When it comes to planning your trip to Ocean City, MD, you might be tempted to use third-party sites, but booking directly with the Princess Bayside Beach Hotel offers so many benefits that you might not know about!  Besides offering the guaranteed lowest rates for our hotel rooms and a convenient bayfront location with a private beach next to all the best nightlife, booking with our reservation system lets you take advantage of the best vacation rewards you’ll find online for our hotel.  From early check-in and complimentary upgrades to exclusive Vacation Rewards from local restaurants and attractions, booking directly with OCMD’s Princess Bayside means you’ll get the most out of your stay AND save big without those pesky fees charged by Expedia and Booking.com!

Princess Bayside Beach Hotel Perks & Rewards for Direct Bookings

Princess Perks and vacation vouchers are available exclusively when you book through our website or call, not when making reservations on Expedia, Booking.com, or other third-party platforms.  Guests who book direct can choose one Princess Perk to enhance their vacation: 

• Complimentary early check-in or check-out upon availability.
• Complimentary upgrades based on availability at the time of check-in.

In addition to your choice of Princess Perk, your reservation at the Princess Bayside Hotel in Ocean City, MD will qualify you for six free Vacation Extras. Vacation Extras include freebies at your favorite local restaurants, group activities, shops, salons and spas, and golf. Choose any six you want—and you don’t have to use them all within one stay! Booking directly online or by phone is the way to the rewards! Browse rooms or give Princess Bayside a call at 888-622-9743, and we’ll help you plan your Ocean City, MD vacation using our great discounts and deals.  You and your friends will have an unforgettable time at the beach. Check our availability and schedule your OCMD vacation online today! 

The Oceans Calling Festival is returning to OCMD September 26-28, 2025 and the Princess Bayside Beach Hotel is ready to welcome guests for this epic, three-day concert with some of the best live music acts in the country!  Book a hotel right on the bayfront close to all the action with great amenities like a private beach on the bay, a rooftop pool and bar (weather permitting), and a location that is great for groups. If you’re looking for the best hotel for the Ocean’s Calling Festival in Ocean City, MD–you’ve found it, Princess Bayside on 48th Street and Coastal Highway!  

Affordable Hotels Near OCMD Music Festivals 

The Princess Bayside Beach Hotel has a bus stop for the local shuttle directly outside the hotel where you can catch a ride to the music festivals at the Ocean City Inlet! Get picked up and dropped off just steps away from your stay with the most convenient mode of transportation during the festivals. The Oceans Calling Festival has more information on all the ways to get to and from the main event.  And, when you’re done at the Festival, come back to your room at Princess Bayside and go right next door to the one and only, Seacrets Jamaica for dinner or to keep the party going! 

Boardwalk Rock Festival and Country Calling Festival Hotels

The OCMD music scene doesn’t stop at Ocean’s Calling! The Boardwalk Rock Festival is happening in Ocean City, MD from May 17-18, 2025, and the Country Calling Music Festival will return October 4-5, 2025.  The best part about staying at the Princess Bayside is you’re on the waterfront, but also just a block away from the beach! You can truly make the most of your stay in OCMD by staying in one of our rooms or suites, directly next to some of the best nightlife like Seacrets Jamaica, and other popular restaurants and bars, in Ocean City, MD. Book your stay for the Ocean Calling, Boardwalk Rock, or Country Calling Festivals, today! We can’t wait to see you in OCMD!

If you’re looking for a hotel that fits the vibe for St. Patrick’s Day shamrock shenanigans in Ocean City, MD, Princess Bayside is it. The cheat code for a fun St. Patty’s weekend is LOCATION— we’re next door to Seacrets and on OCMD’s St. Patty’s Day parade route, right at the end where the real party happens. Need we say more about where to stay for 2025’s St. Patrick’s Day in Ocean City, MD? Princess Bayside Beach Hotel is the place to be.

