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Ocean City, NJ

Ocean City, NJ is a popular coastal town located on the Jersey Shore that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Known for its beautiful beaches, delicious seafood, and friendly atmosphere, Ocean City is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.  It is a great destination for families, as there are many activities and attractions for children, and also for adults.

 

The town was founded in 1879 by a group of religious leaders as a Christian seaside resort and was originally called "Ocean City of the Lord.  Maybe that's why Ocean City is a "Dry Town" meaning they do not sell alcohol in the town, think of it as a BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) town. Every entry to the town is flanked by large liquor stores so if tipping one back is your thing you don't have to worry, they have you covered.

 

One of the main attractions in Ocean City is its miles of pristine beaches, where visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The most popular beach in Ocean City is the Beach at 9th Street, which offers a variety of amenities, such as beach chairs, umbrellas, and showers. Visitors can also take a sunset stroll on the beach, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or try their hand at fishing or crabbing. The vibe of the beach is very family-friendly and fun, perfect for those looking to make memories.

Families with children will find plenty of activities to keep them entertained in Ocean City. The town's boardwalk is home to a variety of amusement park rides, games, and attractions, including Gillian's Wonderland Pier, which offers a variety of rides and water activities. Visitors can also take a trip to the nearby playgrounds and parks where children can play and have fun. The town also has a number of mini-golf courses and arcades where families can enjoy some friendly competition.

Couples and romantics will find Ocean City to be a perfect getaway. The town's beach and boardwalk offer a perfect setting for a romantic stroll, and there are also plenty of fine dining options for a special night out. The town also has a number of bed and breakfasts and inns, many with ocean views, that offer a more intimate and romantic experience. Couples can also enjoy a sunset sail or take a romantic bike ride on the beach.

Ocean City also has a rich history that visitors can explore. The Ocean City Historical Museum is a must-see for history buffs, featuring exhibits on the town's history, including artifacts and photographs from the town's early days as a seaside resort. Visitors can also take a walk on the Ocean City Historical Society Walking Tour, which takes visitors through the town's historic neighborhoods and landmarks.

Shoppers will also find plenty to keep them busy in Ocean City. The town's boardwalk is home to a variety of shops, offering everything from souvenirs and clothing to boardwalk food. Visitors can also find some great deals at the Ocean City Farmers Market, which is held on the weekends. There are also many boutique shops where visitors can find unique and one-of-a-kind items.  Visitors can enjoy a wide range of entertainment options, from live music and comedy acts to dancing and karaoke. 

When it comes to eating, Ocean City offers a variety of dining options to choose from. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at one of the town's many seafood restaurants, such as the Crab Shack or the Joe's Fish Co, or grab a slice of pizza at one of the local pizzerias. For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, there are also several fine dining restaurants in town. There are also many ice cream and candy shops where visitors can enjoy a sweet treat.

In terms of nearby attractions, visitors can take a day trip to the nearby Cape May, which offers a variety of historic sites, Victorian homes, and nature preserves, or Atlantic City, which offers a variety of casinos, shopping, and entertainment. Visitors can also take a trip to the nearby island of Stone Harbor, which offers a variety of outdoor activities and beautiful beaches.  Ocean City also has a variety of local events throughout the year. The annual Ocean City Music Pier Concert Series is a popular event, featuring a variety of musical acts, and The OCNJ St Patrick's Day parade is a must-see event. 

 

Overall, Ocean City is a great vacation spot for those looking for a traditional beach vacation with a variety of entertainment options and a family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you're visiting for a day or a week, we're confident you'll have a great time in Ocean City.

Ocean City Website and Social Media sites

Recommended Beach Supplies for vacation ​

  • SPF Makeup and Lip Gloss:  When it comes to protecting your skin from the sun, it's important to look for makeup products that contain SPF to protect from the harmful effects of the sun:

  • Sunscreen: Protects your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause sunburn, skin damage, and skin cancer.  Read our Sunscreen Blog.

  • Paperbacks or Kindle Books:  Reading a book on vacation can help you relax by providing a mental escape from the stresses of everyday life

  • Sunglasses: Sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and reduce glare, improving visual comfort and eye health.

  • Beach chairs: Provide a comfortable place to sit and relax while enjoying the sun and sand. They often come with features such as adjustable backrests and armrests.

  • Beach Umbrella: these can provide shade and shelter from the sun and wind.

  • Beach Cabana:  A beach cabana provides a beachgoer with a private and shaded area for relaxation, protection from the sun, and storage for personal items. 

