Best Value Hotels in Ocean City

This 210-room, mid-range chain hotel is pleasant and inviting, albeit with a somewhat generic feel. With multiple pools, restaurants, and a fitness center, it does offer an array of features to accommodate kids and adults. Its location right on the Ocean City boardwalk is convenient for those wanting plenty of beach and boardwalk time. Rooms are spacious, with fully equipped kitchenettes and private balconies, and some have pretty bay views. The decor and furnishings are somewhat chain-like and outdated, however.

This beach hotel is right on the ocean, with many of its rooms offering views of the Atlantic from their private balconies. All of the Holiday Inn’s rooms are spacious and comfortable, though they feature rather chain-like decor. The fully equipped kitchenettes and free Wi-Fi in all rooms add to the value. Also, the public amenities are plentiful, with a range of options geared toward children as well as adults. A definite highlight is the hotel's spacious, outdoor pool with a swim-up bar. The property is a short drive from the boardwalk action, but the location is a dream for vacationers looking to maximize quality beach time.

This large, family-owned oceanfront hotel with an OIympic-size swimming pool and beach volleyball court is incredibly kid-friendly, with a seasonal kids program that includes live character performances. But it's also great for adults, thanks largely to its popular bar & grill, Coconuts, which provides beachfront food and drink service and live music. The Beach House Restaurant serves breakfast a la carte or buffet-style (and there's a kids' menu, of course). Little ones will also likely appreciate the ice cream shop. Rooms are a bit basic but have full kitchens, and the hotel is a short drive to the boardwalk and Jolly Roger at the Pier amusement park; those looking to be closer to the boardwalk action should consider a hotel farther south.

This 251-room, mid-range hotel is located next to the beach and the boardwalk in the midst of all the action Ocean City has to offer. The Grand Hotel has a spa and sauna, indoor and outdoor pools, conference rooms, a restaurant, pool bar, and 24-hour coffee shop. Rooms are big but bland, with unattractive furnishings. All have free Wi-Fi and some have ocean views and private balconies. This hotel is a solid choice for budget travelers looking for direct access to the beach in the heart of Ocean City.

Princess Royale Resort is a three-pearl property with a nice public beachfront and loads of features, but it's beginning to show its age in terms of decor and cleanliness. Most of the guests are families and couples who want to enjoy the indoor swimming pool, restaurants, on-site spa, and video game arcade while taking advantage of spacious suites and condos with full kitchens; some have ocean views. The condos are privately owned, so decor and maintenance varies from unit to unit. The location is about 10 minutes from the boardwalk, making this a slightly out of the way but quieter hotel option.

The Comfort Suites Ocean City has a clean and modern look with nice-size rooms with mini-fridges and microwaves. Family-friendly amenities include a basketball court, game room, and playground. The highlight here is a big, fun outdoor swimming pool with water-park-style features. There is also an on-site fitness center and an outlet shopping center across the street. Breakfast is free, and there's a make-your-own waffle station. A small convenience store in the lobby sells ice cream and snacks and there's a Starbucks across the street. This pet-friendly hotel has fresh, modern rooms, some with fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. The Ocean City strip is a five-to-10-minute drive away.

This 232-room, mid-range hotel is a great value for families, as it is filled with kid-friendly activities and amenities. Its playground, children's splash area, arcade, and pirate-themed indoor pool are some of the features that set this hotel apart as a kid-focused destination. The Francis Scott Key is right by an outlet mall and a bevy of restaurants. It lacks an oceanfront location, however, as the beach is a five-minute drive away (the hotel does have a free shuttle for guests). Though spacious, the guest rooms are badly in need of a refresh (picture dingy green carpeting and outdated furnishings).

A solid pick for budget beach-goers and families, the Comfort Inn Boardwalk has direct oceanfront access and a main spot on the boardwalk. While the outdoor pool and beach can get crowded during summer weekends, the prime location makes a car unnecessary and guests can walk to cafes and shops. The hotel is comprised of two buildings: city-view and oceanfront. The city view building has a heated indoor pool. The oceanfront building has a small outdoor pool and serves a basic breakfast in the lobby (but seating is limited). There is no restaurant on-site, but many dining options nearby. The hotel shows some signs of wear but rooms are decent-sized and come with kitchenettes, balconies (some ocean-facing), and coffeemakers among other amenities.