Ocean City, MD Hotel Close to Seacrets & St. Patrick’s Day Parade 

We’re open! Book Princess Bayside Beach Hotel for Friday and Saturday, March 14-15 to celebrate all weekend long.  Friday is arrival and preparation, maybe enjoy a chill drink at Finnegan’s Irish Pub (which is on-site) or try out the other Princess Bayside perks, including a private beach on the bay, and an indoor pool. Saturday is the real deal, so plan your outfit and get hyped for a full day. The parade starts at noon and Princess Bayside will be hosting Street Kitchen food truck in the parking lot for a tailgate-style party during the parade and after!   Venture to Seacrets before the line gets long, or save it for a nighttime takeover, since your room at the Princess Bayside Hotel is so close by.  Gear up for food and drinks, or a downright bar crawl. Popular spots include Shenanigan’s Irish Pub on the Boardwalk, with live music, drink specials, and peak Irish energy all day. Buy a bus ticket that applies all day long to see the ocean, find some lunch on the Boardwalk, and enjoy a little breather walk—aka, visiting other iconic bars like Purple Moose, Wild Bills, and Cork Bar. Whatever you do, grab your friends, book with us, and come to Ocean City, MD for St. Patty’s Day weekend! We promise it’ll be worth it.

Some of the most beautiful and intimate weddings take place on the beach, beneath the ocean breeze, and with beautiful views. Ocean City MD is one of the best locations to have this wedding and encompass your best memories with your partner, family, and friends. If you’ve considered a summer wedding out on the beach, there are benefits and views that could have you adding Ocean City to your shortlist. 

The Benefits of Having a Wedding on the Bay

There are several benefits to hosting your wedding on the bay, and the first is the breeze and comfortable weather. Outdoor weddings in some areas may not be comfortable, especially in the summer, but the breeze that blows consistently in Ocean City makes it ideal, even on the warmest of days.  Another added benefit is the ability to have as many or as few guests as you’d like to host. The beach is large and can accommodate larger families. If other venues have you limited, you can expand the guest list with a beach wedding and make sure everyone you want is there to help you celebrate your special day. 

Less Stress

Outside of the amazing views, a beach wedding is less stressful than choosing larger and traditional venues. There is limited decorating, so you can manage more if you have a tighter budget and don’t have to go through the long list of chores and obligations. You can make a beach wedding your own, doing a ceremony, getting pictures with your guests, and then moving to another location for the reception. 

Scenic Views

The views that are offered by a beach wedding, especially in Ocean City, are breathtaking and far exceed what an indoor venue can offer you. Vibrant skies, the waves crashing against the sand, and the color contrast from all these elements make some of the best backdrops for your ceremony and pictures to follow. Celebrating one of the most important days of your life in a space with that much natural beauty for some is a spectacular experience that can’t be matched. 

A Place to Remember

Once you’ve decided that a beach wedding is right for you, consider all the benefits of making that location Ocean City. Beach venues in the area are designed to accommodate couples looking to choose Ocean City as their wedding destination.  Princess Bayside offers lodging accommodations for large groups who may be traveling for a wedding, making it easier to keep them in one space. There are miles and miles of sandy beaches in Ocean City, but Princess Bayside has a private beach right on the bay so you can have your own private area for your wedding.  When your family comes in and needs activities to keep them busy between the rehearsal, wedding, and reception, there are lots of exciting things to do in the area along the beach for all ages. There are lots of restaurants in the area that offer fresh seafood and other dining options for those who may have special diets.  It is also a great location for them to stay a few extra days and enjoy the ocean while out on the coast. Ocean City is a magical place that allows you to make some of the best memories with your partner, and guests during your stay. 

Contact Us To Schedule Your Wedding Today

If you’re considering making Ocean City your wedding destination in the near future, contact us at Princess Bayside Beach Hotel for more information. We’re happy to discuss our wedding packages for you so that you have the wedding of your dreams with minimal stress and all the memories you can make. We look forward to speaking with you soon and helping you plan your big day!    

Image Source: Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock 

While it’s an honor to be the best man, planning a bachelor party can be a lot of work. Planning a bachelor party needs to tick all the boxes, from nightlife to downtime. The ideal location for your bachelor party can make all the difference. Ocean City, Maryland, can turn an average bachelor party into one filled with excitement and lifelong memories. Princess Bayside Beach Hotel can partner with you to make your bachelor party one to remember. 

