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Guide to Ocean City

Kid-friendly spots

You need to find places that accommodate your family without making the outing a struggle.

Based on 825 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Payton Jewelry - Ocean City, NJ image 1
Payton Jewelry - Ocean City, NJ image 2
Payton Jewelry - Ocean City, NJ image 3
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Bright, beachy boutique offers a friendly atmosphere and unique permanent jewelry. Perfect for a mother-daughter experience with quick fixes and matching designs. Shop features trendy charms at great prices.

Offers a fun mother-daughter experience with permanent bracelets and necklace design. Staff provides quick fixes, making it easy to shop and create matching jewelry with kids.

People are saying

"I loved my permanent bracelet from this jewelry store."

"It's so fun designing permanent jewelry with my daughter."

"I always found a unique piece of jewelry for my wife here."

Good to know

1

The store offers a great selection of unique handcrafted jewelry.

2

Permanent jewelry options are available, with a variety of chains to choose from.

3

The shopping experience is clean and easy, making it enjoyable to browse.

02
Ocean City Parasail image 1
Parasailing ride operator

Parasailing offers breathtaking views and a peaceful ride with great music. Staff ensure a safe experience for kids, making it fun for all ages. Safety and care create a calm atmosphere throughout the trip.

Staff provide great care for kids of various ages. Parasailing offers a fun and safe experience with music and views over the waves that kids enjoy.

People are saying

"I had an awesome time parasailing; it was magical and peaceful."

"The staff made my young kids feel relaxed and safe."

"The parasailing offers breathtaking views of the ocean and coastlines."

Good to know

1

Booking the parasailing experience is easy and straightforward.

2

The maximum time in the air is 10 minutes, despite paying for 30.

3

Safety measures are thorough and reassuring for participants.

03
OC Nail Studio image 1
Nail salon

Nail salon offers a clean, modern space with comfortable massaging chairs and a warm, inviting atmosphere. It welcomes kids with quick, smooth appointments and provides efficient services for all ages. Refreshments like coffee add to the relaxing experience.

Appointments for groups including children get quick confirmation and smooth accommodation. Services cover a range of ages with child manicures and adult pedicures handled efficiently in about an hour.

People are saying

"Crystal shaped my nails perfectly and always recommended colors."

"It's so Kid Friendly; the staff made my nervous daughter feel comfortable."

"The staff made me feel so comfortable and welcome."

Good to know

1

Call ahead for appointments during busy summer months to ensure availability.

2

The salon maintains a high standard of cleanliness with tools in sealed bags.

3

Digital check-in and a loyalty program are available for returning customers.

04
Flawless Cards N Collectibles image 1

Small store offers wide card selection with vintage and modern options. Kids love the friendly staff who give surprises and stay patient. Cool, organized space includes game tables and a toy collectibles room for fun and play.

Kids show strong excitement here, asking to visit daily and saving money to buy cards. Staff remain patient and attentive, often giving extra surprises to child shoppers.

People are saying

"I found a good selection of vintage cards here."

"You'll find a good selection of vintage cards here."

"The staff here is so patient and attentive, it's really Kid Friendly."

Good to know

1

The store has a good selection of vintage cards from the 1910s to 1970s.

2

They offer grab bags of Magic: The Gathering cards for $5.

3

Pricing is reasonable, often rounding down after checking online prices.

05
7th Street Surf Shop image 1

Cool old building hosts a surf shop with an amazing selection of boards and gear. Instructors offer affordable lessons and surf camps that teach kids to paddle and catch waves safely. The place shines with a community culture that values learning and life lessons.

Instructors focus on life lessons beyond surfing and keep kids safe and engaged. Surf camps offer daily lessons where kids learn to paddle and catch waves, making it a favorite activity for them.

People are saying

"The instructors are wonderful and so good with the kids."

"The surf instructors here are so positive and effective."

Good to know

1

The cost is $45 for a two-hour lesson, including wetsuit and surfboard rental.

2

Reservations are recommended for surf lessons, especially during peak season.

