I Will be Visiting One Day | Mayo Beach Park Everything You Should Know

You know, everyone loves beaches; the soft sand, gentle waves, and stunning views are perfect for unwinding and relaxation. But sadly most beaches are bustling with people, busy and lively with activity. But our  Mayo Beach Park stands out as an exception.

Are you ready to embark on a journey to one of Maryland’s best-kept secrets? Look no further than Mayo Beach Park! It is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Join us as we dive into the wonders of this idyllic waterfront retreat.

Where is the best-kept secret?

Let’s start with the basics. Mayo Beach Park is conveniently located in Edgewater, Maryland, just a stone’s throw away from Annapolis and Baltimore. Its prime waterfront location offers panoramic views of the South River and the  Chesapeake Bay, making it the perfect backdrop for all your outdoor escapades. And you can find a beautiful lighthouse too. Yes, located at the end of the Mayo peninsula where Thomas Point Lighthouse, a signature landmark is within view.  

As I said, this park isn’t your typical, bustling beach scene. It’s a peaceful escape tucked away at the mouth of the South River. As soon as you set foot on its sandy shores, you’re greeted by the soothing sound of gentle waves and the salty breeze dancing through the air.

Mayo Beach Park beckons with 1,200 feet of sandy shoreline, setting the stage for family fun in the sun – from swimming and sunbathing to picnicking. The park also has a fishing pier, boat ramp, and kayak launch, making it a popular destination for boaters and kayakers. And the playground, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing make it the kid’s favorite. You can already tell, whether one craves a day of relaxation or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, this charming oasis has something for everyone.

Embrace the Outdoors

At Mayo Beach Park, the possibilities for outdoor adventure are endless. First things first – kick off your shoes and let the sand squish between your toes as you embark on a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. You can have a swim or grab a paddleboard and glide along its tranquil surface. 

The water is calm and shallow, making it an excellent spot for families with young children. Lifeguards are on duty during summer, so you can feel safe while swimming in the bay. If you’re looking for something more active, there is a range of beach sports, including volleyball, frisbee, and soccer. 

Another popular activity at Mayo Beach Park is kayaking. The park has a kayak launch, and several companies offer kayak rentals on-site. It is an exciting way to experience the park’s natural beauty. 

And for those who prefer to stay dry, beachcombing and sandcastle building are always on the agenda. Keep your eyes peeled for seashells, driftwood treasures, and maybe even a lucky horseshoe crab or two!

Fishing can be an option too. Feel the thrill of reeling in the big catch as you cast your line. With its calm waters and diverse marine life, Mayo Beach Park is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts of all ages.

My outdoor experience 

In my case, I was more of a stay-dry person. I headed down to the park, ready for a relaxing day by the water. I plopped myself down and just took in the beautiful view. I couldn’t hit the kayaks as I planned, but, no worries, still had a smile on my face. I was enjoying watching the kids running around and having a blast. 

It was such a pure happiness. There was a nicely managed playground to the left of the entrance building. And let me tell you, it’s like a kid’s dream playground, with all the fun stuff- slides, swings, monkey bars to play on. If you bring your kids, let them enjoy here a little bit but of course, the water down below is a bigger lure. Oh, and there was some event happening for the little ones, adding even more excitement to the day. 

Right after the playground, you will find a staircase that goes down a steep hill to a nice shady spot with picnic tables on the grass. Then, just a couple more steps beyond, and you will be right on the sandy shoreline, ready to dip your toes in the water.

I was amazed to see how well-managed this place was! The restroom was adequate, with two small showers, and an extra place to rinse outside. The parking area was not too far away.

For lugging a cooler, or wagon, or pushing a stroller, they have an easier way down from the parking lot. You have to head to the right side and look for the space between the shower house and the bigger building. There, you’ll spot a paved ramp curving down. Oh, and a quick heads up just before you hit the shower house and ramp, you’ll find the bathrooms in a separate building. 

Going down you will find enough picnic tables and grassy areas where you can relax, all with a nice view of the water. And the best part? It is never crowded at all!

The authority manages the crowds with a reservation system to ensure the beach is not crowded. So, when you visit, your mind can be at peace knowing it won’t be packed there. And these FREE passes can be reserved ahead of time online!

 Mayo Beach Park follows other simple rules and regulations too, such as no alcohol policy in the park, if you bring a furry friend with you, you have to make sure they’re on a leash at all times. And, no glass containers or smoking on the beach. And while we all love a good BBQ, we will have to keep the cooking and grilling off the sand. These easy guidelines help to keep the park clean and safe for everyone to enjoy showing their trash-free policy. Pretty impressive right?

All of this got me thinking about the park’s origins, which turned out to be just as fascinating.

The History Unveiled

Mayo Beach Park has a rich history that is still evident today. It was named after Commodore Isaac Mayo, a big-time United States Naval officer, who was born here, in Anne Arundel County. They even named the whole area between the South River and Rhode River after him! 

Yeah, you guessed right, Commodore Isaac Mayo was a hero. He participated in many wars, like the War of 1812. He got married, had a daughter, and in 1856, he bought 39 acres of  Mayo Beach to add to his big home, Gresham Estate. Today, that home is all fixed up and listed as a historic place.