Tips for Planning the Best Bachelor Party

If you’ve never had to plan one, you’re looking for a few bachelor party ideas. You want to ensure that everyone in your party has a great time and finds something they enjoy doing. Here are a few steps and considerations to get you started:

• Get input from the groom
• Create a guest list
• Establish a budget
• Consider the activities your group most enjoys
• Choose a date and location
• Decide on transportation and logistics
• Book accommodations
• Choose a theme or party style
• Pack for the location and planned events

Bachelor party planning can be challenging but also rewarding. You need to remember that you can’t please everyone, but the groom is the star, and it’s your job to ensure the event is everything he wants. Your group can plan the bachelor party, but you should also leave some free time to explore opportunities that come your way. 

Highlights of Having a Bachelor Party in Ocean City 

Ocean City is a great location for a bachelor party. Your group can enjoy a different restaurant and nightclub every evening while lounging on the beach during the day. You can also schedule a deep-sea fishing excursion where you can compete to catch the biggest fish or head out on jet skis for a high-speed race. There are also paddle boards and kayaks available for rent on-site at Princess Bayside.  You can rent bikes to get some fresh air and enjoy the natural beauty around Ocean City. A walk along the boardwalk offers fun during the day and evening, and a ride on the Ferris wheel provides breathtaking views of the area. The Dorchester Beach Volleyball Park offers your group a pickup game, or you can spend an afternoon on the Ocean City Fishing Pier, seeing if the fish are biting. There are also some fantastic local golf courses if you are looking to tee-off for a day!

Amenities Offered at Princess Bayside Beach Hotel 

Centrally located, Princess Bayside Beach Hotel can be the home base for your bachelor party. Your party can enjoy all the amenities our hotel offers. It starts with our spacious rooms that include WiFi, work desks, microwaves, and daily housekeeping service. Choose a room with a bay view or one with an attached balcony.  When you need to relax and soak up some sun, you and your friends can head up to our rooftop pool. We also have an indoor pool if the weather isn’t cooperating. Our location is one block from the ocean if you prefer to feel the sand under your toes. Our staff is always ready to help you schedule a unique tour or set up a tee time on the golf course. We strive to make your experience special. 

Schedule Your Trip to Princess Bayside Beach Hotel Today 

 Bachelor party planning doesn’t have to be daunting. The Princess Bayside Beach Hotel is ready to greet all the members of your bachelor party and go out of our way to make your trip everything you want. Located in the heart of the fun, our hotel brings a host of amenities and places your party in the middle of the action. Contact us today to start planning a bachelor party.   

 

Ocean City Maryland Boardwalk & Things to Do

The Ocean City Boardwalk offers a unique blend of attractions. Explore the rich history and popular attractions that make it an unforgettable experience. The boardwalk is the heart and soul of the town! The boardwalk stretches over two miles, and it’s one of the best places to visit if you’re looking for a mix of relaxation, fun, and excitement. The Princess Bayside Beach Hotel is just a quick ride from the boardwalk, making it an ideal location for tourists who want to experience everything Ocean City offers. Join us as we take you through some of the best activities you can do on the boardwalk.  

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History of the Ocean City Boardwalk

Stretching for about three miles along the city’s beachfront, the boardwalk has seen many incredible transformations since its early days.

Early Origins and Development

The Ocean City Boardwalk’s roots date back to 1902, when it was just a temporary structure erected during the summer months for the enjoyment of beachgoers. It wasn’t until 1910 that the boardwalk became a permanent fixture.  Over the years, the City Council has reconstructed and extended the boardwalk multiple times, facing everything from devastating fires to the ravages of major storms.

Notable Historical Events and Milestones

In the 1920s, the introduction of Trimper’s Carousel marked a significant expansion in the area’s entertainment attractions. The devastating hurricane of 1933, which resulted in a new fishing harbor and the formation of Ocean City Inlet, was a defining moment in the boardwalk’s history.  More recently, the boardwalk underwent a significant renovation in the late 1980s, which replaced wooden planks with a longer-lasting composite material. These, among many other events, add to the unique charm of the Ocean City Boardwalk.

