Did you know that Chesapeake Beach was once known as the “Playground of the Potomac,” attracting over 10,000 weekend visitors during the early 1900s? This charming waterfront town in Calvert County has reinvented itself from its amusement park past into a delightful Chesapeake Bay destination that perfectly blends small-town charm with waterfront recreation. Today, this hidden gem offers visitors pristine beaches, fossil hunting, water activities, and a glimpse into Maryland’s coastal heritage.
Getting to Chesapeake Beach
Chesapeake Beach is conveniently located just 35 miles southeast of Washington, DC, making it an accessible day trip or weekend getaway. The town sits along the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay in Calvert County, Maryland.
By Air
The closest major airports are Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), both approximately 50 miles away. From either airport, you’ll need to rent a car or arrange transportation to reach Chesapeake Beach.
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By Car
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Chesapeake Beach. From Washington DC, take Maryland Route 4 southeast, then connect to Maryland Route 260 east, which leads directly into town. From Baltimore, take Maryland Route 2 south, then connect to Route 260. The drive from either city typically takes 60-90 minutes, depending on traffic.
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Best Time to Visit Chesapeake Beach
Chesapeake Beach experiences four distinct seasons, each offering a different experience for visitors.
Summer (June-August)
Summer is peak season when the town comes alive with visitors enjoying the beaches, water park, and fishing opportunities. Temperatures typically range from 75-90°F (24-32°C), perfect for water activities. This is also when most festivals and events take place, including the popular Stars and Stripes Festival on July 4th.
Fall (September-November)
Fall brings comfortable temperatures (55-75°F/13-24°C) and fewer crowds. The changing foliage along the Chesapeake Beach Railway Trail creates a picturesque setting for hiking. Charter fishing remains excellent during this season.
Winter (December-February)
Winters are mild by northeastern standards, with temperatures typically between 30-50°F (-1-10°C). While beach activities are limited, this is a peaceful time to enjoy the town’s restaurants and explore the Railway Museum without crowds.
Spring (March-May)
Spring sees the town awakening with temperatures ranging from 50-70°F (10-21°C). This shoulder season offers good value on accommodations while still providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
Local Tip: For the best balance of good weather and smaller crowds, consider visiting in late May or early September when water temperatures are still comfortable for swimming but the summer crowds have thinned.
Where to Stay in Chesapeake Beach
Chesapeake Beach offers several accommodation options ranging from waterfront resorts to cozy vacation rentals.
Chesapeake Beach Resort & Spa
The town’s premier accommodation option offers waterfront rooms with stunning bay views, an on-site restaurant, and a full-service spa. The resort provides direct access to the marina and is within walking distance of the town’s main attractions.
Vacation Rentals
For families or extended stays, vacation rentals provide more space and amenities. Many waterfront properties offer private docks, outdoor grills, and stunning sunset views. Options range from cozy cottages to larger homes that can accommodate groups.
Breezy Point Beach & Campground
For outdoor enthusiasts, Breezy Point offers both day-use beach access and camping facilities. The campground features bay-front sites with easy beach access, perfect for those who want to fall asleep to the sound of waves.
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Top Attractions in Chesapeake Beach
Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum
Housed in the original railway station from 1898, this museum chronicles the town’s history as a popular resort destination. Exhibits include an original passenger car, photographs, and artifacts from the railway era. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into how the railroad transformed this once-remote area into a thriving resort town.
The museum is open seasonally from May through September, with limited hours in the shoulder seasons. Admission is free, though donations are appreciated.
Chesapeake Beach Water Park
Perfect for families, this municipal water park features eight water slides, fountains, waterfalls, and a lagoon. The park offers spectacular views of the Chesapeake Bay while providing a fun way to cool off during summer months. Cabana rentals are available for those seeking shade and a private space to relax.
The water park typically operates from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Residents of Chesapeake Beach receive discounted admission, while non-residents pay standard rates.
Boardwalk and Fishing Pier
The town’s boardwalk stretches along the waterfront, offering stunning views of the bay and a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. Connected to the boardwalk is a 700-foot fishing pier where anglers can try their luck without needing a boat. The pier is particularly popular for catching spot, croaker, and striped bass.
Fishing licenses are required for those 16 and older, and can be purchased online through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources or at local tackle shops.
Bayfront Park (Brownie’s Beach)
This small, scenic beach is famous for fossil hunting, particularly prehistoric shark teeth that wash up on shore. The beach sits at the base of the Calvert Cliffs formation, which contains fossils dating back 15-20 million years. While technically restricted to Chesapeake Beach residents, visitors can access similar fossil-hunting opportunities at nearby Calvert Cliffs State Park and Flag Ponds Nature Park.
