Hotels in Ocean City

Once a sleepy fishing village, Ocean City, MD has evolved into a bustling barrier island, making it a perfect seaside vacation spot on the Atlantic Coast. Ten miles long and one mile wide, this classic beach town's famous boardwalk and infectious family-friendly atmosphere draws in visitors old and new each summer. Takeyour pick of accommodations in this vibrant place, where you can soak in the sun, frolic in the ocean, spend days in amusement parks and revert to traditional childhood holidays.

Things to do

Beaches

OC Maryland's beach is 10 miles of pure ocean fun, attracting boarders for many years with its surf scene and some of the best entertainment around. Each day, two different beaches are reserved specifically for surfers and boogie boarders. Alternatively, you could just relax with a book on the sands.

The boardwalk

Steps away is the famous 3-mile OC boardwalk. Here you can watch a show by a street performer, ride roller coasters, or win a prize at one of the many arcades. Visitors are likely to work up quite an appetite and will be drawn in by the delicious smells coming from the food vendors. Grab some pizza, fries, funnel cakes, fudge or ice cream, but leave room for some yummy Maryland crab cakes as well.

Amusements

At one of the many amusements that fill the town, you can take a boat excursion, ride go-karts or enjoy some family time playing a round of mini golf. One of the boardwalk's oldest attractions is the carousel at Trimper's Amusements, which is America's oldest continuously operating ride of its kind, ready to take you for a spin.

Dining

OC Maryland is filled with an assortment of restaurants and, as you might have guessed, seafood is a pretty popular dish. Harborside Bar and Grill is a local favorite to dine on fresh fish and crab, with a friendly atmosphere and simple yet tasty menu. If you’re not a fan of fish, plenty of pizza and burger joints are all around.

Shopping

For some serious shopping, choose from the many outlets, bazaars and boutiques, or head down to the boardwalk. The Gold Coast Mall is Ocean City's only indoor shopping complex, conveniently located on the Coastal Highway. Beach wear and souvenirs can be found around every corner, so it's impossible to leave empty-handed.

Where to stay

From luxurious lodgings to family comforts and romantic getaways, plentiful Ocean City hotels are ready to fill the bill. For an indulgent trip stay at the Hilton Ocean Seafront, where you can depend on highly-rated service in sophisticated surroundings. Families will feel at home in Dunes Manor, with ocean views and a short walk from the boardwalk. There are accommodations for every seaside seeker.

Special events

Ocean City is bursting with events, and Springfest is the first major event each year that prepares everyone for the upcoming summer season. During the summer months, join the crowds and let your hair down at one of the free concerts on the beach. Sundaes in the Park is a concert series that takes place in August and will have you cheering and singing, in between mouthfuls of ice cream.

Fall's annual Sunfest is a four-day celebration filled with food, arts and crafts, and live entertainment. Even after the winter turns cool, OC Maryland continues to host memorable events, including the Winterfest of Lights: a Christmas classic where you can witness a dazzling display of lights and visit Santa.

Best time to visit

Visit OC Maryland between June and September for sunny and humid days, with temperatures in the 90s. Spring is a pleasant time, but the weather can often be unpredictable. Take a trip in fall and winter to avoid crowds and take advantage of the lowest hotel rates of the year.