3

Surf lessons are available for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced.

06
Sandcastle Park image 1

Playgrounds with modern equipment suit toddlers and older kids, while locked gates ensure safety. Adults enjoy picnic tables and courts for basketball and tennis. Busy, family-friendly park offers fun and relaxation for all ages.

Play sets for toddlers and older kids offer activities for different ages. Locked gates keep kids safe while they play on slides and swings designed for both little and bigger kids.

People are saying

"It's a great place for family fun activities for all ages."

"It's a great kid-friendly spot with playgrounds for toddlers and older kids."

"The bathrooms here are clean."

Good to know

1

Parking nearby can be challenging, so arrive early.

2

The playground is safe and fun for younger kids.

3

The bathrooms are clean and well-maintained.

07
Bowfish Kids image 1
Children's clothing store

Bright and trendy store offers a large selection of quality children's clothing and unique Jellycats. Friendly staff create a welcoming space for families, making it ideal for kids' gifts and shopping. Popular spot often books up quickly for special services.

Offers a large selection of cute kids clothes and toys including many unique brands and Jellycats. Staff are friendly, helpful, and welcoming to babies and kids, making it a nice spot for shopping or gifts.

People are saying

"It's a cute, Baby-Friendly place with adorable clothes for little ones."

"It's so Kid Friendly, they have a great selection of Jellycats."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for ear piercing as they book up quickly.

2

Bowfish Kids offers a great selection of Jellycats and unique children's clothing.

3

Expect a wide variety of quality merchandise for kids and newborns.

08
Reel Fun Fishing image 1
Fishing charter

Fishing charter offers plenty of room and a cozy cabin for breaks. Kids enjoy catching sea robins and flounder with guides who keep them engaged. Occasional dolphin sightings add fun to this family-friendly trip.

Kids catch a variety of fish like sea robins, flounder, and even an endangered angel shark. Guides engage well with children, making the 2-hour trip enjoyable for families.

People are saying

"You'll catch fish all day long here."

"The crew's fun and friendly, knowing exactly where to go."

"It's so Kid Friendly; we caught fish all day long!"

Good to know

1

The 2-hour trip is ideal for kids and families.

2

Deep sea fishing trips run from 8am to 12pm.

3

Most participants catch multiple fish during the trip.

09
The Ocean City Free Public Library image 1

Public library shines with colorful children's section and phenomenal staff supporting all ages. It offers an airy space with warm lighting and climate control. Programs and resources foster creativity and learning for the whole community.

Colorful children's section offers a wide range of the latest books for kids and young adults. Phenomenal staff support both children and adults, while programs engage all ages. A baby alligator adds a unique touch that kids love.

People are saying

"The library staff are so friendly and helpful!"

"The staff here is so helpful and friendly, especially with kids."

"The staff here is so friendly and helpful."

Good to know

1

The library offers free or discounted passes to local attractions.

2

There is plenty of parking available at the library.

3

Children's programs are available and well-received.

10
Grassroots Music Store image 1
Musical instrument store

Music store shines with vinyl records and a varied guitar selection in a lively, community-focused space. Friendly staff make it kid friendly by engaging children with hands-on help. Bargain bins offer rare CDs at low prices, perfect for collectors and casual shoppers.

Friendly staff engage kids directly about music and instruments. The store offers hands-on help with guitars and strings, making visits fun and exciting for children.

People are saying

"It's so Kid Friendly; Chris explained everything with contagious enthusiasm."

Good to know

1

The store has a great selection of vinyl records from all genres.

2

Prices are fair, but vary depending on the item.

3

The owner frequently changes the opening times, so check ahead.

11
Pirates of the Golden Galleon Golf image 1

Miniature golf with pirate-themed obstacles offers fun for all ages. Kids love shooting pirate cannons from the lookout tower. The family-friendly energy and scenic views make it a great spot for everyone.

The course offers pirate cannon shooting from the top, designed specifically for kid fun. It provides a great experience where both kids and adults enjoy the activities.

