Atlantic Ocean Beaches

Maryland's Atlantic coast is just 31 miles long, all of it in Worcester County. Ocean City anchors the north with its resort infrastructure, while Assateague Island fills the rest with undeveloped barrier-island beaches, wild ponies, and dramatic dunes. Atlantic beaches here offer real surf, cold water well into spring, and the kind of shorebird-and-wave experience you can't get on the Bay.

Average water temperature: 58°F

Across 13 monitored stations on the Atlantic Ocean.

When to Go

Late June through September for comfortable water. Water runs 10-15°F colder than the Bay most of the year. Peak season is July-August; shoulder months are less crowded but cooler.

Watch Out For

Rip currents are the real Atlantic hazard — always check flag status at lifeguarded beaches. Ocean City has strict dog seasonal rules (banned May 1 - Sep 30). Assateague has biting flies at dusk in summer.