Welcome, to Ocean City New Jersey!
Welcome to Ocean City, New Jersey – a coastal gem nestled along the iconic Jersey Shore (I promise, it’s different than the show)! Known as “America’s Greatest Family Resort,” Ocean City offers a little something for everyone: exciting activities, relaxing moments, and natural wonders that cater to visitors of all ages.
From its sprawling beaches to the lively Ocean City Boardwalk, this charming destination is perfect for a memorable family-friendly vacation.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore more than 15 of the best things to do in Ocean City, ensuring you have an unforgettable experience in this charming coastal town.
Before you go, some things to know:
Peak Season starts Memorial Day weekend, continuing through Labor Day (September). Off season is end of October through early May. I would recommend visiting in the shoulder seasons to avoid peak prices, and peak tourists.
Ocean City, New Jersey is a dry town. What does that mean?
No alcohol is sold on the island – so there are no bars, no liquor stores, or alcoholic drinks served at restaurants within Ocean City. If you’re looking to grab a drink, you’ll need to drive to the neighboring towns to pick it up for yourself to enjoy on your beach rental’s porch at sunset.
Before heading to OCNJ, you need to be aware of two things: beach tags and parking.
Beach tags
Beach tags allow you to access the beaches starting the first weekend of June through early September (Labor Day). If you plan to visit multiple times in a summer, you’ll want to purchase seasonal tags for $30 before May 31 – otherwise, you can purchase $10 day tags on site, or weekly tags for $20.
If you’re active military or a veteran, free tags are available with proper identification.
Live locally? Beach tags are only required from 9:30am-5:30pm, as posted on beach signs, so you can enjoy a morning or evening beach session beach tag free.
Tag inspectors will confirm you have a beach tag prior to accessing the beach, so make sure you have them! To learn more about beach tags, visit https://www.ocnj.us/beachtags/.
Parking
Off season in Ocean City is October 31 and May 1, and during this time you can park for free in all municipal lots and street parking (this is definitely a benefit of visiting beach towns in shoulder and off seasons).
There are multiple municipal parking lots throughout downtown Ocean City New Jersey. These can charge varying rates but never exceed $25 per day and are payable by cash or card.
Downtown parking meters vary from $0.50 per hour to $2 per hour depending on how close you are to the beach and boardwalk. Time limits also vary, between one and eight hours.
Parking meters can be paid with coins, credit cards, or through the Park Mobile parking meter app. The app will require you to input a credit card and your vehicle’s information.
If you are comfortable walking, there are sections of Asbury Avenue that have FREE parking. These locations require walking about 10 minutes to the beach, so you’ll want to pack light or bring a cart to carry your beach items for the day.
Ocean City Boardwalk
One of the most beloved attractions in Ocean City, the Ocean City Boardwalk stretches for 2.5 miles along the Atlantic Ocean. It is a hub of excitement and entertainment, featuring amusement rides, souvenir shops, and a wide variety of delicious treats. You can take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, or indulge in a refreshing ice cream cone from one of the many vendors.
Gillian’s Wonderland Pier
For a classic amusement park experience, head to Gillian’s Wonderland Pier, located right on the boardwalk. Here, you’ll find thrilling rides, including a majestic Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the ocean and the city. The park’s nostalgic charm harks back to the early 1900s, making it a favorite among visitors of all ages.
Park hours are generally 3pm-9:30pm. In order to ride, you’ll purchase tickets or ‘ride credits’ either online or in person. With over 20 rides, there’s something for everyone in the family. Classic rides at Gillian’s Wonderland Pier include the Giant Wheel (a Ferris wheel), log flume, mono rail, and carousel. Note that some rides may be temporarily closed due to maintenance.
After all of the rides, you’ll probably work up an appetite. Within the park you’ll find Dairy Queen, pizza shops, and a coffee shop.
Gillian’s Wonderland Pier Waterpark
Cool off from the summer heat by visiting Gillian’s Wonderland Pier Waterpark, an extension of the amusement park that offers water slides, lazy rivers, and a wide array of water-based attractions. It’s a great spot to enjoy some thrilling water adventures with the whole family. To learn more about the amusement park and pre-purchase tickets, visit https://www.gillians.com/
Playland’s Castaway Cove
Did you think the fun stopped at one amusement park? Think again!
