1701 Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, Maryland, United States | (251) 219-4428
Central location adjacent to the boardwalk and the beach
Waterpark-style pool with a slide is popular with families
Large pool complex also features second pool, hot tub, and poolside bar
Private balconies, with many offering lovely ocean views
All rooms have free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs
Decent-size fitness center with weight machines, cardio equipment, and free weights
Formal restaurant gets rave reviews for both its food and ambiance
Well-kept, clean, and pleasant
Parking can be a challenge
Gets crowded during busy season
Furniture and decor in rooms and common areas is somewhat generic and outdated
Some complaints of non-guests sneaking into the pools
This 210-room, mid-range chain hotel is pleasant and inviting, albeit with a somewhat generic feel. With multiple pools, restaurants, and a fitness center, it does offer an array of features to accommodate kids and adults. Its location right on the Ocean City boardwalk is convenient for those wanting plenty of beach and boardwalk time. Rooms are spacious, with fully equipped kitchenettes and private balconies, and some have pretty bay views. The decor and furnishings are somewhat chain-like and outdated, however.
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Scene
A pleasant, mid-range chain hotel that draws beach vacationers of all ages
From the outside, the hotel looks big, boxy, and boring. Once guests step inside, however, they will find a clean and cheerful lobby, with light streaming in and a bit of a beach-y vibe. The furniture and decor could use a refresh, though, as it is fairly generic and uninspiring (picture rattan chairs and potted plants).A large, outdoor pool complex that overlooks the beach is a popular gathering spot for guests. A water-park-style pool tends to fill up with toddlers, kids, and parents. The poolside bar (which is shaded and tucked away a bit) and an adjacent pool attract a more adult, laid-back crowd. College-aged vacationers abound, too. This area can get quite busy during peak season, with some guests complaining that they have even seen non-guests sneaking in from the beach area to use the pools.
Location
This Holiday Inn is right on the lively Ocean City boardwalk
Holiday Inn Ocean City is located right on the boardwalk, which is ideal for vacationers who want to be situated in the heart of the busy beach scene. Right next to the hotel are a jewelry shop and a clothing store. Other shops, as well as cafes and the beach, are also nearby. On the street side, the hotel is surrounded by hotels, condos, and rental properties. The hotel is about a 10-minute drive from Jolly Roger at the Pier amusement park, and about a five-minute drive from the Convention Center.
Rooms
Pretty and clean with ample sunlight, but a bit on the generic side
Most rooms have great views of the ocean or bay. They are light-filled and spacious, with private balconies and kitchenettes equipped with stoves, ovens, fridges, dishes, and microwaves. Bathrooms offer double vanities and whirlpool baths, though some guests have complained that the shape of the baths make it hard to get in and out of the shower. Free Wi-Fi and large, flat-screen TVs are useful additions. Beds are comfortable and offer crisp white linens. The rooms definitely have the feel of a chain hotel, however, with wall-to-wall carpeting and generic furnishings.
Features
With pools and games galore, this hotel is a kid heaven
With a large fitness center, indoor pool, two outdoor pools and a hot tub overlooking The Atlantic Ocean, a café and a formal (pricey) restaurant specializing in local seafood, the Holiday Inn has more amenities than most of its competitors. A game room and water-park-style outdoor pool with a lazy river and slides make this hotel a good oceanfront pick for families with kids. The boardwalk is right outside the hotel, with the beach beyond. There is a huge parking lot, but it can take persistence to find a spot to leave your car.
