If you’re an 18-year-old traveler and dreaming of a trip to Ocean City, I have something to offer you! While many hotels have a 21+ room policy, I found and checked modern, welcoming Ocean City hotels with 18+ to check-in for young adults.
Just show your ID and pay for your room, and you’re ready to immerse yourself in the city that never sleeps. So, buckle up for a guide that bypasses age restrictions and reveals hot spots where you’ll get a hassle-free check-in. Ready for the adventure of a lifetime in Ocean City? Let’s dive in!
In This Article
11 Ocean City Hotels with 18+ to Check-In
Ocean City welcomes a lot of teenagers and young adults yearly. Finding hotel accommodations for travelers aged 18 and under can be challenging with minimum check-in age requirements.
Fortunately, Ocean City has no shortage of 18+ friendly lodging options spanning all boroughs and budgets. Turning our attention to the top hotels for under 18+ check-in, here are 11 highly-rated Ocean City hotels to consider.
1. Hilton Suites Ocean City Oceanfront
Price: Luxury | Stars: 4 | Location: 4.4 miles from the center, View on map
The Hilton Ocean City Oceanfront Suites provide luxurious beachfront accommodation with various facilities, from fully-equipped suite rooms to open-air swimming pools. This hotel is close to the Roland E. Powell Convention Center and is approximately 30 miles away from the Salisbury-Ocean City Wicomico Regional Airport. Indulge in on-site dining choices or venture out to discover the nearby attractions for a satisfying experience in Ocean City.
FACILITIES | DETAILS |
Nearest airports: | Salisbury-Wicomico County Regional - 29 miles (34-minute drive) |
Public transportation: | The closest station to Hilton Suites Ocean City Oceanfront is the Coastal Hwy at 32nd Street, 131 yards away, 3 min walking distance. The transit route from South Division Street Transit to 144TH Street Transit Station is the initial bus service heading towards Hilton Suites Ocean City Oceanfront in the Washington, D.C. - Baltimore, MD area. It makes a stop in the vicinity around 3:00 AM. |
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2. Courtyard by Marriott Ocean City Oceanfront
Price: Low | Stars: 2 | Location: 3.1 miles from the center, View on map
Courtyard by Marriott Ocean City Oceanfront is close to Jolly Roger at the Pier and Ripley. It offers a pleasant accommodation experience with its chic accommodations, outstanding hospitality, and various facilities. Furthermore, experience a compact refrigerator and microwave in your beachfront hotel room in Ocean City. Its advantageous positioning makes it well-suited for those traveling for leisurely trips.
FACILITIES | DETAILS |
Nearest airports: | Ocean City Municipal Airport - 5.0 miles (10-minute drive) |
Public transportation: | The nearest stops to Courtyard by Marriott Jacksonville Beach Oceanfront are at N 3rd St + N 9th Ave, approximately 256 yards away, and it is only a 4-minute stroll. The fastest bus route is from Beach Blvd & Kernan Blvd, Jacksonville, which takes around 43 minutes and costs about $1.75. |
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3. Holiday Inn Ocean City
Price: Mid | Stars: 3 | Location: 6.2 miles from the center, View on map
Holiday Inn Ocean City is near the Art League of Ocean City and the Ocean City Convention Center. The incredible thing about this hotel is its beachfront location, perfect for younger guests who want to soak up the sun and relish the sea. Indulge in a leisurely morning meal, afternoon lunch, or a laid-back midday repast at The Coral Reef Cafe.
FACILITIES | DETAILS |
Nearest airports: | Ocean City Municipal Airport - 5 miles (38-minute drive) |
Public transportation: | The Ocean City Beach Bus operates between the South Division Street Transit Station and the 144th Street Transit Station, offering an all-day bus pass for $3 per individual. Take note: There is no shuttle from the airport; the best way is to use public transportation, Washington, Delaware, approximately from the hotel. Additionally, a single parking pass will be supplied per room during check-in. |
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4. Princess Bayside Beach Hotel
Price: Low | Stars: 2 | Location: 5 miles from the center, View on the map
Located near Seacrets Distilling Company and Jolly Roger Amusement Park, this hotel is just a few steps to the Beach and the Assawoman Bay. It also gives a distinct stay experience with its rooftop pool and bar. Its proximity to the beach and the watersport center makes it a perfect destination for water lovers.
