Ocean City NJ earned its title “America’s Greatest Family Resort” because it absolutely delivers for kids. From beach play to boardwalk rides to water adventures, children of all ages will find plenty to do here. This guide covers the best kids activities in OCNJ.
Beach Activities
The beach is the ultimate kid zone:
Building and Digging
- Sandcastles and sand sculptures
- Digging to China (they all try)
- Buried treasure hunts
- Moats and channels
Bring buckets, shovels, and molds—or buy cheap sets at any beach shop.
Wave Play
- Jumping waves with parents
- Boogie boarding
- Body surfing
- Skim boarding (older kids)
Beach Games
- Frisbee and catch
- Beach paddle ball
- Kite flying (steady ocean breeze)
- Beach volleyball
Boardwalk Fun
Gillian’s Wonderland Pier (6th Street)
The family-friendly pier with rides perfect for younger kids:
- Giant Wheel: Gentle ferris wheel with ocean views
- Carousel: Classic ride kids love
- Tea cups and spinning rides: Mild thrills
- Kiddie rides: Trains, cars, planes for little ones
- Bumper cars: Family favorite
Playland’s Castaway Cove (10th Street)
More intense rides for older kids:
- Log flume: Gets you wet but worth it
- Python coaster: For kids ready for thrills
- Gale Force: For the bravest (height requirements apply)
- Arcade: Hundreds of games and prizes
Boardwalk Games
Win prizes at classic boardwalk games:
- Water gun racing
- Basketball shooting
- Ring toss
- Skee ball
- Claw machines
Arcades
Jilly’s Arcade
The biggest arcade on the boardwalk with:
- Classic arcade games
- Ticket redemption games
- Racing simulators
- VR experiences
- Prize shop
Bring quarters or buy game cards.
Mini Golf
Kids love mini golf, and OCNJ has great courses:
- Congo Falls (10th Street): African safari theme with waterfalls
- Goofy Golf (12th Street): Oceanfront classic
- Haunted Golf: Indoor blacklight course
- Tee Time Golf: 36 holes for serious mini golfers
Water Activities for Kids
Bay Side
The calm bay is perfect for kids:
- Kayaking with parents
- Pedal boats
- Crabbing (exciting and easy)
- Calm water swimming
Ocean City Aquatic Center
Indoor and outdoor pools with:
- Water slides
- Splash zones
- Shallow pools for little ones
- Perfect for rainy days or pool breaks
Playgrounds
Sometimes kids just need to climb:
- 6th Street Playground: Updated equipment, near downtown
- 34th Street Playground: Good mid-island option
- 44th Street Park: South end option
See our full Playgrounds guide for details.
Wildlife and Nature
Crabbing
Kids go crazy for crabbing:
- Exciting action (crabs actually show up)
- Easy to do (chicken necks and a net)
- Educational and fun
- Bay docks throughout OCNJ
Dolphin Watching
Boat tours from the marina show kids dolphins in the wild. See them jumping, playing, and swimming alongside the boat.
Corson’s Inlet
Nature walks, bird watching, and natural beaches at the south end of the island.
Entertainment
Music Pier Concerts
Free family-friendly concerts on summer evenings. Bring beach chairs and snacks.
Movies on the Beach
Summer movie screenings right on the sand. Check the events calendar.
Movies at the Theater
Frank Theatres at Shore Mall for rainy day movies.
Food Kids Love
Boardwalk food is built for kids:
- Pizza: Everywhere
- Ice cream: Multiple shops every block
- Fudge: Shriver’s is a classic
- Johnson’s Popcorn: That caramel smell
- Funnel cakes: The ultimate treat
- French fries: Boardwalk style with vinegar
Daily Schedule Ideas
Toddler Day
Morning playground → Beach (shade important) → Nap → Gentle boardwalk rides → Early dinner → Ice cream
Elementary Age Day
Beach morning → Boardwalk lunch → Arcade/mini golf → More beach → Rides after dinner
Mixed Ages Day
Beach morning → Split up (little kids at Gillian’s, bigger kids at Playland) → Regroup for dinner → Everyone on boardwalk
Tips for Kids at OCNJ
- Pace yourselves: You have all week (or however long)
- Nap time matters: Tired kids are cranky kids
- Sun protection: Sunscreen, hats, shade breaks
- Hydration: Water, not just soda
- Budget for treats: Boardwalk stuff adds up
- Meeting spots: Establish where to meet if separated
- Wristbands: For young kids, include your phone number
Why Kids Love OCNJ
Ocean City is designed for families. The dry town policy keeps the atmosphere wholesome. The boardwalk is safe and fun. The beaches are clean and lifeguarded. Kids can be kids here—running, playing, riding rides, eating ice cream, and making the kind of summer memories they will carry forever.
This is why families come back year after year. OCNJ just works for kids.