  • Beach Towels:  Provides comfort, convenience, protection, and hygiene while laying on the beach or swimming at the beach.

  • Womans Swimwear and Mens Swimsuits: Bring multiple swimsuits so that you have a dry suit to change into after swimming.

  • Water shoes: To protect your feet while walking on the beach or in the water.

  • Lightweight Clothing: Jersey shore can be hot in the summer, so pack lightweight and breathable clothing. For Woman.  For Men.

  • Sweatshirt or hoodie, even though it gets hot in the day it can be cool at night with the ocean breezes. For Woman For Men.

  • Hat or Visor: A hat or visor on the beach is necessary to protect your face and head from harmful UV rays, reduce glare, and keep you cool and comfortable in the sun.  For WomanFor Men.

  • Cash and credit cards: Many beach towns have boardwalks with shops and restaurants that do not accept credit cards.  Other establishments like arenas and stadiums will not take cash.

  • Cooler: To store drinks and snacks to keep you hydrated and fueled up throughout the day.

  • Insect repellent: To protect against mosquitoes and other bugs.

  • Beach games and activities: Beach Games such as frisbee, beach volleyball or cornhole, can be fun and entertaining.

Ocean City  nearby attractions

  • Ocean City, New Jersey is located in the heart of the Jersey Shore and there are many nearby attractions that visitors can enjoy. Some popular options include:

  • Atlantic City: This famous beach town is located about an hour drive from Ocean City and offers a variety of attractions, including the Atlantic City Boardwalk, the Steel Pier, and the many casinos.

  • Wildwood: This popular beach town is located just a short drive from Ocean City and offers a variety of attractions, including the Wildwood Boardwalk, Morey's Piers and Beachfront Waterparks, and Wildwood Beach.

  • Cape May: This historic town is located about an hour drive from Ocean City and offers a variety of attractions, including the Cape May Lighthouse, the Cape May County Park & Zoo, and the Cape May Winery.

  • The Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge: This protected area is located about an hour drive from Ocean City and offers a variety of activities, including hiking, bird-watching, and fishing.

  • Smithville: This historic village is located about an hour drive from Ocean City and offers a variety of attractions, including the Smithville Village, the Historic Smithville Park, and the Smithville Mansion.

  • The Atlantic City Aquarium: This is located in Atlantic City and offers a wide variety of marine life and interactive exhibits.

  • The Atlantic City Art Center: The center offers art exhibitions, classes, and workshops.

  • The Atlantic City Miniature Golf: This miniature golf course is located in Atlantic City, and offers a fun and challenging course for all ages.

Things to do in Ocean City's Town, Beach, and Boardwalk

  • Visiting the beach: Ocean City is known for its wide, clean beaches, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and playing in the sand.

  • Walking along the boardwalk: The boardwalk in Ocean City is a popular spot for taking in the ocean views, people-watching, and enjoying the variety of shops, games, and food stands.

  • Fishing: Ocean City offers a few fishing spots, both in the ocean and in the bay.

  • Surfing: Ocean City is a popular spot for surfers of all skill levels.

  • Renting a bike or a scooter and explore the island.

  • Ocean City Music Pier: This venue hosts a variety of performances such as live music, theater shows, and comedy acts.

  • Ocean City Historical Museum: The museum offers a glimpse into the history of the town and the Jersey Shore.

  • The Ocean City Aquatic and Fitness Center: The center offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, basketball, and fitness classes.

  • Nightlife: Ocean City is known for its lively nightlife, with a variety of bars and clubs to choose from.

  • Overall, Ocean City is a great vacation spot for those looking for a traditional beach vacation with a variety of entertainment options and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Romantic Things to do in Ocean City​

  1. Take a sunset walk on the beach: Ocean City has a beautiful beach that stretches for miles, and taking a walk along the beach as the sun sets can be a very romantic experience.

  2. Have a romantic dinner at a waterfront restaurant: Ocean City has many restaurants with waterfront views, where you can enjoy a romantic dinner while watching the sunset over the water.

  3. Take a boat tour: Take a romantic tour of the island by boat, and enjoy the beautiful views of the coast and the ocean.

  4. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride: Take a romantic carriage ride through the streets of Ocean City and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city.

  5. Rent a beach house: Rent a beach house for a weekend getaway and spend the days relaxing on the deck, enjoying the ocean view.

  6. Go on a fishing charter: Take a romantic fishing trip together, and catch some of the local fish while enjoying the beautiful ocean views.

  7. Take a hot air balloon ride: Take a hot air balloon ride over Ocean City and enjoy the beautiful views of the coast and the ocean.