FACILITIES | DETAILS |
Nearest airports: | Ocean City Municipal Airport - 6.6 miles (14-minute drive) |
Public transportation: | The closest bus stop to Princess Bayside Beach Hotel (Princess Bayside Beach Ocean City) is Coastal Hwy. It is between 49th and 48th Streets. There are also bus lines to Princess Bayside Beach Hotel, such as the South Division Street Transit Station and 144th Street Transit Station. |
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5. Quality Inn Boardwalk
Price: Mid | Stars: 2 | Location: 3.1 miles from the center, View on map
Quality Inn Boardwalk is one of the best hotels in Ocean City, which sits near the Jolly Roger at the Pier and Ripley’s. Quality Inn Boardwalk offers a comfortable stay with its amenities and prime beachfront Location. The hotel’s proximity to major attractions makes it an ideal choice for young travelers.
FACILITIES | DETAILS |
Nearest airports: | Millville Municipal Airport - 4.3 miles (8-minute drive) |
Public transportation: | The closest station to Quality Inn is Coastal Hwy Between 15th And 16th Street, which is 300 yards away, a 4-minute walk and the most likely bus lines that stop near Quality Inn are the Amtrank Thruway Connecting Service. |
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6. Commander Hotel & Suites
Price: Mid | Stars: 2 | Location: 3.1 miles from the center, View on map
Commander Hotel sits close to Ripley’s Believe It or Not and the Jolly Roger at the Pier. You can have the luxury of options with three distinct buildings. The oceanfront structure boasts stunning views, direct boardwalk access, and private balconies. The Cabana building provides roomy suites with full kitchens, pool vistas, and a family dining area. Enjoy easy access to all Ocean City offers, including a tranquil retreat in the midst of it all.
FACILITIES | DETAILS |
Nearest airports: | Salisbury–Ocean City–Wicomico Regional Airport - 28.3 miles (40-minute drive) |
Public transportation: | The nearest stops to Commander Beach House Hotel include Coastal Hwy Between 20th And 21st Street, approximately 97 yards away and a 2-minute walk. The initial bus, heading to Commander Beach House Hotel in Washington, D.C. - Baltimore, MD, is the South Division Street Transit Station - 144TH Street Transit Station, with a stop scheduled at approximately 3:15 AM nearby. |
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7. Carousel Resort Hotel & Condominiums
Price: Luxury | Stars: 3 | Location: 8.1 miles from the center, View on map
The Carousel Oceanfront Resort Hotel & Condominiums is an ideal destination for your upcoming getaway. You can take here the sole indoor ice rink in Ocean City, various dining selections, an outdoor terrace with live music, and both indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Additionally, you can enjoy, a wellness facility with a gym and sauna, and a multitude of exclusive events. Make your hotel booking at Carousel Resort Hotel & Condominiums and have ample entertainment for both children and young adults.
FACILITIES | DETAILS |
Nearest airports: | Salisbury-Ocean City Airport - 30.5 miles (36-minute drive) |
Public transportation: | If you are in a hurry from Salisbury, the quickest way to get to Carousel Resort Hotel and Condominiums, Ocean City, is to use a taxi, which will charge you around $140 - $180 and take 45 min. |
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8. Beach Plaza Hotel
Price: Mid | Stars: 3 | Location: 3.9 miles from the center, View on map
Beach Plaza Hotel in Ocean City provides 3-star lodging within a 25-minute stroll from the renowned Trimper’s Rides Amusement Park. Like many hotels in Ocean City, The Beach Plaza Hotel offers land-based recreational pursuits and outdoor activities. This includes options like bike rental and a golf course, ensuring a range of enjoyable experiences for you.
FACILITIES | DETAILS |
Nearest airports: | Salisbury–Ocean City–Wicomico Regional Airport - 28.2 miles (40-minute drive) |
Public transportation: | The Coastal Highway "Beach Bus" is part of the public transportation system, featuring amiable and well-informed drivers willing to transport you either southward to the South Division Street Transit Center or northward. Additionally, there is a bus stop at 14th Street, which is approximately a 10-minute stroll away. |
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9. Grand Hotel Ocean City Oceanfront
Price: Mid | Stars: 3 | Location: 3.7 miles from the city center, View on Map
Grand Hotel Ocean City Oceanfront is located on the beach and in a walkable area with good shopping. As a budget-friendly oceanfront accommodation, the Grand Hotel is ideally positioned seaside along the renowned downtown Ocean City Boardwalk, establishing it as a top-notch destination.
FACILITIES | DETAILS |
Nearest airports: | Salisbury–Ocean City–Wicomico Regional Airport - 28.8 miles (36-minute drive) |
Public transportation: | The closest bus stop to the Grand Hotel in Ocean City sits between Coastal Hwy 18th And 19th Street, and they are just a 6-minute stroll away. For those staying beyond Ocean City or planning a day visit without wanting to deal with traffic, make use of the West Ocean City Park and Ride. They are positioned just to the west of the Rt. 50 drawbridge. This Park n Ride offers more than 700 complimentary parking spaces and a regular shuttle service that takes travelers to the town's South Division Street Transit Center. |
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10. Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City, an IHG Hotel
Price: Luxury | Stars: 3 | Location: 3.1 miles from the city center, View on map
Conveniently located in the city’s heart, Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City, an IHG Hotel City, offers an ideal beach setting with the added luxury of high-end amenities. Enjoy a breathtaking ocean panorama from one of the hotel’s roomy suites, each wholly refurbished and furnished with a private balcony. This oceanfront property also has an on-site restaurant and an indoor and outdoor swimming pool.
