Answer
Late 19th and early 20th century hotels and guesthouses wanted a formal oceanfront stroll above the sand, separating genteel promenading from carriage dust inland. Fishing and inlet commerce grew alongside tourism rather than replacing it. Life-Saving Station Museum panels summarize the resort timeline.
Sources: Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum · Town of Ocean City · Visit 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.
