Holiday Inn Ocean City

The Holiday Inn Ocean City is housed in a large, boxy building set between the Coastal Highway and the beach. Inside, the decor is chain-like and rather unremarkable, with blue accent walls, off-white tiled floors, and a few generic armchairs. Most rooms were renovated in 2019, but indoor common areas feel worn and dated, with frayed, stained carpets, old elevators, and dull hallways with chipping paint. The outdoor spaces are nicer, with ample decks full of loungers, a pleasant pool, and a few green areas. In the spring and summer, the pool is full of bright, blooming flowers, which add a touch of charm to the deck.
The hotel is relatively quiet until summer weekends, which is when the pool and bar area start buzzing with kids and live music. The hotel vibe is casual and laid-back, although it fills up with families, couples, and groups of ocean-loving vacationers, especially during the height of beach season.

Located on the main, six-lane highway that runs through the heart of Ocean City, the Holiday Inn’s oceanfront location makes it a convenient spot for beach lovers and families on vacation. There are a few restaurants nearby, but little else of general interest can be found within walking distance. About a 10-minute drive north of the famous Ocean City Boardwalk, the hotel is removed from the heart of the Ocean City action in a less walkable neighborhood. This means a quieter, mellower beach experience. The 24-hour bus stops right next to the property. Child-friendly attraction such as Jolly Roger Amusement Park, Viking Golf & Go-Karts, and the Splash Mountain Water Park are less than a 10-minute drive away.

Most of the hotel’s 216 rooms received updates in 2019, including new carpets and furniture, and fresh paint. Style-wise, the rooms are rather run-of-the-mill, due to a neutral palette, classic wooden furniture, and beige bed skirts. But touches such as wood-like accent walls and chocolate-colored curtains make rooms pleasant and homey. They are also spacious, clean, and comfortable, with either queen or king beds topped by white duvets, and double sofa beds for additional guests.
All rooms have kitchenettes equipped with coffeemakers, stoves, full fridges, microwaves, toasters, and dishwashers. Other amenities include 32-inch, flat-screen TVs, DVD players, and free Wi-Fi. Additionally, all units feature private balconies with a couple of chairs and either side or full ocean views. Eastern Oceanfront rooms have the best views, including of the sunset.
Bathrooms were not fully renovated during the 2019 updates and some are starting to show their age. Most are outfitted with shower/tub combos, and all come with a small range of toiletries and hairdryers.

Aside from direct access to a long, sandy beach via a foot path, the Holiday Inn Ocean City offers an array of on-site features that cater to both adults and kids. A definite highlight is the outdoor pool, which is spacious and features a swim-up bar that is open seasonally. There are a few dozen loungers around the pool, as well as a fenced-in area for sunning that features hammocks and additional seating, but little shade is available. Seasonal kids’ entertainment includes popular magic shows, and there’s generally some music around the pool. The game room, complete with arcade machines, is a perk for evenings and rainy days. The indoor pool is a good size and features a few chairs, two hot tubs, and a sauna that guests can use free of charge. There is also a tennis court and a decent-sized fitness center with cardio equipment, free weights, and a tanning bed.
For business travelers, the hotel offers 6,000 square feet of event space, including six meeting rooms with audiovisual equipment. The 24-hour business center features a couple of computers and printing services. Other convenient perks include guest laundry facilities, free coffee in the lobby, and free, ample outdoor parking.
As for dining options, the hotel is home to Touch of Italy, a pleasant Italian restaurant that gets consistently good reviews. It opens for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Snacks are available at the pool bar during the warmer months.