Ocean City Beach

Ocean City Beach offers 10 miles of pristine Atlantic coastline perfect for family beach days, complete with gentle waves ideal for young swimmers and lifeguards stationed throughout the summer season. The famous boardwalk runs alongside the beach, providing easy access to amusement rides, arcade games, and treats when kids need a break from the sand and surf.

• ✓Miles of clean, sandy beach with gentle waves perfect for young swimmers
• ✓Lifeguards on duty daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day
• ✓Adjacent 3-mile boardwalk with amusement parks, mini golf, and ice cream shops
• ✓Free beach events including movies, concerts, and sand sculpting contests during summer
• ✓Excellent wave conditions for boogie boarding and beginner surfing

1. 1.Arrive before 9 AM to snag prime parking spots and claim your beach space before crowds arrive, especially on summer weekends
2. 2.Set up near a lifeguard stand (marked with green flags) for the safest swimming conditions and easy landmark for kids to find you
3. 3.Bring a beach cart or wagon,the walk from parking to the sand can be lengthy, especially with gear and tired kids
4. 4.Pack a pop-up tent or beach umbrella as shade is limited, and reapply sunscreen every 90 minutes even on cloudy days
5. 5.Download the Ocean City MD app for real-time updates on water conditions, beach events, and fireworks schedules

Early morning (7-10 AM) offers the calmest waters, smallest crowds, and best sand dollar hunting. Mid-week visits from Tuesday through Thursday are significantly less crowded than weekends during peak summer season.

Beach access is free, but metered parking ranges from $3-5 per hour with some lots offering daily rates. Restrooms and outdoor showers are located at regular intervals along the boardwalk, and numerous food vendors make packing lunch optional.

Lifeguards are on duty from late May through early September. The beach is accessible year-round, but most boardwalk attractions close after Labor Day and reopen in late spring. Summer months (June-August) offer the warmest water temperatures and most family programming.

Thrashers French Fries on the boardwalk is an Ocean City institution that kids love (cash only). For sit-down meals with ocean views, try Seacrets Jamaica USA, which has a family-friendly section with a kids menu and fun tropical atmosphere.