Did you know that Ocean City, Delaware’s pristine shoreline is home to one of the cleanest beaches in America, consistently earning 5-star ratings for water quality? This hidden gem along the Atlantic coast offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, family-friendly attractions, and coastal charm without the overwhelming crowds found at larger beach destinations. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, romantic getaway, or solo adventure, our comprehensive guide to Ocean City Delaware things to do will help you create unforgettable memories in this coastal paradise.
Getting to Ocean City, Delaware
Ocean City is conveniently located on Delaware’s Atlantic coast, making it accessible by various transportation methods. The closest major airports are Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) about 120 miles away and Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) approximately 135 miles from Ocean City. From either airport, you can book flights and then rent a car for the scenic drive to the coast.
If you’re driving from nearby cities, Ocean City is approximately 2.5 hours from Philadelphia, 3 hours from Washington D.C., and 3.5 hours from New York City. The main routes include Highway 1 from the north and Route 50 from the west, both offering picturesque views as you approach the coastline.
Ready to Plan Your Ocean City Getaway?
Find the best flight deals to airports near Ocean City and start your beach vacation right!
Best Time to Visit Ocean City
Ocean City shines brightest during the summer months (June through August) when temperatures hover between 75-85°F, perfect for beach activities and water sports. This peak season offers the fullest experience with all attractions open and a vibrant atmosphere, though it also brings larger crowds and higher prices.
For those seeking a more peaceful experience, consider the shoulder seasons. May and September offer pleasant temperatures (65-75°F), fewer crowds, and reduced rates while still providing access to most attractions. Many locals consider September the perfect time to visit, with warm water temperatures and a more relaxed pace.
Winter visits (November through February) reveal a different side of Ocean City. While many seasonal businesses close, you’ll discover a tranquil coastal town with empty beaches perfect for contemplative walks and nature photography. The annual Winterfest of Lights (November-December) transforms the town into a magical holiday destination with dazzling light displays throughout Northside Park.
“September is Ocean City’s best-kept secret. The water’s still warm, the crowds are gone, and you can actually hear the waves.” – Local resident quoted by Delaware Beach Guide
Where to Stay in Ocean City
Ocean City offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every preference and budget. From luxury oceanfront resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts, you’ll find the perfect place to rest after a day of exploration.
Beachfront Resorts
For those seeking luxury and convenience, Ocean City’s beachfront resorts offer stunning views and premium amenities. Most feature private beach access, pools, on-site dining, and spa services. Popular options include The Bellmoor Inn and Spa and the Atlantic Sands Hotel, both offering direct beach access and upscale accommodations.
Vacation Rentals
For families or extended stays, vacation rentals provide more space and home-like amenities. From oceanfront condos to charming cottages a few blocks from the beach, these options often include full kitchens and multiple bedrooms. Rental properties are particularly abundant in the North Ocean City area, offering a more residential feel.
Budget-Friendly Options
Travelers on a budget can find comfortable accommodations at several well-maintained motels and hotels located a few blocks from the beach. These options often include free parking and basic amenities at a fraction of the cost of oceanfront properties.
Bed & Breakfasts
For a more intimate experience, consider staying at one of Ocean City’s charming bed and breakfasts. These establishments offer personalized service, home-cooked breakfasts, and local insights from knowledgeable hosts. The Lighthouse Club Hotel and the Atlantic House B&B are highly recommended options.
Find Your Perfect Ocean City Accommodation
From luxury beachfront resorts to cozy vacation rentals, book your ideal stay today!
Getting Around Ocean City
Navigating Ocean City is relatively straightforward, with several transportation options available to visitors. During the summer months, the town operates a convenient beach shuttle that runs along Coastal Highway, making it easy to reach major attractions without worrying about parking.
For maximum flexibility, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main beach area, renting a car is highly recommended. This allows you to visit nearby attractions like Cape Henlopen State Park or the charming town of Rehoboth Beach at your own pace.
Cycling is another popular option in Ocean City, with dedicated bike lanes throughout much of the town. Several rental shops offer daily and weekly rates on beach cruisers, perfect for leisurely exploration of the boardwalk and surrounding neighborhoods.
Explore Ocean City Your Way
Enjoy the freedom to discover all of Ocean City’s hidden gems with your own transportation.
Ocean City’s Beautiful Beaches
The heart of any Ocean City Delaware things to do list starts with its pristine beaches. Stretching for miles along the Atlantic coast, these well-maintained sandy shores offer the perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The main public beach is easily accessible from the boardwalk and features amenities including restrooms, outdoor showers, and seasonal lifeguard service.