In the 1930s, Charles and Mary Trabing opened Mayo Beach for families to have fun, with swimming, food, games, and even slot machines! By the 1950s, Mayo Beach and Beverly Triton beaches were super popular, with lots of cars coming and going. Later, people built homes around the beaches.

Anne Arundel County acquired Mayo Beach Park in the 1970s to preserve recreation and open space, and since then, it has been developed into a beautiful park offering various recreational activities for visitors of all ages. 

Today, you can still see these preservation efforts in action at Mayo Beach Park and this continuous effort makes it a more comfortable and welcoming place for visitors.

Preserving Paradise

As you explore Mayo Beach Park, you’ll discover a deep commitment to environmental conservation. It is a trash-free park. Even trash cans are unavailable in the park, you have to pack some bags and carry your own garbage. As I said, they prohibited cooking to keep it smoke-free. You have to take food from home but don’t use glass jars for that. Glass jars are prohibited too. This list is long. 

Undoubtedly, the park is committed to preserving its natural beauty and protecting the delicate ecosystems that call it home. The park’s beaches are carefully maintained to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy their beauty and the visitors play a vital role in this. 

The Nature’s Playground

The park’s nature trails offer a glimpse into the region’s rich biodiversity. If you take a stroll along the park’s nature trails, you surely will get a peek at all the animals that call this place home! Keep an eye out for deer, otters, weasels, bunnies, and raccoons – they’re all part of the fun in this awesome ecosystem.

I had the coolest experience of seeing Ospreys, those majestic birds, up close and personal. So, they set up these breakwaters with poles that had nesting boxes just for the birds. But here’s the kicker – one Osprey was super protective of her nest! She wasn’t too thrilled with swimmers getting too close to her nest. Every time someone dared to get near, she’d let out these loud protests like, “Hey, back off, this is my turf!” It was like watching a real-life drama unfold right before my eyes!

I heard of Canadian geese creating havoc too. Apparently, the geese like to hang out a lot, especially at the southern end of the beach. But here’s the catch: they leave a lot of goose poop behind. So, if you go there, you’ll notice it everywhere!

Totally yucky, but, that’s just nature being nature, right? Get ready to dive into it all-stroll through shady forests where birds are jamming out and wildlife is chattering away. And oh, don’t forget to stop and check out the wildflowers bursting with colors along the way.

Community Connection: Events and Picnics 

Throughout the year,  Mayo Beach Park comes alive with a vibrant calendar of community events and activities. From fun activities to educational programs that inspire curiosity, there’s always something exciting happening at the park. Always keep an eye on the website. These gatherings offer opportunities to connect with neighbors, learn about local wildlife, and celebrate the beauty of the natural world.

You can organize your events too, Mayo Beach Park is rentable for weddings, birthdays, and all the other events during the spring and fall. Groups/parties of 20 or more need to have a special event request approved by the superintendent but for small picnics that will not be needed. And as said, no visit to Mayo Beach Park is complete without a leisurely picnic overlooking the water. 

With shady shelters and scenic vistas as your backdrop, every bite is a taste of paradise. Don’t Forget Your Camera.

It also helps that there are a couple of great places nearby to stop on the way there or back. A fantastic pizza place Angelina’s, Old Stein Inn has great food and even better beers.

Nearby Attractions and Activities

One of the most popular destinations is Annapolis, Maryland’s state capital. Annapolis has a historic downtown area, various shops and restaurants, and the United States Naval Academy.

Here is a quick list of nearby attractions:

 Beverly Triton Nature Park – 4 minutes

The Pier Waterfront Bar & Grill – 20 minutes

The Chesapeake Children’s Museum – 22 minutes

Quiet Water Park – 30 minutes

Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park – 30 minutes

Sandy Point State Park – 30 minutes

So, what are you waiting for? 

“Plan Your Adventure: What You Need to Know Before You Go!”

Ready to experience the tranquility of Mayo Beach Park for yourself? Whether you’re seeking adventure on the water, relaxation on the shore, or simply a moment of peace in nature, the park welcomes you with open arms. But remember-

Mayo Beach Park operates on a seasonal schedule. Keep in mind that as of today, March 2024, the beach area is closed for public access due to shoreline restoration. But don’t worry, the playground and picnic areas are still open! Check the Anne Arundel County Recreation and Parks website for updates on opening dates for swimming [Anne Arundel County Mayo Beach Park].

Secondly, since it’s a managed access park, you’ll need a park pass to enter. And obviously, pack accordingly! There are no grills or trash cans available, so bring prepared food and pack out any trash you bring in. And as I previously said- 

• Smoking, inflatable rafts, umbrellas, kites, and glass bottles are prohibited on the beach.
• Mayo Beach is a trash-free park. Trash cans are not available in the park
• No amplified music is permitted.
• Bring water shoes; the sand area can be rocky.
• The park often reaches capacity between 11:00 am and 5:00 pm, so plan smart and arrive early or later in the day, with all people of your party.
• Groups/parties of 20 or more need to have a special event request approved by the superintendent, so if you bring lots of people- get permission. 

Finally, allow me to alert you to a few issues. I already talked about the Canadian geese. As for the second issue, you need to be worried about jellyfish. In the summer, the jellies make it very hard to enjoy  Chesapeake Bay beaches. The water of the Chesapeake is not clear, so it isn’t easy to see the jellies before you get stung. Keep that in mind, once the jellies leave, you can always come back! So, pack your sunscreen, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to make memories.