Natural swimming hole
Mayo Beach Park
Ocean cove · Maryland
About this swimming hole
A 30-acre Anne Arundel County park at the mouth of the South River where it meets the Chesapeake Bay, with about 1,200 feet of sandy shoreline and shallow, calm water well suited to families. The site began as an early-1900s beach resort and was acquired by the county in the 1970s. An accessible playground, picnic areas, and a cartop launch for kayaks and paddleboards share the grounds.
Good to know
| Water type | Ocean cove |
|---|---|
| Depth | Shallow, calm water along the shoreline |
| Best season | June–August |
| Fees | Free |
| Reservations required | Yes |
| Hours | 7 a.m. to sunset |
| Parking | On-site lot at 4150 Honeysuckle Drive (about 90 spaces); a free reservation pass is required on weekends and holidays from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, released each Thursday |
| Amenities | Beach, Playground, Picnic areas, Kayak and canoe launch, Restrooms, Rinsing shower |
| County | Anne Arundel |
| Nearest town | Edgewater |
| Safety notes | Unguarded beach — no lifeguards, swim at your own risk. County rules impose a no-swimming advisory for at least 48 hours after rainfall of half an inch or more due to bacteria levels. |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Mayo Beach Park?
Yes — Mayo Beach Park is listed as a natural swimming spot in Maryland. Heads-up: Unguarded beach — no lifeguards, swim at your own risk. County rules impose a no-swimming advisory for at least 48 hours after rainfall of half an inch or more due to bacteria levels.. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Mayo Beach Park require reservations?
Yes — reservations are required to visit Mayo Beach Park. Book ahead, especially on summer weekends.
Is there a fee to visit Mayo Beach Park?
Reported fee info: Free. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Mayo Beach Park?
The best season is typically June–August.