For a more secluded experience, head to the beaches at Delaware Seashore State Park, just north of Ocean City. These less crowded stretches offer a more natural setting with rolling dunes and opportunities to spot local wildlife. Early morning visitors might catch a glimpse of dolphins swimming offshore or spot various shorebirds hunting for breakfast along the water’s edge.
Beach Safety Tip: Ocean City beaches have a flag warning system to indicate water conditions. Green flags mean calm conditions, yellow flags indicate moderate surf or currents, and red flags warn of high surf or dangerous currents. Always check the flags before entering the water.
Exploring the Famous Boardwalk
No visit to Ocean City is complete without experiencing its iconic boardwalk. This bustling promenade stretches for 2.5 miles along the beachfront and serves as the entertainment hub of the town. The boardwalk comes alive with activity from morning until late evening, offering something for visitors of all ages.
Food lovers will delight in the array of classic boardwalk treats available. Don’t miss Thrasher’s French Fries, a local institution known for their vinegar-soaked potato perfection. For those with a sweet tooth, Dolle’s Candyland offers handmade saltwater taffy and fudge made using recipes passed down through generations.
The boardwalk is also home to numerous shops selling everything from beach essentials to unique souvenirs. Spend some time browsing the eclectic offerings at Ocean Gallery, where wall-to-wall artwork creates a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.
“Ocean City’s boardwalk perfectly balances nostalgic charm with modern amenities, creating an atmosphere that keeps families returning year after year.” – East Coast Adventurer
Family-Friendly Attractions
Ocean City excels at providing entertainment for the whole family, with attractions designed to create lasting memories for visitors of all ages. Among the most popular Ocean City Delaware things to do for families are the area’s amusement parks, water parks, and interactive attractions.
Jolly Roger Amusement Park
This beloved attraction features thrilling roller coasters, classic carnival rides, and a splash-filled water park. The park offers different wristband options, making it easy to customize your experience based on time and budget. Don’t miss the Splash Mountain water slides for cooling off on hot summer days.
Trimper’s Rides
Operating for over 100 years, Trimper’s is home to a historic carousel featuring hand-carved animals dating back to 1902. The indoor/outdoor amusement center offers rides for all ages, from gentle options for toddlers to more adventurous attractions for older children and adults.
Mini Golf Adventures
Ocean City boasts several themed mini-golf courses that offer fun challenges for the whole family. From pirate adventures to dinosaur encounters, these elaborately designed courses provide entertainment beyond simply putting a ball. Most locations offer discounted rates for evening play.
Water Sports & Outdoor Adventures
With its prime coastal location, Ocean City offers abundant opportunities for water-based adventures. From relaxing boat tours to adrenaline-pumping water sports, there’s something for every level of adventure seeker.
Parasailing
Soar high above the Atlantic for breathtaking views of the coastline with OC Parasail. These 10-15 minute flights offer a unique perspective of Ocean City and the surrounding natural beauty. Flights can accommodate up to three people at once, making it a perfect activity for small groups or families.
Fishing Charters
Ocean City is known as the “White Marlin Capital of the World,” making it a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts. Charter boats offer half-day and full-day excursions targeting everything from flounder and sea bass to marlin and tuna. Most charters provide all necessary equipment and licenses.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Explore the calm waters of Assawoman Bay by kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Several rental companies offer equipment by the hour or day, along with guided eco-tours that highlight the area’s diverse wildlife and salt marsh ecosystems. Sunset tours are particularly popular for their spectacular views.
Coastal Dining Experiences
Ocean City’s dining scene celebrates its coastal location with an abundance of fresh seafood options while also offering diverse cuisines to satisfy every palate. From casual beachside eateries to upscale dining experiences, food is an essential part of the Ocean City Delaware things to do list.
Seafood Specialties
The Shark on the Harbor stands out for its commitment to locally sourced, sustainable seafood. Their menu changes daily based on what local fishermen bring in, ensuring the freshest possible dining experience. Don’t miss their award-winning crab cakes, made with minimal filler to let the sweet Maryland blue crab shine.
Boardwalk Treats
The boardwalk offers a treasure trove of iconic beach treats. Thrasher’s French Fries, served in a bucket with apple cider vinegar, have been an Ocean City tradition since 1929. For dessert, Dolle’s Candyland offers handmade saltwater taffy in dozens of flavors, while Dumser’s Dairyland serves up creamy ice cream in generous portions.
Waterfront Dining
For a memorable meal with a view, head to Fager’s Island, where the restaurant times the sunset perfectly with the playing of Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture.” Their extensive wine list and fresh seafood menu make it perfect for special occasions, while the outdoor deck offers spectacular bay views.
