryland, may not be your typical beach destination, but it stands out with a special mix of historical allure and waterfront charm. With a population of 40,812, the city is home to prestigious institutions like the United States Naval Academy and St. John's College.
Boasting 17 miles of waterfront, Annapolis is conveniently situated around 35 miles from both Washington, D.C., and Baltimore. A must-see attraction is the State House, adding to the city's rich historical tapestry.
Chesapeake Beach
Chesapeake Beach, a charming town with a population of 6,436, is nestled along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay. This coastal gem is home to several marinas, a bayfront park, charter fishing opportunities, and convenient boat ramps. Visitors can explore the rich history of the area at the Chesapeake Beach Railway Station and enjoy outdoor activities on the Chesapeake Beach Rail Trail.
The town is renowned for its delicious Chesapeake Bay seafood, particularly the fresh-caught Rockfish. For those seeking a splash of excitement, the Chesapeake Beach Water Park offers a fun-filled aquatic experience. Whether it's fishing, history, or family-friendly water activities, Chesapeake Beach has something to offer for everyone.
North Beach
North Beach, with a population of 2,164, is a charming town nestled on the Chesapeake Bay's western shore. The community boasts several parks, such as Wetlands Overlook Park, Sunrise Garden, and Callis Park, offering residents and visitors serene green spaces.
The lively boardwalk is a favorite among both athletes and casual strollers, providing a scenic route along the bay. Additionally, North Beach hosts eclectic special events and provides diverse recreational opportunities for everyone to enjoy.
St. Michaels
St. Michaels is a charming Maryland beach town with a population of 1,094. One of its main draws is the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's maritime history. St. Michaels boasts a variety of parks, such as Frederick Douglass Park, Muskrat Park, and Hollis Park, providing ample outdoor spaces for residents and visitors.
Impressively, 95% of the population holds a high school diploma, reflecting the town's commitment to education. Additionally, St. Michaels stands out for its remarkably low crime rate, with violent crime being virtually non-existent, making it a safe and inviting community.
Crisfield
Crisfield, a charming town of 2,515, is also one of the best beach towns in Maryland. Crisfield is also known as the "Seafood Capital of the World." This coastal gem is renowned for hosting numerous annual events and festivals, with the National Hard Crab Derby being the most prominent.
Crisfield is blessed with picturesque beaches, including the stunning Wellington Beach. The town's coastal location makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering popular recreational activities such as fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming.
Oxford
Oxford, a delightful and picturesque village, is nestled among trees and surrounded by water, boasting a population of fewer than 1000 residents. This charming town is home to the historic Tred Avon Yacht Club and is connected to the neighboring Bellevue by the Oxford-Bellevue Ferry.
Being one of Maryland's oldest towns, Oxford exudes a rich history and timeless allure. Despite its small size, Oxford offers convenient access to larger cities like Baltimore and Washington, DC, making it an ideal blend of tranquility and accessibility.
Solomons
Solomons, with a population of 2,368, is nestled near the Patuxent River and serves as a popular weekend destination in the Baltimore–Washington metropolitan area.
This charming town is home to the Calvert Marine Museum, where visitors can explore maritime history and exhibits. Solomons boasts numerous marinas, seafood restaurants, and gift shops, adding to its appeal for those seeking a delightful coastal experience.
Betterton
Betterton is a charming town in Kent County, with a population of about 350 people. It began as a small fishing village and a port for local agriculture. Betterton is known for Betterton Beach, featuring public restrooms, a boardwalk, and a fishing jetty.
On the south side, there is an American Legion Post adjacent to the town. Although shopping is mainly done in Chestertown, located approximately 12 miles to the south, Betterton offers a tranquil community with its coastal attractions and historical roots.
Kent Island
Kent Island, the largest island in the Chesapeake Bay, is a charming enclave with a population of 16,812, embodying the laid-back Eastern Shore Lifestyle. Its allure lies in breathtaking water views and easy access to dining, making it a favored overnight stop for many.
Noteworthy accommodations on the island include the Hilton Garden Inn Kent Island and the Holiday Inn Express Kent Island, catering to visitors seeking both comfort and convenience during their stay.
Stevensville
Stevensville, the last beach town on our list of best beach towns in Maryland, boasts a population of 8,145. Founded in 1850 as a steamboat terminal, this charming town is home to Matapeake Beach and Terrapin Nature Park, offering residents and visitors scenic coastal views. Stevensville is also known for its local attractions, including the popular Cult Classic Brewing and Mark Cascia Vineyards, adding a touch of flavor to this historic community.