Things To Do
in Ocean City
Ocean City, New Jersey, is a classic family-friendly beach town with a long, lively boardwalk and pristine sandy shores. It blends traditional mid-Atlantic seaside charm with modern eateries, amusement options, and plenty of outdoor activities. Summers are bright, busy, and music-filled, while off-season visits offer a quieter, nostalgic vibe along the coast.
Set on a barrier island along the Jersey Shore, Ocean City pairs sun-drenched days with a relaxed, walkable town center.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Ocean City and check into your beachfront hotel, soaking in the panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Spend your morning walking along the sandy shores, collecting seashells and enjoying the gentle ocean breeze. Grab a morning coffee at a local café to energize your beach day.
In the afternoon, indulge in a tasty lunch at a seaside restaurant, sampling the local seafood delicacies. After satisfying your hunger, hit the boardwalk to explore the numerous shops and attractions like carnival games and arcades. Treat yourself to some classic boardwalk snacks like funnel cakes or saltwater taffy.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot on the beach to watch the stunning colors of the sunset. For dinner, consider dining at a waterfront restaurant where you can enjoy delicious cuisine while admiring the ocean views. End the night with a stroll on the boardwalk, absorbing the lively atmosphere and perhaps catching a street performance.
Head out early to Assateague Island, renowned for its wild ponies and beautiful natural landscapes. Start your day with a guided nature hike, immersing yourself in the lush surroundings and coastal marshes. Keep your camera ready to capture stunning views and potential pony sightings.
After your hike, set up for a delightful picnic lunch on the beach, enjoying the sunshine and sound of crashing waves. Spend your afternoon swimming or sunbathing near the water, and don't forget to explore the island's visitor center for informative exhibits. You might also rent a kayak or paddleboard for a unique perspective of the coastline.
Return to Ocean City in time for dinner, perhaps opting for a seafood buffet where you can sample a variety of sumptuous dishes. In the evening, visit a local bar or pub for live music and a fun atmosphere to unwind. Alternatively, enjoy a quieter evening walking along the beach, listening to the calming waves and enjoying the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🏨Hotel/night | $90-180 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-5 |
| 🍦Ice cream cone | $3-6 |
| ⛽Gasoline | $3-4 per gallon |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Iconic boardwalk with family-friendly attractions and beaches
- Abundant casual dining, seafood options, and entertainment
- Short drives to Cape May and other coastal towns for day trips
- Peak-summer crowds can be heavy and parking challenging
- Nightlife is more low-key than in larger cities; quieter off-season
Places to Visit in Ocean City
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic vantage point capturing the Atlantic, colorful rides, and early-morning light along the boardwalk.
Iconic structure with ocean views and dramatic angles for architectural and sunset shots.
Wide sandy beach with dunes and early-day silhouettes—great for long-exposure sea photography.
Dune and marsh landscapes offering birds-eye viewpoints and water reflections.
Historic lighthouse with expansive coastal views and sunset opportunities.
Food in Ocean City
Ocean City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Chilled lobster meat on a buttered roll, often served with a side of coleslaw.
Must-Try!
Pan-seared crab cake on a brioche bun with tartar sauce and greens.
Crinkle-cut or shoestring fries, commonly enjoyed with vinegar or ketchup.
Colorful, chewy candy sold from boardwalk vendors.
Creamy, comforting chowder featuring local seafood; a boardwalk staple during cooler days.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, seafood, baked goods, and local specialties from nearby farms and vendors.
A lineup of vendors offering funnel cakes, pretzels, fried seafood baskets, ice cream, and other classic boardwalk bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect lifeguards, obey posted rules, keep noise reasonable, and dispose of trash properly. Quiet hours and rules may vary by area.
Be courteous when entering neighborhoods; walk on sidewalks where provided and yield to pedestrians and cyclists.
Safety
Tipping in Ocean City
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard 15-20% for table service; 10-15% for counter service if you’re pleased with the service. Bellhops and housekeeping often appreciate a $1–$5 tip per bag or per day.
Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common at many shops and kiosks.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm temperatures, crowded beaches and boardwalks, frequent live events, and long days with late sunsets. Bring sun protection, hydrate, and expect busy weekends.
Pleasant weather with cooler evenings, thinner crowds, and calmer beaches. Great for nature walks and wildlife viewing along marshes.
Chillier and quieter; some attractions reduce hours. Cozy dining options and off-season strolls along the boardwalk offer a slower pace.
Mild days with blooming dunes and migrating birds. Ideal for outdoor activities, bike rides, and comfortable sightseeing.
Ocean City at Night
Hiking in Ocean City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dune and marsh trail with ocean views and birdwatching opportunities.
Nature trails with birding opportunities and lighthouse views, a short drive away.
Airports
How to reach Ocean City by plane.
Approximately 30-40 miles from Ocean City; rental cars and shuttles available; serves domestic flights and regional connections.
Major hub about 100 miles north; extensive domestic and international connections; rental cars and transit options available.
Located roughly 90 miles north; wide range of flights and ground transport options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A core demographic for Ocean City with kid-friendly attractions, arcades, rides, and beaches.
A steady year-round presence with many part-time residents and seasonal visitors.
Summer crowds include young adults and families seeking a coastal getaway.
Welcoming to a broad visitor base; many events and dining options along the coast.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Seasonal coastal surfing with rental shops and lessons along the shore.
Inlets and bays around the town provide calm water routes and wildlife viewing.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ocean City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for plant-based options like veggie burgers, salads, veggie wraps, and dairy-free soups; many seafood-focused spots offer veggie sides or pasta dishes. When in doubt, ask about modifications or daily specials.