Inlet Park | Ocean City

Inlet Park is a small yet charming public space located at the southernmost point of Ocean City, Maryland, at 899 South 2nd Street. Despite its modest size of approximately 0.21 acres, it holds a special place as a tranquil waterfront retreat, offering visitors breathtaking panoramic views where the Isle of Wight Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. Its prime location near the Ocean City Inlet allows for picturesque vistas of the waterway, nearby Assateague Island, and the ocean beyond, making it a favored spot for sightseeing, photography, and quiet reflection.

Park Setting and Layout

Inlet Park is positioned directly adjacent to the Ocean City Inlet, which serves as the vital channel connecting the bay and ocean waters. This setting gives the park a unique maritime atmosphere, blending coastal scenery with gentle sea breezes. The park is easily accessible from the southern end of the Ocean City boardwalk, where a short wooden pier extends slightly into the water, enhancing visitor access to the waterfront and adding to the park’s charm.

The park’s layout includes well-maintained paths, benches, and landscaped areas that encourage leisurely strolls and provide spots to pause and take in the natural surroundings. Interpretive signage educates visitors on the local marine ecosystem and the importance of the inlet as a habitat and navigation route.

Key Features and Attractions

Fishing and Crabbing Access:
Inlet Park is well-known among locals and tourists as a convenient spot for fishing and crabbing. The calm waters of the inlet provide a safe environment to fish from the shore or the small pier. The park’s location offers opportunities to catch species such as striped bass, flounder, and blue crabs, making it popular with anglers of all skill levels.

Viewing Binoculars and Wildlife Observation:
The park features fixed binocular stations along the boardwalk extension, allowing visitors to get closer views of waterfowl, seabirds, and passing boats. Birdwatchers often use these to spot species native to the coastal Maryland region, including osprey, herons, and gulls.

Peter Wolf Toth’s Indian Sculpture:
A prominent and culturally significant element of Inlet Park is the large wooden sculpture created by artist Peter Wolf Toth. Part of his "Trail of Whispering Giants" series, this statue honors Native American heritage and stands as a reminder of the region’s indigenous history.

Ocean City Time Capsule:
The park houses Ocean City’s official time capsule, marked by a marble-topped monument. This capsule contains historical artifacts and memorabilia intended to be opened at a future date, symbolizing the city’s respect for its past and aspirations for the future.

Visitor Amenities and Accessibility

Inlet Park offers a peaceful environment with benches strategically placed for resting and enjoying the scenic water views. Pathways are accessible and accommodate visitors with mobility challenges, ensuring that all guests can experience the park’s natural beauty. Although the park itself is small, its location near the Inlet Parking Lot provides ample parking options with close proximity.

Nearby facilities, including restrooms and food vendors along the boardwalk, complement the park experience. Visitors often combine a visit to Inlet Park with a walk along the historic Ocean City boardwalk, exploring shops, eateries, and attractions.

Parking and Seasonal Access

The adjacent Inlet Parking Lot at 809 South Atlantic Avenue supports approximately 1,200 vehicles, including 35 handicap-accessible spaces. Parking rates vary seasonally:

Spring and Fall (April 1–May 22 and October 1–31): Free parking Monday through Thursday; Friday through Sunday charges apply at $3.50 per hour.

Peak Summer Season (May 23–September 30): Parking charged at $4.50 per hour daily.

The first 30 minutes of parking are free, including for handicapped spaces. Payment can be conveniently made through ParkMobile apps or on-site kiosks. This accessibility makes the park a popular stop for both day visitors and tourists staying nearby.

Nearby Attractions and Integration

Inlet Park’s location offers easy access to several nearby attractions:

Inlet Village: Across the street from the park, this shopping area offers boutiques, galleries, and dining options, perfect for visitors looking to combine nature with leisure and shopping.

Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum: Located directly on the boardwalk near the inlet, this museum presents exhibits on maritime history, the U.S. Life-Saving Service, and local oceanic ecosystems.

The park serves as a gateway between Ocean City’s vibrant boardwalk area and the natural beauty of Assateague Island, providing visitors with a blend of cultural, historical, and outdoor experiences.

Visitor Experience and Recommendations

Visitors to Inlet Park often praise its serene atmosphere and beautiful water views. The spot is ideal for early morning sunrises over the ocean and evening sunsets reflecting over the bay. The availability of fishing and crabbing makes it popular among families and outdoor enthusiasts, while the sculpture and time capsule add unique cultural interest.

For the best experience, visitors are advised to bring fishing gear if they plan to fish, wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the paths and boardwalk, and consider bringing binoculars or a camera to capture the diverse wildlife and scenic vistas.

Summary

Inlet Park is a small but distinctive public park at Ocean City’s southern tip, offering panoramic bay and ocean views, peaceful walking paths, and waterfront fishing access. Its combination of natural beauty, cultural landmarks like the Indian sculpture and time capsule, and proximity to amenities makes it a valuable spot for relaxation, recreation, and reflection within Ocean City’s bustling coastal environment.