Sandy Point FAQ
These are the questions people ask most about Sandy Point State Park, answered in a sentence or two from Maryland DNR's own pages. Each answer links to the page with the full details. Prices and dates are for 2026 unless noted.
Visiting
See hours and fees, parking and plan your visit.
The Beach
Things to Do
See boat ramps, fishing, hiking, Lights on the Bay and events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Sandy Point State Park?
At 1100 East College Parkway in Annapolis, Maryland, at the western end of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, off US 50/301 exit 32.
How much does Sandy Point State Park cost?
From May 1 to September 30 it is $5 a person on weekends and holidays and $4 on weekdays. From October 1 to April 30 it is $3 per vehicle.
Do you need a reservation for Sandy Point State Park?
Yes on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. Book up to 7 days ahead at parkdayuse.maryland.gov. No same-day drive-ups on those days.
What are Sandy Point State Park's hours?
7 a.m. to sunset every day except Christmas, and 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. from mid-November to January 2. Fishing and boating access is 24 hours.
Can you swim at Sandy Point State Park?
Yes, in designated swimming areas. Lifeguards watch part of South Beach from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Are dogs allowed at Sandy Point State Park?
Yes, leashed, but not on the sandy beach areas from Memorial Day weekend until after Labor Day, and never in buildings or playgrounds.
Can you drink alcohol at Sandy Point State Park?
No. The only exception is a rented pavilion with a permit from the shelter reservation system.
Can you camp at Sandy Point State Park?
No public camping. Two youth group sites are for official youth groups only, April to early November.
Is there food at Sandy Point?
A food concession at South Beach is open Memorial Day to Labor Day, and the Marina Store sells snacks, bait and picnic supplies.
Can you bring a tent to the beach?
No. Only umbrellas, or open-sided sun shades up to 10 feet square set up behind the lifeguard stands.
How many boat ramps does Sandy Point have?
22, in Mezick Pond, open 24 hours with no fee beyond park entry.
Can you fish at night at Sandy Point?
Yes. Fishing access is 24 hours, but everyone in your group must be actively fishing after the park closes.
Can you rent a pavilion at Sandy Point?
Yes. Twelve pavilions at East Beach hold 140 to 300 people. Book online or at 1-888-432-2267.
When is Lights on the Bay?
November 23, 2026 to January 3, 2027, every night. $25 per car.
When is the Polar Bear Plunge?
January 22 to 30, 2027, with the main Maryland Plunge on Saturday, January 30.
Can you visit the Sandy Point lighthouse?
No. The Sandy Point Shoal Lighthouse is privately owned; you can see it from the park's shore.
How big is Sandy Point State Park?
786 acres, on the northwestern shore of the Chesapeake Bay.
Who runs Sandy Point State Park?
The Maryland Park Service, part of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. This website is an independent guide.