The capital of the U.S.A. is known the world over for iconic landmarks, quality museums, cherry blossoms, and…beaches? If you’re surprised to hear that, you’re not alone. It’s a fact often overlooked that some of the country’s best beaches are near D.C.!
On a drive south along the coast you’ll encounter seaside towns appealing to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re looking to relax, party, or a little bit of both, you’re sure to find it on these sandy shores just a short drive from D.C. Grab yourself a spacious rental van, pack your towels and boogie boards, and make your way in style and comfort to the Eastern shore this summer!
Family-Friendly Beaches
If you’re on the hunt for the best family beaches near D.C., we’ve got you covered! Just a few hours from the capital are calm waters boasting exciting activities for kids of all ages. Whether you want to paddle, swim, sample fresh seafood, or just chill on the sand, you’re bound to find the perfect beachy pastime here.
Lewes Beach, Delaware
153 miles (2 hours, 45 minutes from D.C.)
For a quintessential Delaware beach escape, look no further than Lewes Beach, whose water activities, small crowds, and beautiful sunsets attract families near and far.
Things to do: There are lots of water sports to enjoy, like paddling, swimming, kayaking, and boating.
Nearby attractions: When you’re ready for a break from the beach, check out Lewes Historical Society, take a ride on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, or explore Fenwick Island State Park.
Places to stay: There are a handful of family-friendly hotels in Lewes, such as the quirky and colorful Blue Water House and the bright, beachy Hotel Blue.
Colonial Beach, Virginia
88 miles (1 hour, 45 minutes from D.C.)
This charming riverfront town is nicknamed the “Playground of the Potomac,” preferred by families for its laid-back vibe and natural beauty.
Things to do: From crabbing to fishing, boating to paddleboarding, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy the Potomac river. There’s also plenty of live music, art galleries, and boutique shopping.
Food finds: Fresh seafood is the big draw in Colonial Beach, with farm-to-table herbs and veggies weaved into its regional cuisine. Choose between elegant restaurants and casual eateries.
Places to stay: There are a variety of lodging options to suit all tastes, like inns, bed and breakfasts, motels, and longer-term rentals.
Photo by Al Jurina for Shutterstock
Bethany Beach, Delaware
120 miles (2 hours, 30 minutes from D.C.)
Traditionally a popular family destination, Bethany Beach has become more diverse over the years. Today, visitors of all ages will encounter fun things to do amid its lively beachfront atmosphere.
Nearby attractions: When you’ve had enough of usual beach pastimes, hike at the Delaware Seashore State Park, take surf lessons, and peruse local art along the boardwalk. Check out a live music show at Bethany Beach Bandstand.
Food finds: The range from fancy to informal covers all bases: seafood, burgers, ice cream, you name it. Even the pickiest diners will find something to nosh on.
Places to stay: Bethany Beach has a handful of lodging options, including a historic beachfront inn, family cottages, and boutique hotels.
Popular Beaches Near D.C.
The best beaches near D.C. are often the most popular – for a reason! Energetic and full of life, the following coastal gems are jam-packed with activities ranging from surfing to hiking, dining to roller coaster riding, and a guaranteed great time for all!
Ocean City, Maryland
120 miles (2 hours from D.C.)
The vibrant resort town affectionately called OCMD is home to expansive beaches and a bustling boardwalk. It’s popular for families and friend groups in search of action.
Things to do: Aside from beaches and water sports, there are amusement and water parks, museums, shopping, and boardwalk arcades.
Food finds: Don’t miss Maryland’s famous crabs, available in most restaurants ranging from fine dining to waterfront bistros.
Places to stay: Whether you want a beachfront hotel, a boutique inn, or a reliable name like Hilton, you’ll find it within a few blocks of the ocean.
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
115 miles (2 hours from D.C.)
If OCMD is loud and energetic, Rehoboth Beach is its smaller, sophisticated sibling. Its boardwalk and beaches are calm and its dining and nightlife scene tend toward upscale, perfect for couples or those who want to relax.
Things to do: Stroll the boardwalk, catch some live music, pop into an art gallery and hit up the amusement park, all in a day! For a nature break, enjoy a hike in nearby Cape Henlopen State Park.
