Day Trips from Lancaster
← All Lancaster day tripsDay Trips from Lancaster: Beaches & Waterfront
The best beaches and waterfront destinations within driving distance of Lancaster, 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 Lancaster
Hickory Run State Park Beach/Swimming Area
East Side, PA 18210
Just 2 hrs from Lancaster, rated 4.7 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.
Fuller Lake Day Use Area
PA 17324, USA
Just 1 hr 25 min from Lancaster, 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.
Keyport Waterfront Park
Keyport, NJ 07735
Just 2 hrs 23 min from Lancaster, 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.
Codorus State Park
Hanover, PA 17331
Just 1 hr 3 min from Lancaster, 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 14 min from Lancaster, 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 41 min from Lancaster, 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.
Bayshore Waterfront Park
Port Monmouth, NJ 07758
Just 2 hrs 32 min from Lancaster, rated 4.6 stars by 1,540 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.
Cedar Beach Park
Allentown, PA 18104
Just 1 hr 22 min from Lancaster, 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 9 min from Lancaster, 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 39 min from Lancaster, 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.
Sandy Point State Park
Annapolis, MD 21409
Just 2 hrs 1 min from Lancaster, rated 4.4 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.
Smithfield Beach
East Stroudsburg, PA 18302
Just 2 hrs 13 min from Lancaster, rated 4.4 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beaches Day Trips from Lancaster
What are the best beaches near Lancaster, PA?
The best beaches near Lancaster 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 Lancaster?
Yes. Several beaches within 1-3 hours of Lancaster 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 Lancaster?
Late May through September is prime beach season near Lancaster. 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 Lancaster?
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?
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