Everything You Need to Know When Planning Your Ocean City MD Vacation

Ocean City, MD, boasts a 9-mile stretch of beautiful beaches and an abundance of attractions and activities to suit every taste. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, there’s something for everyone here. From the serene and secluded beaches to the bustling boardwalk, Ocean City has it all.  

We’ll be covering everything you need to know and the things to do in Ocean City, MD to make your Ocean City vacation unforgettable. Let’s dive in!

Downtown 

In downtown, get ready to hit the famous Boardwalk, stretching 3 miles from the inlet to 27th Street, with oceanfront hotels, arcades, and shops aplenty. 

The southern end is where the action’s at, with fishing charters, jet-ski rentals, and amazing bars and restaurants. 

ocean city md boardwalk
Photo From Shutterstock

Midtown 

Midtown Ocean City is the perfect spot for those who want some activity without the downtown crowds. It runs from 28th Street to Route 90 bridge at 62nd Street, with access to the famous Ocean City Boardwalk.

You can find popular restaurants and bars and waterfront hotels and restaurants with stunning sunset views along Assawoman Bay. 

North Ocean City 

If you’re looking for a quieter family vacation in Ocean City, head to North Ocean City which has the highest concentration of Ocean City MD vacation rentals in town. 

Northside Park at 125th Street is the biggest park in Ocean City and hosts many sporting events and youth camps. 

Don’t miss Winterfest from Thanksgiving until New Year’s which takes place here too! 

To get around, catch the OC Bay Hopper water taxi or take the bus and keep your car parked. 

West Ocean City 

West Ocean City, connected to downtown by Route 50, is an up-and-coming area with a growing number of restaurants and shops. 

It’s also home to the only outlet mall on Maryland’s beaches and popular entertainment options like go-carts and paintball. 

This is the place to stay if you’re interested in visiting Assateague Island, where you can fish and enjoy open beaches with wild horses, deer, and other wildlife. 

West Ocean City also has a working waterfront with great bars and restaurants offering water views and the best fresh seafood in Ocean City! 

Beaches 

Ocean City, MD boasts a stunning 10-mile continuous sandy beach and, although the sand and water quality are amazing along the entire coast, each area has its own unique vibe and crowd level.   

Continue reading for more details on each area and find the perfect beach for you! 

ocean city md beach
Photo From Shutterstock

Downtown 

If you’re looking for a lively beach atmosphere, head on down to the southern end of Ocean City where you’ll find the famous boardwalk stretching from the inlet parking lot to 27th Street. 

The area is also known for its pier and is a great spot for fishing.

Midtown

Midtown is the perfect area for those who want to experience a more laid-back and relaxing atmosphere in Ocean City, MD. 

The beaches in this area are a favorite among the locals being less crowded and with their own unique charm. 

North Ocean City 

North Ocean City is the perfect destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in a quieter and more laid-back atmosphere. 

The water is generally calm and warm during the summer months, making it perfect for a refreshing dip. Lifeguards are also on duty during the peak season to ensure the safety of all visitors.

Plus, if you’re planning to attend events at Northside Park or visit local craft breweries in Delaware, these beaches are the closest to those areas. 

Assateague Island 

Assateague Island is a must-visit beach if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Ocean City. It’s divided into two parks – the National Park and the State Park – and camping is available on the island. 

What’s great is that you don’t need a permit to have a bonfire here and pets are allowed as long as they’re on a leash. 

It’s a fantastic spot for surf fishing and, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even drive onto the beach with a permit at the northern end of the national seashore. 

With its stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife, Assateague Island is the perfect place to unplug and unwind. 

Plan Your Visit to Ocean City, MD

Trust Long & Foster to provide you with the best vacation rental experience on the Mid-Atlantic beaches. Browse our properties, drop a call, and start planning your perfect vacation in Ocean City, MD, today!

Ocean City Boardwalk 

Ocean City Boardwalk is a must-visit kid-friendly activity in Ocean City MD that’s been entertaining beach-goers for decades! 

This iconic East Coast landmark runs for three miles along the stunning Ocean City beach and the majestic Atlantic Ocean and offers a range of activities including shopping, dining, entertainment, and amusement. 

Whether you’re up for a morning bike ride or an evening stroll, the boardwalk is the perfect spot to have a great time. However, it’s important to note that bikes are allowed only during specific times of the year and pets are only allowed during off-season. 

The boardwalk is home to award-winning hotels, world-class restaurants, and a wide array of attractions that will keep you busy all day. You can indulge in boardwalk fries, soft-serve ice cream, popcorn, and many other delicious treats while enjoying the lively atmosphere. 

You can always find something to do along the boardwalk, no matter the season. 

Kid Friendly Activities 

There are tons of kid-friendly activities in Ocean City, MD! There will never be a dull moment! 

The Old Pro Golf on 68th Street has two exciting themed courses called Prehistoric Dinosaur and Undersea Adventure. 

Meanwhile, the Jolly Roger Amusement Park is a great spot to spend an amazing time with your little ones with over twenty rides, including the thrilling Speed World. Teens and older kids will also have a blast with the collection of roller coasters, zip lines, swings, and GoKarts. 

Trimper’s Rides and Amusement Parks is another popular option with over a hundred indoor and outdoor rides and games. Little ones will love the small merry-go-round and carousels, while older kids will get a kick out of epic rides like the Tidal Wave roller coaster. 

Don’t forget to check out Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, where you can explore strange and amazing things, like the Mirror Maze, or try to beat the impossible LaseRace. 

Kids of all ages will love strolling the iconic Ocean City Boardwalk, full of games, rides, sweets, and salty snacks. 

Where To Stay?

If you’re planning a vacation to Ocean City, Maryland, look no further than Long & Foster for your Ocean City, MD vacation rental needs! 

With over 300 vacation rental homes and condos available, we have something for everyone, including pet-friendly options. 

We are committed to providing exceptional customer service and making your vacation experience unforgettable, and our extensive knowledge of the area means we can provide you with insider tips on the best things to do in Ocean City, MD, during your stay.