The museum building was moved from its original location at the north end of Ocean City to its current site at the Inlet in 1977.
The U.S. Life-Saving Service was a government agency that operated from 1848 to 1915 before merging into the Coast Guard.
The museum houses a display of 'beach glass' and local seashells found along the nearby shoreline.
It contains a collection of original surfboats used by crews to reach vessels in distress during turbulent weather.
The museum preserves the history of the Atlantic Hotel, which was once the grand centerpiece of the city's early tourism industry.
Exhibits include the 'room of wrecks,' highlighting specific nautical tragedies that occurred off the Maryland coast.
The Ocean City Life-Saving Museum is housed within the original 1891 Ocean City Station of the United States Life-Saving Service. It specializes in the history of the U.S. Life-Saving Service, the precursor to the U.S. Coast Guard, and the maritime heritage of Ocean City. The collection features artifacts from local shipwrecks, displays on historical life-saving equipment, and accounts of heroic maritime rescues. The building itself is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Exhibits also document the development of the Ocean City boardwalk and local surf culture. Visitors can explore displays regarding the local fishing industry and the natural history of the Maryland coastline.
The restored exterior of the 1891 historic station building from the boardwalk path.
Visit the outdoor garden area located near the museum entrance for views of the Inlet.
Check the museum's website for specific dates regarding their educational maritime talks.
Combine your visit with a walk along the south end of the boardwalk to see the transition from the modern resort to the historic inlet area.
Do not mistake the museum for a general beach-themed gift shop; it is a dedicated historical institution focused on rescue history.
Closed on certain days during the off-season; check the official website for winter operating status.
Casual beach attire is acceptable, but shirts and footwear are required inside the museum.
