A Guide to the Best Beaches in Ocean City for Families
0
0
0
Just a short drive from the vibrant energy of Ocean City lies a natural wonderland where wild horses roam free and unspoiled beaches stretch for miles. Assateague Island, divided between Maryland and Virginia, offers families the chance to trade boardwalk thrills for pony sightings and marsh‑front picnics. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need for a seamless day trip: from ferry crossings and entrance fees to the best spots for wildlife viewing and beachside relaxation.
Table of Contents
2. Wildlife Watching: Spotting the Wild Horses
3. OSV Beach Access & Activities
1. Getting There & Park Fees
Assateague Island State Park in Maryland is accessed via Route 611 from Berlin, MD. After crossing the Verrazano Bridge, follow Bayberry Drive to the park entrance.
Vehicle Type | Fee (MD) | Fee (VA, Chincoteague) |
Passenger Car | $9 per day (Budget Travel With Gabby) | $15 per day (Tripadvisor) |
Motorcycle | $4 per day (Budget Travel With Gabby) | $8 per day (Tripadvisor) |
Annual Pass (MD residents) | $60 annually (Budget Travel With Gabby) | — |
The National Seashore (VA) entrance station on Bayberry Drive charges slightly higher fees and is required for access to the federal side (Budget Travel With Gabby). Note: No road connects the MD and VA sections directly—you must loop back via the mainland.
2. Wildlife Watching: Spotting the Wild Horses
Assateague’s legendary wild horses roam freely on both sides of the island. Best viewing times are:
Early Morning (Sunrise–9 AM): Ponies graze near the dunes, cooler temperatures encourage beachside roaming (Budget Travel With Gabby).
Late Afternoon (4 PM–Sunset): Herds often move toward the salt marshes for grazing and water (Adventures of a Panda Girl).
Safety Tip: Observe from at least 50 ft away; never feed or touch the horses to protect both you and the animals (Southern Living).
3. OSV Beach Access & Activities
Over‑Sand Vehicle (OSV) permits allow 4×4 access to designated stretches of beach east of the marker posts:
Permits Needed: $30 per day (MD) or $50 per day (VA); provide 4WD vehicle, sand‑rated tires (Budget Travel With Gabby).
Popular Activities: Surf fishing (striped bass, bluefish), horseback riding (MD requires negative Coggins test) (National Park Service).
Swimming & Surfing: Ocean side offers moderate waves; bayside is calmer for kids.
4. Hiking & Nature Trails
Explore the island’s ecosystems on these family‑friendly trails:
Life of the Marsh Trail: 1 mi boardwalk through salt marsh habitat—excellent birding opportunities (Budget Travel With Gabby).
Beach Trail: 2 mi sandy stretch linking parking lot to ocean beach; ponies may graze nearby (Budget Travel With Gabby).
Gull Point Trail (VA side): 1.5 mi loop through maritime forest—look for migratory songbirds and deer (Budget Travel With Gabby).
5. Picnic Spots & Facilities
Facilities at Assateague State Park include:
Picnic Areas: Shaded tables, grills near Bayside parking lot (Budget Travel With Gabby).
Restrooms & Outdoor Showers: Available at both Bayside and Oceanside lots.
Visitor Center: MD side offers exhibits, junior ranger programs, and park maps.
Families appreciate these amenities for comfortable midday breaks and safe gear storage.
Don’t miss your chance to witness these majestic ponies and pristine beaches—plan your Assateague Island Day Trip today!
