Are there rip currents in Ocean City?

Q: Are there rip currents in Ocean City?

Rip currents are the top drowning risk on Ocean City’s Atlantic beaches. They are narrow channels of water moving away from shore—often near piers, jetties, and after storms—even on sunny days. If caught, stay calm, float, and swim parallel to shore until free of the pull; do not fight straight back to the sand. Never enter after a double-red closure. Read the dedicated rip currents FAQ , watch flag colors , and use wave forecasts with guidance from Ocean City Beach Patrol on the sand.

Rip currents are the top drowning risk on Ocean City’s Atlantic beaches. They are narrow channels of water moving away from shore—often near piers, jetties, and after storms—even on sunny days.

If caught, stay calm, float, and swim parallel to shore until free of the pull; do not fight straight back to the sand. Never enter after a double-red closure.

Read the dedicated rip currents FAQ, watch flag colors, and use wave forecasts with guidance from Ocean City Beach Patrol on the sand.

Sources: Ocean City Beach Patrol · NOAA / National Weather Service rip current guidance · Town of Ocean City

Editorial visitor guidance for Ocean City, Maryland. Confirm current Town of Ocean City, Maryland DNR, NPS Assateague, and NWS rules when regulations or safety apply.