Planning a beach escape from NYC? Ocean City, Maryland sits roughly a half-day road trip away. Expect a drive of about 240–250 miles that typically takes 4.5–6 hours, depending on traffic. You’ll trade skyscrapers for a 10-mile boardwalk, soft sand, and salt-air vibes 🏖️—perfect for a long weekend or a quick midweek getaway.
Distance at a Glance
- By road: About 240–250 miles from New York City to Ocean City, MD.
- Typical drive time: 4.5–6 hours in normal conditions; longer on summer Fridays and Saturdays ⏱️.
- As the crow flies: Approximately 170–175 miles.
- Same time zone: Eastern Time for both cities.
Quick Facts Box
- From: New York City, New York, USA
- To: Ocean City, Maryland, USA
- Best season: Late May–September for beach weather; September is quieter but still warm ☀️
- Language/Currency: English / US Dollar
- Vibe: Classic boardwalk, family-friendly attractions, bayside sunsets 🌅
Driving from NYC to Ocean City, MD
Most travelers drive—the distance is manageable, and having a car makes beach-hopping simple.
Fastest Route (Most Days)
Head south on I‑95 through New Jersey, cross into Delaware near Wilmington, then take DE‑1 S to US‑113 S. Near Ocean City, use MD‑90 E to reach midtown quickly, or continue to MD‑50 E to arrive near the Inlet and boardwalk.
- Why this route: Highways the whole way and fewer small-town slowdowns.
- Tolls: Expect multiple tolls in NJ and on DE‑1; keep a card or transponder handy 💳.
- Timing tip: Leaving NYC after the morning rush (10 a.m.–noon) or later in the evening helps.
Scenic Ferry Route (More Relaxed)
Prefer a break from driving? Go down the Garden State Parkway to Cape May, take the Cape May–Lewes Ferry ⛴️ across Delaware Bay, then continue through the Delaware beaches to Ocean City.
- Time: Usually 5.5–7 hours total, including the 85‑minute crossing and wait times.
- Perks: Dolphin sightings, fresh air, and a fun road‑trip feel.
- Note: Reserve the ferry in advance during summer weekends.
Traffic & Timing Tips
- Avoid peak arrivals: Summer Fridays after 2 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m.–2 p.m. see heavy beach traffic.
- Smart approach: Use MD‑90 for midtown hotels/condos; use MD‑50 if you’re staying near the Inlet/boardwalk.
- Break stops: Good refuel points include Christiana (DE), Dover (DE), and around Berlin (MD) for coffee and gas ☕️.
Other Ways to Get There
Bus 🚌
Seasonal and year‑round buses run between NYC and the Delmarva region, with some services operating directly to Ocean City or nearby towns. Schedules vary by season, with more options in summer. Book early on peak weekends and holidays.
Train + Bus 🚆
No direct train to Ocean City. A workable combo is Amtrak from NYC to Wilmington, Baltimore, or Washington, D.C., then a regional bus or shuttle to Ocean City. It’s comfortable but often slower than driving.
Flight ✈️
There are no routine nonstop flights from NYC to Ocean City. The practical fly‑and‑drive plan is to fly into Baltimore (BWI) or Philadelphia (PHL), rent a car, and drive about 2.5–3 hours to the beach. This can save time if you’re using points or catching a cheap fare.
Estimated Cost Comparison
| Mode | Typical One‑Way Time | Approx. Cost (One‑Way) | Good For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drive 🚗 | 4.5–6 hrs | Fuel + tolls: roughly $45–$90 (varies by vehicle & prices) | Flexibility, beach‑hopping, groups |
| Bus 🚌 | 5.5–8 hrs | About $40–$120 | Budget travelers, solo trips |
| Train + Bus 🚆 | 6–8.5 hrs | About $50–$150+ | Comfort, avoiding driving |
| Fly + Drive ✈️ | 4.5–6.5 hrs (including car pickup) | $150–$400+ airfare, plus car | Points users, short trips |
All costs are rough estimates and swing with season, gas prices, and how early you book 💵.
Best Time to Visit
- June–August: Prime beach weather, lively boardwalk, highest prices and crowds.
- May & September: Warm days, cooler nights, fewer lines—many locals’ favorite weeks.
- October–April: Quiet, lower rates, brisk walks and off‑season charm; limited seasonal attractions ❄️.
Getting Around Once You Arrive
- Ocean City bus: The Coastal Highway bus runs the length of town with an easy day‑pass. Great for skipping beach‑day parking 🅿️.
- Biking: Flat terrain makes cycling fun; mornings are calmer and cooler 🚲.
- Parking: Many hotels include parking; metered street parking is common near the boardwalk in peak season.
Mini Road‑Trip Stops Along the Way
- Lewes & Rehoboth, DE: Boutique shopping, boardwalk snacks, and craft brews.
- Bethany Beach & Fenwick Island: Quieter strands just north of OCMD.
- Berlin, MD: A postcard‑pretty small town with galleries and cafes 📸.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Leaving at peak times: A 10 a.m. start can save an hour versus a 3 p.m. Friday departure.
- Only using MD‑50: If your stay is midtown or north, MD‑90 is usually faster.
- Underestimating tolls: Budget for several, and keep payment ready.
- No ferry reservation: In summer, walk‑ups risk long waits for the Cape May–Lewes Ferry.
Key Takeaways for Travelers
- The drive is straightforward: about 240–250 miles and 4.5–6 hours.
- MD‑90 is the quick midtown entry; MD‑50 is best for the Inlet/boardwalk.
- Summer weekends are busy—leave early or late for smoother sailing.
- Consider the ferry route for a scenic break and vacation‑mode vibes ⛴️.
FAQs
How many miles is it from New York City to Ocean City, Maryland?
By road, it’s roughly 240–250 miles, depending on your exact starting point and the route you take.
How long does the drive usually take?
Plan on 4.5–6 hours in normal conditions. Add extra time for summer weekend traffic, ferry waits (if you choose that route), and food or fuel stops.
What’s the best driving route?
I‑95 S to DE‑1 S to US‑113 S, then MD‑90 E for midtown or MD‑50 E for the Inlet area. It’s the most consistent, highway‑heavy path.
Is there a direct train from NYC to Ocean City?
No. The practical alternative is Amtrak to Wilmington, Baltimore, or D.C., then a bus or shuttle to Ocean City.
Can I take a ferry part of the way?
Yes. Drive to Cape May, NJ, take the Cape May–Lewes Ferry to Delaware, and continue to Ocean City. It’s scenic but usually a bit slower overall.
Are there many tolls on the way?
Yes—especially in New Jersey and on Delaware’s Route 1. Keep a payment method ready or use an electronic transponder to breeze through.
Where should I park in Ocean City?
Most hotels and condos offer parking. Near the boardwalk, expect metered or paid lots during peak season. The town bus is handy if you’d rather skip parking altogether.
What’s the best month for good weather and fewer crowds?
September often hits the sweet spot: warm water, sunny days, and a calmer boardwalk after Labor Day.
Conclusion
New York City to Ocean City, Maryland is an easy coastal hop—just 240–250 miles and a half‑day’s drive. Time your departure wisely, pick the right approach (MD‑90 or MD‑50), and consider the ferry if you want a breezy break. Pack sunscreen, beach snacks, and go enjoy that boardwalk glow 🌊☀️.