5 Ways to Enjoy Nature in Ocean City Beyond the Beach

Ready to trade the beach towel for a set of clubs?  Head over to one of Ocean City’s premier golfing destinations, Eagles Landing Golf Course. This unique course beautifully borders the Sinepuxent Bay and overlooks Assateague Island.  It offers gorgeous, picturesque water views and a varied population of local birds, making it just as much a nature tour as it is a game of golf. This is a must visit spot for those looking to experience Ocean City's natural beauty outside of the beach. Check out other spots to golf around town here!

The ocean gets all of the excitement, but the bays are where the real exploration happens. If you want a chance to get out on the water and enjoy the fresh air, kayak and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rentals at Northside Park are a great way for the whole family to get outside and enjoy the sunshine by being on the bay side of the island! Launching from the bayside allows you to glide over the calmer waters and spot local wildlife along the way.

Pack some food, grab your favorite people and enjoy a picnic or cookout at one of Ocean City’s pavilions or parks across town. Enjoy a meal the best way, outside with your friends and family! Depending on what kind of day you want to have, the town has a perfect spot for your gathering.

Northside Park - This stunning 58-acre park features a pavilion with picnic tables located right next to a large playground for the kiddos! Northside Park also offers gorgeous water views, open recreational fields to play in, and a beautiful trail to walk along after your meal. Grab takeout from Bourbon Street on the Beach or Tailchasers, which are located just a short distance from the park. They have a little something for everyone to enjoy!

Gorman Park - This family-favorite location is a great place for those who love to stay moving! The picnic pavilion sits right alongside tennis and pickleball courts, plus a great playground. After a fun day at the park, wrap it up by hitting Alley Oops, the perfect spot for the family to play games or grab some food if you're still hungry!

Fiesta Park -  A "best of both worlds" kind of park. Stay out of the sun under the shaded pavilion or take a stroll into the wooded nature trail to enjoy a quieter, more peaceful side of Ocean City.

Did you know, many of Ocean City’s parks feature dedicated walking trails where you can stretch your legs and enjoy scenic views along the way.

Northside Park - Features a paved, 1-mile loop that is perfect for anyone looking to get their steps in without the crowds.

Fiesta Park - A true hidden gem, offers a wooded trail if you are looking to stay out of the sun, but still able to get some fresh air.

Convention Center Boardwalk Park - This stunning bayside walk features a mini boardwalk with great fishing and crabbing spots. Spanning 1.25 miles, it offers beautiful open-water views and direct access to the bay.

If you prefer your nature with a side of high energy, Ocean City's parks have you completely covered.  Challenging your friends to a match surrounded by open skies and local greenery is the perfect way to stay moving and enjoy the fresh air. Anything ranging from playing a game of basketball at Bayside Park, fishing at any of our park fishing piers such as Ninth Street Fishing Pier to pickleball and tennis at OC Racquet Center or any of our other courts across town. There really is an option for everyone. Skip the sand, and get outside and be active!