Popular Attractions on the Ocean City Boardwalk

From eye-popping oddities to classic carousel rides, each step on the Ocean City Boardwalk promises a new adventure.

Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum

Originally a U.S. Life-Saving Service Station, the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum was the base for heroic maritime rescue operations from 1891 until 1964. In the 1970s, it became a museum to share the compelling stories of Ocean City’s past. Today, exciting displays include the “Shipwreck Room” and the “Aquarium Room.”

Trimper’s Rides and Amusements

Trimper’s Rides and Amusements, dating back to 1893, features over 100 rides, games, and attractions. Its crown jewel is the vintage carousel, which features intricately carved animals and jingling calliope music.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium showcases an array of unusual artifacts and interactive exhibits. Prepare to be amazed by shrunken heads, rare animal skeletons, optical illusions, and much more. Don’t forget to check out the famous Ripley’s Mirror Maze and 4D Moving Theater for an immersive and entertaining experience.

Shopping and Dining

From beachwear and surf shops to quirky souvenir stores, this is the perfect place to find a memorable memento of your visit. There’s also something to satisfy every palate with an array of delicious cuisine at Princess Bayside Beach Hotel.

Activities on the Ocean City Boardwalk

From beachfront relaxation to lively events, this boardwalk has something to keep everyone entertained and engaged. The glistening white sands of the beach are an attraction in themselves and offer many activities for visitors, from beach volleyball to sunbathing. The Ocean City Boardwalk also provides easy access to various water sports. Local rental shops have all the necessary equipment and even offer beginners’ lessons.  

Boardwalk Events and Performances

When the sun sets, revel in the sounds of local bands playing everything from rock and roll to country at the open-air amphitheater. On select nights, you can enjoy movies under the stars or watch spectacular fireworks that light up the night sky. The annual Springfest and Sunfest are must-attend events featuring arts and crafts, live music, and delicious food. During the holiday season, the boardwalk transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with a festive light display.

Explore & Taste the Local Food

The Ocean City Boardwalk hosts numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes that offer local food options you’re not likely to find elsewhere. With a variety of food options, you can choose from local seafood like Maryland crab cakes, steamed clams, and fish and chips to classic boardwalk treats like caramel popcorn, saltwater taffy, and funnel cakes. There are also plenty of options for those seeking international flavors, including Italian pizza and Mexican cuisine. And with many restaurants offering oceanfront views, you can enjoy your meals while enjoying the breathtaking scenery. No visit to Ocean City Boardwalk is complete without indulging in some of its deliciously classic food options, like burgers and hot dogs from The Atlantic Stand or boardwalk favorites like Tony’s Pizza and Thrasher’s French Fries. Don’t forget to visit Fisher’s Popcorn or Dolley’s Candy and break for snacks to sweeten your Ocean City Beach experience.

Get a Drink and Relax (or Let Loose!)

From beach bars with ocean views to cozy pubs and taverns, plenty of options exist for enjoying a refreshing drink or two. Many of the bars and restaurants also offer live music and entertainment, making it an ideal spot for a night out. Whether you prefer a cold beer, a fruity cocktail, or a glass of wine, there’s something for every taste bud on the Ocean City Boardwalk. Mingle with locals at Ocean City favorites like Shennanigan’s Irish Pub, Purple Moose Saloon, and Caribbean Pool Bar.

Live Music and Festivals Keep Ocean City Loud

Ocean City is known for its vibrant festival scene, and there’s always something happening year-round. From the weekly live music events at Seacrets, visitors can dance the night away with live DJs. The 2023 Ocean City Air Show is a must-see for aviation enthusiasts, and Jeep Week in August is perfect for off-road fans. Finally, experience the Oceans Calling Festival with three days of music with over 30 performances on the Boardwalk, so you can savor local snacks and enjoy amusement park rides.

