WONDROUS WAYS TO WATERFRONT There’s something magical about the Eastern Shore’s Atlantic beaches. Maybe it’s the way the sun plays on the soft, sandy shores. Maybe it’s the sound of gulls calling as they turn against a deep blue sky, flying top cover for squadrons of pelicans skimming the ocean waves. Maybe it’s the fact that, in Maryland, you can have your ocean getaway two ways. Close your eyes and think of a beach town. Picture the boardwalk, smell the funnel cakes cooking, hear the voices of delighted kids braving the seaside rides. What you’re picturing is Ocean City, or just “OC” as the locals call it. Spend your morning building castles in the sand and body surfing the crisp, clean waves. Take an afternoon strolling the iconic boardwalk on the hunt for souvenir T-shirts and old-timey photos, Thrasher’s French Fries—not sure how they do it, but they’re simply the best fried potatoes on Earth—oysters from the raw bar at Harrison’s Harbor Watch, and a turn on the carousel at Trimper’s Rides, where your grandmother rode her first roller coaster. Then, enjoy the town’s legendary nightlife with spots like Seacrets, AKA, and Jamaica USA, where you can even cozy up to a table in the water. Or if you prefer your ocean getaway a little more…away, visit nearby Assateague Island National Seashore, known for its famous wild horses. There is nothing in the world like the sound of hooves pounding through crashing waves, and the sight of an Assateague stallion standing tall upon an ocean dune—the sun setting behind his brown and white flanks is the stuff of dreams. Assateague is close enough to OC for a day excursion, or make it its own destination with camping available at both the state park and national seashore. But plan ahead—sites fill up well in advance. And while we’re headed south, good times are always going down in Maryland’s southernmost town—Crisfield. When you’ve been given the title “Crab Capital of the World,” you simply know you’re doing something right. It starts from the dock, where all things Chesapeake Bay are celebrated, and Crisfield’s tradition as a working waterfront town is put on full display. But you don’t have to stand on the sidelines here. Hop aboard a charter boat and land big bass with help from the folks who know the bay better than anybody. To make the most of it, catch Crisfield’s National Hard Crab Derby, where the fastest crustaceans race for delicious supremacy. During the derby, the town hosts carnival rides, fireworks, the Miss Crustacean Pageant, and one of the best parties of the summer. Crisfield’s neighbors Janes Island and Smith Island—the latter of which is just across the sound—are also worth exploring, particularly via kayak or canoe. Photo: Jolly Roger Amusement Park in Ocean City (Othman) Ocean City @abitslippy 106 / VISITMARYLAND.ORG
Maryland Official Visitors Guide 2021 Maryland Official Visitors Guide: Page 106
