Things to Do in Ocean City, NJ

Ocean City, NJ, a family seashore resort, has been voted the 31 Best Beach Vacations by Coastal Living Magazine. The clean, quiet shore town boasts the best of everything from a serene beach to a lively boardwalk and plenty of restaurants, shops, and family activities and events. Take the family for the day or spend the entire week. Here are a few things you shouldn't miss while you are there:

The Boardwalk:

Take a walk on the boardwalk during the day or evening for a fun-filled time. In full swing from May through October, visitors can enjoy strolling through unique specialty shops with Ocean City souvenirs, jewelry, household items, and beach related gear. Indulge in goodies synonymous with the shore including salt water taffy, Johnson's Caramel Popcorn, Kohr's soft serve ice cream, funnel cake, and cotton candy. Choose from old-fashion and new thrill rides in two different amusement parks, go miniature golfing, or play a video game favorite at one of many arcades. Benches line the boards if you just want to sit, relax, and enjoy the ocean breeze.

The Beach:

According to the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, Ocean City's beaches have been voted one of New Jersey's top beaches. With eight miles of well kept powdery sand, it's easy to understand why. Bring the family to relax in the sun, take a romp in the water, build a sand castle or play games in the sand. All areas of the beach have life guards for your protection throughout the summer. Beach badges are required and can be purchased from the 46th Street Post Office, City, and The Music Pier. Sign up for a one hour beach walk to learn more about the beach and the wildlife residing there. Tours begin at Central Avenue.

Stroll Downtown:

Asbury Avenue is just a few blocks off the boardwalk, but it is the perfect area if you want to get away from the crowds. One hundred family run businesses make their home on Asbury Avenue providing a full shopping experience for visitors. From boutique clothing to fancy home decor, antique shops, books, and music, they have it there. Combined with a wide variety of formal and casual dining and stores offering tasty treats, Asbury Avenue is the place to be.

Enjoy Water sports:

Between the bay and the ocean, Ocean City offers a wealth of water sport activities. Rent a jet ski, go water skiing, or see the world from a different perspective, para sailing. Rent a boat or kayak for a ride on the waters yourself or hop aboard the speedboat ride "Stormin" for a water soaked tour around the island.

Visit an Event:

Ocean City has a wide variety of events that are held annually to suit every taste. Catch the Night in Venice Boat Parade to see decorated boats float through the bay or hit a craft show for homemade items. Other events held more frequently including the Farmers Market held on Asbury Avenue every Wednesday during the summer months and Family Night on the boardwalk every Thursday night during July and August. Free entertainment lines the boards. For a full calendar of events, check the resources section.