  8. Rent a kayak or paddle boat: Explore the waterways of Ocean City by kayak or paddle boat, and enjoy the beautiful views of the coast and the ocean.

  9. Visit a local winery or brewery for a tasting: Ocean City has many wineries and breweries that offer tastings, where you can sample some of the local wines and beers.

  10. Take a romantic sunset sail: Take a sunset sail and enjoy the beautiful views of the coast and the ocean.

  11. Take a leisurely stroll through a local botanical garden: Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens of Ocean City, and enjoy the colorful flowers and plants.

  12. Take a scenic drive along the coast: Take a drive along the coast and enjoy the beautiful views of the ocean and the beaches.

  13. Go on a whale watching tour: Take a whale watching tour and see these majestic creatures in the wild.

  14. Rent a beach bike: Rent a beach bike and take a ride along the boardwalk, enjoying the ocean views.

  15. Take a horseback ride on the beach: Take a romantic horseback ride on the beach and enjoy the beautiful ocean views.

Things to do with Children in Ocean City

  1. Visit Gillian's Wonderland Pier: This amusement park offers a variety of rides and games for children of all ages, including a carousel, a roller coaster, and a Ferris wheel.

  2. Take a trip to the Ocean City Boardwalk: The Ocean City Boardwalk is a great place for families to stroll, with plenty of shops, games, and food stands to explore.

  3. Visit the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of the U.S. Life-Saving Service and offers interactive exhibits, artifacts, and a video presentation that children will find interesting.

  4. Go to the Ocean City Water Park: The Ocean City Water Park is a great place for children to cool off and have fun, with water slides, a lazy river, and a kiddie pool.

  5. Visit the Ocean City Aquatic and Fitness Center: This center offers a variety of swimming and fitness activities for children, including swimming lessons and water aerobics classes.

  6. Take a dolphin-watching cruise: Take a dolphin-watching cruise and see these playful creatures in the wild.

  7. Play mini-golf: There are several mini-golf courses around Ocean City, perfect for families to enjoy together.

  8. Take a tram car ride through the island: Take a ride on the historic tram car and enjoy the sights of the island.

  9. Visit the Ocean City Historical Museum: This museum offers exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of Ocean City's history, perfect for children to learn about the city's past.

  10. Visit the Ocean City Library: The library provides a variety of programs and activities for children, including storytimes, arts and crafts, and book clubs.

  11. Visit the Ocean City Arts Center: The center offers a variety of art classes and workshops for children, perfect for encouraging creativity and imagination.

  12. Take a trip to the Ocean City Beach: The beach is perfect for families to relax and have fun, with plenty of space for children to play in the sand and surf.

  13. Visit the Ocean City Community Center: The center provides a variety of activities for children, including sports, arts and crafts, and educational programs.

  14. Visit the Ocean City Fishing Pier: The fishing pier is a great place for families to fish together, with plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish.

  15. Rent a beach bike: Rent a beach bike and take a ride along the boardwalk, enjoying the ocean views together as a family.

Favorite Restaurants and Eateries in and around Ocean City

  • Ocean City, New Jersey is home to a variety of restaurants, offering a range of cuisines and atmospheres for visitors. Some popular options include:

  • The Crab Shack: This seafood restaurant is known for its delicious seafood, friendly staff, and lively atmosphere.

  • The White House Sub Shop: This casual spot is known for its classic subs, friendly staff, and great ocean views.

  • The Mad Batter: This restaurant is known for its American cuisine, friendly staff, and great ocean views.

  • The Flanders Hotel: This hotel offers a variety of dining options, including a formal dining room, a casual bistro, and a beachside café.

  • The Ocean City Diner: This classic diner is known for its friendly staff and wide variety of classic American fare.

  • The Original Fudge Kitchen: this is a classic confectionery that offers a variety of homemade fudge and other sweet treats.

  • The Ocean City Brewing Company: This brewpub is known for its great beer, friendly staff, and casual atmosphere.

  • The Kessel Corner: This restaurant is known for its classic American cuisine, friendly staff, and great ocean views.

  • These are just a few examples, and Ocean City has many more options to offer depending on what you're looking for. It's best to do some research and check out reviews before choosing a restaurant to ensure it meets your expectations.

  • The White House Sub Shop: This casual spot is known for its classic subs, friendly staff, and great ocean views.

  • Johnny B Good Diner: This classic diner offers a variety of classic American fare and friendly service.

  • The Green Room: This seafood restaurant is known for its delicious seafood, friendly staff, and great ocean views.

