Day Trips from Harrisburg
← All Harrisburg day tripsDay Trips from Harrisburg: Beaches & Waterfront
The best beaches and waterfront destinations within driving distance of Harrisburg, PA. Lake beaches, river walks, and coastal parks that make for a perfect warm-weather day trip. Real drive times, ratings, and photos included.
12 beaches near Harrisburg
Laurel Hill State Park Beach
PA, Copper Kettle Trail
Just 2 hrs 30 min from Harrisburg, rated 4.8 stars by 125 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Keyport Waterfront Park
Keyport, NJ 07735
Just 2 hrs 39 min from Harrisburg, rated 4.7 stars by 1,829 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Sayers Dam Beach
PA 16841, USA
Just 1 hr 49 min from Harrisburg, rated 4.7 stars by 222 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Bald Eagle State Park
Howard, PA 16841
Just 1 hr 47 min from Harrisburg, rated 4.7 stars by 2,761 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Fuller Lake Day Use Area
PA 17324, USA
Just 47 min from Harrisburg, rated 4.7 stars by 635 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Codorus State Park
Hanover, PA 17331
Just 57 min from Harrisburg, rated 4.7 stars by 4,414 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Elk Neck State Park
North East, MD 21901
Just 1 hr 57 min from Harrisburg, rated 4.6 stars by 2,480 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Beltzville State Park - Beach
Lehighton, PA 18235
Just 1 hr 39 min from Harrisburg, rated 4.6 stars by 1,527 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Jonas Green Park Beach
Annapolis, MD 21409
Just 1 hr 52 min from Harrisburg, rated 4.6 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cedar Beach Park
Allentown, PA 18104
Just 1 hr 21 min from Harrisburg, rated 4.6 stars by 2,514 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Terrapin Nature Park
Stevensville, MD 21666
Just 2 hrs 3 min from Harrisburg, rated 4.6 stars by 1,524 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Beltzville State Park
Lehighton, PA 18235
Just 1 hr 37 min from Harrisburg, rated 4.5 stars by 4,331 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beaches Day Trips from Harrisburg
What are the best beaches near Harrisburg, PA?
The best beaches near Harrisburg include lake beaches, state park swimming areas, and waterfront parks. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable beaches within driving distance of Harrisburg?
Yes. Several beaches within 1-3 hours of Harrisburg have designated swimming areas with lifeguards during summer months. State park beaches are often the cleanest and best-maintained options.
When is the best time to visit beaches near Harrisburg?
Late May through September is prime beach season near Harrisburg. June and July offer the warmest water temperatures. Shoulder months (May, September) have fewer crowds and are great for walking and photography.
What should I bring for a beach day trip from Harrisburg?
Pack sunscreen, towels, a cooler with drinks and snacks, and water shoes for rocky shorelines. Some state park beaches charge a vehicle entry fee ($5-$15), so bring cash. Arrive early on weekends to secure parking.
Don't know where to go?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
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