Ocean City, Maryland offers some of the best on-the-water experiences on the East Coast, including jet skiing along Assateague Island, pontoon boat cruises through the coastal bays, dolphin watching, sandbar hopping at low tide, bay fishing, crabbing, and kayaking through salt marshes. The town sits between the Atlantic Ocean and two large coastal bays — the Sinepuxent Bay and the Assawoman Bay — giving visitors access to calm bay waters, open ocean surf, and the protected shores of Assateague Island National Seashore.
1. Jet Skiing Along Assateague Island
Jet skiing is one of the most popular water activities in Ocean City, and for good reason. The bay waters between OC and Assateague Island offer miles of open riding area with calm, protected conditions — perfect for both beginners and experienced riders.
OCA Watersports' jet ski rentals stand apart because of the route. Instead of a small, roped-off circle, OCA gives riders access to the largest riding area in Ocean City and the Famous 6 Mile Ride — a self-guided route along the Assateague Island shoreline that passes sandbars, dolphin feeding areas, and the stretches of beach where wild horses graze. Rides are 70 minutes, and you ride at your own pace with full freedom.
2. Pontoon Boat Cruises on the Bay
For groups, families, and anyone who wants a more relaxed pace, a pontoon boat rental turns the bay into your own private cruise. Pontoons at OCA accommodate up to 6-10 passengers and run 2 or more hours — plenty of time to explore the coastline, anchor at sandbars, and take in the scenery.
Bring a cooler, a Bluetooth speaker, and sunscreen. Cruise south toward Assateague, stop at a sandbar for a swim, and keep an eye out for dolphins and wild horses. Pontoon boating is the most underrated activity in Ocean City — once you do it, you will understand why families come back for it year after year.
3. Dolphin Watching
Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are a regular presence in the coastal bays around Ocean City from late May through September. The waters between OC and Assateague Island are a known feeding ground, and sightings are common during morning and late afternoon hours.
You do not need a dedicated dolphin tour to see them. Riders on OCA's 6 Mile Ride — both jet ski and pontoon — frequently spot dolphins during their trips. The key is being on the water in the right place (the southern bay near Assateague) at the right time (early morning or late afternoon). OCA's route puts you in that zone every single ride.
4. Sandbar Hopping
At low tide, sandbars rise from the bay floor throughout the Sinepuxent Bay, creating shallow wading areas surrounded by open water. These natural sand islands are one of Ocean City's best-kept secrets — and the only way to reach them is by boat.
On a pontoon boat from OCA, you can pull right up to a sandbar, anchor, and wade in ankle-deep water in the middle of the bay. It is a surreal experience: standing in warm, crystal-clear water with Assateague Island on one side and the Ocean City skyline on the other. Bring water shoes, a cooler, and a camera.
5. Visiting the Wild Horses of Assateague Island
Assateague Island is a 37-mile barrier island and National Seashore that sits just south of Ocean City. It is home to more than 80 wild horses that have roamed freely since the 1600s. Most visitors see the island by driving across the Route 611 bridge. But the best view is from the water.
OCA's 6 Mile Ride follows the bay side of Assateague Island, where the horses frequently come down to the waterline to graze and drink. From a jet ski or pontoon boat, you can see them without the crowds, the parking lots, or the limited vantage points of the land-based experience. Read our full guide: How to See Wild Horses on Assateague Island from the Water.
6. Bay Fishing and Crabbing
The coastal bays around Ocean City are rich fishing and crabbing grounds. Flounder, bluefish, sea trout, and striped bass are all common catches depending on the season. Blue crabs — the Maryland staple — are abundant in the bays from June through October.
With a pontoon boat rental from OCA, you can anchor in productive fishing spots and drop lines right from the deck. Bring your own gear and a valid Maryland fishing license. The bay-side waters near Assateague are particularly productive because of the shallow grass beds that attract baitfish and crabs.
7. Kayaking and Paddleboarding
For a quieter experience on the water, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are excellent options in the protected bay waters behind Ocean City. The Assawoman Bay and the canals that thread through the town offer calm, flat-water conditions ideal for beginners.
Kayaking is a great complement to a jet ski or pontoon day — one day for adrenaline, one day for peace. Several outfitters in the area rent kayaks and SUPs by the hour.
Plan Your Day on the Water
The best way to experience Ocean City's water is to get on it. Whether you want the adrenaline of a jet ski, the relaxation of a pontoon cruise, or the full Assateague Island experience on the 6 Mile Ride, OCA Watersports puts you in the middle of everything the bay has to offer.
We are located at 12817 Harbor Rd, Ocean City, MD 21842 — right on the bay with direct water access. Book online or call 410-629-RIDE (7433). Summer slots fill fast — reserve yours early.
