Md. Officials Work To Promote Western Shore Beaches

BALTIMORE COUNTY, Md. (WJZ) -- There's a new push to promote several of Maryland's lesser-known beaches.  Many of them are just a 30-minute drive away.

Weijia Jiang reports from the Baltimore County waterfront.

Miami Beach is just one of five beaches in Baltimore County.  The county executive says many people have no idea this is in their backyard, but he's ready to change that.

Wednesday was the perfect day for the beach, but this beach has nothing to do with the Bay Bridge or the boardwalk.  It's all about Baltimore County.

"I think this is better," said County Executive Kevin Kamenetz.  "Baltimore County beaches are better.  Take a beach break, 30 minutes or less!"

Leaders kicked off a new campaign to promote the five beaches in Baltimore County.  They are county-run Miami Beach Park, Oregon Ridge Beach and Rocky Point Beach.  The state runs Gunpowder Falls and North Point State Park.

It's not just grown-ups who had fun in the sun Wednesday.

"There's a playground so if you're in the water and you don't feel like playing in it, you can just walk over," said Chase Elementary third-grader Sarah Hiebler.

Kamenetz hopes locals who don't know about the beaches will visit soon.  Others, like Fred Hylla, have been enjoying them for a lifetime.

"It's part of the treasures of the bay.  Living here, you grab the moment, seize the moment, enjoy it," Hylla said.

Hylla's moment is pretty intense.  He comes to kitesurf.  For those who don't seek such thrills, plenty of relaxing options await.

Just when you thought it couldn't get any better, kids ages 11 and younger can come to Baltimore County beaches for free.

The Beach Break campaign also highlights Baltimore County waterfront golfing, kayaking and dining.