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A resort town of 6,000 that welcomes some 8 million visitors a year? With summer taking center stage, road trips, family vacations, and outdoor adventures are at the top of many people’s lists. And when it comes to the quintessential American beach getaway, Ocean City, Maryland easily takes the cake.
With 10 miles of coastline, two beautiful bays, a 3-mile boardwalk and over 200 restaurants, , has earned its reputation as an East Coast gem. In fact, it has been voted one of the best beaches on the East Coast.
From accommodations to recreation, Ocean City, Maryland, has a lot to offer when it comes to beach vacations. Award-winning hotels like the 2023 Ocean City Hotel of the Year and 2024 Travelers’ Choice Award winner offer breathtaking waterfront views, convenient on-site dining options, and spacious rooms that ensure an exceptional experience.
Whether you enjoy water sports, fishing, lazy days at the beach, nightlife or fresh seafood, this classic American beach destination offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure that couples, friends and families are sure to enjoy. It truly is “Somewhere to Smile About.”
Just ask Angela Fagan of Philadelphia. Her family has been taking road trips to Ocean City for the past 10 years. “Ocean City, Maryland, is worth the trip because there’s always something exciting to do in the city, no matter your age. Not to mention the amazing food and endless activities for kids to enjoy.”
An East Coast Retreat
Ocean City is a barrier island bordered on one side by the Atlantic Ocean and on the other by Assawoman Bay and Isle of Wight Bay. The island offers two unique experiences.
For those looking for sun, sand and waves, the 16-kilometre coastline along the Atlantic Ocean is the place where holidaymakers can pitch a beach tent, play a game of beach volleyball or enjoy the waves.
The city hosts free events on the beach all summer long, such as “Movies on the Beach” and “Fireworks Along the Boardwalk.”
Starting at 1st Street, the iconic Ocean City Boardwalk runs for 3 miles. It has been voted “America’s Favorite Boardwalk.” The Ocean City Fishing Pier offers panoramic views of the coastline, where vacationers can watch the ebb and flow of the tides, try their luck at fishing, or simply enjoy the beauty of their surroundings.
On the bay side you will find local restaurants like , where you can enjoy a cold drink while sitting in the bay. You will also find places like , the creator of the Orange Crush cocktail, where you can dock and dine if you are traveling by boat.
In addition to restaurants, there are many water sports and activities available, including boat tours, fishing trips, and jet skiing on the bay. Vacationers can also take advantage of a day trip or to the Assateague Island National Seashore, where they can spot the beautiful wild horses that inhabit the island.
Blue crabs and fresh seafood
With its prime location on the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, Maryland offers an abundance of fresh culinary treasures from the sea. From the iconic blue crabs to the salty oysters harvested from the bay, Maryland’s seafood scene is second to none. And if you’re visiting the state for the first time, join in the delicious and somewhat messy but fun tradition of crab picking.
“Ocean City has some great seafood restaurants, from fresh crabs to creative sushi rolls. One of our family favorites is Crab Bag. We like to order the big crabs and eat outside at the picnic tables. Their crabs are seasoned perfectly and are consistently the biggest crabs in the area,” says Karen Kelly of .
Additionally, Ocean City, Maryland, is known as the White Marlin Capital of the World, and this year it celebrates the 51st anniversary of the in August. Over the years, he has competed in the event on his 80-foot yacht ‘Catch 23.’
If you’re not a seafood lover, fear not. With over 200 restaurants in Ocean City alone, you can also enjoy American cuisine, Jamaican-inspired, Italian, Spanish tapas and a variety of other options.
A coastal adventure awaits you
With over 8 million tourists flocking to its shores each year, it’s clear that Ocean City, , has established itself as a premier East Coast vacation destination. With a packed calendar of , plenty of things to do, extensive dining options, and a wide variety of accommodations, Ocean City offers an unforgettable beach vacation experience to all who visit.
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves is a nationally syndicated travel journalist and founder of Wander With Alex. She travels to experience, eat, explore, and occasionally, escape! She partners with destinations, hotels, vacation rental companies, and hospitality tech companies to bring exclusive insights and information to fellow travelers.
