I don't love this beach just because the water is brown and the picnic area is a bit sus and can be on the unkempt side. On top of that you have to pay for parking which fills up quickly so get there early or you'll have to wait a while. On the plus side it is pretty close to Baltimore, about a 30 minute ride. read more

Nice place. Beach available for all preferences. Nice bike and walking trails. Could use more food offerings.

Beautiful state park and nice atmosphere with nice people. It's not too far of a distance from the Washington DC area.

Okay, let's get the elephant in the room out of the way: Nope, this is not an ocean beach with a tourist or resort town. This a beach along the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland. Don't come here expecting a true ocean experience, but, there is lots to love! 1. Great display of true American diversity (you'll see representation of every shape, color, and cultural group in America and it will make you proud if you like enjoying and sharing in the something great with others who appear to have little in common with you) 2. Fabulous kite flying terrain! 3. Gently rolling waves and not very deep water is great for little kids & lifeguards are on duty during peak season 4. Plenty of sand for sand castles and digging in 5. A lighthouse! 6. Big cargo ships, tugboats, and sail boats to view 7. Fascinating view of the Maryland Bay Bridge and its traffic 8. Lots of tables, BBQ grills (or bring your own) and a spot to put hot coals (do get there early on peak-summer days, as it does fill up quickly!) 9. Plentiful bathroom facilities 10. A snack bar and rental shop 11. Sometimes they have free nature programs for kids (we've seen this during non-peak visits) Should you visit? Yes! - as long as you are not a pretentious person who is expecting a Nags Head experience. If you are a family or couple looking for a quick, cheap day trip to the beach (1.5 hours from Northern Virginia), then pack a lunch, grab the towels and sunscreen and head to Sandy Point. Cost is $5 a person (children in car seats are free). read more

Sandy Point State Park is one of my favorite places to go to connect to the Chesapeake Bay. There is no better beauty in the DMV then the Chesapeake Bay. There is something for everyone. If you want to walk along the shore and enjoy the scenery, swim, participate in water sports, immerse yourself in nature via one of the various trails, or just have lunch with a book under a tree you can. For those interested in camping, there is a designated area for campers. Sandy Point State Park is one of Maryland's gems. If you are visiting the area, be sure to include it on your must see and do list. read more

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Visited Sandy Point last weekend and loved it. Overall, it was pretty clean and not overly crowded. The views can be nice; I advise securing a spot facing the lighthouse; much more scenic than staring at the Bay Bridge. I don't suggest spending the day in the water. I went to relax in the sun and chill with friends but I did hear some people complaining about getting stung by jellyfish. I got my toes wet but that was about it. I will say that the restrooms are a little shady; I would like to see them updated. They do charge $5 per person which sucks. Luckily, they allow you to bring your own beverages and food so you can cut down on costs that way. Sandy Point is great for families, groups, or individuals. It was pretty quiet when I was there; except for some guy who had one too many beers. I was impressed at how quickly park officials were on the scene. He was "removed" from the beach area and no one seemed disturbed by the incident. Although you may bring your own food/beverage, they have a concession stand and I suggest trying their funnel cake. It was delicious! Definitely a summer classic. Yes, the sand is brown and the water is murky. What do you expect for a beach on the Annapolis shore? If Sandy Point doesn't meet your expectations, Rehobeth or Ocean City is a one-tank trip away. read more

Sandy Point State Park - 8/2010 - Parks Near Me - Annapolis, Maryland

Sandy Point came through clutch for us during a much-needed beach trip without having to go too far. Being new to the area, I wasn't sure what would be a hit or miss. Sandy Point proved to be great for what we needed. All we wanted was to lay in the sun, put our feet in the water, and enjoy playing in the sand. However, all we could do in the water was to put our feet in because there were storms a week prior to our coming to the park and the dam had gave way so the water at the beach was pretty dirty. Other than that, we had to pay to get in, and quite honestly for what we paid I thought we would be getting a lot more land. But I digress. The beach was pretty crowded and there were a lot of families enjoying the lovely day! At one point there was even a log floating close to shore. Not to worry, the lifeguards pulled it out of the water so it wouldn't hurt anyone. Anyway, good times. I enjoyed this place and like I said -- it served its purpose but maybe I'll venture out more next summer. read more

