After a week that felt like running a marathon uphill, a quick escape was not just desired, it was necessary. March might promise the gentle arrival of spring, but sometimes you need to nudge it along yourself. So, with the promise of milder weather and a change of scenery, Ocean City, Maryland, became the impromptu destination.
Being a short two-hour drive from Baltimore, Ocean City offered the perfect proximity for a spontaneous weekend trip. While not traditionally a beach enthusiast, the appeal of a coastal retreat was undeniable, especially with the added bonus of giving weary feet a break. Ocean City, admittedly, doesn’t win any awards for picturesque beauty. Some might even call it aesthetically challenged, lacking the natural charm of other seaside towns with its stark architecture and minimal greenery. Historically, it was known for rowdy student celebrations and local crowds. However, like many places, rising real estate values and a changing world landscape have shifted its demographic, attracting weekend visitors seeking a perceived safe haven.
But here’s the surprising charm of Ocean City: its very lack of pretension has kept it refreshingly free of ubiquitous chain stores and restaurants. Instead, you’ll find a delightful array of locally owned establishments – hotels, eateries, and beach concessions that offer a unique, homegrown flavor. You’re unlikely to find a celebrity chef setting up shop, but what you will discover is genuinely good Maryland-style cooking at prices that won’t break the bank.
The weekend began with an early Saturday morning drive, arriving in Ocean City just in time for a brisk six-mile walk along the famous boardwalk. Ocean City boasts a vibrant, people-watching paradise of a boardwalk stretching for about three miles, lined with an eclectic mix of budget-friendly dollar stores, souvenir shops overflowing with t-shirts, and temporary tattoo parlors. Despite the sunshine, the air still held a hint of coolness, typical for early spring. Following the walk, the minivan found a parking spot on a quiet side street near the Convention Center, intended for a short nap. That nap, however, evolved into a full night’s sleep, a testament to the relaxing power of the ocean air.
Sunday morning dawned bright and early, prompting a visit to Layton’s Family Restaurant Ocean City, located around 20th Street. Confession time: previous visits to Ocean City were usually dominated by cravings for Dough Roller. However, this time, Layton’s Family Restaurant beckoned. Stepping inside, the first impression was of cleanliness and a welcoming atmosphere. The service was genuinely exemplary, attentive and friendly. And the food? Well, “edible” doesn’t quite capture it – it was solid, satisfying breakfast fare. While a single visit might not make one an expert, Layton’s Family Restaurant certainly left a positive impression, making it easy to recommend for a reliable and pleasant family meal in Ocean City. It’s a great alternative to the usual boardwalk fare and offers a comfortable, family-friendly dining experience.
Layton's Family Restaurant Ocean City Signage
With a belly full from Layton’s Family Restaurant, the next destination was Assateague Island National Seashore, fueled by the desire to utilize a recently acquired Golden Eagle pass. Arriving at Assateague early had an unexpected perk – driving straight into the park without anyone at the gate. The park pass remained unseen. The South Beach area of Assateague beckoned, and a southward walk commenced. The day remained beautiful but breezy, and despite the cooler temperatures, signs of life were abundant. A few backpackers were spotted, and a Boy Scout troop had set up camp in the designated group campsite. It’s a testament to Marylanders’ resilience that cold-weather camping is taken in stride, a stark contrast to perhaps more delicate sensibilities out west.
South Beach Assateague Island with Campers
Further down the beach, a less sanctioned camping situation unfolded – a large group of young people had pitched tents directly on the sand. This clearly violated National Park Service regulations. The beach walk eventually gave way to an inland exploration, where a “no trespassing” sign seemed more like an invitation than a deterrent.
Venturing off the beaten path led to the discovery of an abandoned house, adding a touch of mystery to the island’s landscape. Then, for a bit of personal amusement, a self-imposed disorientation challenge began – navigating the woods and marshlands without GPS or compass. Getting intentionally lost in the marshlands and tall grasses proved surprisingly easy. However, with the early hour and the sun as a guide, a somewhat “edumacated” guess about eastward direction led back to the ocean without any real trouble.
Assateague Island Marshland Scenery
Tall Grasses in Assateague Island
Emerging from the marshland brought an encounter with park rangers, who were addressing the group of beach campers. A ranger was holding a confiscated case of beer, and the situation looked serious for the young rule-breakers.
National Park Rangers Confronting Illegal Campers on Assateague Beach
While a few discreet photos were taken, getting too close felt unwise given the rangers’ serious demeanor and visible firearms. Between underage drinking, illegal camping, and likely driving on the beach without the required ORV permit, the young campers were undoubtedly facing significant consequences. A pang of pity arose – they were prime candidates for a lesson in effective rule-breaking, or perhaps just better decision-making.
Despite Ocean City’s unconventional aesthetics, the weekend provided the much-needed respite. From the boardwalk strolls to the satisfying breakfast at Layton’s Family Restaurant Ocean City, and the adventures of Assateague Island, it was a reminder that sometimes the most rewarding getaways are the spontaneous ones, even in the most unexpected of places. And for a reliable, family-friendly meal in Ocean City, Layton’s Family Restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
