Wild Dunes Inn

I spent the first 20 years of my life in Ocean City, first on the north end, then down in the south end, in the 50 something streets next to year-round residents named the Worths. They had saltwater fish tanks with Seahorses from the Corson inlet, and we helped them seine for fish. We stayed at 1332 Wesley Ave for late nights on the boardwalk and beach with our service dog. The place had stayed the same since the late 60s until four or five years ago. We learned to swim at Flanders outdoor pool. It was one of the only saltwater pools I'd seen until more than 30 years later!

The front desk was incredibly kind and understanding when we needed a last-minute room after an unrelated booking fell through. They had space for our family of six, with a king bed and queen pullout, and we brought an air mattress. The kitchenette and dining bar worked perfectly. Storage and closet space were tight, though a smaller group could manage more than a weekend. The room was clean and in good shape, but the TVs and entertainment options could use an update, and the bathroom fixtures are dated. The pool at the Impala Inn wasn't memorable. The location on 10th is within a block or two of everything on the boardwalk, and downtown shops on Asbury and Central are an easy stroll. I'd give the room, amenities, and location three stars, but the great front desk experience bumps it up a notch.

The location was good, but the Wi-Fi was poor. If your kid wants to watch shows on an iPad, download them ahead of time.

My family has been coming to Wild Dunes and the Impala for 40 years. We love visiting for New Year's and Mother's Day, and off-season rates are great, with good holiday deals too. The hotel isn't fancy or especially updated, but it's clean and well maintained. The boardwalk view is wonderful, and the location puts you near everything. I expect it may be noisy in season, with the amusement park across the street and the usual boardwalk sounds, but the spot is so good you can overlook that. Buildings next door are currently being demolished for new condos. It's not loud, but it's something to know about. We think it's a wonderful hotel and will definitely be back soon.