This park is a small beach with sand on the Chesapeake Bay. One of the biggest sights is the Bay Bridge, which is feet from the park. The bridge is visible from almost the entire park. There are areas for people to have picnics. It was to cool but people do swim here. A lot of people go fishing here and there are rock formations to stand on. Just off the shoreline is a small lighthouse. I wasn't fond of the $4 fee but it was worth it. read more

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1pm Labor Day Sunday - you can still get in, small line of cars to get in the park. The parking lots next to the beach are closed, but the farther lot by the Marina Store is open. Fee breakdown: $5 per person fee $25 beach umbrella rental fee (sturdy red umbrella with Maryland state flag), due back at 6pm. $12 per chair rental fee (lean back chair with footrest) $10 per hour kayak fee There are TWO stores: 1. Marina Store is on the right after you enter park. Kayak rental, bait, drinks, $2 soda, water, snacks, 50 cent coffee! Restroom is in a separate building 200 feet away from store. 2. Beach store - beach umbrella ($25) and chair $12) rental. Paddle boards, sand toys, rafts, frisbees, balls, see my pictures. And snack bar with fries, hot dogs, chicken tenders, slushees. read more

Very close to Northern VA, maybe One hour and 10 minutes. The park was very clean, ample parking and lots of picnic tables. The main attraction is the Chesapeake Bay Bridge when you are in the water. The water was slightly salty but very clean. The sand was colored tan with some pebbles and small rocks. Overall the sand was not too rough just enough. The water is not blue but brackish. Not bad at all for a dip in the water when driving too far is a problem. I would come back! read more

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So I've lived 30 minutes from Sandy Point for 14 years and this is the first time I've visited! But when you're in the middle of a pandemic, you look for local treasures! Some beach (fake or not) is better than no beach. My goal today was to get some some & sand and that I DID! It costs $4 to enter, but if you're a Veteran like me it's FREE. That same road takes you straight to the beach! I arrived at 1 and parking was plenty. However, since I didn't know exactly where I wanted to go, I had a lengthy walk to where I decided to plop down. If you want to get away from the crowd (closest to the bridge) park in the boat launch lot. There's more breathing room on that side of the beach (to the far left). I was there for 3 hours and spent the majority of my time in the water on a floatie. It was GREAT! It was 4 when I left and more people had arrived/were coming but I still felt like I had room to breathe. I found the bathrooms and they weren't pretty. There were also port-a-potties and I wonder if those may have been better. That alone dropped my rating from 4 to 3 stars. Either they're short staffed or..... I don't know. I'm somebody who grew up camping so I'm down for roughing it, but had it not been for my ride back I would have held it. They've also got a 'snack bar'. The prices are what you expect, but not outlandish. I scoped out some walking trails and might check those out too someday. In the meantime, I'll be back for a staycation, day trip, pandemic get-away. It was nice! read more

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Oh my! This place was packed and dirty! We were in Annapolis for the day and thought we'd see what they offered. It's is $4 a person just to enter. Plenty of parking but people everywhere. The beach area had so many individuals with no social distancing at all. People were smoking on the beach and trash was left around. The sand was not soft and did not remind me of a beach but then again it is the Chesapeake Bay. There was one window selling ice cream with a huge line on a Friday so I can't imagine what Saturday would be like. I won't be back! read more

Sandy Point State Park - Busy beach - Parks Near Me - Annapolis, Maryland

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Nice and relaxing place. We just want to to go to the beach since we all stuck in the house for covid 19. You have to be be there early. Only certain amount of people can going inside. We got there by 6:45am before it open at 7am and leave when it starts crowed. We have a great time over there. You can fish or play around the sand or go swimming. read more

The park is not bad. They charge $4.00 to enter the beach. The only problems are the flies, they should take care of it. Restrooms are clean. read more

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I like to consider myself a realist. Yelp helps me come to new places with reasonable expectations, but lemme say, I had a blast coming here. We visited on Easter Sunday because we wanted to bring the dog for his first beach visit, and it had to be before April 30. Came around 11:30am, and the line wasn't long at all, took maybe 5 minutes. Since it's off season, it was only $3 for the two of us and pup. It was such a pleasant surprise. The park was huge, with basketball courts, tennis nets, and plenty of picnic tables. We picked an area that was further away from people, but as the day went on, it got more and more crowded. No worries though. It was still quiet enough. Closer to the buildings, however, where the crowd was more dense, there were a lot more people, noise and music. So if you're looking for peace and quiet, walk further out. So like I said, we came off season on purpose so we could bring the dog. He had a great time. There were several other dogs there, probably because it was a 89 degree day on Easter Sunday - everyone had the same thought to catch some rays and tire their dogs out lol. There are bags in the parking lots for you to grab before going on to the beach, so you have a way to pick up after the pooch. It'd be great if there were more trashcans around, but it's not a big deal to hold onto all the trash until it's time to go. There are huge trash bins at the entrance/exit, too. The bathrooms were clean enough. I only went once, around 3:30pm. I only say that to give you context...it was midday already and plenty of people had already been in and out of the restrooms, so it wasn't top of the morning clean, or end of the day dirty. There was a lot of toilet paper on the floor in the stalls, but that was the only issue. There wasn't other trash on the floor and no offensive smells. The soap dispensers were filled and the automatic hand dryers worked. So for me, since the basics were covered, I had no complaints. Now to address some of the negative reviews: 1) As many people say, the sand is different. And yes, it colored our feet, but...that's what showers are for (btw, there are foot showers near the bathrooms), and the sand didn't stain. 2) We saw no jellyfish. 3) I can't speak for the food, because concessions aren't open off season. 4) There wasn't any litter on the ground, be it sand or concrete. Again, maybe bc it's off season so less people, but everything seemed well maintained. If I go back, I'd prolly keep in mind all the negative reviews and either get here early, or only come off season. If you look at the dates, many of the people who didn't enjoy themselves came during peak season. I'll learn from their mistakes and visit during the spring/fall - that way puppy can come too :) read more

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During the summertime i would take that long trip to ocean city. Passing the bay bridge and waiting in traffic i have always seen people fishing, playing in the sand, and enjoying a good time. Finally i decided to head to Sandy Park to see what it was like. It did not disappoint. As you enter, the employees guide you in the direction on the parking lot to park. As you head out, you see many people cooking out with their own grills or the grills that the park provides. TIP: YOU have to come early for the grills that the park provides. They have a snack bar, where they sell nachos, pizza, ice cream, etc... but they are over price. They have a bathroom, shower, and a changing center which i enjoy. Overall being here for the first time, i enjoyed it. Will definitely come back. read more

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This is not a beach! This is not a beach! Continue on down the road to Ocean City, Bethany or Rehoboth...Again this is not a beach! WORST EXPERIENCE EVER! Feet hurt from all the rocks, water smelled like crabs, and bugs swarmed my entire family. Again this is not a beach! It is a State Park as the sign says! read more

Had a wonderful time at Sandy Point yesterday with the kiddo. Wasn't crowded possibly because it was midweek and was relatively clean. Going early seemed to have been advantageous. Restroom/changing area could've been cleaned and sanitized more often though. That's my only negative. People were courteous and considerate by spacing out themselves along the beachfront. Would definitely recommend. read more

Sandy Point State Park - Beachfront - Parks Near Me - Annapolis, Maryland

The beach was nice, although there was a lot of litter on the ground. Busy but not super crowded on the evening we went, around 6 pm. I wondered why there were porto-potties all over when it looked like they had nice buildings for restrooms, but I found out why after we went in the restrooms. I've definitely smelled Porto potties that smelled better and were cleaner than these bathrooms. I can understand the sand everywhere, it's a beach. But the solid urine scent hits you as soon as you walk in. Yuck. read more

