Best waterfront dining in Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City, Maryland, is famous not only for its beautiful beaches and lively boardwalk but also for its fantastic dining options with stunning waterfront views. Whether you're looking for a casual spot to enjoy a meal by the water or a fine dining experience with a view, Ocean City has something to offer. Here's a guide to some of the best places for waterfront and waterview dining in this coastal paradise.
1. Seacrets Jamaica USAAddress: 117 49th Street, Ocean City, MD 21842
Seacrets Jamaica USA is an iconic destination in Ocean City, offering a unique dining experience with multiple bars and restaurants located right on the bay. Known for its lively atmosphere, Seacrets provides both casual and upscale dining options. Enjoy dishes like jerk chicken and fresh seafood while sitting at tables in the water or on their spacious decks. The vibrant nightlife and live music add to the allure of this popular spot.
2. Fager’s Island Restaurant & BarAddress: 201 60th Street, Ocean City, MD 21842
Fager’s Island Restaurant & Bar offers one of the most picturesque dining experiences in Ocean City, with stunning views of the bay and spectacular sunsets. The restaurant features a diverse menu with seafood, steaks, and an extensive wine list. The outdoor deck is perfect for enjoying a meal while taking in the beautiful scenery. Fager’s Island is also known for its lively bar scene and nightly entertainment.
3. M.R. DucksAddress: 311 Talbot Street, Ocean City, MD 21842
Located on the bay, M.R. Ducks offers a laid-back atmosphere with fantastic views of the water. This casual spot is known for its blue crabs, crab cakes, and other seafood specialties. The open-air deck provides a perfect setting for enjoying a meal and a drink while watching the boats go by. M.R. Ducks also features live music on the weekends, enhancing the waterfront dining experience.
4. Harrison's Harbor Watch RestaurantAddress: 806 S Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842
Harrison's Harbor Watch Restaurant, located at the south end of the boardwalk, offers breathtaking views of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. This fine dining restaurant is renowned for its fresh seafood, raw bar, and elegant atmosphere. Enjoy dishes like Maryland crab cakes and fresh oysters while taking in the panoramic views of the water. The upscale setting makes it a perfect choice for a special occasion.
5. Macky’s Bayside Bar & GrillAddress: 5311 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842
Macky’s Bayside Bar & Grill provides a fun, casual dining experience with beautiful bay views. Known for its seafood dishes and tropical drinks, Macky’s offers a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy a meal on their sandy beach area or on the spacious deck. The sunset views are spectacular, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

6. Fish TalesAddress: 2207 Herring Way, Ocean City, MD 21842
Fish Tales is a family-friendly restaurant located right on the bay, offering stunning water views and a fun, casual atmosphere. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, burgers, and cocktails. The outdoor seating area includes picnic tables and hammocks, perfect for a laid-back dining experience. Fish Tales also has a playground for kids, making it a great spot for families.
7. Sunset GrilleAddress: 12933 Sunset Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842
Sunset Grille, located in the Sunset Marina, offers upscale dining with gorgeous views of the marina and the bay. The menu includes fresh seafood, steaks, and creative cocktails. The outdoor seating area provides a perfect vantage point for watching the boats and enjoying the sunset. Sunset Grille is known for its elegant setting and attentive service, making it a top choice for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.
8. The Shark on the HarborAddress: 12924 Sunset Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842
The Shark on the Harbor is committed to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create delicious, sustainable dishes. Located on the commercial harbor in West Ocean City, this restaurant offers stunning views of the water and the fishing boats. The menu changes daily based on what’s fresh and in season, but you can always expect high-quality seafood and creative dishes. The Shark on the Harbor is perfect for those who appreciate fresh, thoughtfully prepared food in a beautiful setting.
9. 45th Street TaphouseAddress: 4507 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842
45th Street Taphouse offers a casual dining experience with beautiful bay views and an extensive selection of craft beers. The menu includes a variety of pub fare, seafood dishes, and pizzas. The outdoor deck is a great place to enjoy a meal and a drink while taking in the scenic views of the bay. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
10. The Angler Restaurant & BarAddress: 312 Talbot Street, Ocean City, MD 21842
The Angler Restaurant & Bar, located at the Talbot Street Pier, offers waterfront dining with beautiful views of the bay. Known for its fresh seafood and casual atmosphere, The Angler provides a great spot to enjoy a meal and watch the boats come and go. They also offer boat tours and fishing trips, making it a fun and unique dining destination.

