By Steffen Klenk
Ocean City has so much to offer in the summertime. You could spend an entire day at the beach, strolling the 2 ½ mile long boardwalk or shop along Asbury Avenue. But do you know about the bayside? Once you have entered the city from 9th Street Bridge, follow the signs for Bay Avenue. Here, you’re just minutes away from a wave of attractions the entire family will enjoy.
One of Ocean City’s most popular attractions is parasailing. It is one of the most relaxing, peaceful adventures you will ever have. You can sail over 350 feet above the Atlantic Ocean and witness the most spectacular views of our serene coastline. Ocean City Parasail has been in business for over 25 years and offers daily trips from their location off of Great Egg Harbor Inlet. Photo and video packages are available so you can re-live the experience over again.
For the kids, I would recommend Totally Tubular Watersports. Located at 314 Bay Avenue, it is one of Ocean City’s most popular water attractions with tubing, wakeboarding, waterskiing and banana boat rides. Their 5,000 square foot Aqua Park is a splash for kids and allows your child to stay cool and active with over 18 inflatable water obstacles. The park is recommended for anyone ages 6+ and reservations are a must. Life jackets are provided.
Research has shown that paddle boarding can increase your core muscles and build abdominal strength, enhance joint stability, build stamina, reduce stress and produce vitamin D. Paddle boarding along Ocean City’s back bay provides a safe, stress-free activity that is easy to learn and fun to do. The Ocean City Paddle Company, located at the 10th Street Wharf, provides hourly paddle board rentals, along with safety lessons for first-timers. Take part in one of their back bay tours or arrive late in the evening for a sunset yoga class.
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, try out the jet skis and waverunners at Bayview Marina. They provide a safe, family friendly atmosphere with a large riding area. Their watercraft is sanitized and can sit up to three people at a time, and no boating license is required.
Did I forget to mention that Ocean City has pirates? You can learn all about them on Pirate Voyages. Step aboard the Sea Dragon as Captain Zak “Sparrow” and The Buccaneers take you on an adventure that will be sure to entertain and make you laugh. You may even learn some new pirate lingo. Daily voyages sail out of 232 Bay Avenue.
Also situated along the bayside is Dockside Kitchen, one of Ocean City’s acclaimed restaurants. Since 2017, they have been attracting locals and visitors alike for its gourmet menu. Select menu items include their famous Lobster Benedict, Don’t Be Crabby Toast, Grilled Shrimp Roll and Fish Tacos. Dockside Kitchen is located at 228 Bay Avenue and is open daily for brunch. Takeout is also available. Call ahead for reservations.
There is something for everyone along Ocean City’s Bayside. You can go on a pirate boat adventure, parasail high above the waves, enjoy exceptional dining with sunset views or paddle along our tranquil back bay.
Steffen Klenk is a multimedia journalist. He resides in Ocean City and enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life.
