When the summer rolls around, head to the Ocean City Beach for sun, sand and surf. Running along the entire 10-mile-long east coast of the island, you're sure to find the perfect spot to spread your towel. If you're looking for a rowdier atmosphere, recent travelers recommend sticking to the southern end of Ocean City, where the neighboring Boardwalk makes for great people watching and seafront dining. For a quieter, family-friendly beach, head north past the Boardwalk; although there are fewer amenities here, you won't have to deal with the hustle and bustle of passersby.

Even if you're only passing through Ocean City, you can't help but spend time on the boardwalk. This kitschy three-mile long pedestrian route is flanked by soft sand and the Atlantic on one side and a mish-mash of hotels, eateries, souvenir shops, bars and rides on the other. Most of the area's popular sites can be found here, including Ripley's Believe it or Not!, the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum and Trimper's Rides and Amusements.

If the Boardwalk doesn't satisfy your yen for spending, the Ocean City Factory Outlets should do the trick. Located on the mainland just north of the Ocean Gateway, this sprawling outdoor shopping center boasts popular stores such as Aéropostale, Gap, Nautica, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein and Pac Sun. There are also plenty of places to eat here, making it easy to spend several hours perusing and purchasing.