  • Port-O-Call Hotel Restaurant

  • Jon & Patty's Coffee Bar & Bistro

  • Augie's Omelette & Waffle

  • Yianni's Cafe - Cafe, Mediterranean

  • Piccini Wood Fired Brick Oven

  • Manco & Manco Pizza

  • Brown's Restaurant - American Fare

  • Cafe Beach Club - American fare

  • Opa Gyros and Crepes

  •  Cinco De Mayo

  • Uncle Bill's Pancake House

  • Manco & Manco Pizza

  • Sunrise Cafe of Ocean City

  • Voltaco's Italian Foods

  • Prep's Pizzeria

  • Clancy's by the Sea - Seafood

  • Island Grill Seafood & Steakhouse

  • Fusion Plate - Asian Cuisine

  • Randazzo Pizzeria & Family Restaurant

History of Ocean City

  • Ocean City is a city located in Cape May County, New Jersey. The area has a rich history dating back to the 1800s when it was first settled by European settlers. The city was named for its location on the Atlantic Ocean.

  • In the late 1800s, Ocean City began to attract visitors as a seaside resort. A number of large hotels were built, and the population of the town began to grow. The town's development was aided by the expansion of the railroad in the area, which made it more accessible for people to travel to the town. The town also became a popular spot for fishing, with many fishing clubs and boat clubs formed.

  • During the 1920s, Ocean City experienced a decline in popularity as a vacation spot, as people began to prefer car trips and the rise of air-conditioning made it less necessary to escape the heat of the city. However, in recent years, the town has seen a resurgence in popularity as a vacation spot and has become a popular destination for families, beach-goers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Today, Ocean City is a small city known for its beaches, parks, and outdoor activities. The city also has a strong sense of community, with events and festivals taking place throughout the year. The city is also known for its boardwalk, which is a popular spot for visitors and residents. The city also has a number of restaurants, shops, and other small businesses. Ocean City is also known for its family-friendly atmosphere and it's a popular spot for fishing and boating. The city also has a lively nightlife and it's a popular spot for entertainment.

  • One of the unique aspects of Ocean City is that it's a dry town (alcohol is not sold in any store or restaurant) which is a tradition that dates back to the early days of the town, where the founding fathers wanted to keep the town clean and safe for families. This tradition is still upheld today and is one of the main reasons why the town continues to attract families.

Local Churches

  • Central Ocean City Union Chapel 

3144 Central Avenue, Ocean City, NJ 08226

  • Chapel by the Sea 

5501 Asbury Avenue, Ocean City, NJ 08226  (609) 398-1563

  • Cornerstone Ministries 

801 Asbury Avenue, Suite 1, Ocean City, NJ 08226, (609) 399-7527

  • First Presbyterian Church 

701 Wesley Avenue,  Ocean City, NJ 08226  (609) 399 1833 1833

  • Holy Trinity Episcopal 

30th St. & Bay Avenue, Ocean City, NJ 08226 (609) 399-1019

  • Macedonia United Methodist Church 

951 Simpson Avenue, Ocean City, NJ 08226 (609) 399-9317

  • Ocean City Baptist 

10th Street & Wesley Avenue, Ocean City, NJ 08226  (609) 399-2261

  • Ocean City Tabernacle 

550 Wesley Avenue, Ocean City, NJ 08226, 609-399-1915

  • One Hearts & Friends 

1146 Ocean Heights Avenue Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey 08234 609-568-5609

  • Our Lady of Good Counsel Roman Catholic Church 

40th St. & Asbury Avenue Ocean City, NJ 08226 (609) 399-2085

  • Shiloh Baptist Church 

7th St. & Simpson Avenue, Ocean City, NJ 08226 (609) 399-4281

  • St. Augustine's Roman Catholic Church 

13th St. & Wesley Avenue Ocean City, NJ 08226 (609) 399-0648

  • St. Frances Cabrini Roman Catholic Church 

St. & Atlantic Avenue Ocean City, NJ 08226

  • St. James AME Church 

7th St. & Haven Avenue Ocean City, NJ 08226 (609) 399-3099

  • St. John’s Lutheran 

Central Avenue & 10th Street Ocean City, NJ 08226 (609) 399-0798

  • St. Peter’s United Methodist 

501 East 8th Street Ocean City, NJ 08226 (609) 399-2988

  • Tabernacle Baptist Church 

8th Street & West Avenue Ocean City, NJ 08226 (609) 399-6177

We hope this summary page helps you with your summer vacation, summer rentals, and search for a vacation home.  Whether you stay at a hotel, a condo, an apartment or a rental home the Jersey shore is for you! 

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