Calvert Cliffs Park Beach

Quick Facts

• Location: Lusby, Calvert County, Maryland
• Address: Lusby, MD 20657
• Water Type: Brackish water (Chesapeake Bay)
• Beach Type: State park natural beach
• Sand Type: Sandy and pebbled shoreline beneath cliffs
• Water Conditions: Generally calm; light Bay waves
• Best For: Fossil hunting, hiking, nature exploration
• Best Time to Visit: May–September
• Best Time of Day: Morning for cooler hike
• Beach Hours: State park hours apply
• Pet Policy: Restricted in certain areas
• Beach Cleanliness: Natural shoreline
• Average Rating: ⭐ 4.7
• Pricing: State park entrance fee
• Parking: On-site lot (hike required to reach beach)
• Accessibility: Approximately 1.8-mile hike to shoreline
• Restrooms: Yes (near parking area)
• Showers: Not available
• Lifeguards: Not stationed
• Crowd Level: Moderate in summer
• Safety Notes: Watch for falling cliffs and unstable areas

Overview

Calvert Cliffs Park Beach is part of Calvert Cliffs State Park, one of Maryland’s most unique shoreline destinations.

Visitors must hike through wooded trails before reaching the Chesapeake Bay beach, where dramatic cliffs and fossil-rich shoreline define the experience. It is less about swimming and more about exploration and fossil hunting.

Amenities & Access

• Hiking trail access
• Picnic areas
• Restrooms near trailhead
• Natural undeveloped shoreline

Water & Safety Conditions

• Calm Bay water
• No lifeguards
• Falling cliff hazards possible
• Follow posted safety warnings

Things to Do

• Fossil hunting
• Hiking
• Photography
• Nature exploration
• Beach walks

Nearby Attractions

• Cove Point Lighthouse
• Chesapeake Beach
• Southern Maryland scenic drives

Where to Stay

• Chesapeake Beach hotels
• Solomons Island lodging
• Calvert County vacation rentals

Rules & Tips

• Wear comfortable hiking shoes
• Bring water for the trail
• Watch for unstable cliff sections
• Follow fossil collection regulations

Best Time to Visit

Late Spring and Early Fall offer comfortable hiking weather.

Who It’s Best For

✔ Fossil hunters
✔ Hikers
✔ Nature lovers
✔ Photographers

Less ideal for families seeking lifeguarded swimming.

Bottom Line

Calvert Cliffs Park Beach delivers one of Maryland’s most distinctive Chesapeake Bay shoreline experiences, combining hiking, fossils, and dramatic natural scenery.