Discover the beauty of the East Coast.
Looking for the best places to paddle board in Chesapeake Bay, MD/VA?
Get ready to glide through tranquil waters, teeming with wildlife and historical charm.
Join us as we embark on a paddle boarding adventure in the scenic Chesapeake Bay area. Are you in?
Table of Contents
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Where to Paddle Board in Chesapeake Bay
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Annapolis Harbor
- Location Type: Bay
- Access Point: Truxtun Park Boat Ramp (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm bay waters, occasional gusts
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Blue crab, striped bass, herons, ospreys
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Chesapeake Bay Bridge, United States Naval Academy, Annapolis skyline
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, respect no-wake zones
Annapolis Harbor, located in the heart of Maryland’s state capital, offers paddle boarders a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.
Glide through calm waters while taking in views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and the iconic Naval Academy campus.
#2 Sandy Point State Park
- Location Type: Oceanfront
- Access Point: Small Craft Launch Area (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm to moderate waves, tidal currents
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Blue crab, ospreys, bald eagles, shorebirds
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Chesapeake Bay Bridge, Sandy Point Lighthouse
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Observe designated swimming area boundaries, be aware of changing conditions
Sandy Point State Park offers paddle boarders an opportunity to explore the open waters of Chesapeake Bay.
With stunning views of the bay bridge and Sandy Point Lighthouse, it’s a truly picturesque spot for both beginners and experienced paddleboard enthusiasts.
#3 Gunpowder Falls State Park
- Location Type: River
- Access Point: Dundee Creek Marina (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm river waters, sheltered from wind
- Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Bald eagles, herons, osprey, fish species
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Wetlands, marshes, wooded shoreline
- Safety, Environment, and Rules: Respect protected areas, avoid disturbing wildlife
Gunpowder Falls State Park, nestled along the Gunpowder River, offers a serene paddle boarding experience.
Surrounded by lush wetlands and marshes, it’s a prime spot for wildlife encounters and a peaceful escape from the city.
#4 Quiet Waters Park
- Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Boat rental area near park entrance (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm, protected lake, mild winds
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Turtles, waterfowl, small mammals
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Forested parkland, picturesque bridges
- Safety, Environment, and Rules: Follow park regulations, respect other park users
Quiet Waters Park, located in Annapolis, is an ideal location for a calm, family-friendly paddle boarding experience.
With its serene lake surrounded by forested parkland, it’s a relaxing spot for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
#5 Mathews County Blueways
- Location Type: Bay, River
- Access Point: Williams Wharf Landing (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm bay waters, gentle river currents
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins, ospreys, egrets
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Historic waterways, pristine coastline
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow navigational markers, respect private property
Located in Virginia’s picturesque Mathews County, the Blueways offer a diverse paddling experience.
Meander through historic waterways, admire the unspoiled coastline, and enjoy the possibility of encountering dolphins from your paddleboard.
#6 Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
- Location Type: Wetlands, Watershed
- Access Point: Shorter’s Wharf Road (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, tidal currents, protected from strong winds
- Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: American bald eagles, ospreys, blue herons, ducks
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Wetlands, marshes, vast landscape
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Respect wildlife, avoid sensitive areas
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge in Maryland is a natural haven for paddle boarders who appreciate pristine wetland landscapes.
Glide through calm waters and marvel at the diverse birdlife that calls this refuge home. A perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Chesapeake Bay?
Popular spots for paddle boarding in Chesapeake Bay include Annapolis, Middle River, and Easton Point Marina.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Chesapeake Bay?
No, paddle boards do not require registration in Chesapeake Bay.
When is the best time to paddle board in Chesapeake Bay?
The ideal time for paddle boarding in Chesapeake Bay is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is warm.