Paid parking but since we were military/veteran we got in free. The guard thanked us for our service. Nice. Other comments on parking are correct. Lots of parking but the lot near the marina you have to walk a ways to get to the beach. The lot to the left seemed closer but was closed bc if summer camps. I did not use their main restrooms and heard they were dirty. The one closest to the bridge was not bad. They DEFINITELY need more trash cans bc the beach is littered with trash. I don't blame the park as much as the LAZY jerks who can't take their trash out with them. Which brings me to my last point. This is not exactly a family friendly park. And the huge dead catfish floating in the water where my kids were playing wasn't very pleasant. read more

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We were here for the lights on the bay. The lines were super long but so worth the wait. I purchased my tickets through living Social and paid $13.00 for 1 car with unlimited passengers. That also included the 3D glasses for Two. I must say please purchase the glasses. It comes Two in a pack and they actually show Two different things. I don't want to give it all away but lets just say it's exciting and amusing and the glasses can be used once you leave to look at lights in the neighborhood. We tried that and had quite a few laughs. I'm not sure how much extra the glasses cost since ours was included but it can't be that much more. The light's were beautiful. I had to give it three stars because of the line. People were coming from all angles. I think they need someone directing traffic but maybe that's to much to ask. It would definitely avoid people trying to bust in the line. Calm down people we are all here for the same thing. You will get there in time. Patience is definitely a virtue. This is a drive thru only but you get to see the lights from both sides. The regular price for admission of one vehicle is $15.00. It was definitely worth the price though. Enjoy everyone and Happy Holidays... read more

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While the beach was a good local getaway, the bathroom was horrible! In a pandemic environment you would think they would do a better job of maintaining their bathrooms. It was just nasty, lacked toilet paper, one toilet appeared clogged up. Do better! read more

This place is amazing, just beautiful with lights on the bay. I really recommend coming here anytime not just for lights on the bay. Lights on the bay is awesome because it every ticket you buy it benefits the SPCA read more

As a kid, I spent many happy weekend afternoons playing in the orange sand at Sandy Point State Park. It had water, sand, sunshine, a playground and a grilling spot. What more can a kid want? As an adult, I see it from a completely different set of eyes. Sure the view of the Bay Bridge is beautiful but the lot is a bit smelly and the bathroom/changing room is in third world condition (and I'm from the Third World so i can say that!). But it's our closest beach so what the heck, pack up your cooler, spread out a beach towel and enjoy some fun in the sun! For $7 entrance fee what else do you expect? read more

I thought it was a beautiful beach are and nice. Idea of the bridge. Parking is a little strange. I was there on a Monday after noon so the park was pretty empty. It did seem like families showed up early and took parts of the beach as their own. So get there early. read more

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Ok, so it's not the ocean, and it smells kinda funny... BUT you have to give Sandy Point some credit for being a legit fishing/swimsuit spot only about 45 min away from DC. The stretch of sand is not that wide/long, there are lots of ouch-y shells, and it's at least $3 to get into the park, BUT there is plenty of parking, and the bridge is nice to look at. :) When I don't feel like going too far out and need some sand between my toes (it's kinda coarse, I won't lie), I hit up this place most frequently for some fun in the sun. read more

Dirty water, odd color sand/dirt....super packed. The two perks are: distance from DC - 1 hr and military are free. That's it. read more

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Went to this beach for the first time last week and it was beautiful. The children had a great time. The only thing is because it's a state park it should be free to get in, and they have no trash cans for garbage. Beach is beautiful. read more

Sandy Point State park is OK, its a WannaBeBeach scene for locals who needs a quick gateway without going to Ocean City. I am Canadian and never heard of paying Money to get into a State Park (not even in NY), so that was very odd to me but somehow its a normal thing here. Not worth it. read more

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Overall it was good, especially the transportation from the parking lot. The only I would like to see is more food vendors. read more

Sandy Point State Park - Parks Near Me - Annapolis, Maryland

Great spot to watch the boats passing by and all the activity of the bay bridge! Get there early to avoid a line at the payment booth.

