Ocean City is relatively safe, but be sure to use common sense. Keep an eye on all your valuables and walk in groups after dark. At the beach, swim near a lifeguard and pay attention to any warnings that may be raised about the water conditions. One of the biggest things to watch out for in Ocean City is a rip tide, a current of water that churns as it rushes back to sea. These are recognizable by a difference in water color. If you're caught in one, stay calm and swim parallel to the shoreline until you are out of the current's way. The Ocean City Beach Patrol is on duty every day in the summer from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Jellyfish can also make an appearance in Ocean City. If you're stung, wash the afflicted area with salt water (freshwater will only exacerbate the pain), sprinkle meat tenderizer on it and see a lifeguard. Also keep in mind that glass containers and alcohol are forbidden from the beach at all times. From Oct. 1 to April 30, pets are allowed on the beach and boardwalk in Ocean City; pets are allowed on Assateague year-round.

The best way to get around Ocean City is on foot or by public transit. Most of the top things to do are centrally located on the Coast Highway, an easy 10-mile north-south thoroughfare. The buses and boardwalk trams can get you to the destinations that are farther away at affordable fares. Rentals are available at Ocean City Municipal (OCE) and Salisbury-Ocean City Wicomico Regional (SBY) airports, although most visitors opt to drive to O.C., not fly. If this is you, you might find parking hard to come by; we recommend taking advantage of the park-and-ride program.