Looking for the ultimate Instagrammable beach getaway? There is something to be said for the variety of things to do and places to see in Ocean City, Maryland (OCMD)! From colorful murals that make the perfect photo opportunity to shopping along the boardwalk and stopping at delicious food spots with picturesque views, Ocean City makes the perfect destination for a quick getaway.
Follow along for inspiration from leading Washington D.C. based travel creator Maddie Smith ( @onthemovewithmad) to replicate her 3-day itinerary for a glimpse of the variety of activities, sights, and eats that make Ocean City Somewhere to Smile About.
Day 1 – Settle In and Browse the Boardwalk
Morning: Travel In
Whether you make the drive from D.C like Maddie or you fly into Salisbury Regional Airport, take the morning to travel into Ocean City, put on your favorite road trip playlist and gear up for a weekend to remember.
12 pm: Lunch at Longboard Cafe
After you arrive to the area, head to Longboard Café for lunch. Longboard Café is an award-winning casual dining spot bringing you everything from burgers to tacos to shellfish to pasta and more! There is something for everyone and it is certain to satisfy your cravings.
1:30pm: Boardwalk Stroll
Once you finish up your lunch, head to the Boardwalk to stretch your legs and explore the town! At just under three miles, the Ocean City, Maryland, boardwalk is a perfect post lunch walk or relaxing tram ride. Spend some time shopping and enjoying the view. Don’t forget to hit up Marty's Playland Arcade for some added fun!
4pm: Check into your Hotel
Looking for a hotel with ease of access, incredible dining and views? The Cambria Hotel is the perfect spot for a young traveler with its prime location near the boardwalk and bayfront as well as the amazing view, perfect for photos before dinner! Maddie highlighted the Cambria Hotel as one of her favorite parts of her trip because of the pool and beautiful balcony!
6pm: Sushi Dinner at Blue Fish Restaurant and Bar
When in Ocean City, sushi and seafood are a must. Dining at Blue Fish Restaurant and Bar is a delicious experience! They use fresh ingredients and provide a comfortable atmosphere – ideal for a young traveler.
8pm: Night Cap at Fish Tales or Tequila Mockingbird
Fish Tales is a great spot for a casual drink to end the night! From Signature Cocktails to Frozen Delights, grab a cocktail or a mocktail and enjoy the Bayfront view. If you’re looking for margaritas and tequila, Tequila Mockingbird is a must visit. They offer one of the largest selections of tequila on the East Coast!
Day 2 – Shop Around and Enjoy the Water
9am: Breakfast at Barn 34 and Boutiques
Start your day with a mouthwatering brunch at Barn 34. Fuel up on eggs benedict, avocado toast, French toast, and pancakes before heading out for the day! After breakfast check out some of the boutiques in the area like South Moon Under and Tide Together Boutique.
11:30 am: Grab Sandwiches for Later from Anthony’s
Anthony’s Hoagies are served on a 12” freshly baked hoagie roll with over ½ lb. of meat and cheese! Talk about mouthwatering. Grab a sandwich to go for your afternoon adventures.
12pm: Coffee Run!
Head to Rise Up Coffee Roasters for an afternoon pick me up. Rise Up is an independent, small-batch coffee spot for a sustainable coffee run.
1pm: Boat Ride with Sail Alyosha
A boat ride with Sail Alyosha is the ideal way to take in the sights of Ocean City while comfortably cruising the water. You are sure to enjoy Ocean Sailing with Captain Steve Butz. This is an unforgettable activity as pods of dolphins often swim right by the boat! There are also trampolines to lounge on – another perfect photo op! Even if you have been to Ocean City before, like Maddie, she says that the boat ride offers a new view of OCMD!
Afternoon: Relax at the hotel pool and hot tub!
7pm: Dinner and Drinks at the Spain Wine Bar Rooftop
The Spain Wine Bar is a must see for a young traveler in Ocean City. It is the first true rooftop Spanish restaurant. It is atop the Cambria hotel. It has a beautiful view of the ocean and has delicious dinner and drink options. Maddie enjoyed this elevated dining experience with a stunning view!
Day 3 – Explore the Parks and Check out a Winery
Morning: Breakfast at Bayside Skillet
A well-known cozy breakfast spot in Ocean City, Bayside Skillet is known for its crepes and omelets. Enjoy a delicious bite to each with a side of bayside views!
10am: Walk Northside Park
A relaxing stroll through Northside Park is the perfect start to your last day in Ocean City. Northside Park is the largest park in Ocean City and home to many public sports fields, activities, and even fishing!
12pm: Trip to Windmill Creek Vineyard & Winery
Windmill Creek is a quick 20-minute drive from the Boardwalk in Ocean City. Enjoy delicious wine and lunch on site at this family-owned winery. For the end of her girls getaway, Maddie enjoyed this cute spot – the perfect place to relax before heading home!
Afternoon: Travel Home
After an unforgettable 3-day adventure, Ocean City is sad to see you go. Remember the lively nature of all that Ocean City has to offer! The boardwalk and bayside await your return to Ocean City Maryland – Somewhere to Smile About. Enjoy a real life look at Maddie's trip to Ocean City, MD.