CALIFORNIA, Md. — Summer is officially winding down, making it the perfect time to soak up everything Southern Maryland has to offer. Whether you’re looking to spend the day on the water, explore a hidden gem or support local businesses, these 20 activities are the best way to make the most of the remaining weeks of summer.
Crack Open A Bushel Of Maryland Blue Crabs
Nothing says summer in Southern Maryland quite like gathering around a table covered in brown paper and enjoying a bushel of steamed Maryland blue crabs. Visit local seafood restaurants like Captain Leonard’s Seafood, or consider catching your own.
Spend The Day On The Water
Grab a tube, wakeboard or paddleboard and head to the Potomac River, Patuxent River or Chesapeake Bay before it’s officially time to retire your bathing suit for the season.
Watch The Sunset Over The River
Find a waterfront park or pier and end the day with one of Southern Maryland’s unforgettable sunsets. Great spots include Leonardtown Wharf Park, Point Lookout State Park and Friendship Farm Park.
Support A Local Business
Skip the chain stores and spend the day shopping local. Browse boutiques in downtown Leonardtown, shops in Solomons or family-owned businesses throughout Charles, Calvert and St. Mary’s counties. To find businesses near you, check out each county’s chamber of commerce website.
Catch A Southern Maryland Blue Crabs Game
Spend an evening cheering on the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs at Regency Furniture Stadium in Waldorf. Be sure to stay after the final out on select nights for a fireworks show. Purchase your tickets online.
Find Shark Teeth
Search the shoreline at Flag Ponds Nature Park, Calvert Cliffs State Park and Purse State Park. Stop by the Calvert Marine Museum afterward to learn more about Southern Maryland’s prehistoric past.
Grab A Sweet Treat From Your Favorite Local Ice Cream Shop
Cool off during the summer heat with a scoop of homemade ice cream, creamy milkshakes or snow cones from one of Southern Maryland’s favorite ice cream shops. Check out our guide to the Best Ice Cream Shops in Southern Maryland to discover your next favorite shop.
Visit A Sunflower Or Flower Field While It’s Still In Bloom
Late summer is one of the best times to wander through a field of colorful blooms. Whether you’re searching for the perfect photo backdrop or simply want to enjoy the scenery, Southern Maryland is home to several farms that welcome visitors to their flower fields, including Goldpetal Farms and Scarborough Farm.
Enjoy Dinner On The Waterfront
Nothing beats fresh Southern Maryland seafood paired with a waterfront view. Restaurants in Solomons, Cobb Island and throughout the region offer plenty of outdoor dining options overlooking the water.
Take A Historical Tour
Step back in time by visiting Historic St. Mary’s City, Port Tobacco or even St. Clement’s Island to learn more about Southern Maryland’s rich history. Looking for places to explore? Check out our guide to seven must-see historic sites in Southern Maryland.
Go Fishing From A Pier, Dock Or Boat
Whether it’s from a pier, dock, kayak or boat, spend a quiet morning or evening casting a line into one of Southern Maryland’s waterways. Check out TheBayNet’s Weekly Southern Maryland Fishing Report to find the best spots and see what’s biting.
Pack A Picnic At Your Favorite Local Park
Grab your favorite snack and enjoy lunch at a local park. Gilbert Run Park, Myrtle Point Waterfront Park and Smallwood State Park are just a few of many that make excellent picnic destinations.
Visit A Local Winery Or Brewery
It’s five o’clock somewhere! Spend the evening enjoying live music and locally crafted beverages at one of Southern Maryland’s wineries, breweries or distilleries. Some well-known Southern Maryland wineries and breweries include Port of Leonardtown Winery, Running Hare Vineyard, Southern Trail Distillery and Mully’s Brewery.
Take A Hike Through One Of Southern Maryland’s Scenic Parks
Lace up your hiking boots and explore the scenic trails Southern Maryland has to offer. From waterfront paths to wooded trails, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy the outdoors. Check out our list of the five best hiking spots in Southern Maryland.
Browse A Local Farmers Market
One of the biggest perks of summer in Southern Maryland is the abundance of local farmers markets. Fill your basket with fresh goodies like sweet corn, tomatoes, peaches, melons and other seasonal produce while supporting local farmers. Search the Maryland Farmers Market Directory 2026 to find a market near you.
Explore A Town You’ve Never Visited
Spend the day wandering through Leonardtown, Solomons, Port Tobacco or another Maryland community you’ve yet to discover. The Maryland Office of Tourism offers plenty of ideas to help both locals and visitors experience the best of the region.
Catch An Outdoor Concert
Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy one of the many free summer concerts held throughout Southern Maryland. Check out our Southern Maryland 2026 Summer Concert Guide to find the perfect show before the season ends.
Visit A Local Museum
Explore Southern Maryland’s history by visiting a local museum. The Calvert Marine Museum, Piney Point Lighthouse Museum and Dr. Samuel A. Mudd House Museum each offer a unique glimpse into the region’s past.
Explore A Nature Preserve
Escape into nature at one of Southern Maryland’s nature preserves. Whether you’re stopping by the Nanjemoy Creek Environmental Education Center or paddling through Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary, both destinations offer scenic views, abundant wildlife and a peaceful way to experience the outdoors before summer comes to a close.
Go Camping
Pitch a tent or park an RV at one of Southern Maryland’s campgrounds for one last summer getaway. Point Lookout offers a variety of camping options, including La Grande RV and Camping Resort and Point Lookout State Park, Civil War Museum & Lighthouse.
How many have you checked off this summer? Let us know which Southern Maryland adventure is your favorite, or share one we should add to the list in the comments below.
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