Top 5 Best Seafood Restaurants in Ocean City MD
Are you planning your next trip to the beach and craving the freshest seafood by the shore? You’re in luck! Ocean City is a seafood lover’s paradise, with restaurants serving up everything from crab feasts to elegant fine-dining seafood dishes.
Whether you’re staying in one of our cozy Ocean City, MD vacation rentals or are just dreaming of your next beach getaway, this list of the top 5 best seafood restaurants in Ocean City, MD will make you experience seafood in Ocean City MD like a local.
While most of these restaurants are a bit more upscale, they’re more than worth the trip and are perfect for date night, a birthday dinner, or any other special occasion. (So, if you’re looking for something a bit more casual, Harrisons Harbor Watch is the most casual on this list).
Before we dive in, just remember – If you have any questions about Ocean City, MD or any of our vacation rentals, please don’t hesitate to reach out! Our team is 100% LOCAL and we’re happy to help.
1. BLU Crabhouse & Raw Bar
Starting off at the top of this list is the BLU Crabhouse. Located on the bayside of 23rd Street, BLU Crabhouse & Raw Bar is a must-visit for any seafood enthusiasts. This spot combines a vibrant atmosphere with a menu that celebrates Maryland’s crab culture. Perfect for families looking to dive into a seafood feast, BLU’s welcoming vibe and spacious dining area make it a great stop after a day at the beach.
Their all-you-can-eat crab feasts are a crowd-pleaser, offering three irresistible options (visit blucrabhouse.com for details) that let you crack into as many crabs as your heart desires.
Excited to try something different? Don’t miss the Angry Mussels, a spicy standout with sausage, banana peppers, and chipotle butter that delivers a bold kick with every bite. It’s the kind of dish that keeps you coming back for more.
Blu Crab House Address: 2305 Philadelphia Ave, Ocean City, MD 21842
Book an Ocean City Vacation Rental in Downton OC here!
2. Shark on the Harbor
Next on the list is one of our teams’ favorites! Located in West Ocean City on the fishing Harbor is, Shark on the Harbor. This uniquely ‘elevated’ restaurant offers seafood dining with a focus on local, sustainable ingredients and a regularly updated menu. But let’s not forget to mention the views! Patrons of this establishment will enjoy stunning sunset views over the harbor, where you can watch local fishing boats dock and unload their fresh catches, making it an ideal pick for families of friends wanting a memorable evening out.
The menu is a love letter to coastal flavors, with dishes like the Crispy Oysters, served with a zesty jalapeño tartar and a surprising pop of bourbon-pickled blueberries. For something heartier, try the Jerked Swordfish, paired with Cajun cheddar grits and a vibrant pineapple-peach salsa. It’s a dish that balances spice, sweetness, and savory in every bite.
Shark on the Harbor is a fantastic choice for vacationers seeking refined yet approachable seafood. Check out their offerings at ocshark.com.
Shark On the Harbor Address: 12924 sunset ave, West ocean city, MD, 21842
Book a Nearby Ocean City Vacation Rental here
3. The Hideaway at Seacrets
Tucked along the Bayfront of 50th street is The Hideaway at Seacrets – which is Seacrets’ upscale take on fine seafood dining and cocktails.
We tried it for the first time last week, and let’s just say it’s a game-changer for Ocean City’s dining scene. With its chic vibe and waterfront views, it’s perfect for families looking to elevate their vacation dining experience.
Chef Paul doesn’t disappoint with an entire menu of creative and delicious options. The Seafood Risotto is a showstopper, featuring blackened day boat scallops, lump crab, and shrimp atop creamy risotto with fresh veggies and a zing of basil chive oil. For a lighter option or a starter, the Seared Tuna, with its citrus puree and wasabi sauce, delivers a fresh, flavorful punch that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Visit seacretshideaway.com to reserve your spot at this bayside gem.
Seacrets Hideaway Address: 5005 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD 21842
Book a vacation rental in Midtown OC here!
4. Harrison’s Harbor Watch
A true Ocean City classic, Harrison’s Harbor Watch sits on the south end of OCMD, with breathtaking views of the Ocean City inlet. This is the spot for families who want a more casual yet iconic dining experience, with a menu that’s been delighting visitors for years.
The Mr. Harrison’s Rockfish, topped with rich crab imperial, is a Maryland favorite that combines tender fish with decadent crab in every bite. For an appetizer or entrée, the Bacon-Wrapped Scallops are a crowd-pleaser, offering a smoky-sweet balance that pairs perfectly with the oceanfront setting. Harrison’s laid-back charm makes it a great choice for vacationers looking to soak in the coastal vibe. Explore more menu options at harborwatchrestaurant.com.
Harrisons Harbor Watch Address: 806 S Atlantic Ave #5915, Ocean City, MD 21842
Harrison’s Harbor Watch Website
Book an Ocean City Vacation Rental in Downton OC here!
5. Oysters & Scales
Last, but certainly not least, is the brand-new Oysters & Scales restaurants opened its doors on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 4:00 PM… it’s already making waves.
We were lucky enough to visit, and the experience was nothing short of phenomenal. This upscale restaurant promises an elegant seafood-focused menu with impeccable service, perfect for families looking to celebrate a special vacation moment.
While we’re keeping the menu details a bit mysterious to entice you to visit, expect fresh, artfully prepared dishes that highlight the best of the coast. From the moment you step in, the sophisticated ambiance and attentive staff make it clear this is a dining experience worth savoring. Check out oysterandscales.com and book your table to discover Ocean City’s newest seafood sensation.
Oyster & Scales Address: 306 Dorchester St, Ocean City, MD 21842
Book an Ocean City Vacation Rental in Downton OC here!
Plan Your Ocean City MD Vacation with Central Reservations
Ocean City’s seafood scene is top notch- yet another reason to vacation here! Central Reservations makes it easy to find your ideal vacation rental in OCMD. Explore our diverse options, from Oceanfront to budget-friendly Bayside non-water units, at centraloc.com and book directly to unlock perks like dining coupons.
More Things to Do in Ocean City
Take your OC trip to the next level:
Things to do on your family vacation to Ocean City
Our favorite fine dining restaurants in OC
Bonus: Thinking About a Beach Home?
If being in OC makes you fall in love with our beach-town and you want to consider purchasing your own place at the beach, check out the Fritschle Barker Group’s YouTube Channel—Grant and Jon are ‘THE’ Real Estate experts in Ocean City, MD and can help you find your dream home, condo, or townhome in OC!
Stay Connected with Central Reservations
Check out some of our other blogs for Ocean City vacation tips on places to stay, things to do, and great spots to eat!
Subscribe to our YouTube channel: Vacationing in Ocean City
Book your stay: www.centraloc.com
Call us: (410) 723-4111
Email: info@centraloc.com
BOOK NOW
We can’t wait to see you in Ocean City, MD, for an awesome Labor Day weekend!
See you at the beach soon!
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Central Reservations
Ocean City’s Vacation Rental Leaders
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All images used in this blog post were sourced directly from the official websites of the respective restaurants and businesses mentioned, including Blu Crabhouse, Shark on the Harbor, Seacrets Hideaway, Harrisons Harbor Watch, and Oyster & Scales. Additional images were created or sourced from Canva to enhance the visual appeal of this guide. The restaurants featured were carefully selected based on Central Reservations’ extensive local knowledge of Ocean City, MD, and positive feedback from our past guests, ensuring authentic and guest-approved recommendations.