Ocean City, New Jersey is dubbed “America’s Greatest Family Resort,” and considering its long, long list of awards, it just might have the proof to back that boast! In 2018 alone, it won several best New Jersey beach awards from sources including NJ.com and South Jersey magazine, “Most Exciting City” in NJ from Business Insider and even “America's Happiest Seaside Town” from Coastal Living magazine. If those and many more accolades stretching back years appeal to you, take advantage of these New Jersey Travel & Tourism tips to guarantee your 2019 experience will be extra exceptional.
The Ocean City Must List
Just what makes Ocean City so great? For starters, there are 8 miles of pristine beaches, sparkling ocean and flourishing bay side, perfect for water activities such as swimming, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing and simply lounging and playing on and in the sand (hello, sandcastles!).
Add to that 2.5 miles of boardwalk holding 8 full blocks of family amusements, shopping, eating and a whole summer’s worth of possibilities. And don’t forget downtown Ocean City, located on Asbury Ave. between the beach and the bay, a distinctive district showcasing over 100 eclectic shops, restaurants and attractions. Browse popular Stainton’s Gallery of Shops, Ta-Dah!, B&B Department Store and more.
Surprising Finds
Also on the boardwalk is a true Ocean City icon—Music Pier. Dating back to 1928, this historic venue has hosted renowned musical acts, comedians and pageants including the Miss New Jersey pageant. During its summer 2019 lineup, enjoy concerts and musical theater collaborations between the Ocean City Pops and Greater Ocean City Theatre Company, such as Schoolhouse Rock Live!, Mamma Mia!, The Wedding Singer, Newsies, Guys and Dolls Jr., as well as little-kid-approved shows and more.
Family Adventures
Ocean City prides itself on being a historically “dry town,” meaning no alcohol is sold or consumed publicly within its borders. This element sets the island apart from surrounding towns and allows wholesome—but never boring—family fun to shine even brighter! Generation after generation returns to what has become the favorite vacation destination.
The family hotspot here is the world-famous boardwalk. Hit the boards for amusement parks (and beloved, longtime traditions) Playland’s Castaway Cove and Gillian’s Wonderland Pier and splash-tastic OC Waterpark and Totally Tubular Aqua Park. Watch entertaining street performers. Pop into Jilly’s Arcade. Crack the Encounters Mirror Maze, Laser Maze and Time Freak. Rent a bike or multi-person surrey, and breeze around the town’s bike paths. And of course, no Ocean City trip is complete without a round or two at Haunted Golf, Pirate Island Golf, Congo Falls Adventure Golf or another of its several miniature golf venues.
Taste Makers
Ocean City dining features a delicious array of restaurants, cafes, bakeries, ice cream shops and candy stores. Sample ocean-fresh seafood from Hula Grill, Clancy’s by the Sea, Island Grill and Spadafora’s Restaurant & Clam Bar. Indulge in slices of Manco & Manco pizza and food stalls peddling other seashore staples like sausage sandwiches, funnel cakes and curly fries. Kohr Bros. Frozen Custard and Hobby Horse Ice Cream Parlor are only two of many shops offering cool treats you should try. Stock up on iconic candy, like homemade fudge and saltwater taffy from Fralinger’s and Shriver’s (insider tip: they make amazing souvenirs too).
On the Cheap
Strolling the boardwalk, basking in the invigorating salt-tinged breeze and soaking up the sights, sounds and scents? Those delights are always free. But Ocean City really caters to its budget-savvy guests with numerous, no-cost ways to have fun. Check the ever-growing calendar for free events and activities throughout summer, including Family Nights, Funtastic Tuesdays, Wacky Wednesday contests, Fun Runs, Sand Sculpting Contests, Market Days, Mummers struts, the Fourth of July Celebration and Bike Parade (July 4) and lots, lots more!
In New Jersey, every new day brings a brand-new destination…like Ocean City! Plan an outing or stay over to experience everything Ocean City has to offer. For more ideas and accommodations, go to visitnj.org, where you can also download a free NJ travel guide or sign up for e-news from New Jersey Travel & Tourism.
