Planning a beach vacation with toddlers can feel overwhelming — naps, snacks, meltdowns, and sand everywhere. But here’s the good news: Ocean City, NJ is one of the BEST beach towns on the East Coast for families with little ones.
As a local and rental owner, I’ve seen firsthand why families with toddlers return here year after year. Ocean City is safe, walkable, clean, and filled with activities that make traveling with young kids so much easier.
If you’re visiting Ocean City with toddlers, here’s exactly how to make your trip smooth, fun, and stress-free.
Choose the Right Beach Spot
Not all beach entrances are created equal when you have a stroller, beach cart, and tired toddler.
Look for beach access with:
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Short walkovers
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Bathrooms nearby
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Lifeguard stands
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Less crowded streets
Toddler-friendly beach areas:
Goldcoast beaches (around 29th–34th Street) are quieter, wider, and easier for families than the busy boardwalk beaches.
Pack Smart for the Beach (Less is More)
You don’t need to bring everything.
Must-haves for toddlers:
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Beach wagon or cart
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Baby powder (removes sand instantly!)
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Snacks + lots of water
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Small pop-up shade tent or umbrella
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Change of clothes
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Nap-time stroller walk back to the house
Pro tip: Plan beach time for 9am–11:30am or 4pm–6pm. Midday sun + toddlers = meltdowns.
Rent Bikes or a Surrey in the Morning
One of the BEST toddler activities in Ocean City is an early morning boardwalk bike ride.
Before noon, the boardwalk is bike-only and perfect for:
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Toddler bike seats
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Surreys
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Fresh air before the beach
Places like OC Bike Rentals make this super easy.
Best Playgrounds for Toddlers in Ocean City
When they need a break from the beach, these are lifesavers:
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34th Street Playground – shaded, quiet, perfect for little ones
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6th Street Playground by the Boardwalk – great before grabbing lunch
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58th Street Park – hidden gem, rarely crowded
🍦 Toddler-Friendly Places to Eat
These spots are easy, quick, and welcoming for little kids:
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Sand House Kitchen (amazing breakfast, casual vibe)
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Uncle Bill’s Pancake House
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Piccini Wood Fired Pizza (fast and family friendly)
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Hobby Horse Ice Cream Parlor (a must-do tradition)
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Kohr Bros on the boardwalk for an easy dessert stop
Rainy Day or Break-From-Sun Activities
Toddlers don’t care if it’s raining — they just need to move.
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Ocean City Library (children’s section + AC)
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Jilly’s Arcade (simple games they love)
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Playland’s Castaway Cove – rides for little ones
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A stroller walk on the boardwalk with snacks
Respect the Nap (Your Vacation Depends on It)
The secret to a great toddler beach vacation?
Go back to your rental for naps.
This is why families love beach rentals over hotels. Everyone can rest comfortably, recharge, and head back out for an evening boardwalk trip without overtired tears.
Evenings Are the Best Part
After dinner, Ocean City comes alive in the best way for families.
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Boardwalk strolls
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Ice cream runs
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Mini golf
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Rides and music
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Watching the sunset on the bay side
Toddlers can run, explore, and you don’t have to worry about traffic or safety like in other shore towns.
Why Ocean City is Perfect for Families with Toddlers
Ocean City is:
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Clean and safe
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Walkable
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Family-first
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Calm beaches
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Full of simple traditions kids love
It’s the kind of place where toddlers can just be toddlers — dig in the sand, ride bikes, eat ice cream, and fall asleep exhausted at the end of a perfect day.
And parents actually get to relax too.
Planning Your Stay?
Choosing the right rental in the right location makes all the difference when you’re traveling with little ones. Being close to the beach, playgrounds, and boardwalk can turn a stressful trip into an easy, memorable vacation.
Browse our Ocean City beach rentals and start planning a toddler-friendly getaway your whole family will love.