Exploring Ocean City, New Jersey: Your Ultimate Guide to Seaside Serenity

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Advisor - Gillian Spatz
Curated By

Gillian Spatz

  • New Jersey

  • Babymoons

  • Honeymoons

  • Beaches

  • Outdoors

  • Sightseeing

  • Entertainment

A sign that reads 'Welcome to Fabulous Ocean City NJ' on the top of an a-frame building.
Curator’s statement

Escape to the charming shores of Ocean City, New Jersey, where pristine beaches, vibrant boardwalks and a rich tapestry of coastal delights await. Nestled along the picturesque Jersey Shore, Ocean City beckons travelers seeking a quintessential seaside retreat. From leisurely strolls on its iconic boardwalk to thrilling water sports and delectable dining experiences, this quaint resort town offers an abundance of activities for visitors of all ages. Join us as we uncover the hidden gems and timeless attractions that make Ocean City a beloved destination for both locals and tourists alike.

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Where to stay in Ocean City, New Jersey

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Things to do in Ocean City, New Jersey

A sandy beach and boardwalk with a white building overlooking the ocean on a cloudy day.

Relax on the Beach: Ocean City boasts beautiful, clean beaches with soft sand and clear waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming and building sandcastles.

Stroll the Boardwalk: Ocean City's iconic boardwalk stretches for miles along the beachfront and is lined with shops, eateries, amusement rides and arcades, providing entertainment for all ages.

Ride the Rides at Gillian's Wonderland Pier: This historic amusement park on the Ocean City boardwalk features a variety of rides and attractions, including roller coasters, Ferris wheels and kiddie rides.

Visit the Ocean City Historical Museum: Learn about the history of Ocean City and its development as a seaside resort town through exhibits, artifacts and interactive displays.

Play Miniature Golf: Ocean City is home to numerous miniature golf courses, offering fun and challenging courses for the whole family to enjoy.

Try Water Sports: Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or jet-ski and explore the waters around Ocean City. You can also book a parasailing or banana boat ride for an adrenaline-filled experience.

Attend Events and Festivals: Ocean City hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including the Night in Venice Boat Parade and the Ocean City Flower Show.

Explore Corson's Inlet State Park: This natural area at the southern end of Ocean City offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, fishing and wildlife viewing in a tranquil coastal setting.

Enjoy Dining and Nightlife: Ocean City offers a diverse selection of restaurants, cafes, and bars serving up delicious seafood, casual fare and fine dining options. After dark, you can catch live music performances or enjoy a cocktail with ocean views.

Day Trips:

Just a short drive north along the coast, Atlantic City offers a vibrant atmosphere with its famous boardwalk, numerous casinos, entertainment venues and dining options. Visitors can enjoy shopping at the outlets, taking a stroll along the iconic boardwalk, trying their luck at the casinos or indulging in delicious meals at the many restaurants.

Located south of Ocean City, Cape May is renowned for its historic charm, beautiful beaches and Victorian architecture. Visitors can spend the day exploring the quaint streets lined with colorful Victorian homes, visiting historic sites like the Cape May Lighthouse and the Emlen Physick Estate, or simply relaxing on the beach. Cape May also offers excellent dining options, ranging from casual seafood shacks to upscale restaurants overlooking the ocean.

Places to eat & drink in Ocean City, New Jersey

A stack of pancakes covered in maple syrup and berries on a white square plate.

Cousin's Restaurant: This family-owned eatery specializes in Italian cuisine, with a menu featuring classic pasta dishes, seafood, chicken and veal entrees, served in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.

Island Grill: Located on the bay side of Ocean City, Island Grill offers scenic waterfront views and a menu featuring fresh seafood, burgers, salads and creative appetizers.

Sunrise Cafe: A favorite breakfast spot among locals and visitors alike, Sunrise Cafe serves up hearty breakfast and brunch options, including pancakes, french toast, eggs benedict and specialty omelets.

Manco & Manco Pizza: A staple on the Ocean City boardwalk, Manco & Manco Pizza is known for its delicious thin-crust pizzas, available by the slice or whole pie, with a variety of toppings to choose from.

Boyar's Market: This iconic Ocean City establishment offers a deli counter with a wide selection of sandwiches, wraps and salads, as well as a market featuring gourmet foods, cheeses and wines.

Mike's Seafood: A family-owned seafood market and restaurant, Mike's Seafood offers fresh seafood dishes, including fried shrimp, crab cakes, lobster rolls and clam chowder, served in a casual setting.

Randazzo's: Known for its traditional Italian fare and cozy atmosphere, Randazzo's offers a menu featuring homemade pasta dishes, veal and chicken entrees and fresh seafood, as well as an extensive wine list.

Johnson's Popcorn: Famous for its delicious caramel popcorn, Johnson's Popcorn is a must-visit snack shop in Ocean City. Enjoy their freshly made popcorn while strolling along the boardwalk.

Oves Beach Grill: Known for its fresh seafood and casual beachside atmosphere, Oves Beach Grill offers a variety of dishes including crab cakes, shrimp tacos and lobster rolls.

Yianni's Café: A popular spot for breakfast and brunch, Yianni's Café serves up tasty dishes like stuffed French toast, eggs benedict and omelets. They also offer lunch options such as salads, sandwiches and wraps.

Piccini Wood-Fired Brick Oven Pizza: If you're craving pizza, Piccini's is the place to go. Their wood-fired brick-oven pizzas are made with high-quality ingredients and come in a variety of delicious flavors.

Bashful Banana Bakery & Café: For those with a sweet tooth, Bashful Banana Bakery & Café is a must-visit. They offer a tempting selection of baked goods, including muffins, cookies, cakes and more. They also have a variety of healthy options, such as smoothies and acai bowls.

Advisor - Gillian Spatz

Travel Advisor

Gillian Spatz

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on Beaches.