Visiting Ocean City, New Jersey

The best one word description of Ocean City, New Jersey is, Wow! Many towns and cities have something unique to offer visitors, but some, like Ocean City, stand head and shoulders above the rest.

Founded in the late 1800's, Ocean City has been a top-notch vacation destination for more than a century. So famous was the islands' beauty that long before there was a town, or even a country, native Americans came from many miles away to summer in Ocean City. Approximately 7 miles long Ocean City is one long, pristine beach. For almost 3 miles of those beaches is the world famous Ocean City Boardwalk. At one of the several amusement parks located right upon the boardwalk, or 'the boards' as the locals say, is the 140 foot high ferris wheel which offers a fantastic view of the whole island. Cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, and literally dozens of miniature golf courses, populate the boards. Everything from surf boards, to ice cream and cotton candy, to Christmas decorations and kites can shopped for on the boards in Ocean City. That's not counting the world renowned salt water taffy.

As far as family oriented vacation spots go, there simply is no beating Ocean City, literally. In both 2005 and 2006 the Travel Channel voted Ocean City , New Jersey , the number one family vacation destination in the country. With nightly events all through the summer, there's something for everyone. One night of the week is a street fare and face painting. Another night of the week the Ocean City Pops play at the music pier. On and on Ocean City is constantly abuzz with summer-time activities for kids of all ages. One reason for this unprescedented family friendly reputation is Ocean City's lack of bars. While drinking alcohol in restaurants, at homes, and Bar-B-Q's is not frowned upon, no alcohol is sold within the town's limits. Keen on its family friendly reputation, the Ocean City community has gone to great lengths at making both locals and visitors feel welcome. It's one of those rare towns where police officers in shorts and t-shirts are far more busy giving directions to out-of- towners and shooing pesky seagulls away than dealing with crime, which by anyone's account is non-existent.

Being a seaside resort town on the eastern seaboard, Ocean City juxtaposes its rich historical heritage with its numerous water sports. Both museum afficandos and water sport fanatics are at home in Ocean City. Take a guided historical walk through many of the impeccable bed and breakfasts, or visit the Historical Museum, or nature preserves. Engage in some heart pounding para-sailing, or surfing, or relax on white sand beaches perfecting your tan. All of this just half an hour away from Atlantic City , just over and hour to Philadelphia , and under three hours from New York City. Many towns and cities have something unique to offer visitors, but some, like Ocean City , just stand head and shoulders above the rest.

15.3.08 20:34