Another fantastic amusement park option is Playland’s Castaway Cove, situated on the boardwalk at 10th Street. This park boasts over 30 rides, which includes multiple roller coasters, amusement rides, and the exhilarating log flume that guarantees a splashy good time. The whole family can enjoy the excitement of Playland’s Castaway Cove, making it a must-visit during your Ocean City vacation.
Playland’s Castaway Cove is open from 4pm-11pm every day of the week through Labor Day, weather permitting. After Labor Day, hours are variable and should be confirmed by reviewing the event calendar, here.
Tickets are available for purchase online in packages ranging from 60 tickets to 200 tickets, with cost varying from $50 to $150, respectively.
Looking to visit one ride in particular? The Gale Force package includes tickets to this single ride, for $10. The good part, is the tickets never expire – so if you leave the park, hold onto those remaining tickets for next year!
If you’re ready to learn more or purchase tickets for Playland’s Castaway Cove, visit their website at: https://oceancityfun.com/
OC Waterpark
Families seeking more water-based thrills will find them at OC Waterpark. With exciting slides, a pirate ship play area, and a lazy river, this waterpark offers an excellent way to beat the summer heat.
Lil Buc’s Bay is the perfect spot for you to take the littles to explore their very own shipwreck in shallow water. When you’re ready to relax, get on a double floating tube to float down the Lazy River.
If you’re looking for more adventure, choose Splashdown. This steep slide will launch you into a refreshing pool to cool off in the summer heat. Plus, you can always do another round of mini golf at OC Adventure Golf, which has 18 holes of tropical themed fun!
Ticket pricing ranges from $10-$199. Packages can include 3-hour passes, mini-golf only, or seasonal passes. For a full breakdown of tickets and pricing, visit their website here.
If you’re coming with a family, it may be worth reserving a private cabana, which you can do two days in advance. There are 10 to choose from, which come with a host of amenities. The cabana rental includes WiFi, water bottles, lockers, dining tables, lounge chairs, and VIP entrance (aka no lines!).
Cabana rentals range from $200-$250 per day, and can host up to 10 people.
For a large party, you can rent the Lil Bucks Retreat Cabana to host 20 people at $500 per day. Note cabana reservations do not include price of admission to OC Waterpark.
Congo Falls Adventure Golf
For a round of family-friendly fun, head to Congo Falls Adventure Golf, located near Gillian’s Wonderland Pier. This mini-golf course provides an entertaining challenge amidst a beautifully themed African jungle setting.
The course is open daily from 8am to 12am, and last tee time is one hour before closing. If you’re traveling with a group, note you will be split into small groups of four during busy hours.
Tickets are available for purchase on-site, at the boardwalk.
Ocean City boasts several other miniature golf courses, each with its unique themes and challenges. It’s a fun and competitive way to spend time with friends and family while soaking in the ocean breeze (and makes for a great girl’s weekend activity).
Ocean City Music Pier
For a touch of culture during your stay, check out the Ocean City Music Pier. This historic venue hosts live music, concerts, and various performances throughout the summer months. Be sure to catch a show or event during your visit to enhance your vacation experience. The Pier is located at Sixth street,
Not sure how to catch a show? The Ocean City Music Pier has a summer concert series that runs from June through August. You can see what shows are happening soon by visiting https://www.ocnj.us/SummerConcertSeries.
To purchase tickets online, visit their specific Ticket Master links under each of the concert options. Ticket prices vary by performance and dates, ranging from $39 to $100.
Looking for more? Ocean City Pops has a wide range of performances from Broadway musicals to movie scores and children’s concerts. Check out what they’re up to next by visiting their schedule, here.
Tickets for Ocean City Pops can be purchased in person at multiple Welcome Centers, or through the Ocean City box office online or by calling (609) 339-6111. Ticket prices vary by show.
Greater Ocean City Theatre Company
If you love the arts, don’t miss out on these local productions!
The Greater Ocean City Theatre Company stages impressive performances and productions during the summer months. Whether you’re a theater enthusiast or simply looking for a unique evening experience, attending one of their shows is highly recommended.
Shows may occur at the Ocean City Music Pier or the Hughes Performing Arts Center. Ticket prices vary, and can be purchased online here.
Off the Boardwalk
Beyond the beach and boardwalk, Ocean City offers serene upland areas where you can explore nature trails and appreciate the local flora and fauna.
