Ocean City MD Getaway Guide: 5 Fun Things to Do and the Best Place to Stay Nearby

Looking for a getaway that mixes fresh ocean air, nostalgic boardwalk fun, and a little luxury on the side? Ocean City, Maryland is calling your name! This classic East Coast beach town delivers that "funnel cake in one hand, saltwater taffy in the other" kind of vibe and something fun to do in every season.

Here are 5 must-try Ocean City activities, plus the not-so-secret secret to getting the most out of your trip: ending every day at Sugar Water Restaurant and the Washington Hotel -- a historic boutique hotel and farm-and-water-to-table dining experience just a short drive from the beach. Think: Ocean City by day, cozy dinner and stylish stay by night. Yes, please.

1. Walk the Boardwalk (Snack and Entertainment Central)

Ocean City's 3-mile boardwalk is an experience all on its own -- and honestly, it's worth the trip even if you never step foot in the sand. Start your morning with locally roasted coffee and a stroll past colorful shops filled with beachwear, art, and quirky souvenirs. Later, challenge your friends to a round of skee-ball in the arcade, grab a fresh funnel cake (preferably still warm and powdered-sugar covered), and check out one of the live street performers or musicians. When you've had your fill of shopping and snacking, jump on the ferris wheel for a sky-high ocean view and a reminder that yes, vacation really does feel this good.

Image from Ocean City Visitors Guide

2. Enjoy the Beach -- All Year Long

Ocean City's beaches are famous for a reason, and they're equally enjoyable whether you're building sandcastles in July or taking a quiet shoreline walk in November. In summer, rent an umbrella and spend the entire day listening to the waves and watching dolphins in the distance. In spring and fall, bring a cozy hoodie, stroll the nearly empty shoreline, and collect seashells while the gulls keep you company. Even winter has its magic -- imagine sipping hot coffee in the brisk sea air and watching the fog roll across the Atlantic. It's peaceful, beautiful, and completely seasonless.

3. Eat Like a True OC Local

Forget fancy -- Ocean City's food scene is all about comfort, flavor, and local pride. Roll up your sleeves and crack into steamed blue crabs at one of the classic crab houses or order a plate of fresh oysters paired with a cold beer. Feeling adventurous? Go for a pit beef sandwich (it's a Maryland thing and totally worth it). Finish it off with Smith Island Cake or soft-serve ice cream from Dumser's Dairyland and you'll officially earn your "ate like a local" badge. Whether it's August or January, the classics always hit the spot.

4. Get Out on the Water

If you've got even a tiny adventurous bone in your body, Ocean City will put it to good use. Think parasailing with ocean views you'll never forget, jet skiing across the bay with saltwater mist in your face, or paddling along the shoreline with nothing but the sound of seabirds overhead. Want something truly unforgettable? Book a sunset cruise or hop on a dolphin-watching boat and see the coast from an entirely different perspective. Prefer goofy fun? Grab a friend and jump on a banana boat -- ridiculous, yes... and 100% fun.

Image from Ocean City MD

5. Dive into Local History at the Life-Saving Station Museum

When you need a little break from the sun (or wind), the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum is the perfect hideaway. Located right at the end of the boardwalk, this 1891 station tells jaw-dropping stories of life-saving rescues and shipwrecks that happened just offshore. Inside, you'll find antique rescue boats, ship artifacts, hands-on knot-tying stations, and even a room filled with local marine life. Oh -- and don't skip the quirky "Ocean City ghosts" exhibit. It's equal parts spooky and fascinating (and a great way to refuel before heading back to the funnel cake line).

Where to Eat and Stay: Sugar Water Restaurant and the Washington Hotel

After a full day of Ocean City adventures, head just up the road to Sugar Water Restaurant and the Washington Hotel in nearby Princess Anne, Maryland. Located inside the historic inn from 1744, Sugar Water Restaurant serves farm-and-water-to-table dishes made with local ingredients (including oysters, fresh produce, and seasonal seafood). Think hand-cut streaks, house-made sauces, craft cocktails, and rotating chef specials -- all in a cozy, historic dining room that feels like a slice of Eastern Shore charm.

Prefer to extend the magic? Stay overnight at the Washington Hotel, where old-world architecture meets modern comfort. Guests enjoy stylish rooms, complimentary breakfast or brunch at Sugar Water Restaurant and easy access to other Eastern Shore gems like Berlin, Crisfield... and yes, Ocean City.

Ready to Do Ocean City the Right Way?

Don't settle for an ordinary beach day. Spend your daylight hours soaking in Ocean City's boardwalk, beaches, and food scene -- then trade the crowds for a beautiful dinner and a peaceful night at Sugar Water Restaurant and the Washington Hotel.

Imagine rinsing off the salt and sand, taking a short scenic drive inland, and stepping into a historic hotel where warm hospitality and great food are waiting. Instead of long lines, there's a handcrafted cocktail in front of you. Instead of another boardwalk snack, there's seasonal seafood cooked to perfection.

Book your stay -- and reserve your table -- at the Washington Hotel and Sugar Water Restaurant today and experience the beach and boutique getaway you didn't know you needed.

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