Answer
Warm water months—often late June through August—bring peak nettle reports in Isle of Wight and Assawoman bays and along ocean swims when onshore wind stacks them. Cool springs and early falls may be nearly nettle-free. Check local beach reports within the week you travel, not a single blog from five years ago.
Sources: Maryland Coastal Bays Program · Ocean City Beach Patrol · NWS Wakefield / NOAA
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.
