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Tourists walk along the southern tip of Ocean City Beach, Maryland

Things to do in  Ocean City

Avoid boredom on the boardwalk

Perched on a skinny peninsula between the Atlantic Ocean and Isle of Wight Bay, Ocean City in Maryland boasts sandy beaches and a boardwalk lined with restaurants, shops, and hotels. As well as the usual family-friendly, fun-in-the-sun activities, there are plenty of other unique things to do in this East Coast resort town— including theme park attractions and games, white marlin fishing, and a visit to nearby Assateague Island to see the wild horses.

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When to visit

From Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend (late May through early September), East Coast residents from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware travel to Ocean City for their summer vacations or weekend getaways. This is when the weather is the warmest, especially in July and August, and all the restaurants, hotels, and shops are open for business. In the fall, you’ll encounter pleasant temps and smaller crowds, but fewer places may be open.

Getting around

You can explore Ocean City’s boardwalk by tram, bike, or a 4-person Surrey bike with a fringed canopy. Public buses run frequently along Philadelphia Avenue/Coastal Highway and Baltimore Avenue, providing convenient access to Ocean City. Rideshare services and taxis are also readily available. Most restaurants provide off-street parking, but many people prefer to use public transport or taxis to get around, even if they travel to Ocean City by car.

Traveler tips

Known as a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts, Ocean City hosts tournaments where anglers compete for big prizes, such as the White Marlin Open, which takes place every August. End-of-day weigh-ins at Harbour Island on 14th Street and the Bay attract thousands of people. Large screens are set up to provide the crowds with a closer view of the weigh-ins.

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People Also Ask
Q:What kind of things are there to do in Ocean City, Maryland?
A:

As a quintessential East Coast beach town, Ocean City attracts travelers looking to swim in the Atlantic, sunbathe on the big beach, and browse the souvenir shops, eateries, and theme park attractions on the boardwalk. Other things to do here include golfing, fishing, and kayaking, and visiting Assateague Island to see the wild ponies.

Q:What is Ocean City, Maryland best known for?
A:

Ocean City is best known as a family-friendly beach destination with a popular boardwalk and classic Americana seaside attractions. It’s also been dubbed the “White Marlin Capital of the World,” attracting anglers looking to catch the billfish. Every August, the town hosts the White Marlin Open, which tops tournaments in terms of participation and payout.

Q:How do you spend a day in Ocean City, Md.?
A:

In the morning, before the afternoon heat and humidity kick in, take a stroll along the boardwalk or rent a bike to explore. Afterward, head to the beach to relax and swim in the ocean. In the evening, dine at one of the local restaurants or seafood shacks to try the state’s famous steamed crabs and grab an ice cream cone for dessert.

Q:Is Ocean City, Maryland worth visiting?
A:

Yes. If you’re looking for a laid-back beach vacation, especially with young kids, Ocean City is a good option. Popular among locals as well as with residents in neighboring states, this beach town offers a prime seaside getaway with its healthy dose of sand, sun, and seafood.

Q:What is the best month to go to Ocean City, Maryland?
A:

If you’re looking for the warmest weather and swimmable ocean water, visit Ocean City in July and August. This is peak season, so expect the largest crowds and the most expensive hotel rates during this time. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting in September when the weather is still pleasant but the prices start to drop.

Q:How many days do you need in Ocean City, Maryland?
A:

Ocean City, Maryland, serves as a good spot for a 3-day getaway—it’s a great weekend destination or stop on an extended road trip. But there’s also enough to do here to fill a weeklong vacation itinerary as well—activities range from day trips to Assateague Island and fishing charters.

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