11. Captain's Galley IIAddress: 12817 Harbor Road, Ocean City, MD 21842
Captain's Galley II is a long-standing favorite among locals and visitors alike, known for its fresh seafood and unbeatable harbor views. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing diners to enjoy their meal while watching the boats come and go. Specialties include their famous crab cakes, oysters, and an extensive raw bar. The laid-back atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a relaxing meal by the water.
12. BJ's on the WaterAddress: 115 75th Street, Ocean City, MD 21842
BJ's on the Water provides a casual dining experience with stunning bay views from every seat in the house. Known for its friendly service and extensive menu, BJ's offers a variety of seafood dishes, steaks, and sandwiches. The outdoor deck is a popular spot, especially during the evening when you can catch the beautiful sunset over the water. BJ's also features live music, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
13. De Lazy LizardAddress: 305 N 1st Street, Ocean City, MD 21842
De Lazy Lizard is a family-friendly restaurant and bar located right on the bay. With its tiki bar, sandy beach area, and extensive menu, it’s a favorite among those looking for a fun dining experience by the water. The menu includes seafood, burgers, and tropical drinks. The relaxed, open-air setting is perfect for enjoying a meal and a drink while taking in the beautiful bay views.
14. The Reel Inn Restaurant & Dock BarAddress: 419 14th Street, Ocean City, MD 21842
The Reel Inn Restaurant & Dock Bar, located at the Harbour Island Marina, offers a relaxed waterfront dining experience. Known for its fresh seafood and friendly service, The Reel Inn provides beautiful views of the marina and the bay. Popular menu items include crab cakes, steamed shrimp, and daily catch specials. The outdoor seating area is ideal for enjoying a meal and watching the boats.
15. Ky West Restaurant & BarAddress: 5401 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842
Ky West Restaurant & Bar combines a modern dining experience with fantastic views of the bay. The restaurant features a diverse menu, including seafood, steaks, and pasta dishes. The stylish, contemporary decor and large windows provide a perfect backdrop for enjoying a delicious meal while taking in the beautiful waterfront scenery. Ky West is also known for its creative cocktails and extensive wine list.

16. Macky’s Bayside Bar & GrillAddress: 5311 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842
Macky’s Bayside Bar & Grill offers a fun, casual dining experience with stunning views of the bay. Known for its seafood dishes and tropical drinks, Macky’s provides a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy a meal on their sandy beach area or on the spacious deck. The sunset views are spectacular, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
17. Ocean Pines Yacht ClubAddress: 1 Mumford's Landing Road, Berlin, MD 21811
Located just a short drive from Ocean City, the Ocean Pines Yacht Club offers upscale dining with breathtaking views of the water. The restaurant features a diverse menu, including fresh seafood, steaks, and gourmet salads. The elegant dining room and outdoor patio provide a perfect setting for enjoying a meal while taking in the picturesque marina views.
18. The Bayside SkilletAddress: 7701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842
The Bayside Skillet offers a unique dining experience with its focus on fresh, made-to-order breakfast and brunch items, as well as seafood and crepes for lunch and dinner. The restaurant's large windows and outdoor seating area provide beautiful views of the bay. The colorful decor and friendly service make it a charming spot for a leisurely meal by the water.
19. Marina Deck RestaurantAddress: 306 Dorchester Street, Ocean City, MD 21842
Marina Deck Restaurant is a family-friendly spot offering delicious seafood and stunning views of the marina and bay. Known for its casual, welcoming atmosphere, Marina Deck features a diverse menu, including crab cakes, seafood platters, and sandwiches. The rooftop deck is a highlight, providing a perfect vantage point for enjoying a meal while watching the sunset.
20. Coconuts Beach Bar & GrillAddress: 3701 Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842
Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill offers a lively beachfront dining experience with stunning views of the ocean. Located at the Castle in the Sand Hotel, Coconuts is known for its tropical drinks, fresh seafood, and live music. The outdoor seating area, with its sandy beach and colorful decor, provides a perfect setting for a fun and relaxing meal by the ocean.

