We love Ocean City. Everything from the great dining options, the boardwalk and the beautiful beaches bring us happiness. However, sometimes we need a bit of a break from the popular (and thus, highly trafficked) areas of town. We set out on a mission along the road less traveled to find great spaces in and around Ocean City where we could find a little solitude.
Herring Creek Nature Park
This park is a hidden gem in West Ocean City. Head north on Keyser Point Road from Route 50 and then take a left on Nature Park Drive. This is a great place to take a quick walk on the nature trails and enjoy a mixed variety of scenery.
Assateague Island
Assateague Island State Park and National Seashore are both great options to get your beach fix without bumping your towel up against a stranger. While the parking lots may seem packed, the island has 37 miles of beaches and it just takes a short walk down the beach to be in a less crowded area. We also suggest the bay beach at the Life of the Marsh trail or the bay beach at the end of Bayside Drive on the National side.
Homer Gudelsky Park
Homer Gudelsky Park, or Stinky Beach as it is affectionately called by locals, is a small bay beach with limited parking in West Ocean City. With views of the inlet and downtown area, this small stretch of sand is great for sunbathing and wading without the threat of strong waves. From Route 50, go south on Golf Course Road and then right on Old Bridge Road.
Isle of Wight Park
This park is one of our favorites, as it offers great views at both sunrise and sunset, has a fishing pier and a very small bay beach area. There is also a soft boat launch for those looking to kayak or paddleboard.
Northside Park
This Ocean City park is picturesque. Catch a sunset here while sitting on the fishing pier or just take a walk around the paved walking path. The playground is great for kids, and there is even an outdoor fitness area for adults! Kayak and paddleboard rentals are also available.
Sunset Park
If you’re walking the boardwalk near the inlet and need a quiet place to escape, take a walk down South Division Street past Trimper’s Rides and the bus station to Sunset Park. As the name implies, this is a great place to watch the sun go down. This park also has great free concerts in the summer.
On the Water
What better way to escape the crowds than to go off land and get out on the water! Rent a boat, kayak, paddleboard or jet ski and enjoy a little more open air.
There are so many other great places on the Eastern Shore to explore outside of the Ocean City area when you need some quiet time. Don’t forget to explore all the great small towns along the way!