Remember, it's a state park. If you keep that in mind, I think you'll be satisfied. I don't go here for a day at the beach - the sand is too grainy for the likes of me and the water not wavy enough. But I have been to a few events here and, on the whole, it has provided an enjoyable background for the event. Of note, however, we went to the Lights on the Bay and the line was outrageous. But there were only 2 tollbooths working. At first I thought that was crazy staffing, but then, after going through, I realized that the booths actually served as good crowd control to make sure the cars weren't zipping through the light show. read more

Sandy Point State Park - Parks Near Me - Annapolis, Maryland

This looked to be a perfect beach by the river place, BUT it is NOT this time of year! It was full of stinging jellyfish in the water and biting flies on the sand. We couldn't swim without being stung and we couldn't lay in the beach without being PAINFULLY bit. It was awful! They should warn people about this BEFORE entering the park. Maybe try again earlier in the summer? It was clean. No lifeguards on duty. A lot of fishing areas, so lacks swimming areas. That makes me nervous not knowing where the fishing hooks may be lurking. Take caution if you come here. read more

Over all this place isnt that bad at all the thing is they dont clean the shoreline because the sand has lots of big stones and it seems no body is charge is doing anything about it. The bbq area is pretty vast and very there planty of grill. Parking is always alright not too bad. read more

My family and I go to this park every year for a big summer party for a group we are a part of. We love swimming, relaxing on the beach and eating our barbecue underneath one of the pavilions. They have indoor restrooms/showers for after you are done swimming and playing around in the sand, plenty of parking and a few playgrounds throughout the park. Admission is free for kids in a car seat or booster seat and just a few bucks per person for those who aren't. Definitely check it out if you want to have a local day at the beach! read more

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This is my first time at this park. Me and my wife and other YELPERS came here for the Polar Bear Plunge. WOW is the only thing I can say the water was really cold and my wife was a real trooper. Speaking of troopers, Since this event was sponsored by the Maryland State Police they came out in force. I could not count the number of State Troopers that I seen at this event. I give the Maryland State Police and all of their partners for throwing a great event for Maryland Special Olympics. I was surprised to see the amount of people that took the plunge in sub-freezing water but it was for a good reason in helping to raise money for the special Olympics Maryland. Their was one thing I was disappointed about their was no lockers for plungers to store their personal items. Over all me and my wife and our fellow Yelps had a good time and YES we will be attending the plunge next year. read more

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Went here on Christmas Eve (12/24/13) to see the light show & it was very nice! The sponsor of the light show was the Anne Arundel Medical Center (AAMC). Admission is $14/car 3D Admission is $17/car Highlights: This is a Christmas lights drive through the Sandy Point National Park. It's worth the $14! So many things to look at from the comfort of your car. Linked with 92.1 radio with all the holiday music! Check this out next holiday season! It's a must see! read more

Sandy Point State Park - Parks Near Me - Annapolis, Maryland

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This is a fun "beachish" spot as long as you know what to expect. The sand is orange and rocky but still sand and mostly clean. The water is a bit murky and can be cold but it's the East Coast and not the ocean so thats to be expected. There are tons of people of various backgrounds and ages running around having fun, fishing, sun bathing and grilling. It's definitely a family spot during the summer. The bathrooms are absolutely nasty but serve a purpose. Decent parking is available. It costs $5 per person and they have actual trained lifeguards on duty. So temper your expectations and enjoy yourself. read more

Sandy Point State Park - Day at the beach - Parks Near Me - Annapolis, Maryland

Because of Covid, they really need to LIMIT the amount of people here. There is no way to social distance and the usual crowd here does not care so it does not feel safe. read more

The beach was clean and not too crowded. I loved the sounds of the waves, it was so relaxing. I felt relaxed and safe enough to take a nap undisturbed or bothered. After awhile the birds can be annoying but thats to be expected when folks feed them. The lifeguards are very attentive and aware of what's going on at all times. I will return again! read more

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