Succulent seafood and excellent shopping are part of the lively culture in West Ocean City, a coastal community packed with beaches and resorts. Family-fun amusement parks decorate the scenic promenade, which looks out to the narrow strip of Ocean City Beach. Stroll along the coast and enjoy views of the water and the boats.

Visit several fun complexes inland from the water. Bring your little ones to Grand Prix Amusements, where the whole family can race in Go-Karts. Watch your kids or friends clamber to the top of the 24-foot (7-meter) climbing wall and brave yourself for the bumper cars. Another thrilling option just a short drive away is Baja Amusements, which also has Go-Karts and climbing walls. Play the 19-hole mini-golf course and let your children ride the Wacky Worm or the Frog Hopper amusement rides.

Much of the activity in West Ocean City is centered on the coast. Inspect the array of pleasure boats in Ocean City Harbor. Nearby West Ocean City Commercial Harbor is known for Harbor Day at the Docks in mid-October, a festival with seafood cooking demonstrations, live concerts and children’s activities. Charter a boat from Sunset Marina or fish from shore at Homer Gudelsky Park on its other side. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to go out on the relatively calm waters of the bay.

The area is also filled with shopping options for rare rainy days. Purchase fashionwear from a range of top brands at Outlets Ocean City.

Find the community in the southeastern corner of Maryland, on the U.S. Atlantic Coast. From Baltimore, drive southeast for about 145 miles (230 kilometers) to get here in about 2.5 hours.