People are saying

"The mini golf course is really fun with a great theme and soundtrack."

"This mini golf course is perfect for families and has a fun pirate theme."

"This place is great and enjoyable for kids."

Good to know

1

The course is affordable at $5.00 per person to play.

2

It can get crowded, so arrive early on weekday mornings.

3

There are two courses to choose from for variety.

12
Brenda's Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Home-style decor and nostalgic music create a cozy vibe for families. Kids love the chocolate milk and pancakes that match photos. Spotless indoor and covered outdoor seating offer a relaxed pace with no long waits near the beach.

Kids enjoy the chocolate milk and pancakes that match the photos. Food options satisfy both adults and children.

People are saying

"I found this place to be a great breakfast spot."

"You can sit outside under the portico and enjoy a lovely breeze."

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

There was a wait on Sunday mornings, but it's usually shorter than expected.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

3

The outdoor seating area provides a nice breeze.

13
Relax Concierge Linen Crib Rental image 1

Linens and baby gear arrive clean with reliable delivery. Cribs are mini size, which may not fit all kids. Service saves time by handling packing and transport for vacations.

Relax Concierge services simplify traveling with kids by handling many details. Cribs provided are mini size, which may not suit all children's sleeping needs.

People are saying

"I got quick delivery right on schedule."

"This place is so Kid Friendly, it makes traveling so much easier."

Good to know

1

The delivery team drops off rentals before your arrival for convenience.

2

All rentals are clean and packed perfectly for your use.

3

Full-size cribs come with comfortable mattresses and all necessary bedding.

14
oc GELATO image 1
Ice cream shop

Bright shop offers authentic Italian gelato with flavors like stracciatella and tiramisu. Kids enjoy free tastings and staff are kind to toddlers. Casual, family-friendly vibe makes it easy for picky eaters to find favorites.

Kids can taste several flavors before buying, making it easy for picky eaters to decide. Staff show kindness to toddlers and let them try flavors for fun, creating a welcoming vibe for families.

People are saying

"I found the gelato here to be amazing, almost as good as in Italy."

"The gelato here is amazing, almost as good as in Italy."

"It's so Kid Friendly; they let my kids taste flavors before buying."

Good to know

1

OC Gelato no longer offers free samples or allows flavor combinations.

2

The gelato selection includes a variety of unique flavors.

3

Prices for gelato are considered on the higher side.

15
Port-O-Call Hotel image 1

Hotel offers spectacular ocean views and clean rooms perfect for families. Kids love the beach access and feel at home. Friendly, relaxing atmosphere with a sunny pool overlooking the beach makes it ideal for quiet family stays.

Clean rooms create a comfortable stay for families. Kids enjoy the beach access and feel at home right away. Many children want to come back every summer.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were so friendly and professional."

"I loved the ocean views from my room and balcony."

"It's so kid friendly, my son wants to return every summer."

Good to know

1

The hotel is located right on the beach and boardwalk.

2

The hotel provides chairs and umbrellas included with the stay.

3

The hotel is clean, which is important for families.

16
Fin-atics Marine Supply Ltd., Inc. image 1

Fishing store offers wide range of gear with expert staff who teach kids to tie knots and pick the right bait. Prices stay reasonable, making it a local go-to spot for families starting fishing adventures.

Staff teach kids how to tie proper fishing knots and explain which fish are in season along with the right bait and lures. They also assemble all the fishing gear kids need, making it easy for beginners to get started.

People are saying

"The staff here are so helpful with teaching kids about fishing."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a wide range of fishing supplies and equipment.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of products available.

3

The staff is knowledgeable and can assist with product selection.

17
Totally Tubular Watersports image 1
Water sports equipment rental service

New boats with comfortable seating let guests play their own music during mellow rides. An active aqua park with slides and obstacles keeps kids aged 7 to 17 entertained. Lifeguards ensure safety while friendly staff guide tubing and banana rides, creating a family-friendly vibe with pleasant country music.

