Ocean City, Maryland, is not just a fantastic vacation destination for humans; it’s also a welcoming paradise for your beloved pets. Imagine strolling along the sandy shores or the famous boardwalk with your furry friend by your side. In Ocean City, this dream can become a reality. This guide is your ultimate resource for navigating pet-friendly accommodations, ensuring that your entire family, including the four-legged members, can enjoy a memorable vacation. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a cozy inn, Ocean City offers a variety of options to make your stay comfortable and convenient for both you and your pet.
Top Pet-Friendly Hotels in Ocean City MD: Your Home Away From Home
Finding the perfect pet-friendly hotel is crucial for a stress-free vacation. Ocean City boasts a range of hotels that not only welcome pets but also offer amenities to make them feel at home. Remember to always call ahead to confirm pet policies, any associated fees, and to ensure the availability of pet-designated rooms, as these can be limited.
Featured Pet-Friendly Hotels:
Hyatt Place Ocean City: Located right on the Boardwalk at 16th Street, Hyatt Place Ocean City provides an unbeatable location for those early morning walks with your dog along the iconic boardwalk. Imagine starting your day with the fresh ocean breeze and the sound of waves crashing as you and your canine companion explore the sights and sounds. This hotel generally allows up to two dogs per room, provided their combined weight does not exceed 75 pounds. It’s always best to inquire about their specific pet fee and any breed restrictions when booking, but Hyatt Place is a solid choice for its location and pet-friendly attitude.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Ocean City Bayside: Home2 Suites truly embraces the pet-friendly ethos. They understand that pets are family, and they extend a warm welcome to furry guests. Located bayside, this hotel offers spacious suites perfect for longer stays, giving you and your pet plenty of room to relax. Home2 Suites often provides special amenities and services tailored for pets, which can range from designated pet relief areas to treats and water bowls. Their welcoming atmosphere makes it a comfortable choice for pet owners.
Surf Villas: For a blend of resort amenities and apartment-style living, Surf Villas is an excellent midtown option. They pride themselves on being pet-friendly both indoors and outdoors. This means your pets can feel comfortable in your room and also enjoy the hotel’s outdoor spaces. The added space of a villa can be particularly beneficial when traveling with pets, offering more room to spread out and feel at home. Their commitment to pet-friendliness throughout the property makes them a standout choice.
Surf Inn: If you’re dreaming of an oceanfront stay, Surf Inn & Suites, situated on 71st Street, is worth considering. Just steps from the beach, this resort motel offers both traditional rooms and efficiencies, with newly designated pet-friendly rooms. The convenience of being so close to the beach is a major draw for dog owners who love seaside walks. Be sure to request a pet-friendly room when booking and inquire about any specific pet policies to ensure a smooth check-in process.
Howard Johnson Oceanfront Inn: Located near the southern end of the boardwalk at 24th Street, the Howard Johnson Oceanfront Inn has recently become pet-friendly and undergone renovations. While your dog might not appreciate the room renovations as much as you do, you’ll both appreciate the convenient location and welcoming pet policy. It’s advisable to review their pet policy, available on their website, to understand any rules or restrictions. Booking in advance is recommended as pet-friendly rooms may be limited.
Days Inn Oceanfront: Similar to its sister hotel, the Howard Johnson, the Days Inn Oceanfront on 23rd Street also offers newly pet-friendly accommodations. With a limited number of rooms set aside for pets, early booking is essential to secure a spot for you and your furry companion. Checking their pet policy online will give you all the necessary details to plan your stay. The boardwalk location is a major perk for easy access to pet-friendly strolls during off-season hours.
Residence Inn by Marriott Ocean City: Situated bayside on 61st Street, the Residence Inn by Marriott is another excellent option for pet owners. They welcome up to two dogs per room, with a pet fee applicable for the second dog. Residence Inns are known for their spacious suites and home-like amenities, including kitchens, which can be particularly helpful when traveling with pets. The bayside location offers a quieter setting while still being conveniently located to Ocean City’s attractions.
Fenwick Inn: Located further north on 139th Street Bayside, the Fenwick Inn provides a more secluded option. They have a limited number of pet-friendly rooms available, so it’s crucial to book these specifically, either through their website or by calling them directly. A nightly pet fee applies, and they allow a maximum of two pets per room. Their pet-friendly section on their website offers detailed information, ensuring you are well-prepared for your stay.
Howard Johnson Oceanfront Plaza Hotel: Looking ahead to 2025, the Howard Johnson Plaza on 11th Street and the Boardwalk will become pet-friendly. This is exciting news for future travelers! You can already access their 2025 pet policy online to understand their guidelines in advance. This expansion of pet-friendly options further solidifies Ocean City as a welcoming destination for pet owners.
