5 Last-Minute Summer Trips Near Ocean City

Summer is here, and while there’s plenty to do right in Ocean City, sometimes a quick change of scenery is just what you need. Fortunately, we’re just a short drive from a variety of fun and affordable destinations perfect for a last-minute escape. Whether you're looking to explore somewhere new or just enjoy a quick weekend away, these five easy summer trips come together without the stress — or the price tag — of major travel plans.

Please note: Drive times are approximate and meant to give a general sense of distance. Actual travel time may vary depending on your exact starting point, destination and traffic conditions.

1. Cape May, New Jersey (40 min)

Stroll through streets lined with colorful Victorian homes, relax on quieter beaches, or take a dolphin cruise along the coast. Cape May also boasts boutique shopping, cozy cafés, and one of NJ’s most photographed lighthouses.

2. Brigantine Beach, New Jersey (30 min)

This peaceful, family-friendly beach offers soft sand, gentle waves, and fewer crowds than its neighbor, Atlantic City. It's also a great spot for beachcombing, surfing, or launching a kayak.

3. Batsto Village, Wharton State Forest, New Jersey (1 hr 30 min)

Step into the past at this restored 19th-century ironworks village nestled deep in the Pine Barrens. Wander through old homes, mills, and a general store, then hit the forest trails for a scenic hike or photo op.

4. Corson’s Inlet State Park, New Jersey (10 min)

Just south of Ocean City, this undeveloped beach is a paradise for birdwatchers, anglers, and kayakers. Quiet and pristine, it’s ideal for a peaceful walk among sand dunes and salt marshes.

5. Atlantic City, New Jersey (25 min)

Catch a show, play the slots, or stroll the iconic boardwalk packed with shops, bars, and attractions. Don’t miss the Steel Pier for old-school amusement park vibes right over the ocean.

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