On the barrier island just off of the shores of mainland Maryland, Ocean City lies between Isle of Wight Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Dubbed “America’s Greatest Family Resort,” OC — as the locals call it — boasts 10 miles of gorgeous beach. In addition to sand, sun, sparkling waters, and seafood like fresh Maryland crab, the resort town is notable for its abundance of top-tier golf courses and proximity to Assateague Island. But, it is most famous for its historic three-mile-long boardwalk, populated with carnival games, amusement rides, arcades, street-performers, seaside treats, and beachy shops. From shopping to deep-sea fishing excursions to watersports, Ocean City offers something for everyone.
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Part of planning the perfect family summer vacation on the Atlantic Coast is finding the perfect place to stay. We took some of the guesswork out of it for you by carefully combing through
Our picks below start out on the quieter side of town in North OC. As we work our way down through Midtown, we get closer to the boardwalk and therefore the crowds. For those who would prefer to stay on the mainland, we also included one beach house in West Ocean City — far from crowds but still close enough to area attractions. In addition to oceanfront condos and houses, we included plenty of bayside options for those who are looking for calmer waters and beautiful sunsets.
Find the perfect Ocean City vacation rental and start planning your escape to the Mid-Atlantic Coast today!
North Ocean City House On The Bay
Nestled on Assawoman Bay in the Heron Harbor Community of North Ocean City, this seven-bedroom waterfront vacation home offers 6,000 square feet of space so the whole family can get together. Several balconies look out over the fenced-in backyard, which features an outdoor kitchen and outdoor shower. Watch Northside Park’s firework display on Sundays from the porch.
A boardwalk leads out to a private 50-foot pier and two boat slips. Between the two-car garage and the driveway, there’s parking for four vehicles, plus additional street parking. Guests enjoy access to the pool and tennis courts at Heron Harbor Community Center, which is seven minutes away on foot. The beach is a 14-minute walk from the house.
Heron Harbour Isle Bayfront Townhome
Situated on a canal, this three-bedroom townhome can be found in The Sanctuary community of Heron Harbor. Watch spectacular sunsets and Sunday night fireworks from the back deck of this bayfront retreat. Guests enjoy access to Assawoman Bay and surrounding waterways for boating, fishing, jet skiing, and other water activities. One boat slip is included.
Community amenities include two outdoor pools, lighted tennis courts (fees may apply), and trails. Although this vacation rental is away from the hustle and bustle, it is still within walking distance of the beach, restaurants, and shopping. Nearby Northside Park offers a playground for kids, a fishing lagoon, and a pier for fishing and crabbing.
North Ocean City Oceanfront Condo
Located in North Ocean City, this two-bedroom oceanfront condo features amenities such as heated indoor and outdoor pools, a kiddie pool and seasonal pool bar, and a hot tub and sauna. High-speed elevators zip you up to this well-appointed vacation rental on the 10th floor.
One of the two onsite restaurants has the best crab tower in town, but other restaurants are within walking distance, as is a convenience store and coffee shop. Onsite parking for two vehicles is provided for a fee.
Midtown Ocean City Townhome
Located on 89th Street in Midtown Ocean City, this spacious four-bedroom oceanfront townhome boasts beachy vibes throughout and three oceanfront balconies. Parking is provided and the beach is just steps from the back deck. Walk to pubs, restaurants, coffee shops, and the supermarket.
Midtown Ocean City Condo With Bayfront Views
Just steps away from Assawoman Bay, this three-bedroom condo is perfect for kayakers and boaters. Fish, stand-up paddleboard, kayak, or canoe in the marshland that surrounds this home. Community amenities include a pool and hot tub that are open seasonally between Memorial Day and Labor Day. One reserved parking space is provided, while a side street offers sufficient parking for one more vehicle. Head to town for dinner and drinks at Fager’s Island or Seacrets.
Midtown Ocean City Oceanfront House
This four-bedroom vacation home features three oceanfront balconies with unobstructed 180-degree views. Located on 78th street, it is within walking distance of a handful of good places to eat. One parking space is provided and lots of free street parking is available.
Midtown Ocean City Oceanfront Condo
Part of the Sandpiper Dunes complex in Midtown OC, this three-bedroom oceanfront condo boasts breathtaking views from every room as well as the balcony. Enjoy beach access and access to the outdoor community swimming pool. Two assigned parking spaces are provided.
Midtown Ocean City Waterfront Townhouse
Watch the gorgeous sunset over the water from the spacious deck or one of the bedroom balconies of this three-story bayfront townhome. If anyone in your party can’t manage steps, you’ll be glad to know that one of the four bedrooms is on the ground floor.
Two dedicated parking spots are provided out front. A boat slip is also available if you plan on towing or renting a boat or jet ski. Walk to restaurants, public tennis courts, and the beach.
Midtown Ocean City Oceanfront Townhouse
Located in Midtown, this four-story townhome offers oceanview decks on every floor. Watch the sun come up over the ocean as dolphins frolic in the surf. Walk across the dune directly onto the beach. Parking is available for two vehicles. Popular restaurants such as Fager’s Island can be found within walking distance.
Midtown Ocean City Bayfront House
Situated on deep water in the heart of Assawoman Bay, this three-bedroom home makes for a fantastic family getaway. Take in the terrific bay, sunrise, and sunset views from its wraparound deck while watching for birds and boats. This rental comes with a private pier, two boat slips, three bicycles, beach chairs, and cornhole. Off-street parking is reserved for two cars.
Bay access allows for waterskiing, paddleboarding, and wakeboarding. Do some fishing, crabbing, and clamming on the sandbar in front of Fish Tales. Water taxi to Mackey’s Bayside Bar and Grill or Seacrets, or many other bayside restaurants.
Walk to the beach and boardwalk to treat yourself to some Thrasher’s French Fries, or take the bikes. A marina, restaurants, nightlife, and other attractions can all be found nearby. The host recommends checking out Ristorante Antipasti, Barn 34, and Buxy’s Salty Dog Saloon for food and Jolly Rogers Amusement Park for mini-golf, rides, and waterslides.
Midtown Ocean City Bayfront Condo
Nestled at the end of 6th Street, this four-bedroom bayfront condo boasts a large balcony overlooking the bay that offers views of both boat traffic and sunsets. A bayside pool is open seasonally.
Both the beach and the boardwalk are just a few blocks away. Many restaurants, bars, and entertainment options are within walking distance. Jolly Roger Amusement Park and its Splash Mountain Water Park are just a couple of miles away.
West Ocean City Waterfront House
If you are looking for all the seafood, sand, and sun, but with a quieter atmosphere, this West Ocean City vacation rental may be for you. West Ocean City is on Maryland’s mainland on the west side of the Sinepuxent Bay.
Dubbed “Stinky Beach” by the locals for its foul fish smell at low-tide, nearby Homer Gudelsky Park is dog-friendly. Other nearby attractions include Baja Amusements and Grand Prix.
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