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Ocean City

Ocean City, New Jersey, United States

Ocean City, New Jersey, located in the United States, is a charming seaside resort town known for its pristine beaches, family-friendly atmosphere, and vibrant boardwalk. With its tagline "America's Greatest Family Resor…

#Beach town#Family-friendly#Boardwalk#Tourist destination#Atlantic Ocean

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Ocean City.

Top Hotels in Ocean City

Top Flights to Ocean City

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Ocean City.

Tours

The Ocean City Boardwalk

Ocean City's iconic boardwalk, known for its shops, eateries, and beachfront views.

Cape May County Park & Zoo

A family-friendly attraction offering a variety of animals and picnic areas.

Tuckahoe Brewing Company

Craft brewery offering tours and tastings of locally brewed beer.

Outdoor

Ocean City Beach

Relax on the sands of Ocean City's beach, perfect for sunbathing or beach games.

Corson's Inlet State Park

Enjoy hiking trails and boat access in this scenic state park.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Ocean City.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

11.0 thousand

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Ocean City

Jan

6°-1°

Feb

7°0°

Mar

12°3°

Apr

17°8°

May

23°13°

Jun

28°18°

Jul

31°22°

Aug

30°21°

Sep

26°17°

Oct

20°11°

Nov

14°6°

Dec

9°2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Ocean City.

What people love

There are several pros of traveling to Ocean City, New Jersey:

Beautiful Beaches: Ocean City boasts clean, family-friendly beaches with soft sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach activities.
Boardwalk: The iconic Ocean City Boardwalk offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and amusements such as arcades, mini-golf, and amusement rides, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Ocean City is known for its family-friendly environment, making it a great destination for families with children. The town offers a wide range of activities and attractions suitable for all ages.
Water Activities: Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities in Ocean City, including surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing. The town also offers boat tours and rentals for exploring the surrounding waters.
Events and Festivals: Ocean City hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, including music festivals, craft fairs, and holiday celebrations, providing entertainment and cultural experiences for visitors.
Dining Options: The town offers a diverse range of dining options, from casual beachside cafes to upscale seafood restaurants, serving fresh seafood and other delicious cuisine.
Shopping: Visitors can explore a variety of shops and boutiques in Ocean City, offering unique souvenirs, beachwear, and gifts.

Overall, Ocean City, New Jersey, offers a perfect blend of beach relaxation, family-friendly attractions, and entertainment options, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking a fun and memorable beach vacation.

What to know

There are some potential cons to traveling to Ocean City, New Jersey:

Crowds: During the peak tourist season, Ocean City can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. This may lead to longer wait times at restaurants, attractions, and traffic congestion.
High Costs: Due to its popularity as a beach destination, prices for accommodations, dining, and activities in Ocean City can be higher compared to other destinations.
Weather: Being a coastal town, Ocean City is susceptible to changes in weather, including rain, wind, and storms. This can affect outdoor activities and beach days.
Limited Nightlife: Ocean City is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, which means that the nightlife options may be limited compared to other beach destinations.
Traffic: The main road leading in and out of Ocean City, the Ocean City Expressway, can experience heavy traffic during peak travel times, causing delays for visitors.

Overall, while Ocean City offers a beautiful beach and a range of activities, visitors should be aware of these potential cons when planning their trip.

Ocean City, New Jersey, is a well-known resort town located on the Jersey Shore in Cape May County. Its history dates back to the late 19th century, and it is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and boardwalk. Here is a detailed history of Ocean City:

Founding and Early History

1879: Ocean City was founded by a group of four Methodist ministers: Ezra B. Lake, James Lake, S. Wesley Lake, and William Burrell. They envisioned the area as a Christian seaside resort and chose the name "Ocean City" for its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.
1880: The Ocean City Association was formed to oversee the development of the town, ensuring it adhered to the founders' religious values. As a result, Ocean City has been a "dry" town since its inception, prohibiting the sale of alcoholic beverages.

Development and Growth

1880s: The first bridge to the mainland was constructed, making Ocean City more accessible to visitors and residents. This was a significant factor in the town's growth as a resort destination.
1881: A railroad line connecting Ocean City to other parts of New Jersey was established, further boosting tourism and development.
1897: The Ocean City Boardwalk was built, becoming one of the town's most iconic landmarks. Over the years, the boardwalk has been rebuilt and expanded several times due to storm damage and changing needs.

20th Century

1920s-1930s: Ocean City continued to thrive as a popular summer destination, attracting tourists from Philadelphia, New York, and other nearby areas. The town's commitment to maintaining a family-friendly environment contributed to its enduring appeal.
1944: The Great Atlantic Hurricane caused significant damage to Ocean City, including the boardwalk. The community quickly rebuilt, demonstrating the resilience of its residents.
1950s-1970s: The post-war era saw a boom in construction and development, with new hotels, motels, and vacation homes being built to accommodate the growing number of visitors.
1965: The Ocean City Historical Museum was established to preserve and share the rich history of the town.

Significant Events

1992: A major nor'easter, often referred to as the "December Nor'easter," caused extensive flooding and damage to Ocean City. This event highlighted the vulnerability of the town to coastal storms and led to improved coastal management and infrastructure.
2009: Ocean City celebrated its 130th anniversary with various events and activities, reflecting on its storied past and looking to the future.

Important Landmarks

Ocean City Boardwalk: Spanning 2.5 miles, the boardwalk is central to the town's tourism industry and features shops, eateries, and amusement parks.
Ocean City Music Pier: Opened in 1929, the Music Pier is a hub for concerts, events, and community gatherings.
The Tabernacle: Founded as a place for religious meetings, the Ocean City Tabernacle continues to serve as a spiritual and community center.
Ocean City Life-Saving Station: Built in 1885, it is one of the few remaining life-saving stations from its era and is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Ocean City remains one of New Jersey's premier beach destinations, known for its clean beaches, family-friendly environment, and charming seaside atmosphere. The town's commitment to preserving its unique character and heritage continues to attract visitors year after year.