Top 5 Ocean City Ice Cream Shops: A Vacationer’s Guide by OC Locals
Nothing says “OCMD Beach Vacation” like a nighttime ice cream run with the family. After a long day of sunshine at the beach, grabbing some ice cream with your family is something we consider a necessity.
Ocean City has a TON of different ice cream shops that serve up delicious sweet treats perfect for the kids… but we all know parents enjoy them just as much. As year-round locals, we’ve been around the block when it comes to ice cream at the beach.
Today, we’ve rounded up the top five spots ice cream shops in Ocean City that’ll make your taste buds dance! Whether you’re after classic scoops or something totally unique, these shops are guaranteed to scoop up smiles for the whole crew.
Top 5 Ice Cream Destinations in Ocean City
Dumsers Dairyland
A trip to Ocean City isn’t complete without a stop at Dumsers Dairyland, a beloved tradition in OC since 1939. With seven locations across town, their homemade ice cream is churned daily for ultimate freshness. It’s the perfect spot to create those classic OC memories.
Location: We could bore you with 7 straight addresses- but we figured it may be more efficient just to give you a link with all of Dumsers’ locations!
Favorite Items:
- Chocolate Peanut Butter – Rich, creamy, and a family favorite
- Orange Sherbet – Refreshing and perfect for hot days
- Banana Split – A shareable classic loaded with toppings
Dumsers Website: www.dumsersdairyland.com
If you’re looking for quality, Dumsers is for you. Their history in OC speaks for itself, and their generous portions make it a hit with families.
Kohr Bros Frozen Custard
Kohr Brothers is another OC boardwalk legend, serving creamy frozen custard since the 1920s. Their quick service and wallet-friendly prices make it a go-to for families on the move. You can’t miss their iconic stand while strolling the south end of the OCMD boardwalk.
Here are a few of our favorites from Kohr Bros:
- Orange and Vanilla Twist Cone – A refreshing, tangy classic
- Chocolate Custard – Silky and rich, great with sprinkles
- Peanut Butter Swirl – A creamy indulgence for nut lovers
Website: www.kohrbros.com
Kohr Brothers’ frozen custard is smoother than ice cream and perfect for a quick beachside treat. Their historic charm adds a sprinkle of nostalgia to every visit.
Island Creamery
Island Creamery in Berlin, MD, is worth the 15-minute drive from Ocean City for its award-winning, locally sourced ice cream. Their creative flavors and friendly vibe make it a family favorite. Pair your visit with a stroll through Berlin’s charming downtown.
Island Creamery Location: 120 N Main St, Berlin, MD 21811
Here are a few of our favorites from Island Creamery:
- Bourbon Caramel Crunch – Sweet, boozy, and crunchy
- Black Raspberry Swirl – Fruity and creamy perfection
- Wallops Rocket Fuel- A Sweet & Spicy Option
Website: www.islandcreamery.net
Island Creamery’s homemade ice cream bursts with unique flavors and local love. It’s a beloved treat for many OC locals.
By The Bay Creamery
By The Bay Creamery is Ocean City’s rising star in the ice cream world winning fans with high-quality ice cream and a prime spot off Coastal Highway. Their small-batch approach ensures every scoop is top-notch.
By The Bay Creamery Location: 7804 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD 21842
A few of our Favorite flavors from By The Bay Creamery include:
- Salted Caramel Pretzel – Sweet-salty heaven
- Vanilla Bean – Classic, creamy, and done right
- Chocolate Fudge Brownie – Decadent and rich
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bythebaycreamery/
By The Bay’s handcrafted ice cream is quickly earning a loyal following. Its bright, family-friendly space is ideal for relaxing after a day in the sun. Stop by and see why locals are raving!
Justine’s Ice Cream Parlour
Justine’s Ice Cream Parlour in North Ocean City’s right off of Coastal Highway is a colorful, family-run spot that’s famous for its massive “Wall of Shakes.” Open late, it’s perfect for a late night sweet treat.
Justine’s Ice Cream Parlour Location: 12207 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD 21842
We could go on and on about their milkshakes, but a few of our go-to’s at Justine’s are:
- Espresso Chip Shake – Bold and creamy, a parent pleaser
- Moose Tracks Cone – Sweet with fudge and peanut butter cups
- Titanic Sundae – Eight scoops, six toppings, pure fun, great for sharing… but you probably won’t finish
Website: www.justinesoc.com
Justine’s has been one of our OC favorites for years and has been dishing out ice cream for over 35 years… but it’s their shakes that steal the show. The outdoor seating and lively vibe make it a great family stop.
Why Ice Cream Nights Are a Must in Ocean City
Because why not?? There’s nothing quite like grabbing some Ice Cream after dinner while you’re on your beach vacation. After all, you are on vacation… it’s time to treat yourself! And at the end of the day- it’s not really about the ice cream, it’s about the memories.
Thanks for reading! Have a question about OC? Call us at (410) 723-4111 Or email us at info@centraloc.com
And if you’re dreaming bigger — maybe even considering buying your own beach home — check out the Fritschle Barker Group’s YouTube channel. No one knows this market better.
Want more tips & tricks on all things OCMD vacations? Subscribe to our YouTube channel: Vacationing in Ocean City!
Thanks for reading! We can’t wait to see you at the beach.
The Team at Central Reservations
Ocean City’s Vacation Rental Leaders