Charter Fishing
Known as the “Charter Fishing Capital of Maryland,” Chesapeake Beach offers numerous opportunities to experience the bay’s rich fishing grounds. Several charter companies operate from the local marina, offering half-day and full-day excursions targeting rockfish (striped bass), bluefish, croaker, and more depending on the season.
Charters typically run from April through November, with peak season being May through September. Reservations are recommended, especially during summer weekends.
Plan Your Activities
Make the most of your visit by planning your activities in advance. Many attractions have seasonal hours or require reservations.
Where to Eat in Chesapeake Beach
Chesapeake Beach offers excellent dining options, with an emphasis on fresh, local seafood from the bay.
Top Restaurants
Rod ‘N’ Reel Restaurant
Part of the Chesapeake Beach Resort, this waterfront restaurant specializes in fresh seafood with stunning bay views. Their crab cakes are legendary, made with jumbo lump crab meat and minimal filler. The Sunday brunch buffet is particularly popular among locals and visitors alike.
Abner’s Crab House
For an authentic Maryland crab feast, head to this casual eatery where tables are covered in brown paper and mallets are provided for cracking steamed blue crabs. The all-you-can-eat option is perfect for those looking to indulge in this local tradition.
Neptune’s Seafood Pub
This local favorite offers a relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu featuring both seafood and non-seafood options. Their cream of crab soup and fish tacos receive particular praise from regulars. The outdoor deck provides a pleasant dining experience during warmer months.
Local Delicacy: When dining in Chesapeake Beach, don’t miss the opportunity to try Maryland blue crabs seasoned with Old Bay. The traditional preparation is steamed and served whole, requiring some work to extract the sweet meat—but locals will tell you it’s worth the effort!
Practical Tips for Visitors
Getting Around
Chesapeake Beach is a small town that’s easy to navigate. While having a car provides the most flexibility for exploring the area, many attractions within the town center are within walking distance of each other. There is no public transportation within the town itself, but taxis and rideshare services are available.
Explore at Your Own Pace
Having your own vehicle makes it easier to visit nearby attractions like Calvert Cliffs State Park and Flag Ponds Nature Park.
Weather Considerations
The Chesapeake Bay area can experience sudden weather changes, particularly in summer when afternoon thunderstorms are common. Check the forecast before planning outdoor activities, and have a backup plan for indoor options. During summer, humidity can be high, so stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Local Events
Chesapeake Beach hosts several annual events that can enhance your visit:
- Stars and Stripes Festival (July) – Independence Day celebration with fireworks over the bay
- Taste of the Beaches (September) – Culinary event featuring local restaurants
- Christmas on the Beach (December) – Holiday lights and festivities
Day Trips from Chesapeake Beach
While Chesapeake Beach offers plenty to keep visitors entertained, several nearby attractions make for excellent day trips:
Calvert Cliffs State Park
Located about 20 minutes south, this 1,460-acre park features a 2-mile hiking trail leading to the majestic cliffs and a beach where visitors can hunt for fossils. The cliffs contain fossils from over 600 species dating back 15-20 million years.
Flag Ponds Nature Park
Just 15 minutes south, this park offers a more secluded beach experience with excellent fossil hunting opportunities. The park includes hiking trails through diverse habitats, a fishing pier, and observation platforms for wildlife viewing.
North Beach
Adjacent to Chesapeake Beach, North Beach offers additional dining options, a public beach, and a Friday night farmers market during summer months. The town’s 7-block waterfront includes antique shops and art galleries worth exploring.
Plan Your Chesapeake Beach Getaway
Chesapeake Beach offers a perfect blend of small-town charm, natural beauty, and recreational activities that make it an ideal destination for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re hunting for million-year-old fossils along the shoreline, enjoying fresh seafood with bay views, or learning about the area’s fascinating resort history, this charming town provides a refreshing escape from the nearby urban centers.
With its proximity to Washington DC and Baltimore, Chesapeake Beach makes for an easy weekend getaway or even a day trip. However, to truly appreciate all the town has to offer, consider staying at least two nights to experience both the water activities and the cultural attractions at a relaxed pace.
Ready to Experience Chesapeake Beach?
Start planning your perfect getaway to this charming Chesapeake Bay destination.
Pack your sunscreen, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to discover why generations of visitors have fallen in love with this picturesque bay town. Whether you’re searching for prehistoric shark teeth along the shoreline or watching the sunset paint the sky from the boardwalk, Chesapeake Beach creates memories that will last long after your footprints in the sand have washed away.
The above is subject to change.
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