Ocean City

Pier ferris wheel at Ocean City, MarylandOcean City, Maryland: Located on the Delmarva peninsula, Ocean City is one of the popular Mid-Atlantic Eastern Shore destinations. The famous boardwalk and attractions combined with the off-shore sport fishing makes this stop popular with residents and tourists alike.

The concept of a beach resort began in 1869 when Issac Coffin opened a beach cottage. Soon after other boarding houses followed and the area quickly became popular with businessmen from nearby metropolitan cities. In 1875 the first major hotel opened, the Atlantic Hotel provided 400 guest rooms with billiard and dancing rooms to entertain its visitors.

Throughout the years, the community continued to grow to meet the needs of the tourism industry. The 1970’s were the busiest developmental times as more then 10,000 condo units were being created to stay ahead of the boom.

The major attraction of the city is the world famous Ocean City Boardwalk. Extending three miles in length along the Atlantic Ocean, the boardwalk is home to stores, games, rides and attractions that entertain all ages. There are two amusement parks on the boardwalk as well as some of the famous eateries such as Dolly’s Salt Water Taffy and Thrasher’s Fries. Many of the beachfront hotels and condominiums are located along the boardwalk with some of the best views in the city. Throughout the season, the boardwalk entertains thousands of people with various special events and entertainment.

Another popular draw to Ocean City is the sport fishing. Ocean City is known as the White Marlin Capital of the World. During the summer, fisherman charter vessels into the deep waters off the coast of Ocean City in search of large game fish. In August the city hosts the White Marlin Open in which prize money can exceed a million dollars for the largest catch.

Today the nine mile strip is home to many hotels, condos, stores and restaurants that entertain over eight million visitors a year. As the area continues to sprawl westward across the bay, Ocean City is transforming from a seasonal getaway to a year round destination.

For photos from the city, visit my Ocean City photo gallery.

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