What says summer more than sand between your toes or floating quietly on the water? Of course the DMV has the Potomac River right in our backyard, but you don’t have to travel too far for even more variety – from ocean beaches and boardwalks to sprawling lakes and the beautiful Chesapeake Bay, you can get away for one day or plan a week-long vacation. Grab your new swimsuit, a boogie board or floatie, and favorite snacks, then head to these nearby watering holes this summer.

Beaches by the Ocean and the Bay

1. Dewey Beach, Delaware

Dewey Beach, the city, lies on a strip of land about one mile long and two blocks wide. It is lined with a wide, sandy beach opening to a clean stretch of ocean on one side, and by a broad bay on the other side. During the summer months, it is known for young revelers coming to spend nights at any one of the iconic bars in the area, but it is also a popular spot for families to visit. There are a wide array of accommodations, from hotels and condos to houses small or large. Plenty of restaurants line the boardwalk, from takeaway fries to casual seafood to fine dining. The beach even stays dog-friendly during peak season before 9:30 a.m. and after 5:30 p.m.

2. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Just up the coast from Dewey Beach, this regional destination boasts one of the best boardwalks in the nation. Among its many magnificent finds along the boardwalk, the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand Summer Concert Series is one of the best reasons to visit. Consider making a second stop at the Dogfish Head brewery nearby.

3. Ocean City, Maryland

Our favorite destination for a typical boardwalk experience, complete with a scenic beach, arcades, Ferris Wheels, and every variety of fried food, Ocean City is a nearby gem worth visiting year after year. Like Rehoboth Beach, this town also boasts one of the best boardwalks in the nation. Take a look for yourself on the OC Boardwalkcam.

4. Chesapeake Beach, Maryland

An hour-long drive outside of D.C., the Town of Chesapeake Beach has a quaint beach town feel without missing a beat on all your favorite things about going to the beach. Spend some time on the boardwalk or take a stroll along the trails. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, Chesapeake Beach is the perfect place to get in some sailing lessons or a chartered fishing trip on the Bay.

5. Sandy Point Beach, Maryland

Another beloved spot along the Chesapeake Bay, Sandy Point State Park is about 45 minutes outside of D.C. and offers plenty to see and do throughout the 768-acres. Take advantage of the trails, cool off with a swim, play some ball, escape land and head out on your boat, or catch some fish or crab for dinner. Make it a full day adventure and do some sightseeing in nearby historic Annapolis. Keep Sandy Point in mind for the Annual Maryland Seafood Festival, which this year will take place on September 24th and 25th.

6. Flag Ponds Nature Park, Maryland

A great day trip, this park along the Chesapeake Bay is perfect for exploring how natural forces have shaped the shoreline. From sandy beach, to freshwater ponds, and the forested Calvert Cliffs, the landscape continues to change over time. Fossil hunters will also love combing the surf for sharks teeth and more.

Chesapeake Beach, Sandy Point, and Flag Ponds Nature Park are all located west of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, making the travel time from DC very appealing. But if you keep going and cross onto Maryland’s Eastern Shore, you will find charming towns within Talbot County that offer a quieter pace of life.

7. Virginia Beach, Virginia

For a getaway perfect for anyone and everyone, Virginia Beach is the place to go. About 3.5 hours away, it’s well worth it to spend a couple of days here. You’ll find miles of shoreline, a 3-mile long boardwalk, multiple state parks, and a plethora of activities to enjoy. Spend an educational afternoon at the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center or the Norfolk Botanical Garden. Do we even need to mention all the attractions for the history buffs?

Rivers and Lakes

8. National Harbor, Maryland

This capital area favorite is the perfect way to enjoy being waterfront without necessarily getting your feet wet. Plan a delicious dinner at any of the plethoras of restaurants and stay for the sunset. No matter what time of day, a ride on the Capital Wheel is a great way to take in the gorgeous views along the Potomac. If you are a more experienced swimmer, check out the weekly open water swims offered by Wave One Open Water to hone your distance swimming.

9. Colonial Beach, Virginia

Surrounded by water on three sides, this resort town has the second-longest public beach in Virginia. Also a designated bird sanctuary, the area is well known for bald eagles, osprey, hawks, and other water birds. History, boating, fishing, and a vibrant dining scene make this a great choice for family and friends to gather.

10. Lake Anna, Virginia

About a 2-hour drive southwest from Washington, you’ll find one of the largest lakes in Virginia spreading over a scenic 13,000 acres. Once you’ve exhausted all the recreations that a huge lake offers, check out nearby attractions like James Madison’s Montpelier historic mansion, and a number of wineries (our favorite is Barboursville).

11. Deep Creek Lake, Maryland

While its location amidst a mountainous region is ideal for four seasons of activity, we are charmed by the sheer variety of summertime options at this iconic lake. The largest freshwater lake in Maryland, it was originally created by an electric company dam in the 1920s. Since it became open to the public, the offerings have grown to include boat, jet ski, and tube rentals as well as nearby park attractions like ziplining, and kayaking and rafting at nearby rivers. Many of the businesses and restaurants lining the lake offer docks for convenience. If you grow tired of the water, explore by land across more than a dozen nearby state parks!

12. Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia

In the Roanoke Region, lying amongst the Blue Ridge Mountains, is another manmade lake that just celebrated its 55th birthday. It has all the family favorites for a day of fun on the water, and many services and restaurants accessible by water for whatever you may need. Glancing around, you will also see a decent amount of undeveloped waterfront compared to other lakes. A fun piece of trivia: in the 1991 movie What About Bob? starring Bill Murray and Richard Dreyfuss, this lake was actually used in the filming (although in the movie, they say they are at Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire).

13. Cunningham Falls State Park, Maryland

Nestled in the scenic Catoctin Mountains, this beautiful park’s crowning feature is its scenic falls. Take a load off by the lake or go for a hike to get to the falls. The park is divided into two areas; the Hunting Creek Lake, falls, and camping are located in the William Houck Area and in the Manor Area you’ll find the Scales and Tales Aviary, camping, and a bit of history. With an abundance of outdoor recreation and fabulous views wherever you go, Cunningham Falls might be your new favorite place.

14. Greenbriar State Park, Maryland

Make your way about 1.5 hours from D.C. to some of the most beautiful water you can find in the Greater Washington area. Greenbrier State Park provides an enjoyable mix of uses through 42-acres and even includes part of the Appalachian Trail. Whether you’re into water recreation or looking for a leisurely picnic spot outside the city, your expectations will surely be exceeded.

[divider height=”30″ style=”default” line=”default” themecolor=”1″]

14 Best Beaches, Lakes & Rivers Near Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia