Located in the heart of Annapolis, Maryland, Sandy Point State Park offers a great escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day at the beach fishing or boating, or an adventurous hike through nature with stunning views, Sandy Point State Park has something for everyone.
Table of Contents:
- About Sandy Point State Park
- General Information
- Weather for Sandy Point State Park
- The Beach Area at Sandy Point State Park
- The Playground at Sandy Point State Park
- Renting a Picnic Table at Sandy Point State Park
- Hiking Trail and Map of Sandy Point State Park
- Fishing Pier and Crabbing Piers
- Boat Rentals
- What to Bring
- Things to Know Before You Go
- Things to do Nearby
About Sandy Point State Park
The Nature Center
Discover the wonders of the Chesapeake Bay at the Sandy Point Nature Center, nestled between the Concession Building and South Beach Playground at South Beach Plaza. Get up close and personal with the Bay’s vibrant ecosystem through fun and interactive exhibits perfect for visitors of all ages. From comparing your reach to the wingspan of different birds to playing “I Spy” in the native plant meadow, you’ll have a blast while learning about the fascinating plants and animals that call the Bay their home.
The Nature Center at Sandy Point State Park
However, the exhibits are fully bilingual so that everyone can join the fun! Enjoy the Nature Center’s exciting events, like beach cleanups, birdhouse painting, and fishing. There’s always something happening at Sandy Point Nature Center!
Bird Watching
Sandy Point State Park is a top destination for bird watching, with 299 different species recorded. You can explore a variety of habitats, including sandy beaches, woodlands, ponds, and marshes. The park’s marina area, Symbi Nature Trail, service roads, South Beach, Blue Crab Trail, and East Beach are all prime spots for spotting a wide range of birds, from diving ducks and gulls to winter songbird rarities. So, take the chance to search for marshland birds in the dense hedgerow behind the North Edge of the East Beach pavilion area.
The Marina Store
The Sandy Point State Park Marina Store is your one-stop shop near the boat ramps for last-minute boating needs. From boating fuel and fishing bait to tackle and picnic supplies, the store has everything you need for a day out on the water. If you want to rent a motorboat, keep an eye on the Coast Guard’s wind and weather reports – rentals are available in late spring, summer, and early fall. And when you need a quick snack or refreshment, the Marina Store has you covered with various ice, snacks, and drinks.
General Information
Address: 1100 E College Pkwy, Annapolis, MD 21409, United States
Hours: 7 AM – 8 PM
Parking: Yes, parking is available at Park
Entrance Fee: On weekends and holidays, the fee is $5 per person, while on weekdays, the price is $4 per person.
Restrooms: Park provides visitors convenient access to restrooms and showering facilities through the bathhouse near the beach. Additionally, the South Beach area and Marina Store offer snack food, beach, and picnic supplies to help make your visit more enjoyable.
Accessibility: The park is fully accessible, and standard wheelchairs can access the trails and picnic areas. Additionally, the park offers beach wheelchairs available to visitors for free on a first-come, first-served basis. These beach wheelchairs provide mobility assistance and allow visitors to experience the sandy beach areas comfortably.
Drive Time:
Northern Virginia
1 Hour
Washington DC
50 Minutes
Weather for Sandy Point State Park
The weather at Sandy Point State Park is generally pleasant and mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s during the summer months. It can be humid sometimes, but the breeze off the bay helps keep things comfortable.
The park is open year-round, but you should be prepared for cooler temperatures in the fall and winter, with average highs in the 50s and 40s, respectively. It’s a good idea to check the weather forecast before visiting the park, especially if planning outdoor activities like hiking or boating.
However, the weather at Sandy Point State Park is generally favorable for outdoor activities, making it a great place to spend a day or weekend enjoying the beauty of the Chesapeake Bay.
The Beach Area at Sandy Point State Park
The Beach Area is one of the main attractions of the park. With its beautiful sandy beach and scenic views of the Chesapeake Bay, it is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach has designated swimming areas and is protected by lifeguards from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays, weekends, and holidays from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Moreover, the park provides visitors beach chairs, umbrellas, and a bathhouse with restrooms and shower facilities. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, the beach offers other activities such as fishing, crabbing, and boating.
The Playground at Sandy Point State Park
Sandy Point State Park has a playground area for children of all ages to enjoy. The playground is located near the main parking area and has a variety of equipment, including swings, slides, and climbing structures. The playground is surrounded by a large grassy area, perfect for running and playing games. The playground is well-maintained and safe for children to use. The park staff regularly checks and cleans the equipment, and there are also benches and picnic tables nearby for parents to relax and watch their children play.
Renting a Picnic Table at Sandy Point State Park
The Park offers various picnic areas throughout the park, including the Tollgate Area, South Beach Area, and East Beach Area. However, to rent a picnic table, you can use any available picnic area on a first-come, first-served basis, except for the East Beach area, which requires reservations. A limited number of grills and picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and visitors can also purchase picnic and grilling supplies at the park’s marina store.
