Day Trips from Reading
← All Reading day tripsDay Trips from Reading: Beaches & Waterfront
The best beaches and waterfront destinations within driving distance of Reading, 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 Reading
Keyport Waterfront Park
Keyport, NJ 07735
Just 2 hrs 7 min from Reading, 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.
Raritan Bay Waterfront Park
Sayreville, NJ 08879
Just 2 hrs 3 min from Reading, rated 4.7 stars by 2,624 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 28 min from Reading, 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.
Bald Eagle State Park
Howard, PA 16841
Just 2 hrs 47 min from Reading, 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.
Hickory Run State Park Beach/Swimming Area
East Side, PA 18210
Just 1 hr 31 min from Reading, 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.
Wolfe's Pond Park
Staten Island, NY 10312
Just 2 hrs 6 min from Reading, rated 4.6 stars by 1,962 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 12 min from Reading, 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 15 min from Reading, 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 53 min from Reading, 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.
North Hempstead Beach Park
Port Washington, NY 11050
Just 2 hrs 57 min from Reading, rated 4.5 stars by 1,393 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 10 min from Reading, 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.
Smithfield Beach
East Stroudsburg, PA 18302
Just 1 hr 44 min from Reading, 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 Reading
What are the best beaches near Reading, PA?
The best beaches near Reading 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 Reading?
Yes. Several beaches within 1-3 hours of Reading 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 Reading?
Late May through September is prime beach season near Reading. 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 Reading?
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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