Shopping Destinations
Shopping in Ocean City ranges from beachwear boutiques to unique specialty stores, offering plenty of opportunities to find the perfect souvenir or beach essential. The town’s retail scene combines chain stores with one-of-a-kind local businesses.
Boardwalk Shops
The boardwalk is lined with shops selling everything from beach necessities to quirky souvenirs. Sunsations offers all your beach essentials in one stop, while Ocean Gallery presents an eclectic collection of artwork ranging from affordable prints to original pieces. For unique beach-themed jewelry and gifts, visit the Sea Shell City, where you’ll find handcrafted items made from local materials.
Tanger Outlets
Located just a short drive from the beach, Tanger Outlets features over 30 brand-name stores offering discounted prices on clothing, accessories, and home goods. The open-air shopping center makes for a pleasant shopping experience, especially on days when you need a break from the beach. Look for coupon books at the information center to maximize your savings.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Ocean City hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, giving visitors reasons to return in every season. These festivals and celebrations showcase the town’s community spirit and provide unique entertainment options beyond the typical beach activities.
Summer Concerts
During summer months, free concerts take place at the beach bandstand on the boardwalk. These family-friendly performances feature a variety of musical genres and provide the perfect soundtrack for a warm evening by the ocean. Bring a beach chair or blanket and enjoy live music under the stars.
Sunfest
Held annually in September, Sunfest marks the end of summer with four days of arts and crafts, live music, and delicious food. The festival takes place at the Inlet and features over 180 vendors selling handmade items. Free live entertainment runs continuously on two stages, making this one of the most popular events of the year.
Winterfest of Lights
From mid-November through December, Northside Park transforms into a winter wonderland with the Winterfest of Lights. This magical display features over one million holiday lights arranged in enchanting scenes. Visitors can enjoy a tram ride through the illuminated park, visit with Santa, and warm up with hot chocolate in the festive pavilion.
Day Trips from Ocean City
While Ocean City offers plenty to keep visitors entertained, the surrounding area is rich with attractions worth exploring. These nearby destinations make perfect day trips for those looking to expand their coastal experience.
Assateague Island
Just a 15-minute drive from Ocean City, Assateague Island National Seashore offers a striking contrast to the developed beach town. This protected barrier island is famous for its population of wild horses that roam freely across beaches and salt marshes. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, bird watching, and pristine beaches with far fewer crowds than Ocean City.
Rehoboth Beach
Often called the “Nation’s Summer Capital” due to its popularity with Washington D.C. residents, Rehoboth Beach offers a more upscale beach experience about 40 minutes north of Ocean City. The town is known for its tax-free shopping, fine dining options, and a charming mile-long boardwalk that’s less commercial than Ocean City’s.
Berlin
Named “America’s Coolest Small Town” by Budget Travel, historic Berlin is just 15 minutes inland from Ocean City. This charming town features beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture, boutique shopping, and a thriving arts scene. Stroll the brick sidewalks, browse antique shops, and enjoy farm-to-table dining in this picturesque setting.
Practical Tips for Visitors
What’s the parking situation in Ocean City?
Parking can be challenging during peak season. Municipal lots charge hourly rates ($3-4/hour), while street parking is limited and strictly enforced. Many hotels offer free parking for guests. Consider using the beach shuttle to avoid parking hassles altogether.
Are pets allowed on Ocean City beaches?
Dogs are not permitted on Ocean City beaches or boardwalk from May 1 through September 30. During the off-season (October 1 through April 30), leashed dogs are welcome. For pet-friendly beach options year-round, visit nearby Dewey Beach’s designated dog beach or specific areas of Assateague Island.
What should I pack for an Ocean City vacation?
Beyond beach essentials (sunscreen, towels, swimwear), bring a light jacket for cool evening breezes, comfortable walking shoes for the boardwalk, and cash for smaller vendors who may not accept cards. If visiting during shoulder seasons, pack layers as temperatures can fluctuate significantly between day and night.
Plan Your Ocean City Adventure Today
From its pristine beaches and family-friendly attractions to its diverse dining scene and natural beauty, Ocean City, Delaware offers a perfect coastal getaway for travelers of all ages. Whether you’re building sandcastles with the kids, trying your hand at water sports, or simply unwinding with the sound of waves as your soundtrack, this charming beach town delivers memorable experiences in every season.
As you plan your visit, remember that the best Ocean City Delaware things to do often combine scheduled activities with spontaneous discoveries. Leave room in your itinerary for unexpected adventures—whether it’s following a local’s recommendation to a hidden gem restaurant or spending an extra hour watching dolphins play in the waves.
Ready for Your Ocean City Escape?
Start planning your perfect beach getaway today with these essential travel services:
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
