Many of the big hotels offer sweeping views of the ocean and bay. Striking hotel views are something many of us have come to expect from a stay in Ocean City. But besides being able to see for miles, there are hotels that are ideally placed to get a different view of Ocean City. Alternative views that are particular to the place and maybe show something a little different if no less stunning.
Catty-corner views at The Grand
The Grand long has been known for its spectacular oceanfront experience as well as its distinctive look. The hotel’s pool deck looks out onto the strip and anticipates the sunset, while providing walk-on beach access from the Boardwalk exit. These two photos were taken from the 28th Street exit and the Grand Hotel parking garage, so from the bottom left and top right, respectively.
- People enjoying a bright day at the Grand Hotel pool. As sunset approaches, it’s a great place to enjoy the coming on of evening.
Crossing State Lines
Heading uptown, the newly-opened OC 360 at the top of the Fenwick Inn provides the kinds of views pretty particular to a rooftop bar and restaurant. On the one hand, you can sit inside and enjoy the sites while having your dinner or hanging around at the bar. Alternatively, you can slip out onto the roof deck and enjoy the sun during the day and the sunsets in the evening.
Rethinking grandeur at the Holiday Inn and Suites
Setting aside the multiple deck-pools indoors and out and the astounding views from the rooms, the Holiday Inn and Suites has one of the most astonishing beachfront facades mostly because of its sweeping staircase. Running from the boardwalk to the hotel’s entrance, the staircase has a vaguely hourglass shape that has framed thousands of vacation photos over the years. In fact, it is so easy to get distracted by the beach views that you may forget to appreciate some of the other views the place has to offer.
A sublime afternoon at the Dunes
Even at the height of summer it is easy to feel a pleasant solicitude at the Dunes Manor. Even among other people who are enjoying the view from the storied deck just above the beach you feel as if you have the place all to yourself. But another underrated alternative view is from the beach on the way back to the hotel. Seeing the people relaxing and the solid, stately oceanfront facade of the Dunes gives you a better appreciation for staying inside as well as hanging around outside.
Hiding Out at the Clarion
As a resort hotel it isn’t shocking that the Clarion Fontainebleau is designed in a way that you only have to go out if you want to. What’s fascinating, though, is that its nearly imposing front hides a veritable paradise. In addition to providing grand views both up and down the beach, the outside bar provides a paradoxical combination of privacy and public profile.
