Introduction
Planning your Ocean City vacation? Dreaming of those famous boardwalk fries and creamy soft-serve ice cream? While indulging in vacation treats is definitely part of the fun, staying healthy and energized throughout your trip is absolutely possible. Ocean City, Maryland, often brings to mind images of decadent boardwalk fare, but look a little closer and you’ll discover a surprisingly diverse and satisfying array of healthy food choices that cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. From fresh seafood to vibrant salads and plant-based delights, Ocean City has something to offer the health-conscious traveler. This guide provides a roadmap to discovering those hidden gems, ensuring you can fuel your body with wholesome and delicious meals while enjoying everything this vibrant coastal town has to offer. Consider this your key to unlocking the secret of nutritious eats amidst the boardwalk bustle.
Why Healthy Eating Matters, Even on Vacation
Vacation is often seen as a time to relax the rules and indulge in culinary delights, and there’s nothing wrong with enjoying the occasional treat. However, consistently fueling your body with healthy foods, even while traveling, offers numerous benefits that can significantly enhance your vacation experience. Maintaining a balanced diet provides sustained energy levels, allowing you to fully explore the beach, boardwalk, and all the attractions Ocean City has to offer. Healthy eating can also lead to better sleep, ensuring you wake up feeling refreshed and ready for another day of adventure. A nutritious diet can improve your mood and overall well-being, making your vacation even more enjoyable.
While the temptation to overindulge is understandable, finding a balance between enjoying local specialties and making healthy choices most of the time is key. Think of it as a lifestyle choice that you can integrate into your vacation, rather than a strict diet. A balanced approach allows you to savor the unique flavors of Ocean City while still prioritizing your health.
Supporting local farms and businesses is another great way to contribute to the healthy food ecosystem in Ocean City. Many restaurants and markets source their ingredients locally, ensuring freshness and quality. By choosing these establishments, you’re not only nourishing your body but also supporting the local community and sustainable practices.
Discovering Delicious and Healthy Restaurants
This is the most vital section of our guide, where we will reveal many delicious options with all the healthy choices you can find on the menus. The restaurants and eateries below are categorized to help you make the best decision.
Seafood Sensations: Fresh Catches and Healthy Dishes
Ocean City is known for its incredible seafood, and many restaurants offer healthy preparation methods that allow the natural flavors to shine.
The Angler Restaurant: Located on the Assawoman Bay, The Angler offers stunning sunset views and a menu featuring a variety of grilled fish options. Opt for the grilled tuna steak or the pan-seared salmon, both served with fresh vegetables and a light lemon-herb sauce. They pride themselves on using the freshest local ingredients whenever possible. You can find them easily on the south end of Ocean City.
Harrison’s Harbor Watch Restaurant: Perched overlooking the inlet, Harrison’s Harbor Watch provides panoramic views and a sophisticated seafood menu. Consider starting with the crudo selection, featuring thinly sliced raw fish with delicate dressings. For your main course, choose the grilled swordfish or the steamed clams, both light and flavorful choices. They are located in a busy area on the water at the southern end of Ocean City.
OC Fish Company: If you are in the north end of the city this is a very good choice for fresh seafood. Order the mahi tacos with some fresh pineapple salsa or opt for a simple steamed bowl of shrimp, mussels and clams. All are low calorie and high in protein.
Plant-Based Paradise: Vegetarian, Vegan, and Sustainable Options
For those seeking vegetarian, vegan, or simply more plant-based choices, Ocean City offers a growing number of restaurants dedicated to serving delicious and nutritious meat-free dishes.
Loving Karma: This is a great place for vegans and vegetarians alike. They are conveniently located mid-town, and they offer a wide array of options from burgers to salads and sandwiches. They are a completely plant-based restaurant and a great place to try out.
Greenhouse Juice Bar and Cafe: Offering fresh juices, smoothies, salads, and wraps, Greenhouse is a haven for healthy eating. Their vegan wraps are packed with flavorful vegetables and plant-based proteins, while their salads can be customized with a variety of toppings. It’s the perfect spot for a quick and nutritious lunch or a refreshing afternoon snack.
Backshore Brewing Company: While not exclusively vegetarian, Backshore offers several vegan options on their menu, including a delicious black bean burger and a variety of vegetable-based sides. Located right on the boardwalk, it’s a great place to enjoy a healthy meal with ocean views.
