Ocean City, MD: Boardwalk and Beaches
Ocean City, Maryland, is one of our favorite summer spots on the east coast. My son absolutely loves it there and we have made so many memorable moments as a family. We like to stay at the HoJo (Howard Johnson) Hotel, which is centrally located in the middle of the boardwalk. The pool was amazing, with little slides and a lazy river, and we found ourselves spending a lot of time there, even though the beach was just steps away.
One of our favorite things to do was walk along the iconic Ocean City Boardwalk. The shops, arcades, and the general vibe were so much fun. We ate ice cream, browsed through the stores, and rode some of the amusement rides — the ferris wheel was a highlight! We also enjoyed playing mini golf, which is a must-do in Ocean City. The Old Pro Golf courses are always a hit with families.
There’s something magical about being on the boardwalk, feeling the ocean breeze while grabbing a snack. One of the highlights of our trip was definitely the food—besides the ice cream, we made sure to stop by Thrasher’s French Fries, a local favorite. You can’t visit the boardwalk without trying those crispy, salty fries!
For a fun experience on the water, we watched people parasailing and enjoyed a thrilling view of the coastline. If you’re looking for something more peaceful, the sunset at the Ocean City Inlet is perfect. Watching the sky change colors over the water was the best way to wrap up a day of fun.
In addition to the beach and boardwalk, we took a short trip to Assateague Island to see the wild ponies and experience the more natural, serene side of the area. It was such a peaceful contrast to the excitement of the boardwalk, and we loved exploring the island.
Ocean City isn’t just about the beach — it’s about making memories, whether it’s riding the Ferris wheel, building sandcastles on the beach, or enjoying a relaxing bike ride along the boardwalk. There’s something for everyone, and I’m so grateful for the time we spent there as a family. If you’re looking for a destination with a little bit of everything — adventure, relaxation, and some delicious food — Ocean City, Maryland is the place to be.