FACILITIES | DETAILS |
Nearest airports: | Salisbury-Ocean City. Airport - 23.4 miles (29-minute drive) |
Public transportation: | The Ocean City Beach Bus operates between the South Division Street Transit Station and the 144th Street Transit Station. The cost is $3 per individual for a full-day bus pass. Children measuring 42 inches or shorter travel at no charge. Wilmington, Delaware station, which is approximately 70 miles from the hotel, is also accessible. |
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11. Gateway Hotel & Suites, Ascend Hotel Collection
Price: Mid | Stars: 2 | Location: 2.5 miles from the center, View on map
Gateway Hotel & Suites, Ascend Hotel Collection provides an excellent location, placing you within a 5-minute stroll from Ocean City Boardwalk. You can enjoy a meal at the café and visit the gym for exercise. Additional features encompass a seasonal open-air pool and a patio.
FACILITIES | DETAILS |
Nearest airports: | Salisbury–Ocean City–Wicomico Regional Airport - 27.4 miles (31-minute drive) |
Public transportation: | With its outstanding transportation amenities, Gateway Hotel & Suites, part of the Ascend Hotel Collection, guarantees all the essentials to maximize your visit. You can board a bus from the Best Western Orlando Gateway Hotel to Walt Disney World, passing through G6 - Westgate Palace Resort, G13 - Staybridge Suites Orlando, and Central. |
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More Ocean City (Maryland) Hotels with 18+ Check-in
Here are several hotels in Ocean City for young adults that offer comfortable and enjoyable stay:
- Ocean Lodge Motel-New Building
- Castle in the Sand
- Fenwick Inn
- Ocean Lodge – New Building, Ocean Pines Hostels
Alternatives to Hotels for 18-Year-Olds
In addition to the 18+ hotels, Ocean City offers several alternative convenient accommodation options. Some of them include:
Apartments
Apartment rentals can provide more space and amenities than hotel rooms at competitive rates for 18+ travelers. As a young traveler, you’ll get a smooth check-in process. Here are some Ocean City apartment options that may work for younger guests:
- Fun & Comfy Beachside Getaway
- Nock Apartments
- Cozy condo steps from the ocean and Seacrets
- Dhimas Apartments 209
Airbnb
Airbnb can be a great option for 18-year-old travelers on a budget looking for accommodations in Ocean City without strict age policies. Hosts occasionally update their minimum age requirements, so verifying the policy before booking is a good idea. However, allowing 18-year-olds is the norm for most hosts.
Youth Hostels
Youth hostels offer affordable social accommodations for young tourists on a budget. Many Ocean City hostels welcome 18-year-old guests. While quite affordable, these accommodations may lack some comfort and privacy compared to other options.
FAQ
How Old Do You Have to Be to Check-in at a Hotel in Ocean City?
Regarding the hotel policies in Ocean City, you should be at least 18 years old to check-in. Additionally, you will need to present valid identification.
How to Get Around 21 Check-in Age?
To get around 21 check-in age, you can use third-party booking sites that may not enforce age minimums. You can also call the hotel directly and politely ask about making exceptions for guests aged 18, especially with parental consent.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Stay in a Hotel With Your Boyfriend?
Most hotels require guests to be 18, so an 18-year-old can generally share a room with their boyfriend. However, some hotels only allow this with parental/guardian consent provided at check-in.
Are There Any Extra Fees or Deposits Required for 18+ Check-in at These Hotels?
Yes, hotels that allow 18+ check-in often require an extra cash deposit, usually around $100, in case of incidentals or damages during the stay.
Are There Any Restrictions on the Number of People Allowed in a Room for 18+ Check-in?
Yes, hotels often restrict 18+ check-ins to only allowing a maximum of 2 people per room. More than 2 guests usually require a guardian/parent to check in or stay.
What Forms of Identification Are Accepted for 18+ Check-in?
For 18-years-old guest identification hotels accept a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a passport. You will also need to present an additional form of official identification like a major credit card in your name.
What Are the Alternatives to Hotels for 18-Year-Olds?
Hostels, short-term rentals like Airbnb, camping, Couchsurfing, and staying with family/friends are some alternatives 18-year-olds can consider for accommodation in Ocean City.