Arundel County’s Best Summer Beaches

Summer has arrived and you are probably planning to visit a nearby beach sometime during the next three months. Are you aware that Anne Arundel County has more than 500 miles of shoreline? We don’t have the space to talk about every beach, but we can cover the three best public beaches located in Anne Arundel County.

Fort Smallwood Park

At the northern tip of the Pasadena Peninsula on the Chesapeake Bay, Fort Smallwood Park offers beach access, but swimming is not permitted. You can take it easy on a comfy beach chair while enjoying the view of the water. Bring a paddle if you like being active. Kayaking and canoeing are both allowed.

If a canine is your best friend, you two can play fetch on the dog beach. Anglers will love casting off a 380-foot fishing pier. History buffs will like looking over the fort’s barracks and gun battery built during the Spanish-American War. Traditional pastimes include picnicking, throwing horseshoes, hiking, and taking your kids to a playground.

Downs Park

Located in Pasadena on the Chesapeake Bay, Downs Park offers a beach area for fishing, strolling, and sunbathing, but swimming is not permitted. Fortunately, fun on the water can still be had by launching a kayak or canoe.

Anglers can try their luck off a fishing pier. Five miles of hiking trails, sports fields, a playground, and a dog beach are also offered for fun activities.

Sandy Point State Park

Within the city limits of Annapolis, Sandy Point State Park spans 786 scenic acres on the northwestern shore of the Chesapeake Bay. It is located next to the beautiful bridge spanning the water. Allowed only on the park’s southern beaches, swimming is monitored by lifeguards over the summer.

Boat ramps, fishing areas, picnic spots, playgrounds, and a snack bar are also available. You can take in a great view of the Sandy Point Shoal lighthouse to the east from the beach. After fun in the sun, you can cool off by taking a shower at the public bathhouse.

Make sure to stop by The Crab Shack before or after going to the beach this summer.

Seeking Super Seafood?

Lovers of super seafood, including fat, juicy crab, don’t have to drive to Baltimore, Ocean City, Hooper’s Island, or Annapolis anymore. Stay close to home and enjoy wonderful deliciousness all year around at the two locations below!

• The Crab Shack – Crofton

• The Crab Shack – Edgewater

Our Crofton branch can accommodate a large party group, so if you are interested in reserving tables, please call (443) 302-2680.