Aqua park offers fun with small and large obstacles for kids. Attentive lifeguards keep the area safe while kids enjoy tubing and banana rides with friendly staff guiding them.

People are saying

"The captains make the fun activities so great and are really friendly."

"My kids had a blast and loved the tubing!"

"I took a beautiful, slow, and mellow sunset boat ride."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for all activities to ensure availability.

2

Children aged 7 to 17 can participate in most activities.

3

Parents can accompany their children for free during activities.

18
Easy Nails image 1
Nail salon

Clean, well-kept salon offers massaging pedicure chairs and gel nail designs for detailed looks. Kids enjoy patient attention and can walk in anytime. Upbeat spa vibe keeps atmosphere cool and relaxing for all ages.

Kids get patient, kind attention while choosing nail designs. Staff listens carefully and helps bring their ideas to life. Walk-ins for children are welcome and they can save up for special manicures.

People are saying

"I left with beautiful nails after my manicure."

"The staff at Nails are so friendly and kind."

"Mimi's patience and kindness made the experience so special for my daughter."

Good to know

1

They charge $35 for a pedicure, which is reasonable for the area.

2

The salon is very clean and well-kept.

3

Expect no wait time during busy hours as the salon is efficiently managed.

19
JiLLy’s Arcade image 1
Video arcade

Arcade offers a wide game variety with vintage pinball and modern video games in a clean, well-lit space. Kids enjoy play-until-you-win claw machines and skeeball in a lively, kid-friendly environment. Air conditioning keeps it comfortable for all ages.

Kids have a blast with play-until-you-win claw machines and enjoy games like pinball and skeeball. The arcade offers a fun, kid-friendly environment suitable for both children and teenagers.

People are saying

"I thought JiLLy's Arcade was the best arcade on the boardwalk."

"This place is so kid friendly, my children had a blast playing games."

"I loved the modern games mixed with the classics."

Good to know

1

Expect crowds at night, making it hard to find open games.

2

They offer 5 games for $1, providing great value.

3

Buying a game card gives excellent bonuses for play.

20
Coastal Chateau image 1

Hotel blends quiet, cozy atmosphere with kid-friendly spaces that create memorable family moments. Guests enjoy ocean views from the rooftop deck and easy access to the beach and boardwalk. Thoughtful, family-run service adds a warm, personal touch.

Offers a welcoming atmosphere for children and creates memorable experiences for families visiting for the first time.

People are saying

"This hotel was the most beautiful and cleanest place I've ever stayed."

"You should go to the rooftop to relax and enjoy the weather."

"It's so beautifully decorated and thoughtfully designed, making it feel special."

Good to know

1

Live music on the rooftop happens from 6:30 to 8:30 PM on select nights.

2

The rooftop offers a great view for watching fireworks on July 4th.

3

The hotel is just a 3-minute walk to the boardwalk and beach.

21
The Forum OCNJ image 1

Hotel has modern rooms and a large pool with fun shows for kids like balloon art and guitar music. Staff give kids stuffed animals and make sand art. Location is close to beach and boardwalk, perfect for family beach days despite some street noise at night.

Pool entertainment includes a balloon artist and guitarist, keeping kids engaged. Staff give kids stuffed animals and create sand art, while the pool area stays peaceful and clean with plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas.

People are saying

"This hotel is modernized and exceptionally clean."

"The bathrooms here are immaculate and feel like a spa."

"The pool is a great, convenient bonus for kids."

Good to know

1

The location is just a 3-minute walk to the beach and boardwalk.

2

The hotel was modernized and clean from the inside out.

3

Parking was easily accessible with one space per room.

22
Ocean City Beach image 1

Large sandy beach offers a peaceful spot with a vibrant boardwalk full of rides for all ages and numerous restaurants. Families enjoy a friendly environment with plenty of space for kids to play and explore safely, thanks to lifeguards and police patrols. Parking is limited and a beach tag fee applies after morning.

Plenty of space lets kids play and explore freely. The boardwalk offers rides for all ages and the ocean draws kids in. Families find many activities for both young kids and teens.

