Answer
Soft-shells suit sandwiches, platters, and fine-dining presentations without picking; hard crabs are social bushel feasts with mallets. Many visitors order both on a long stay. Soft-shells cost more per crab because of shedding labor and short freshness windows.
Sources: Visit Ocean City · Maryland DNR
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.
