Answer
Pick Maryland when Ocean City and Assateague are the main event; pick Delaware when Fenwick, Bethany, or Rehoboth share the week.
Maryland shortlist: West Ocean City cabins, Berlin bay resorts, Frontier Town, Island Resort, Gateway, Lake Somerset. Delaware shortlist: Treasure Beach (Fenwick), Big Oaks (Rehoboth area), Sun Outdoors Rehoboth Bay (Millsboro).
Delaware also means tax-free shopping corridors and a longer Coastal Highway run to the Ocean City Boardwalk on peak Saturdays. Map both drives before you deposit.
Sources: Visit Ocean City · Delaware Tourism · MDOT SHA
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.