Plan Your Visit to the Ocean City Boardwalk

To ensure a seamless visit, remember to wear comfortable shoes for walking, pack your sunscreen, and keep yourself hydrated with the many refreshment options available. Consider visiting during weekdays for a more relaxed experience and to avoid the big weekend crowds during the summer. Don’t forget to check the boardwalk’s official event calendar before your visit to stay updated about upcoming entertainment and attractions. 

Stay in Style at Princess Bayside: Your Ocean City Getaway!

The Ocean City Boardwalk delivers an unmatched experience for visitors of all ages. We invite you to explore and experience the Ocean City Boardwalk for yourself during your visit to Ocean City, MD. Consider staying at the nearby Princess Bayside Beach Hotel, a retreat promising comfort, convenience, and stunning views. Visit our website for more information or to book your stay. 

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Image Source: ARENA Creative/Shutterstock

Image Source: Christopher Pany/Shutterstock

Ocean City Maryland Bars

 

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  The nightlife at the Princess Bayside Beach Hotel continues long after the sun has set, courtesy of nearby bars in Ocean City, Maryland. Several restaurants and bars are close to the hotel, enabling you to grab a bite or step out whenever you need a change of environment during your stay with us. We have compiled a list of Ocean City’s best bars, restaurants, and social scenes to visit.

Bars to Grab a Drink At

If you are looking for a social place with a great atmosphere and an endless supply of drinks, then consider dropping into any of the bars on this list.

Seacrets

Composed of several bars and nightclubs under one roof, Seacrets is easily every reveler’s dream. Complete with delicious food and tasty drinks, its social calendar is packed with events. Moreover, it has an outdoor area where you can float on the bay in an inner tube while enjoying your drink. The establishment also houses a distillery that makes original gin, vodka, and rum. The management offers a tour of the facility should you be curious.

Cork Bar

If you are a fan of beer and everything pubs, then Cork Bar is the place for you. Aside from getting the coldest beer in town, you can also enjoy a game of pool or sharpen your skills at darts. Image Credit: Maxim Blinkov/ Shutterstock

Restaurants You Must Try

Food is fuel for the body, and there is no shortage of Ocean City, Maryland bars with delicious food offerings to restore your depleted energy.

Alley Oops

Are you looking for a kid-friendly environment? Then Alley Oops is the place to be. This seafood resort welcomes people of all ages to try out its offerings ranging from food, drinks, and activities. They offer bowling, arcade games, and a chance to view a live shark tank. You can also bond with family over fun trivia.

M.R. Ducks

This establishment is located at 311 Talbot Street on the bay’s docks. They play live music regularly and offer delicious bites in addition to the Chug-a-Duck, their signature drink.

45th Street TapHouses

Have you always wanted to drink a beer in a restaurant overlooking the beach? The 45th Street TapHouses should be your beach hangout of choice. They have some delicious food selections and an array of craft beers and cocktails that you could try.

Live Music to Enjoy

Music is food for the soul. Some bars and social places in Ocean City that provide a lively environment for music lovers include:

Performing Arts Center

Lovers of art can enjoy music concerts and theater productions by buying a ticket to the Performing Arts Center. Need to experience a live orchestra or play? Get the best in musicals, dance performances, and more by booking a front-row seat to an event held at the Performing Arts Center.

Purple Moose Saloon

Classic rock and roll is a constant feature at the Purple Moose Saloon. There is live entertainment every night of the week, with the place going into a total frenzy during the annual Bike Week.

Fager’s Island

Fager’s Island is the right destination if you want a fine dining experience and good live music. They offer American and Pacific Rim Cuisine and over 30 variations of wine. Their nights are packed with great events, from live bands and Dj sessions to deck parties. They also host beer and oyster events where revelers wine and dine in a great assortment of specially crafted foods and drinks. Image Credit: Christian Hinkle / Shutterstock

Try Princess Bayside Beach Hotel in Ocean City, Maryland, for the Best Nightlife

You will need convenient accommodation to fully explore the bars in Ocean City, Maryland. The bayside rooms at The Princes Bayside Beach hotel enable you to enjoy great ocean views while also allowing for proximity to the establishments, as mentioned earlier. Contact us today to learn more or book a stay.

Featured Image: Roman Samborskyi / Shutterstock

 Nightlife