Filled with eager fishing enthusiasts for much of the day and into the night, the Oceanic Fishing Pier is a lively place at the heart of the local culture. Its wooden deck provides excellent vistas of the sandy shores of the Assateague Island National Seashore. Rent or purchase fishing gear from the pier’s store and set about reeling in your catch of the day.

You might find flounder, bluefish or sharks among the many species swimming beneath the pier. Walk out toward the end of the pier and enjoy the total tranquility above the water. Sit on one of the benches and snap photos of the views. You’ll be able to see some of the highlights of West Ocean City, across the water, including Homer Gudelsky Park and Sunset Marina.

Look to the south to see the sandy wilderness across the inlet from the sea to the bay. Stay at the pier until dusk to watch the sky turn crimson or witness the surrounding landmarks turning to silhouettes from neighboring Sunset Park.

Embark on a pleasant stroll along the Ocean City Boardwalk. Ride the Ferris wheel with your kids for daunting views from up high. Stop at the varied stores and have a meal or a few drinks at one of the many bars and restaurants on this active strip.

The pier is open 24 hours daily from May through September. Pay a fee for daily or multi-day access. Be careful not to confuse the Oceanic Fishing Pier with other piers on the ocean and bay sides of Ocean City.

The Oceanic Fishing Pier lies at the southern end of Ocean City Beach, in the southwestern corner of the narrow strip of land. It stretches west, back toward the mainland, before turning south. If you drive, leave your vehicle in the large parking lot a short walk east of the pier.

While you’re in this area, make sure to visit nearby sights such as Happy Hooker Bay Fishing, the Ocean Gallery World Center and Ripley’s Believe It or Not!