Why Go to Ocean City, MD
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Ocean City, Maryland, is the classic American beach vacation, affordable, family-friendly and full of fun. Its famous boardwalk stretches about 3 miles along the Atlantic, lined with amusement rides, arcades, saltwater taffy and the legendary Thrasher's French fries.
The wide, sandy beach has plenty of room for everyone to sunbathe, hunt for shells and splash in the waves. When you want a break from the sand, try parasailing or jet skiing, play a round at one of the many mini golf courses, or head to Northside Park for outdoor fun on the bay side. Grown-ups can unwind at Seacrets, the island-style bar famous for tropical drinks and live music, or sample local craft beer at Burley Oak Brewing. Nearby Assateague Island is home to wild horses roaming the beach. And no trip is complete without a feast of steamed Maryland blue crabs.
Ocean City is an easy drive from Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia. I'll find the right oceanfront hotel or condo and plan a fun week at the beach for the whole family.
BEST FOR
Families, beach lovers, summer vacationers and fishing enthusiasts
BEST MONTHS
May–June and September
EXPLORE
The southern end centers on the boardwalk and inlet; Midtown has beachfront hotels and restaurants; North Ocean City is more spread out and quieter.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Ocean City, MD
North America › Mid-Atlantic › USA › Maryland
Atlantic boardwalk fun and long sandy beaches
Coastal & Harbor
Family
Boardwalk
Fishing
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Choose lodging by boardwalk access versus quieter northern beach blocks, and watch surf and rip-current notices.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Choose lodging by boardwalk access versus quieter northern beach blocks, and watch surf and rip-current notices.
Ocean City Boardwalk
The classic beachfront promenade features eateries, shops and amusements.
Choose lodging by boardwalk access versus quieter northern beach blocks, and watch surf and rip-current notices.
Ocean City Beach
Wide Atlantic sands are the main draw for swimming and seaside walks.
Choose lodging by boardwalk access versus quieter northern beach blocks, and watch surf and rip-current notices.
Trimper Rides
A longstanding amusement area near the southern end of the boardwalk.
Choose lodging by boardwalk access versus quieter northern beach blocks, and watch surf and rip-current notices.
Jolly Roger Amusement Park
A family-oriented park with rides and seasonal entertainment.
Choose lodging by boardwalk access versus quieter northern beach blocks, and watch surf and rip-current notices.
Northside Park
A bayside park with walking paths, open space and sunset scenery.
An oceanfront all-suite hotel near the northern end of the Boardwalk area, a practical option for families seeking additional room space. Check room views and seasonal beach facilities.
Hilton Ocean City Oceanfront Suites
Midtown / 32nd Street Oceanfront
Hotel Tags
A large oceanfront resort in northern Ocean City, suited to guests prioritizing beach access and a resort setting over walking to the southern Boardwalk. Plan transportation for downtown attractions.
Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort
North Ocean City / 91st Street
Hotel Tags
A bayfront hotel in downtown Ocean City, convenient for waterfront dining and shorter transfers to the inlet and Boardwalk. Confirm bay-facing rooms and parking charges.
Cambria Hotel Ocean City Bayfront
Downtown / St. Louis Avenue Bayfront
Hotel Tags
A contemporary bayside hotel near the Midtown dining corridor, suitable for guests interested in bay views with the ocean beach across Coastal Highway. Verify road crossings and parking.
Aloft Ocean City
Midtown / 45th Street Bayfront
Hotel Tags
A beachfront hotel directly on the Boardwalk around 15th Street, practical for visitors who prefer to walk to dining, beach activities and nearby entertainment. Confirm ocean-view room options.
Courtyard by Marriott Ocean City Oceanfront
Boardwalk / 15th Street
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Ocean City, MD
High 58°F · Low 42°F · Rain 3.3 in
Winterfest of Lights begins in Northside Park.
Late spring through early fall is the main beach season; summer brings the biggest crowds.
Best Times to Visit Ocean City, MD
WHEN TO GO
06
Assateague Day Trips
Assateague Island is a separate drive or organized outing. Check park entrance rules, weather and return arrangements.
05
Parking and Beach Access
Paid lots and street spaces can fill on summer weekends. Confirm hotel parking and use designated beach entries.
04
Boardwalk Walking and Cycling
The Boardwalk is a central pedestrian route; bicycle access may be limited by season or time of day. Follow posted rules.
03
Coastal Highway Buses
Seasonal and year-round local bus routes serve sections of Coastal Highway. Check current schedules and payment rules.
02
Local Travel Strategy
Choose lodging by boardwalk access versus quieter northern beach blocks, and watch surf and rip-current notices.
01
Arrival & Main Connections
Use the coastal highway buses, walk the boardwalk or drive between neighborhoods; parking is harder in high summer.
Use the coastal highway buses, walk the boardwalk or drive between neighborhoods; parking is harder in high summer.
Getting Around Ocean City, MD
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
You Might Also Like