Ocean City Historical Museum
Looking for a quiet, free activity in Ocean City, New Jersey? Look for further than the Ocean City Historical Museum.
To delve into the rich history of the area, pay a visit to the Ocean City Historical Museum. Located on Asbury Avenue, this museum showcases the fascinating past of Ocean City through engaging exhibits and artifacts dating back to before the city’s founding. It’s a great activity for both kids and adults to learn about the city’s heritage.
The exhibits include information on The Boardwalk, a ship that ran aground in the 1900s near Ocean City, the founders of Ocean City, and more. History lovers will be glad to know there’s a Museum Gift Shop to stop at on your way out.
Love the museum? Check out the Ocean City Historical Museum website for special events.
9th Street Bridge
Looking for a different view? Check out the 9th Street Bridge.
The 9th Street Bridge connects the mainland to Ocean City and offers easy access to this beautiful barrier island. Crossing this bridge is an experience in itself, as you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the bay. And yes, you can walk it!
The bridge is roughly 2.5 miles long and only one side is pedestrian friendly. That means you’ll likely be walking round trip 5-6 miles, depending on where you park your vehicle.
There is parking available on the Somers Point side of the 9th Street Bridge. This makes it a convenient spot to get back on the road after your walk. If you’re planning to go to Ocean City after the walk, you should park at the Ocean City Visitors Center.
Feel free to take this at a leisurely pace, as there are multiple locations along the bridge to step out of the walkway and enjoy the views. The only benches are at the Visitor’s Center. If you prefer to take a beach cruiser, they are welcome on the pathway as well.
Ocean City Beaches
The pristine beaches of Ocean City are a major draw for visitors. The soft, sandy shores offer the perfect place to relax, sunbathe, and swim in the refreshing waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The beaches are well-maintained and strictly adhere to the rules, ensuring a safe and enjoyable beach day for all.
Beach tags allow you to access the beaches starting the first weekend of June through early September (Labor Day). If you plan to visit multiple times in a summer, you’ll want to purchase seasonal tags for $30 before May 31 – otherwise, you can purchase $10 day tags on site, or weekly tags for $20.
If you’re active military or a veteran, free tags are available with proper identification.
There are life guards stationed from Memorial Day through mid-September to protect swimmers, and guarded areas are marked with flags.
Looking to get away from the crowd of 9th Street Beach? You should head to Corson’s Inlet State Park (note, no swimming allowed), Waverly Surfing Beach, and 14th Street Beach.
Waverly Surfing Beach is just as it sounds – the perfect place to spy surfers, or become one yourself. Hit 14th Street Beach to take a walk near the Ocean City Fishing Pier, which is a great spot for family photos.
Corson’s Inlet State Park
Nature enthusiasts will find solace at Corson’s Inlet State Park, located at the southern end of Ocean City. This park features diverse marine estuaries and upland areas, making it a prime spot for birdwatching and hiking. It’s a great way to escape the hustle and bustle and connect with Ocean City’s natural habitat.
The park was founded in 1969, and has helped preserve a portion of undeveloped land in the Ocean City area. The most popular reasons people visit the park are: hiking, fishing, and sunbathing.
Note that swimming is NOT allowed in the park. If you’re traveling with your furry friends, they are NOT allowed in the park seasonally (April 1-September 15).
There are no fees to enter this park. The park hours are sunrise to sunset. If you’d like to launch a boat or go fishing, you’ll need an additional permit during the summer season (Memorial Day to Labor Day). Passes to visit the park are available online here.
Stainton Wildlife Refuge
Another location for nature lovers, this upland area provides access to a freshwater marsh for plenty of bird watching. Here, you’ll see plenty of wading birds from the viewing platform.
In the spring and summer, you’ll be able to see endangered birds like the Least Tern and Black Skimmer. In the fall, you have the chance to see migrating shorebirds.
The wildlife refuge is open daily, from dawn to dusk.
Waverunner Rentals
If you’re looking to rent jet skis, check out Wet-N-Wild. Their number one concern is customer safety, so you know you’re in good hands while exploring. Life jackets are provided upon arrival.
Their staff will guide your group out to a riding area, and will supervise your group while you have fun for an hour or half-hour reservation. When you’re done, they’ll guide to back and help you off at the dock.
In order to make a reservation, renters must have a valid drivers license, but anyone can ride as a passenger. Operators must be 16 with a valid drivers license, and those under 18 must have a guardian sign for them.