21. Ocean City Fish CompanyAddress: 12817 Harbor Road, West Ocean City, MD 21842
Ocean City Fish Company offers fresh seafood in a relaxed, waterfront setting. Located in West Ocean City, this restaurant provides stunning views of the commercial harbor. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including steamed crabs, shrimp, and daily catch specials. The outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying a meal while watching the boats and taking in the harbor's bustling activity.
22. The Bayside CantinaAddress: 5201 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842
The Bayside Cantina brings a vibrant, festive atmosphere to waterfront dining. Known for its Mexican-inspired menu and extensive drink list, this restaurant offers beautiful bay views from its outdoor deck. Enjoy dishes like fish tacos, ceviche, and margaritas while taking in the colorful sunset over the water. The lively ambiance makes it a great spot for a fun night out.
23. Captain Bill Bunting’s Angler Restaurant & BoatAddress: 312 Talbot Street, Ocean City, MD 21842
Captain Bill Bunting’s Angler Restaurant & Boat offers a unique dining experience with waterfront views and the option of a scenic boat ride. The restaurant features fresh seafood, including crab cakes, shrimp, and fish, served in a casual, family-friendly setting. The outdoor seating area provides great views of the bay, and you can enhance your visit with a boat tour to fully enjoy Ocean City's beautiful waterways.
24. Longboard CafeAddress: 6701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842
Longboard Cafe offers a relaxed, surf-themed dining experience with beautiful views of the bay. The menu includes a variety of fresh, coastal-inspired dishes, such as fish tacos, poke bowls, and seafood platters. The outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying a meal while watching the sunset over the water. Longboard Cafe's laid-back atmosphere and delicious food make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
25. Marlin Moon RestaurantAddress: 3301 Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842
Marlin Moon Restaurant, located at the DoubleTree by Hilton, offers an upscale dining experience with stunning ocean views. The menu features a variety of fresh seafood, steaks, and creative cocktails. The restaurant's elegant decor and large windows provide a perfect setting for enjoying a meal while taking in the panoramic ocean scenery. Marlin Moon is known for its attentive service and sophisticated ambiance, making it ideal for special occasions.

26. Bayside Boat Rentals and RestaurantAddress: 5307 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842
Bayside Boat Rentals and Restaurant offers a unique combination of delicious food and fun water activities. Located on the bay, this spot provides beautiful waterfront views and a menu featuring a variety of seafood dishes, sandwiches, and refreshing drinks. After enjoying a meal, you can rent a boat, jet ski, or paddleboard to explore the bay, making it a perfect destination for a day of adventure and relaxation.
27. HookedAddress: 8003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842
Hooked offers fresh, locally sourced seafood in a contemporary, waterfront setting. The restaurant features a menu filled with creative seafood dishes, such as crab-stuffed flounder and shrimp and grits. The large windows and outdoor seating area provide beautiful views of the bay, making it a great spot for a relaxing meal. Hooked's commitment to using sustainable ingredients and providing excellent service has earned it a loyal following.
28. Lenny's Beach Bar & GrillAddress: 10100 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842
Lenny's Beach Bar & Grill, located at the Clarion Resort Fontainebleau Hotel, offers casual beachfront dining with stunning ocean views. The menu includes a variety of sandwiches, salads, and seafood dishes, as well as tropical drinks. The outdoor seating area, with its sandy beach and palm trees, provides a perfect setting for enjoying a meal while soaking up the sun and sea breeze.
29. Micky Fins Bar & GrillAddress: 12952 Inlet Isle Lane, West Ocean City, MD 21842
Micky Fins Bar & Grill, located in the Ocean City Fishing Center, offers fresh seafood and beautiful marina views. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including crab cakes, shrimp, and fish, as well as burgers and steaks. The outdoor seating area provides a great vantage point for watching the boats and enjoying the sunset over the water. The lively atmosphere and friendly service make Micky Fins a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
30. Ocean View GrillAddress: 12507 Sunset Avenue, West Ocean City, MD 21842
Ocean View Grill offers a casual dining experience with beautiful views of the bay. The menu includes a variety of seafood dishes, sandwiches, and salads, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The outdoor seating area provides a perfect setting for enjoying a meal while taking in the scenic views of the water and the surrounding nature. Ocean View Grill's relaxed atmosphere and delicious food make it a great spot for a leisurely meal.

