Shopping in Ocean City NJ ranges from classic boardwalk souvenirs to upscale boutiques to everything-you-need beach supply stores. Whether you forgot something essential, want to bring home gifts, or just love to browse, OCNJ has you covered. Here is your complete guide to shopping at the shore.
Boardwalk Shopping
The 2.5-mile boardwalk is lined with shops offering classic beach town merchandise:
What You Will Find
- T-shirts and apparel: Ocean City branded shirts, hoodies, and beach wear at dozens of shops
- Beach gear: Boogie boards, beach chairs, umbrellas, toys
- Souvenirs: Magnets, keychains, shot glasses, ornaments
- Fudge and candy: Shriver’s and other sweet shops
- Jewelry: Shell jewelry, beach-themed accessories
- Hermit crabs: A boardwalk tradition for kids (commitment required)
Boardwalk Shopping Tips
- Prices vary between shops—compare if buying multiple items
- Early evening is less crowded than after dinner
- Haggling is not typical, but multi-item discounts might be offered
- Quality varies widely—check items before purchasing
Asbury Avenue Shopping
The main downtown shopping street runs parallel to the boardwalk. More variety and better quality than boardwalk tourist shops:
Boutiques and Specialty Shops
- Clothing boutiques with non-touristy fashion
- Home decor shops with coastal themes
- Gift shops with higher-end merchandise
- Art galleries featuring local artists
- Jewelry stores with quality pieces
Practical Shops
- Pharmacies for forgotten necessities
- Hardware stores for rental property needs
- Office supply stores
- Pet supply shops
Best Shops by Category
Beach and Surf Gear
Heritage Surf and Sport (Asbury Avenue): Quality surf shop with boards, wetsuits, beach gear, and clothing. Staff actually surfs and provides good advice.
7th Street Surf Shop: Another solid option for surf and beach equipment.
Various boardwalk shops: Good for cheap boogie boards and basic beach toys.
Books
Ocean City has limited bookstore options. For books, you may need to visit the library or bring your own. Some gift shops carry beach reads.
Gifts and Souvenirs
Shriver’s: Famous for saltwater taffy and fudge since 1898. The original OCNJ souvenir.
Johnson’s Popcorn: That distinctive caramel popcorn smell is an OCNJ signature.
Christmas shops: Year-round holiday stores with beach-themed ornaments.
Clothing
Boardwalk shops: Tourist T-shirts and basic beach wear
Asbury Avenue boutiques: Better quality clothing for those wanting more than “I heart OCNJ” shirts
Grocery Shopping
Acme (34th Street)
The main full-service grocery store on the island. Everything you need for cooking at your rental:
- Fresh produce and meats
- Deli counter
- Bakery
- Beach snacks and drinks
- Sunscreen and basic supplies
Convenience Stores
Wawa and other convenience stores scattered throughout for quick needs—milk, coffee, snacks.
Liquor Stores
Remember: Ocean City is a dry town. No alcohol sold anywhere on the island. For beer, wine, and spirits, drive to:
Canal’s Discount Liquors (Somers Point): Just over the 9th Street bridge. Best selection and prices. Stock up before heading to OCNJ.
Other Somers Point stores: Several options in Somers Point, all within 5-10 minutes.
Outlet Shopping
Tanger Outlets (Atlantic City)
About 20 minutes north, the outlets offer major brand shopping at discount prices:
- Nike, Under Armour, Coach, Kate Spade
- Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic
- Kitchen and home stores
- Free parking, outdoor mall
Good rainy day activity or planned shopping trip.
What to Buy in Ocean City
Classic OCNJ Souvenirs
- Shriver’s saltwater taffy
- Johnson’s caramel popcorn
- Ocean City sweatshirt (you will want one for cool evenings)
- Seashell crafts
- Boardwalk game prizes you actually win
Practical Purchases
- Boogie boards (good ones are worth buying)
- Beach chairs (if you will return—rentals add up)
- Quality sunscreen
- Beach bags and coolers
Special Finds
- Local art from Asbury Avenue galleries
- Handmade jewelry
- Vintage and antique pieces from occasional shops
Shopping Tips
- Bring cash for small boardwalk purchases—some vendors have card minimums
- Compare prices—similar items vary widely between shops
- Shop early or late—midday crowds make browsing difficult
- Check return policies—some tourist shops are final sale
- Ask about locals discounts—some shops offer deals
What Not to Forget
Pack these so you don’t have to buy them at beach town prices:
- Sunscreen (marked up at beach shops)
- Beach towels
- Flip flops
- Basic medications
- Phone chargers
- Books and entertainment
Shopping as Entertainment
Beyond necessity, shopping in OCNJ is part of the experience. The boardwalk shops are entertainment—browsing, watching taffy being made, smelling the fudge and popcorn. It is sensory and fun, even if you don’t buy much.
Bring some cash, allow time for browsing, and enjoy the classic beach town shopping experience. You will find something worth bringing home.