Food finds: Even though Rehoboth leans toward fancy, there’s more than just fine dining here. Wherever you decide to eat, take advantage of the abundance of fresh seafood.
Places to stay: Families will appreciate the plethora of condo or cottage rentals, while couples might opt for beachfront luxury or a cozy bed-and-breakfast.
Photo courtesy of NPS.gov.
Assateague Island, Maryland/Virginia
147 miles (3 hours from D.C.)
The barrier island of Assateague is perhaps best known for its population of wild ponies running freely along its shores. The beaches here are well suited for nature enthusiasts and those who love the outdoors.
Things to do: The island is a true immersion into nature. Relax on its beaches, observe the ponies from afar, hike or bike the miles of trails that surround you. Those into water sports can kayak, paddle, and swim in peaceful waters.
Places to stay: There are several camping sites on the island which offer standard, remote, and vehicle camping. Renting a van from Greenvans? Ask us to configure the van to accommodate sleeping bags and pillows.
Virginia Beach, Virginia
209 miles (3 hours, 30 minutes from D.C.)
Families and leisure lovers find themselves again and again on vacation in Virginia Beach. The small city is found where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, and is known for its beautiful beaches and warm hospitality.
Nearby attractions: A three-mile boardwalk, world-class golf courses, sweeping beaches, and the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center are just a few of the many attractions you’ll encounter here.
Food finds: Expect delicious seafood, steakhouses, craft breweries and local wine throughout the wide variety of local restaurants.
Places to stay: There are lodging options to suit every budget, though visitors tend to stay in popular areas like the Oceanfront, Virginia Beach Resort Area, and the Bayside.
Lesser-Known Beaches
Escape the crowds and head to these lesser-known beaches for a quieter, more private experience with your family and friends. At just one hour of driving distance from D.C., each of the following destinations make a great day trip!
Sandy Point State Park, Maryland
38 miles (1 hour from D.C.)
Escape the crowds to the expansive beaches in Sandy Point, located on the glistening Chesapeake Bay. Soak up the sun, go for a swim, or enjoy a picnic in the great outdoors just an hour from D.C.
Nearby attractions: A vast shoreline, boating, crabbing and fishing opportunities, and the Chesapeake Bay Nature Center.
Places to stay: The state park is a perfect day trip, especially with a passenger van rental. Take advantage of its cargo space and bring chairs, towels, toys, and picnic essentials.
North Beach, Maryland
35 miles (1 hour from D.C.)
Slow it down with a visit to North Beach, known by locals as “The Jewel of the Chesapeake Bay”. The charming town showcases unobstructed views of the water and a laid-back vibe.
Things to do: There’s a lot to do in this little town! Stroll the boardwalk with an ice cream cone, chill out at the local park, and participate in thrilling water sports.
Food finds: Like most of Maryland, seafood is king. Restaurants range from upscale to casual waterfront dining.
Places to stay: Book a room with a view at The Inn at Herrington Harbour on the north end of North Beach.
Chesapeake Beach, Maryland
35 miles (1 hour from D.C.)
Once a railway resort town, Chesapeake Beach retains the laid-back character of an old-fashioned coastal getaway. Unwind on its sandy shores or bike along what was once the Chesapeake railway.
Things to do: Besides the standard beach town activities, there’s also birdwatching, fishing boats to charter, a water park and a railway museum.
Food finds: Don’t leave Chesapeake Beach without sampling fresh oysters on the half shell and classic Maryland crab cakes.
Places to stay: Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort, where you can watch the sunset from the sprawling garden patio.
Beaches for Nature Enthusiasts
Not everyone wants to revel under a beach umbrella with a good book and a good beverage. For those who want a glimpse of the region’s nature, pack your boots and binoculars and get pleasantly lost in the coastal wilderness.
Calvert Cliffs State Park, Maryland
59 miles (1 hour, 30 minutes from D.C.)
A geologist’s paradise, Calvert Cliffs is teeming with fossils to discover. Between uncovering whale bones, shark teeth, and ancient shells below its towering cliffs, you can follow 13 miles of trails that wind through dense forests and marshy wetlands.