People are saying

"I felt safe and peaceful walking the clean, dry beach at night."

"It's so kid friendly with tons of boardwalk rides and space to play."

"It's a fun, family-friendly place with tons of things to do."

Good to know

1

Entry to the beach costs $10 to $20 cash.

2

A beach tag is required after 9:30am, even if you arrive early.

3

Parking costs $15 for the early bird rate and $30 normally.

23
Ocean 7 image 1
Motel

Rooms with ocean views and kitchenettes suit families well. Kids love the boardwalk and Ocean 7 spot for fun. Quiet nights and a heated pool near the beach make it peaceful and relaxing.

Boardwalk and beach offer plenty of space for family activities. Ocean 7 provides a fun spot that kids enjoy.

People are saying

"It's so comfortable being just steps from the boardwalk and beach."

"The hotel rooms were really cute and clean."

"The staff here is so friendly and kind."

Good to know

1

Hotel parking is limited to one car per room.

2

The hotel is just steps from the beach and boardwalk.

3

Housekeeping only replaces towels and removes trash, not deep cleaning.

24
The Henna Shop image 1
Jewelry store

Shop offers affordable jewelry including Hello Kitty pieces that kids love. Creative vibe shines with henna artist Sky, famous for a large dragon design kids choose often. Welcoming space keeps families coming back for unique, budget-friendly fun.

Kids enjoy getting henna tattoos, with some choosing the same large dragon design every visit. Jewelry options attract kids, making it a spot they return to year after year.

People are saying

"I've been getting henna tattoos here for 18 years."

"It's so kid friendly; my family's been getting henna tattoos here for 18 years."

Good to know

1

The shop accepts both cash and credit card payments.

2

Expect to spend around $20-$50 for henna designs.

3

Appointments are recommended, especially on weekends.

25
Discovery Seashell Museum image 1

Small space filled with unique shells and shark teeth sparks curiosity for kids and adults alike. Family-run vibe and old town charm create a warm, inviting spot. Kids love touching shells, making it truly kid friendly and memorable.

Generations visit with their children, making it a place for family memories. Kids enjoy looking at and touching shells, which keeps them engaged and curious.

People are saying

"It's cool how many unique shells and items are on display."

"It's really Kid Friendly; my daughter and nephew loved it."

Good to know

1

The museum features a unique collection of shells, shark teeth, and sports memorabilia.

2

Visitors can purchase various shells and items from the museum's collection.

3

The museum is family-owned and has been operating since the 1970s.

26
Preps Pizzeria & Dairy Bar image 1

Cozy booths and ocean views set a classic boardwalk vibe perfect for families. Gluten-free pizza is a hit with kids and adults, making it truly kid friendly. Spacious seating and a clean, retro design keep the atmosphere upbeat and welcoming.

Gluten-free pizza appeals to kids and adults alike. Multiple children enjoy slices of pizza, making it a popular choice for families.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I've ever had."

"I thought the ice cream here was great and reasonably priced."

"The pizza here is so good, my son considers it his favorite."

Good to know

1

Preps Pizzeria & Dairy Bar offers a deal of two slices of cheese pizza and a small drink for $6.

2

Expect shorter lines compared to other popular pizza spots on the boardwalk.

3

The restaurant stays open on weekends into the fall and early winter.

27
Exit 4 Private Escape Rooms image 1
Escape room center

Escape room center features detailed themed rooms with puzzles that suit both kids and adults. Families enjoy the Dragon Heart room together in a family-friendly setting. Music and immersive design create an engaging space for groups and team building.

Escape rooms offer fun challenges suitable for kids and teens alongside adults. Groups including children complete rooms like Dragon Heart together, making it a solid choice for family outings.

People are saying

"The escape room puzzles were challenging and fun."

"The staff here are so nice and make your date spot experience fun."

"This place is so kid friendly, my kids became obsessed!"

Good to know

1

The experience costs $25 per person.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

3

The escape rooms have a 30-minute duration, making them a quick activity.

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Ocean City, New Jersey

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