Each year, Ocean City residents and visitors bring a touch of Christmas magic to our beaches with a dazzling array of Christmas trees, each with their own simple message to the community. Below we have provided a guide of every tree on the island, from the north to south end.
- North Street: This original tree by the sea was brought to life in 2019 thanks to local resident Sue McElwee. Today, it is surrounded by decorated shells and is a popular spot for family photos. If you plan to visit, be sure to bring your camera for some fantastic photo ops.
- 10th Street: The Tomato Cage Tree. This simple, small, yet awe-inspiring tree, pays tribute to the popular state vegetable. New Jersey is one of the largest producers of this flavorful food staple, with tomato farms spanning South Jersey, and Atlantic County.
- 11th Street: Kathy’s Military Tree: This large tree is brought to Ocean City each year by the Darrow family, and honors military members, and their families, for their service to our nation. The tradition began in 2021 thanks to Kathy Darrow. While she has passed, her husband, Dave Darrow, has carried the tradition forward.
- 18th Street: Pickleball Tree: This tree sits only blocks away from the city’s pickleball courts, located at 18th St. & Haven Ave. Visitors are encouraged to leave an ornament celebrating the sport.
- 21st Street: Pet Tree: Don’t forget to include your beloved dogs or cats while celebrating the holiday season. This tree includes plenty of pet-related ornaments, and clam shells with personalized messages for their beloved household canines and felines.
- 34th Street: This tree has been brought to Ocean City thanks to the DeChristopher Family. Guests are invited to leave a letter to Santa Claus, along with personalized messages to loved ones that have passed.
- 40th Street: Driftwood Tree: Nothing says Ocean City like seeing driftwood on the beach. Stop by this small but very unique tree while driving across the island this season.
- 48th Street: Neurodiversity Awareness Tree. This tree was set up at 48th St. Beach earlier this month thanks to the help of Shore Medical Center, in partnership with Autism New jersey and Egg Harbor Township Emergency Medical Services. It is adorned by ornaments donated by Lisa Delasotta, with each of the decorations created by EHT EMS, along with patients from the Pediatric Care Center at Shore Medical Center, and hospital staff.
- 50th Street: OCNJ Queens: This tree aims to build community and fun. Guests are invited to pick a clam shell and write their favorite memory, moment, or wish to share from the past year. Add your shell to the tree and see the story of our local community grow.
- 59th Street: Giving Tree: Drive all the way to the end of the island and you will find a beautifully-decorated tree sitting along the entrance to the beach. Arrive at night to see an array of colorful lights guiding you along the sand. Be sure to bring any non-perishable food items for donation to our local food cupboard.
Ocean City is a town full of wonderful traditions. The trees on the beach continue to spread cheer and hope to all who visit the island during the Christmas season. Whether you are visiting for the day or making holiday plans, be sure to bundle up and make a stop at one of the trees, or do a Christmas tree tour with your friends, family, or loved ones.
