A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Ocean City vs. Nantucket for Food, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Ocean City or Nantucket?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Ocean City or Nantucket? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ocean City

Ocean City is a energetic, fun-filled, and laid back city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches. See Ocean City travel costs.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a charming, serene, and peaceful island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. With stunning beauty, Nantucket attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Nantucket travel costs.

Ocean City and Nantucket: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ocean City or Nantucket?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nantucket than Ocean City, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nantucket is better known for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Ocean City is more popular for its nightlife. Ocean City is more touristy than Nantucket and is popular for its miles of sandy beach, fun-filled activities, and thrilling water sports. Nantucket is well known for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. Also, Nantucket is famous for Great Point Lighthouse.

How is Ocean City different from Nantucket?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Nantucket and Ocean City. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ocean City or Nantucket?

Nantucket is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Ocean City is not a good city for its museums and history.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Nantucket. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

While most people don't head to Ocean City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people spend their time on the beach, but for the rainy days you can check out the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum or the Art League of Ocean City.

Is the Food Better in Ocean City or Nantucket? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nantucket is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Ocean City is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Nantucket is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Ocean City. Themed restaurants are popular in the area. You'll also find all-you-can-eat seafood buffets and casual diners with pancakes and waffles. Pizza, burgers, and other fast food options are also abundant.

Is Ocean City or Nantucket Better for Nightlife?

Ocean City is a great city for nightlife. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Ocean City has something for everybody. Happy hours are popular at the bars in the area. You'll also find live music and DJ led parties. Head to the boardwalk, which will overwhelm your senses. There are neon lights, colorful rides, and arcades filled with people and activities.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

Is Ocean City or Nantucket Better for Resorts?

Ocean City and Nantucket offer a relatively similar set of great luxury resort options.

Ocean City is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are many oceanfront resorts with pools and rooms with ocean views. The hotels along the beach tend to be the most expensive, but if you find a place across from the Coastal Highway, it's very challenging to walk to the beach.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Nantucket. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Is Ocean City or Nantucket Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Ocean City and Nantucket are great choices.

Ocean City is considered a top beach destination. There are ten miles of sandy beach that are lined with hotels and resorts. A festive boardwalk runs along the coastline and has many rides, arcades, restaurants, and more. The beach offers waves and warm water during the summer months.

Nantucket is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Is Ocean City or Nantucket Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Ocean City does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Ocean City does not have a historic old town.

Is Ocean City or Nantucket Better for Hiking?

Nantucket is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Ocean City is not a hiking destination.

Nantucket is a popular spot for hiking. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Ocean City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ocean City or Nantucket?

Nantucket is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Ocean City is not a good city for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Ocean City is a good destination for shopping. You'll find surf stores and souvenir shops along the three mile boardwalk. There are also many vendors and shopping centers along the Coastal Highway. For something a little more interesting you can head to the Inlet Village.

Is Ocean City or Nantucket More Beautiful?

Nantucket is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Ocean City is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Nantucket attracts visitors from all around. Natural beauty and charming character make this a picturesque destination.

Ocean City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ocean City or Nantucket Better for Families?

Ocean City is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Ocean City is one of the most popular family destinations. Beyond the family-friendly beach, there's also minigolf, dolphin tours, and themed-restaurants that are perfect for kids. Head to the Jolly Roger amusement park for a thrilling afternoon or spend some time visiting Ripley's Believe It or Not. The boardwalk is lined with activities for both kids and adults. There are also candy shops, ice cream parlors, and pizza joints where you can grab a bite to eat.

Nantucket is a very kid-friendly city. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Is Ocean City or Nantucket Better for Couples?

Nantucket is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Ocean City is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Nantucket makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

Ocean City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Hotels line the beach, many with beautiful views and nice pools. You can take long romantic walks along the coastline or head to one of the many seafood restaurants in town.

Is Ocean City or Nantucket Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nantucket is a popular place for its public transit. However, Ocean City is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Nantucket has a few public transit options. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ocean City. There are boardwalk trams as well as shuttle buses, but most people have their own vehicle, and its recommended you have a private car to get around.

Is Ocean City or Nantucket a more walkable city?

Nantucket is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Ocean City is not a good city for its walkability.

Nantucket is a very walkable destination. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

Ocean City is generally not a very walkable city. If you stay at an oceanfront hotel or on the ocean block, it's possible to walk to the beach. If you stay further back, you'll have to cross the Coastal Highway, which is eight lanes of busy traffic.

For even more information, also check out Is Ocean City Worth Visiting? and Is Nantucket Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nantucket or Ocean City?

How long in Ocean City or Nantucket?

It's fun to spend time in either Ocean City or Nantucket. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Ocean City due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Ocean City, and 2-4 days is enough time in Nantucket.

Couples should spend more time in Nantucket than Ocean City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Nantucket that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nantucket than Ocean City if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Nantucket.

One day in Ocean City or Nantucket?

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Ocean City. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Nantucket might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Ocean City or Nantucket?

You'll find food and nightlife around the laid back destination of Ocean City. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Even though Nantucket is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Five days in Ocean City or Nantucket?

You'll find nightlife and food around the active city of Ocean City. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Nantucket, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Ocean City or Nantucket?

Ocean City is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ocean City, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Nantucket is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ocean City and Nantucket, we can see that Nantucket is more expensive. And not only is Ocean City much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ocean City would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ocean City and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Nantucket would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nantucket than you might in Ocean City.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ocean City Expensive? and Is Nantucket Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ocean City or Nantucket?

Nantucket has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Ocean City. When comparing the sizes of Ocean City and Nantucket, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Ocean City or Nantucket?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Ocean City or Nantucket in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ocean City as well as Nantucket. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ocean City this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Nantucket for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Ocean City is a little warmer than Nantucket. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ocean City in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Nantucket averages at about 68°F (20°C).

Ocean City receives a lot of rain in the summer. Ocean City usually gets more rain in July than Nantucket. Ocean City gets 4.3 inches (110 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ocean City or Nantucket in the Autumn?

Both Nantucket and Ocean City are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Ocean City for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Nantucket in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Ocean City is generally a little warmer than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Ocean City average around 58°F (14°C), and Nantucket fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nantucket. In October, Ocean City usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Ocean City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Ocean City or Nantucket in the Winter?

Both Nantucket and Ocean City during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Ocean City in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Nantucket for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Nantucket can be very cold during winter. Ocean City can get quite cold in the winter. Ocean City is much warmer than Nantucket in the winter. The daily temperature in Ocean City averages around 35°F (2°C) in January, and Nantucket fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

Nantucket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Ocean City usually gets less rain in January than Nantucket. Ocean City gets 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ocean City or Nantucket in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ocean City and Nantucket. Most visitors come to Ocean City for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Nantucket because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Ocean City is much warmer than Nantucket. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ocean City in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Nantucket averages at about 45°F (7°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Ocean City usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Ocean City gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Nantucket and Ocean City