Learn more or rent a picnic table here!
Hiking Trail and Map of Sandy Point State Park
Blue Crab Trail at Sandy Point State Park
Sandy Point State Park offers two trails for visitors to enjoy the park’s natural surroundings. Stroll on the Symbi Trail and admire the old pine forest and marshes. If you’re a bird lover, the Blue Crab Trail is perfect for catching sight of Maryland’s unique feathered residents. Venture into the Corcoran Tract and explore four miles of trails, perfect for hiking and jogging while taking in the diverse flora and fauna.
Blue Crab Trail from South Beach to East Beach
Take the chance to immerse yourself in the great outdoors at Sandy Point State Park!
Map Courtesy of Sandy Point State Park
Fishing Pier and Crabbing Piers
This Park is a haven for anglers and crabbers alike. If you’re looking for a great spot to cast your line, you’re in luck! Fishing is permitted from the shoreline in designated areas and from several rock jetties and a fishing/crabbing pier next to the boat launch ramps. And for those who want to fish at night, the park allows it, but there is one important rule: only people who are actively fishing, including children, can be in the park after the park closes.
It’s worth noting that a Chesapeake Bay Sport fishing license is required for those 16 years and older. So grab your gear, get your license, and enjoy a day of fishing and crabbing at Sandy Point State Park!
Click here to review the fishing pier and crabbing piers
Boat Rentals
They offer a top-notch marina facility, making it the perfect destination for anyone looking to get out on the water and enjoy some boating action. With 22 launching ramps and six finger piers available on a first-come, first-served basis, you’ll find a spot to launch your boat. The marina is certified as a Clean Marina, so you can feel good about doing your part for the environment.
Although motorboats, kayaks, and paddleboards are currently unavailable, you can still bring your watercraft and enjoy a day of fun out on the water. And if you need to top up your boat’s fuel tank, the marina store has covered you with fuel pumps available on the dock.
What to Bring
To have a fun and comfortable day at Sandy Point State Park, it’s important to bring some essential items. First, use sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. A hat or sunglasses can also be helpful. You’ll want to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated and some snacks or a picnic lunch if you plan on spending several hours at the park.
Bring a bathing suit and a towel if you’re interested in swimming. Water shoes can also be helpful, especially if you plan on exploring the rocky shoreline. If you plan hiking, wear comfortable shoes and bring a backpack with water, snacks, and any necessary gear.
Click here to see our full list of our beach much have!
Finally, it’s important to remember that Sandy Point State Park follows the “Trash Free” policy, so bring a trash bag and pack out all your trash to keep the park clean and beautiful for everyone to enjoy.
Things to Know Before You Go
Here are some things to know before you go to Sandy Point State Park:
- Sandy Point State Park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset.
- Pets are not allowed in the park between May 1st and September 30th.
- Swimming is permitted only in designated areas when lifeguards are present.
- Fishing and crabbing are allowed in designated areas, but a Chesapeake Bay Sport fishing license is required for those 16 years and older.
- Boat rentals and motorboats, kayaks, and paddleboards are currently not available for rent due to staffing.
- The marina has a pump-out station available from April to October and is certified as a Clean Marina.
- Visitors should bring sunscreen, bug spray, and plenty of water.
- Sandy Point State Park offers a food and beverage concession during the summer time and beach rental equipment’s.
- Finally, follow all park regulations and restrictions to help preserve the park’s natural beauty for future visitors.
Food and beverage concession at Sandy Point State Park
Things to do Nearby
There are plenty of things to do near Sandy Point State Park to expand your horizons beyond the park’s borders. Here are some options:
- Visit Annapolis: Located just a few miles away, Annapolis is a charming and historic city perfect for a day trip. Explore the Maryland State House, wander the historic district’s streets, or stroll along the waterfront.
- Tour the U.S. Naval Academy: Located in Annapolis, the U.S. Naval Academy is a must-visit for history buffs and anyone interested in military history. Take a guided tour of the campus and see the impressive architecture and monuments.
- Check out the Chesapeake Bay Bridge: The Chesapeake Bay Bridge is an engineering marvel that spans 4.3 miles across the bay. Drive across the bridge and take in the stunning views of the water and the surrounding area.
- Visit Quiet Waters Park: This nearby park offers many activities, including hiking trails, kayak rentals, and a dog park. There are also picnic areas and a playground, making it an excellent destination for families.
- Explore the Eastern Shore: The Eastern Shore of Maryland is a beautiful and scenic region worth exploring. Drive along the coast and stop in charming small towns like St. Michaels and Easton or visit one of the many state parks in the area.
Related Post: Top 12 Beaches in The DMV
Sandy Point State Park offers visitors various activities and amenities, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the beach or an adventure on the water, Sandy Point State Park is worth a visit. With its stunning natural beauty and numerous recreational opportunities, it’s no wonder that it’s one of the most popular parks in Maryland.