Nearby attractions: Spectacular and untouched beaches, fishing opportunities, and shower facilities are supporting actors to the star of the show – fossils!
Food finds: While there are no dining establishments, there are areas to picnic. Pack a cooler with your favorite snacks and beverages to consume while watching the sun sparkle over the bay.
Places to stay: Because it’s a day park, there are no campsites on the grounds. Solomons is the closest town with lodging, a six-minute drive away.
Things to know before visiting the park:
- Only hand tools are permitted for digging fossils
- Climbing the cliffs isn’t recommended due to their unstable nature
- Wear proper shoes for uneven terrain
And, of course, bring your camera!
Cape Henlopen State Park, Delaware
59 miles (1 hour, 30 minutes from D.C.)
Cape Henlopen State Park is immense. It sprawls more than 7,000 acres along the coast where Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. For this reason, you’ll find a variety of birds, landscapes, and historic landmarks to admire.
Things to do: Borrow a bike and explore the sand dunes, visit an onsite military museum, and check out the fascinating Seaside Nature Center. Nature enthusiasts can’t miss Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve, a protected island of unique plant species and wildlife.
Places to stay: Tent and cabin camping is available in designated areas with restrooms and showers.
Tips for planning your beach trip
Your trip to the beach should be as calm as the sea at sunrise. The following steps will help you plan and execute a successful, sandy vacation with your ocean-loving travel buddies.
Before you go
Book your van rental: Summertime, and the…agencies are really, really busy. As a rule of thumb, the earlier you reserve your van rental during peak season, the higher the likelihood of availability.
When deciding on the van that’s best for you, investigate features like:
- Fuel efficiency: Can you save money on gas?
- Seating capacity: Will everyone fit comfortably?
- Cargo space: Is there enough space to fit your beach essentials?
- Safety features: Does the van come equipped with modern safety technology?
Plan your route: Map out your driving route with help from apps like Google Maps or Waze. Consider rush hour, rest stops, and any scenic detours you might want to check out when planning your driving itinerary.
Check beach regulations: Many beaches these days require beach tags or access fees to enter. Others have restrictions on vehicles and pets, so do some research before to avoid surprises upon arrival.
Prepare for the Beach: Pack all your beach things, including:
- Beach towels and chairs
- Sun screen
- A beach umbrella
- Sunglasses and hats
- Swimwear
- Sandals
- Beach games
- First-aid kits
Consider bringing a cooler filled with drinks and snacks for long days spent on the sand.
Hit the road
Stock up on essentials: If you plan to bring a cooler or simply want snacks for the road, stop at a grocery store before you go. This way, you can go from seat to sand upon arrival instead of wasting available beach time shopping.
Take breaks and share the driving: Plan rest stops along the way to stretch your legs and avoid driver fatigue. Consider sharing driving responsibilities amongst licensed drivers in your group for a more relaxed journey.
At the beach
Find parking: If using public parking, arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak season. Some beaches offer paid parking options.
Set up camp: Find a comfortable spot on the beach and set up your chairs and umbrella.
Additional tips
Discover local restaurants: Venture into nearby towns to enjoy fresh seafood or other local specialties.
Explore beyond the beach: Many beach destinations offer additional activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, or visiting nearby attractions. Research options and plan accordingly.
Leave no trace: Take all your trash and recyclables with you to keep the beach clean for everyone to enjoy.
Be prepared for the weather: Check the weather forecast before you go and pack appropriate clothing for changing conditions.
FAQs about beaches near Washington, D.C.
What is the closest sandy beach to Washington, D.C.?
Sandy Point State Park is the closest sandy beach to Washington, D.C.. It’s 38 miles away from the city.
Where do D.C. people go to the beach?
Rehoboth Beach in Delaware, Ocean City in Maryland, and Virginia Beach in Virginia are popular beach getaways for people from D.C..
How far is Washington, D.C., from the beach?
The closest beach to Washington, D.C. is 38 miles and about 1 hour and 15 minutes driving.
Beat the heat and head to the beach! Get a free van rental quote today.
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