Dog-Friendly Dining Experiences in Ocean City
Ocean City’s pet-friendly atmosphere extends beyond hotels to include a variety of restaurants where you can dine with your dog. Many establishments with outdoor seating areas are happy to welcome well-behaved, leashed pets. It’s always a good idea to call ahead, especially during peak season, to confirm pet-friendly seating availability and any specific guidelines.
Featured Dog-Friendly Restaurants and Bars:
The Angler: Located just off the Route 50 bridge on Talbot Street, The Angler offers a fantastic waterfront dining experience with a large outdoor deck overlooking the bridge and bay. Dogs are welcome on their side deck, and The Angler goes above and beyond by offering a dedicated “Doggie Menu.” Treat your furry friend to a specially prepared meal with bite-sized pieces and even a dessert treat! Live music on summer nights adds to the enjoyable atmosphere for both humans and their canine companions.
Longboard Cafe: Situated on 67th Street, Longboard Cafe provides a relaxed and casual dining experience where your pup can join you on their front patio. Enjoy classic American fare like burgers, tacos, and crabcakes, along with specialty cocktails, all while your dog relaxes by your side. The patio setting is perfect for enjoying Ocean City’s pleasant weather.
Anthony’s Liquors: While technically a liquor store with a deli, Anthony’s Liquors offers outdoor seating where you can enjoy a delicious Boars Head deli sandwich with your pet. Grab a sandwich, sit at their outside tables, and enjoy a casual meal together. It’s a great spot for a quick and tasty lunch stop while exploring Ocean City with your dog.
Pet Supplies, Grooming, and Veterinary Services in Ocean City
Traveling with pets requires ensuring you have access to essential supplies and services. Ocean City and the surrounding areas offer a range of pet stores, grooming services, and veterinary care facilities to cater to your pet’s needs during your vacation.
Area Pet Stores and Vets:
Pet Supplies & Accessories:
- Paws & Claws (West Ocean City): Offers a wide selection of organic pet foods and treats, along with accessories like clothes, collars, beds, and toys.
- Pet Threadz (West Ocean City): Specializes in handmade and custom-fitted pet clothing to keep your dog stylish throughout your vacation.
- Petco (White Marlin Mall) & PetSmart (Berlin): Familiar chain pet stores for a wide range of pet supplies.
- Doggie Style K9 Cafe (Inlet Village Boardwalk): Carries pet supplies, accessories, baked dog treats, and breed-specific gifts, located right on the boardwalk.
Grooming Services:
- OC Pet Spa (West Ocean City): Professional grooming services, boarding, and doggie daycare.
- Del-Mar-Va Pet Grooming (Berlin): Another professional grooming option in the nearby town of Berlin.
- Sandy Paws (Coastal Highway): Pet supply store with a self-serve dog wash facility.
Veterinary Services:
- Precious Paws (West Ocean City): Full-service animal hospital offering emergency treatment, routine medical, surgical, and dental care.
- Berlin Animal Hospital (Berlin): Provides emergency treatment and routine care.
- Pet’s ER (Salisbury): Emergency veterinary services.
- VCA Delmarva Animal Hospital (Berlin): Lifelong medical care, boarding, and grooming services.
Other Pet-Friendly Activities and Locations in Ocean City
Beyond hotels and restaurants, Ocean City provides numerous outdoor spaces and activities perfect for enjoying with your pet.
More Places to Explore with Your Pet:
- Ocean City Beach and Boardwalk: During the off-season, from October 1st to April 30th, pets are welcome on the beach and boardwalk. Always keep them leashed and remember to clean up after them.
- Stinky Beach (Homer Gudelsky Park): A local favorite, Stinky Beach, or Homer Gudelsky Park, is a small beach area at the end of Old Bridge Road in West Ocean City where dogs are welcome year-round.
- Northside Park: Ocean City’s largest park, Northside Park, offers 58 acres of space perfect for dog walks and outdoor activities.
- Ocean City Dog Playground (Little Salisbury Park): Located on the bayside of 94th Street, this is the only designated off-leash dog park in Ocean City. Passes are required, so check the Ocean City website for details.
- Assateague Island National Seashore: Just a short drive away, Assateague Island National Seashore welcomes dogs year-round (excluding State Park beaches within Assateague). Enjoy camping or scenic walks by the ocean with your dog in this beautiful natural setting.
Ocean City, MD, truly rolls out the welcome mat for pets, making it an ideal vacation destination for pet owners. With careful planning and by choosing pet-friendly hotels and activities, you and your furry friend can create lasting memories together in this vibrant seaside town.