Casual Cafes and Salad Bars: Quick, Customizable, and Healthy
For a quick and convenient healthy meal, Ocean City’s cafes and salad bars offer a range of customizable options.
Liquid Assets: While known for its extensive wine selection, Liquid Assets also offers a variety of healthy salads and light bites. Create your own salad with a variety of fresh greens, vegetables, and lean proteins, or choose from their pre-designed salad bowls.
Dough Roller: A casual favorite, Dough Roller offers a surprisingly good salad bar, allowing you to create your own customized salad with a wide selection of fresh ingredients. It’s a great option for a quick and healthy lunch. They have multiple locations, making it convenient.
Juice Bars and Smoothie Shops: Refreshing and Nutritious Beverages
When you need a quick and refreshing boost of energy, Ocean City’s juice bars and smoothie shops offer a wide array of healthy beverages packed with vitamins and nutrients.
Ocean City Juicery: This is a great stop on the north end. They offer a wide array of smoothies and juices that will give you the boost you need to keep enjoying Ocean City.
Greenhouse Juice Bar and Cafe: (Mentioned above) They are worth mentioning again, as the juice bar side of their restaurant is outstanding.
Making Healthy Choices at Restaurants: Tips and Tricks
Even at restaurants not specifically focused on healthy eating, you can make smart choices to ensure a nutritious meal. Here are some helpful tips:
Ask about Preparation Methods: Choose grilled, baked, or steamed options over fried foods.
Request Sauces and Dressings on the Side: This allows you to control the amount of added fat and sugar.
Choose Whole Grains When Available: Opt for whole-wheat bread, brown rice, or quinoa instead of refined grains.
Load Up on Vegetables: Make vegetables the star of your meal, choosing side dishes like steamed broccoli, grilled asparagus, or a side salad.
Consider Sharing: Sharing a larger portion or ordering an appetizer as a meal can help you control your calorie intake.
Healthy Food Resources Beyond Restaurants
Beyond restaurants, Ocean City offers a variety of resources for those seeking healthy food options.
Farmers Markets: Fresh Produce and Local Goods
The Ocean City Farmers Market is a great place to find fresh, locally grown produce, as well as artisanal food products. Check local listings for specific days, times, and locations. Shopping at the farmers market is a great way to support local farmers and ensure you’re getting the freshest ingredients possible.
Grocery Stores with Healthy Options: Stocking Up for Your Stay
Several supermarkets in Ocean City offer a wide selection of organic produce, healthy snacks, and prepared meals. Check out the local supermarkets for options. Stocking up on healthy groceries is a great way to ensure you have nutritious snacks and meals readily available throughout your vacation.
Seafood Markets: Fresh Catches for Home Cooking
For those who enjoy cooking, several seafood markets in Ocean City offer fresh, locally caught seafood. Purchase fresh fish, shrimp, or crab to prepare healthy and delicious meals in your vacation rental.
Local Health Food Stores
There are some local stores that carry health foods and organic options. Be sure to do a search to find what will suit your needs.
Tips for Staying Healthy While on Vacation
Maintaining healthy habits while on vacation requires a bit of planning and awareness. Here are some helpful tips:
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially in the hot summer months.
Snack Smart: Pack healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and yogurt to avoid unhealthy impulse buys.
Be Active: Take advantage of Ocean City’s many opportunities for physical activity, such as walking, biking, swimming, or simply strolling along the beach.
Eat Mindfully: Pay attention to your hunger cues and eat slowly, savoring each bite.
Plan Ahead: Check restaurant menus online beforehand to make informed choices.
Portion Control: If you can, be sure to avoid the trap of oversized restaurant portions, this is especially true with the many buffets offered.
Conclusion
Healthy eating in Ocean City is not only achievable but also enjoyable. With a little planning and awareness, you can easily discover a wide range of delicious and nutritious food options that will fuel your body and enhance your vacation experience. From fresh seafood to plant-based delights and customizable salads, Ocean City has something to offer every health-conscious traveler. Explore the restaurants and resources mentioned in this guide, and enjoy a balanced and fulfilling vacation that nourishes both your body and your soul. So, get out there, explore the healthy culinary scene, and enjoy your trip to Ocean City while feeling good about nourishing your body and supporting the local community!
