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Whether it is the thrill of a good deal, the relief of finding the perfect gift, or just the fun of browsing the shelves, shopping has become more than a necessity - it is a passion.
Fortunately, Ocean City has all the makings for a perfect shopping adventure. You want beach clothes and surf gear? Head to the Boardwalk, where area surf shops and souvenir stores have everything you need (and much more) for a day at the beach. Find the perfect beach chair, stock up on suntan lotion and pick out a new pair of cool shades and you'll be set for a full day of sun and sand.
Looking for fine art and local crafts? Check out one of Ocean City's many art galleries or festivals, or head to one of the quaint towns on the Shore for unique gift and antique shops. Around the Boardwalk area, you'll find a plethora of unique galleries with fine art inspired by the ocean and festive atmosphere of this exciting beach community.
Craving designer clothes at affordable prices? Yep, we got that too. Spend an afternoon at the outlet mall and find incredible deals on all your favorite brands. Browse through big name stores like Gap, Nautica, IZOD and more.
Sick of paying taxes? No problem. Head up to sales tax-free Delaware, where you can have a tax-free shopping spree. Many people make a day trip to Delaware outlet malls, on a mission to find quality merchandise for less coin.
When it comes to shopping, Ocean City and the surrounding area truly has it all. What are some of the most popular Ocean City finds? "The blue crab is a big deal," says Steve Vickers of Seaside Country Store on Fenwick Island, just a mile up the road from Ocean City. "Really, people are just looking for something that reminds them of the Shore."
Vickers says a lot of his customers (around 3,000 a day at the height of summer) come in looking for the things they've remembered from previous vacations. At Seaside Country Store, it's the gourmet cheeses and freshly made fudge. Another popular buy-nautical decorations. Vickers says he's talked to a lot of people who actually have a room in their house filled with nautical and Shore-themed decorations. "They fill them with sailboats, lighthouse lamps, seagull wall hangings, sandpipers, and surfboard mirrors," he says. "They're looking to bring that relaxed feeling home with them."
And Finally, gifts. There's always someone at home that would appreciate a little memento from your vacation. From handmade crafts to saltwater taffy, there is a wide variety of gifts for any taste.
Of course, sometimes shopping is all about personal indulgence. Splurge on a new fashionable bathing suit, or an outfit for a night on the town. You'll find a unique selection of merchandise, from casual beachwear to designer duds. There are also quite a few jewelry stores with signature necklaces, bracelets and pendants inspired by Ocean City.
Ultimately, shopping in Ocean City is all about having fun and finding things that will remind you of your beach vacation. Whether it is something for a friend, for your home, or just a treat for yourself, taking a little Ocean City home with you is a great way to relive your time on the Shore. "It's all about your week in paradise," says Vickers. "You want something that will remind you of the wonderful time you had."
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