Ice cream and the Jersey Shore go together like sand and surf. Ocean City NJ has ice cream shops everywhere—on the boardwalk, downtown, and in between. Here is where to find the best ice cream in OCNJ.
Best Ice Cream Shops
Kohr Bros. Frozen Custard
The iconic orange and vanilla swirl has been a boardwalk tradition for over a century. Kohr’s is creamier and denser than regular ice cream, and that classic orange-vanilla twist is perfection. Multiple boardwalk locations mean one is always nearby.
Must try: The orange vanilla twist in a waffle cone
Shriver’s
Famous for saltwater taffy since 1898, Shriver’s also serves excellent ice cream. Classic flavors, generous portions, and that Shriver’s quality. Get a scoop after buying fudge and taffy.
Hula Mae’s Tropical Treats
Hawaiian shave ice and tropical flavors offer something different from traditional ice cream. Perfect for hot days when you want light and refreshing.
Brown’s Ice Cream
Beyond the donuts, Brown’s makes excellent ice cream. Multiple locations, classic flavors, and local favorite status.
Various Boardwalk Shops
Ice cream vendors line the boardwalk. Quality varies, but most serve reliable soft serve, hard ice cream, and classic treats. Look for ones with visible churning machines for freshness.
Types of Frozen Treats
Hard Ice Cream
Scooped from a freezer case, denser and more traditional. Available in countless flavors at most shops.
Soft Serve
Swirled from a machine, lighter and creamier. The classic vanilla-chocolate twist is beach perfection.
Frozen Custard
Egg yolks create a richer, denser texture. Kohr Bros. is the king of Jersey Shore frozen custard.
Italian Ice / Water Ice
Fruit-based frozen treat, dairy-free, and refreshing. Good options for those avoiding dairy.
Gelato
Italian-style with intense flavors. Less common but available at some specialty shops.
Ice Cream Timing
After Beach
The classic move: rinse off, walk to boardwalk, get ice cream. You have earned it.
After Dinner
Boardwalk stroll needs dessert. Ice cream is the answer.
Mid-Afternoon
Hot day, beach break, ice cream reset. Return to beach refreshed.
Before Bed
Some shops stay open late. End the night sweetly.
Pro Tips
- Waffle cone upgrade: Worth the extra dollar
- Order fast: It melts quickly in summer heat
- Shade matters: Find a bench in the shade to enjoy
- Napkins: Grab extra—always
- Cup vs. cone: Cups are easier with kids, cones are more fun
- Share with seagulls: Do not. They are aggressive.
Ice Cream for Dietary Needs
Dairy-Free
- Italian ice and water ice are naturally dairy-free
- Some shops carry non-dairy ice cream alternatives
- Ask at each location for current options
Gluten-Free
Most ice cream is gluten-free, but:
- Watch for cookie pieces, brownie chunks, cone pieces in flavors
- Ask about shared equipment if celiac
- Get in a cup to avoid cone gluten
Pricing
- Single scoop: $4-6
- Double scoop: $6-8
- Waffle cone add: $1-2
- Sundaes: $7-12
- Shakes: $6-10
Yes, boardwalk prices are higher. Worth it.
Ice Cream with Kids
- Get in cups for young kids (less mess)
- Kid-sized portions are available
- Sprinkles make everything better
- Expect drips and stickiness
- Wet wipes are essential
- Let them pick their own flavor
Beyond Scoops
Milkshakes
Thick boardwalk shakes hit different. Several shops specialize in shakes with creative toppings.
Sundaes
Hot fudge, caramel, nuts, whipped cream—full sundae treatment when a scoop is not enough.
Banana Splits
The classic vacation treat. Go big.
Dipped Cones
Soft serve dipped in chocolate shell coating. Satisfying crunch.
The Ice Cream Experience
Getting ice cream in Ocean City is more than dessert—it is ritual. The walk to the shop, the decision-making at the counter, the first lick as you step outside, the race to finish before it melts, the sticky hands and happy kids.
Do not skip ice cream. Do not count calories. You are on vacation. Get the waffle cone.