Ocean City MD vs Virginia Beach
Planning a beach vacation on the East Coast can be a tough decision, especially when you are considering two popular destinations like Ocean City MD and Virginia Beach. Both places offer miles of beaches, family-friendly attractions, and a range of entertainment options. But which one is the right choice for you?
In this article, I’ll compare Ocean City MD and Virginia Beach, highlighting the similarities and differences between these two destinations to help you choose the perfect beach vacation spot for your next holiday.
Key Takeaways:
- Ocean City MD and Virginia Beach are both beautiful beach vacation spots on the East Coast that offer plenty of attractions and entertainment options for the whole family.
- When deciding between the two, consider your priorities such as the type of beach you prefer, the range of family-friendly attractions, and the nightlife and dining scene.
- Both destinations have unique features that make them well-liked by visitors, and ultimately, the best choice depends on your vacation preferences.
Beaches and Attractions
When it comes to beaches, both Ocean City MD and Virginia Beach have something unique to offer. While Virginia Beach boasts a wide and expansive beachfront, Ocean City MD has a more family-friendly beach with a boardwalk full of attractions.
| Features | Ocean City MD | Virginia Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Quality of Sand | The sand in Ocean City MD is fine and clean, with no sharp shells or rocks. | Virginia Beach has a coarser sand that is not as clean. The sand is dotted with shells and rocks. |
| Water Activities | Ocean City MD offers a variety of water activities, including jet skiing, surfing, and parasailing. There are also many boating options available. | Virginia Beach is a popular destination for fishing and water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking. There are also many boating options available. |
| Amenities | There are many amenities available on the boardwalk in Ocean City MD, including restaurants, shops, and arcades. There are also many free family-friendly activities like mini-golf and amusement parks. | Virginia Beach has a range of beachfront accommodations and restaurants. There are also many free family-friendly activities, including playgrounds and bike rentals. |
Both destinations offer a range of popular tourist attractions. In Ocean City MD, visitors can enjoy the Jolly Roger amusement park, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, and the famous Ocean City Boardwalk. Virginia Beach is home to the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, the Military Aviation Museum, and the Edgar Cayce’s A.R.E. Association for Research and Enlightenment.
In terms of family-friendly options, Ocean City MD is the clear winner with its many free activities and attractions. Virginia Beach is a great option for those looking for a more relaxed beach vacation.
Entertainment and Activities
When it comes to beach activities, Ocean City MD and Virginia Beach offer endless options for visitors. From water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding to fishing charters and beachfront events, both destinations have something for everyone.
| Ocean City MD | Virginia Beach | |
|---|---|---|
| Water sports | Ocean City MD has a wider variety of water sports available, including surfing and kiteboarding. | Virginia Beach offers a range of water sports, but is known for its calm waters which are perfect for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. |
| Beachfront Entertainment | Ocean City MD is known for its boardwalk, which is lined with shops, restaurants, and amusement park rides. | Virginia Beach offers a boardwalk as well, but is renowned for hosting outdoor concerts and festivals on its beachfront. |
| Family-friendly activities | Ocean City MD has a full range of amusement parks, mini-golf courses, and arcades to keep the whole family entertained. | Virginia Beach has several family-friendly museums and parks, including the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center and First Landing State Park. |
When it comes to accommodations, both destinations have a range of beach hotels and resorts to choose from. However, Ocean City MD tends to have more budget-friendly options, while Virginia Beach has a wider selection of luxury resorts.
Overall, both Ocean City MD and Virginia Beach have plenty to offer in terms of entertainment and activities. No matter which destination you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable beach vacation.
Nightlife and Dining
When it comes to nightlife and dining, both Ocean City MD and Virginia Beach offer plenty of options to choose from.
In Ocean City MD, visitors have a plethora of dining options, ranging from local seafood joints to upscale restaurants with a spectacular ocean view. The Seacrets Ocean City is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a nightlife experience. It offers live music, dance floors, and an outdoor bar. Ocean City MD also has a variety of sports bars, wine bars, and beachfront cafes.
Virginia Beach, on the other hand, boasts a vibrant and diverse dining scene, with plenty of restaurants serving dishes from around the world. Visitors can choose from seafood restaurants, cafes, and diners, among others. When it comes to nightlife, Virginia Beach offers something for everyone. The city has a variety of bars, clubs, and lounges. The Waterman’s Surfside Grille has a fantastic atmosphere and provides great views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Both Ocean City MD and Virginia Beach have great options for dining and nightlife, making it hard to choose a winner. However, visitors should consider their preferences in the type of cuisine they prefer, the atmosphere, and the overall vibe when making their choice.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between Ocean City MD and Virginia Beach as your next beach vacation destination, it ultimately depends on your preferences and priorities.
If you are looking for a wider range of family-friendly attractions and entertainment options, Ocean City MD may be the better choice, with its boardwalk and amusement park. However, if you are more interested in exploring unique dining experiences and a vibrant nightlife scene, Virginia Beach may be the destination for you.
Both destinations offer beautiful beaches and a variety of water activities, so you can’t go wrong with either choice. Whichever destination you choose, be sure to book your beachfront accommodations early to ensure you have the best vacation possible.
FAQ
Q: What are the main attractions in Ocean City MD?
A: Some of the main attractions in Ocean City MD include the iconic Boardwalk, Jolly Roger Amusement Park, and Northside Park. There are also several water parks, mini-golf courses, and a variety of shops and restaurants to explore.
Q: What are the main attractions in Virginia Beach?
A: Virginia Beach is known for its beautiful beach, the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, and the Military Aviation Museum. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities like dolphin watching tours or explore the trendy ViBe Creative District.
Q: Which beach destination is more family-friendly?
A: Both Ocean City MD and Virginia Beach offer family-friendly attractions and beaches. However, Ocean City MD may have more options for families with young children, including amusement parks and a dedicated kids’ section on the Boardwalk. Virginia Beach also has family-friendly beaches and attractions, but it may cater more to a slightly older crowd.
Q: Are there water sports available in both Ocean City MD and Virginia Beach?
A: Yes, both Ocean City MD and Virginia Beach offer a variety of water sports. Visitors can enjoy activities like jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding, and kayaking in both destinations. Each beach destination has rental shops and tour operators that provide these services.
Q: What are the dining options like in Ocean City MD and Virginia Beach?
A: Both Ocean City MD and Virginia Beach have a wide range of dining options. Visitors can find seafood restaurants, casual beachside eateries, and fine dining establishments in both destinations. Each area also offers a unique culinary experience, with Ocean City MD known for its fresh seafood and Virginia Beach offering a mix of regional cuisine.
Q: Which beach destination has better nightlife?
A: Ocean City MD is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues along the Boardwalk and surrounding areas. Virginia Beach also offers a lively nightlife, particularly in the Oceanfront area, with bars and clubs hosting live music and entertainment. The choice depends on personal preferences and the type of nightlife experience you are looking for.