They offer discounts here, good for the whole group!
Paddleboard and Kayak Rentals
Ocean City Paddle Company is your one-stop for all things paddle boarding and kayaking. While most rentals are 1-2 hours, there is availability for daily and weekly rentals.
If you’re new to the area and looking for a tour, they offer private and group tours. These tours are available daily, which includes sunset paddle tours.
If you’re looking to expand your normal workout routine, Ocean City Paddle Company also offers dockside or water-based classes. If you’re looking for paddle board yoga (SUP Yoga), you can book an hour and a half morning session for $60. If evening is more your time, the docks support meditation following a paddle for $60 a session.
Sessions for SUP Yoga and Meditation vary, so be sure to check their schedule for availability. They always take place on the Bay at the 10th St Wharf.
Restaurants
Drip N’ Scoop
If you’re looking for a unique twist on a classic coffee and donut shop, look no further than Asbury Ave.
Drip N’ Scoop is known for serving small batch Counter Culture coffee and special donuts. But beyond classic coffee options like espresso, nitro, and drip coffee, they serve chai, matcha, hot cocoa, and teas.
They serve cake donuts year-round, with rotating flavors. You can purchase single donuts or by the dozen. Standard donuts are $1 per donut, and specialty donuts are $1.59 per donut or $13.99 per dozen.
The best part? They also serve ice cream. You can even order donut sandwiches: you pick your donut and ice cream flavor, and they make the sandwich to go!
Check out their menu for all ordering options.
Manco & Manco
After an exciting day at the amusement parks, treat yourself to a mouthwatering slice of pizza from the legendary Manco & Manco pizzeria. Their delicious pies have become synonymous with Ocean City, and no visit is complete without savoring a slice or two. This one is on the boardwalk.
What sets them apart from other pizzerias is their loyalty to the customer, and their willingness to put on a show. Catch them tossing pizza dough high in the sky while waiting for your slices.
Their menu has expanded over the years to include more than classic sodas and cheesy pizza. Come back time and time again to try their new offerings like “Your Everything”, where you can select six of your favorite toppings for your own elite pizza. Plus, if you prefer a white pizza (no red sauce), they have that too.
Slices range from $3 to $9 and whole pies are $35 and up.
Don’t forget, they also have fries, salads, chicken wings, and chicken tenders – so there’s definitely something for everyone at Manco & Manco Pizza.
The Chatterbox
The Chatterbox has been a classic spot for visitors since 1937 – offering sweet milkshakes and savory brunches. Located at the corner of 9th Street and Central Ave, it’s a popular spot on the way to the beach, or after a morning of shopping.
Stop in for a classic milkshake, or make your own sundae with their 6 staple ice cream flavors, plus a few non-dairy options, and choose from over 15 toppings to make the sundae truly your own.
If you’re feeling crazy, try one of their options like The Gritty. This is just one of the 8 menu milkshakes or sundaes you can order at the milkshake counter at The Chatterbox.
Looking for brunch? Try the The Kitchen Sink to fuel up for the day, or Cookie Dough French Toast to really satisfy that sweet tooth.
Night Out: Atlantic City
If you’re up for a short day trip, head to nearby Atlantic City. Only 30 minutes away from Ocean City, it’s a great way to experience a different kind of New Jersey beach town.
Known for its casinos, entertainment, and vibrant nightlife, this famous coastal city offers a different experience from the family-friendly charm of Ocean City.
Atlantic City has its own boardwalk, which stretches five miles. Some of the attractions include memorabilia shops, casinos, and candy shops (don’t miss out on fudge and salt water taffy).
If you didn’t get enough of the amusement parks in Ocean City, Atlantic City is home to the Steel Pier Amusement Park.
Little Water Distillery produces multiple spirits including rums and gin. Be sure to check their event calendar to take advantage of some of their tastings.
Ocean City, New Jersey, is undeniably a treasure trove of exciting attractions and family-friendly activities. From its iconic boardwalk and amusement parks to its beautiful beaches and natural wonders, this coastal gem has something for everyone.
Whether you’re seeking thrilling roller coasters, leisurely walks on the beach, or a taste of history, Ocean City promises an unforgettable vacation. So, pack your bags and head to this fantastic destination to create lasting memories with your loved ones.
About the Author