Located on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay in Calvert County, Maryland, the town of North Beach is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor recreation. With a population of just under 2,000, this small town is a true oasis of calm and tranquility, making it the perfect place to visit for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
The town of North Beach is steeped in history, having been originally platted in 1900 and re-platted in 1908. It was formally incorporated in 1910, and was established as strictly a residential town with ads running in local newspapers proclaiming North Beach as “Washington’s most popular saltwater resort.” Early visitors arrived to the town via steamboat, railroad, oxen carts, trolley car, and automobiles. For more than one hundred years, residents and visitors alike have enjoyed the town’s numerous amenities which include swimming, crabbing, boating, gambling, fine local restaurants, pier, boardwalk, top-named bands, carnivals, parades, hunting, trapping, fun, beauty contests, motorcycles, numerous festivals, search for sharks teeth, fossils, farmers’ markets, and summer breezes.
In recent years, the town has experienced a revitalization that has made it an even more attractive destination for visitors. This started in the 1980s and escalated in the 1990s, with the town undergoing significant redevelopment that has transformed it into a vibrant community that is both modern and historic. This revitalization included the rebuilding of the waterfront after Tropical Storm Isabel destroyed many of the waterfront homes and boardwalks in 2003. Since then, the waterfront of North Beach has been rebuilt with multi-story homes and a condominium.
One of the most popular attractions in North Beach is the boardwalk, which offers stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay and is the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll or bike ride. The boardwalk is also home to a number of restaurants and shops, making it a great place to stop for a bite to eat or to pick up a souvenir or two.
In addition to the boardwalk, North Beach has multiple parks, including Wetlands Overlook Park, Sunrise Garden, Callis Park, and the Walton Beach Nature Preserve. These parks offer a range of activities for visitors, including hiking, biking, birdwatching, and picnicking. The Walton Beach Nature Preserve, in particular, is a great place to explore the natural beauty of the area, with its meandering trails and stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay.
North Beach is also home to a thriving arts and cultural scene, with a number of galleries, museums, and performance spaces. The North Beach Arts District, which is located along 5th Street in the heart of town, is a great place to explore the works of local artists and to attend cultural events. The town also has a number of festivals throughout the year, including the North Beach Farmers Market, the North Beach Jazz Festival, and the North Beach Holiday Festival.
For families with children, North Beach is home to the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Maryland, which offers a range of programs and activities for kids of all ages. The town is also slated to be the new home of the Twin Beachs Public Library, which will provide a wealth of resources for visitors and locals alike.
Finally, no visit to North Beach would be complete without trying some of the town’s delicious local cuisine. The area is known for its seafood, and there are a number of restaurants in town that offer fresh seafood dishes, as well as other local favorites.
In conclusion, North Beach, Maryland, is a small town that offers a unique and diverse range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. From its beautiful boardwalk to its numerous parks and cultural events, North Beach is a true hidden gem of the Chesapeake Bay. Whether you are looking for a peaceful escape from the city or a fun-filled vacation with family and friends, this town has something for everyone. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and friendly community, North Beach is truly a place that you won’t want to miss. So pack your bags, hit the road, and come experience all that this charming town has to offer!
Additional Things To Do!
- Biking the shorelines with an E-Bike
- Electric scooting around the town!
- Riding a mini motor scooter on the bike roads!