31. Harborside Bar & GrillAddress: 12841 S Harbor Road, Ocean City, MD 21842
Harborside Bar & Grill is a popular spot known for its vibrant atmosphere and waterfront views. Located in West Ocean City, it offers a great selection of seafood, burgers, and their famous Orange Crush cocktails. The dockside seating provides a perfect spot for enjoying a meal while watching the boats in the harbor. The laid-back vibe and friendly service make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
32. Fishtales Bar & GrillAddress: 2107 Herring Way, Ocean City, MD 21842
Fishtales Bar & Grill is a family-friendly restaurant located on the bay, offering beautiful water views and a fun, casual atmosphere. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, sandwiches, and refreshing drinks. The outdoor seating area, with its picnic tables and hammocks, is perfect for a relaxed meal by the water. Fishtales also has a playground for kids, making it a great choice for families.
33. Coconuts Beach Bar & GrillAddress: 3701 Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842
Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill offers beachfront dining with stunning ocean views. Located at the Castle in the Sand Hotel, Coconuts is known for its tropical drinks, fresh seafood, and live music. The outdoor seating area, with its sandy beach and colorful decor, provides a perfect setting for a fun and relaxing meal by the ocean.
34. The Hobbit RestaurantAddress: 121 81st Street, Ocean City, MD 21842
The Hobbit Restaurant offers an upscale dining experience with breathtaking bay views. The menu features gourmet seafood, steaks, and a variety of fine wines. The elegant dining room and floor-to-ceiling windows provide a perfect backdrop for a romantic dinner or special occasion. The Hobbit is known for its impeccable service and sophisticated ambiance.
35. Brass Balls SaloonAddress: 1105 Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842
Brass Balls Saloon is a lively beachfront restaurant and bar offering great food and ocean views. The menu includes a variety of burgers, seafood, and breakfast items. The outdoor seating area on the boardwalk is perfect for people-watching and enjoying the ocean breeze. Brass Balls Saloon is known for its fun atmosphere and friendly staff.

36. Marlin Moon RestaurantAddress: 3301 Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842
Marlin Moon Restaurant, located at the DoubleTree by Hilton, offers an upscale dining experience with stunning ocean views. The menu features a variety of fresh seafood, steaks, and creative cocktails. The restaurant's elegant decor and large windows provide a perfect setting for enjoying a meal while taking in the panoramic ocean scenery. Marlin Moon is known for its attentive service and sophisticated ambiance, making it ideal for special occasions.
37. Hooters of West Ocean CityAddress: 12513 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City, MD 21842
Hooters of West Ocean City provides a casual, fun dining experience with views of the marina. Known for their wings, burgers, and seafood, Hooters offers a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy a meal while watching the boats. The outdoor seating area provides a great vantage point for enjoying the water and the lively marina activity.
38. The Crab BagAddress: 13005 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842
The Crab Bag is a popular spot for seafood lovers, known for its steamed crabs, crab cakes, and other seafood dishes. The restaurant offers a casual, family-friendly atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating. While not directly on the water, its proximity to the bay provides a pleasant dining experience with the fresh ocean breeze.
39. The Shark on the HarborAddress: 12924 Sunset Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842
The Shark on the Harbor is committed to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create delicious, sustainable dishes. Located on the commercial harbor in West Ocean City, this restaurant offers stunning views of the water and the fishing boats. The menu changes daily based on what’s fresh and in season, but you can always expect high-quality seafood and creative dishes. The Shark on the Harbor is perfect for those who appreciate fresh, thoughtfully prepared food in a beautiful setting.
40. Lighthouse Sound RestaurantAddress: 12723 St Martins Neck Road, Bishopville, MD 21813 (a short drive from Ocean City)
Lighthouse Sound Restaurant offers a fine dining experience with panoramic views of the Assawoman Bay and the Ocean City skyline. The menu features a variety of seafood, steaks, and gourmet dishes. The elegant dining room and outdoor patio provide a perfect setting for enjoying a meal while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Lighthouse Sound is known for its excellent service and romantic ambiance, making it a top choice for special occasions.