The Ocean City center is approximately 1 mile west of Ocean City Music Pier and 1 mile northeast of Discovery Seashell Museum.
If you can stomach massive crowds, the ideal time to visit Ocean City is during the summer. The population at any given time from May through August can swell to nearly 10 times the actual population, causing problems with parking, reservations, and crowds. However, the temperatures outside and in the water are unbeatable and often worth the hassle. Hotels are in extreme demand during summer, so you might have to book your hotel room months in advance to make sure you get the hotel of your choice.
If you're not big on swimming or sunbathing or you want the entire beach to yourself, head to Ocean City in winter. The tourists are long gone from the area, and only the locals remain. When you want to meet people from the area, it's an excellent time to chat, while lines to some of the attractions are almost nonexistent. However, temperatures can drop below freezing, so pack accordingly. You can score a hotel room for near nothing, thanks to the low demand.
Fall is another great time to visit Ocean City, as the weather is warmer than in most other areas of the state. Highs of 70 and lows of 50 make exploration tolerable with a light jacket, and sometimes, you won't even need that. Some families still head here during the tail end of the tourist season, so hotel prices are a bit higher than in the off-season. Rooms are still far easier to find than during the summer.
To watch the city burst out of the winter with wonderful temperatures and somewhat clear skies, head to Ocean City during spring. While rain falls more during this season than any other, it tends to clear up quickly, giving you pristine weather without all the crowds. Because demand is low during spring, you can often find a superb deal on a hotel whether you book a trip well in advance or just on a whim.
If you're a bargain hunter or just shudder at the thought of paying full price, you won't have to worry when you visit Ocean City. Plenty of establishments offer discounts for AAA members, seniors, military, and government personnel.
At the Sonesta Es Suites, seniors will receive a discount with proof of their age. It's the perfect place to call home for your next trip to Ocean City, as it's just a short drive or walk from Haunted Golf, Congo Falls Adventure Golf, the beach, and more. Each of the 120 guest rooms come packed with features including complimentary wireless internet, cable programming, a microwave, and daily housekeeping. You'll also get to enjoy an array of on-site amenities such as a seasonal outdoor pool and a fitness center. When the restaurants are packed to the brim, you'll have a backup plan thanks to a quaint picnic area and barbecue grills.
If you're looking for a mid-range option with nice amenities and a reasonable price, head to the Scarborough Inn Bed and Breakfast. Nestled in the heart of Ocean City, the Scarborough is right by Carey Stadium, the Wonderland Pier, and Lucy the Elephant. It's also somewhat of a delightful surprise in this town of high-rise hotels, offering a homely bed-and-breakfast feel. The inn has only five rooms, but each comes equipped with a premium bed, cable programming, and complimentary Wi-Fi so you're always connected. The real show stealer is the homemade breakfast, featuring a rotating main course with two sides, as well as a waffle bar and coffee station. If you leave hungry, it's your own fault.
Combining the historic part of Ocean City with modern amenities, Ocean City Mansion Bed and Breakfast is a one-of-a-kind destination. On-site amenities include free wireless high-speed internet, private baths and balconies, whirlpool spas, fireplaces, and one of the best breakfasts you've ever tasted. If you have a pet, don't worry. Ocean City Mansion has rooms that cater to your furry friend. Centrally located, you're only a few steps from the city's top restaurants, shops, and the beach.
If you're visiting Ocean City, you can't afford to miss a trip to the Ocean City Boardwalk. This 2.5-mile-long boardwalk is an interesting sight and widely regarded as one of the most famous and photographed boardwalks in the world. When you don't feel like walking the 5-mile round trip, you can hail a ride on a surrey, which is a multiple-wheel and seat bicycle. Along your journey, take a ride on the Ferris wheel or grab some food or refreshments from the many vendors on the boardwalk.
When the boardwalk gets too crowded, head on down to the beach. With miles of guarded coastline, nice waves, and excellent swimming conditions, you can enjoy an entire day under the sun. The white sand is perfect for making sandcastles, and if you get there early enough, expect a high chance of finding shells with the kids.
When you want low-cost accommodations near the beach or a luxury experience with spectacular ocean views, you can find an excellent hotel to match your lifestyle and budget in Ocean City.
Below are reviews of the city of Ocean City, NJ from an actual visitor's perspective.
We love that it's clean and very family oriented! I've been coming down since 1965!
We love that it's clean and very family oriented! I've been coming down since 1965!
Ocean City, NJ is one of our favorite places-experiencing it over winter break was so more magical and fun than we thought it would be. Exceeded expectations for a fun winter get away! Enough was open and enough people around but not crowded and felt we had the place to ourselves but the luxuries of summer. Manco and Manco, Shrivers, some shops, Ashbury shops, etc. Only missed Brown's apple cider donuts off season.
This beach city has a great family atmosphere, great beaches, yummy food, clean and safe.