Patchy Smoke
Kent County, MD · Chesapeake Bay
Tolchester Beach
A historic Chesapeake Bay steamboat resort destination that is now a quiet waterfront community. Public beach access, marina, and a couple of local restaurants. Off the beaten path and authentic.
Today's Conditions
Skip the beach today.
72% rain · NWS alert active · 84°F water
Full NWS forecast for This Afternoon
Patchy smoke and showers and thunderstorms likely. Some of the storms could be severe. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 89. Southwest wind around 15 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
Tonight
Showers and thunderstorms before 8pm, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 8pm and 4am. Some of the storms could be severe. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 76. West wind 10 to 15 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.
Weather
- 89°F air — hot — hydrate and seek shade
- 72% rain — wet day — beach day is off
Water
- 84°F water — warm — full-day swim weather
- Moderate nettle risk — 40% probability — expect some stings
Safety
- NWS alert active — special marine warning issued july 18 at 4:43pm edt until july 18 at 5:30pm edt by nws baltimore md/washington dc
Best for photography today
Special Marine Warning issued July 18 at 4:43PM EDT until July 18 at 5:30PM EDT by NWS Baltimore MD/Washington DC
Tornado Watch issued July 18 at 1:55PM EDT until July 18 at 9:00PM EDT by NWS Mount Holly NJ
Air Quality Alert issued July 17 at 3:45PM EDT by NWS Mount Holly NJ
Atmosphere
Water
Sun & Moon
7-Day Beach Day Forecast
Mostly Sunny
Sunny
Showers And Thunderstorms
Chance Showers And Thunderstorms
Slight Chance Rain Showers
Sunny
What to Bring Today
- critical SPF 50 sunscreen UV index 8 — very high
- recommended Sturdy umbrella + sand anchor 15 mph wind
- optional Swimsuit - water is swimmable Water is 84°F
- recommended Rain cover + dry bag 72% chance of rain
- critical Extra water / electrolytes 89°F - heat risk
- recommended Cooling towel or hat sustained heat
Always remember water bottle, trash bag (leave no trace).
Beach Info
Parking
Limited street parking near beach access.
Dogs
Dogs permitted on leash.
Entry Fee
Free
Address
Tolchester Beach, MD 21660
Amenities
Frequently Asked
Is it safe to swim at Tolchester Beach today?
Tolchester Beach shows a live water-quality reading (bacteria levels) and today's swim-safety score at the top of this page, refreshed on every update. No lifeguards are on duty, so check the day's conditions and swim with caution. Always review the current advisories, surf, and rip-current notes before getting in the water.
Is Tolchester Beach dog-friendly?
Dogs permitted on leash.
Is there an entry fee at Tolchester Beach?
Entry to Tolchester Beach is free.
Are there lifeguards at Tolchester Beach?
No lifeguards are stationed at Tolchester Beach. Swim at your own risk and keep close watch on children.
What amenities are at Tolchester Beach?
Amenities at Tolchester Beach include restrooms, marina nearby, restaurants nearby.
When is the water warmest at Tolchester Beach?
The Chesapeake warms quickly — water temperatures peak in late July and August, typically 78-82°F. Swimming comfortable from mid-June through September.
Where is Tolchester Beach located?
Tolchester Beach is in Kent County, MD, at Tolchester Beach, MD 21660.
Nearby Beaches
Updated · Data from NOAA, NWS