Ocean City, Maryland, a massively popular summer vacation resort on the Atlantic, routinely makes the list of dangerous tourist destinations in the United States.
This is because of the threats that it poses to both the locals who live there and the millions of tourists that it attracts each year.
Ocean City is notorious for having high rates of property crime and seasonal spikes in offenses that are directed on tourists, despite the fact that Maryland is best recognized for its picturesque coastline and historic attractions.
What Defines Ocean City as a Notable and Dangerous Location
The property and violent crime rates in Ocean City are much higher than the norm for the state of Maryland, making it the city with the highest crime rate in the state.
There is a significant increase in the number of criminal acts that occur in this region during the busy summer season, when tens of thousands of tourists visit the area’s beaches and famous boardwalk.
During peak months, there is a high incidence of crimes that are targeted toward tourists, including automobile break-ins, burglaries (particularly of rental houses), and vandalism.
According to the data collected by the police, the boardwalk area alone is responsible for sixty percent of all theft reports in Ocean City.
During the summer months, the population of the area increases, which means that criminals have more opportunity to commit crimes. It is possible for pickpockets, con artists, and thieves who take advantage of opportunities to target tourists who are not familiar with the area.
The city has implemented a seasonal police surge program in order to combat the rising crime rates that occur during the tourist season; however, risks continue to exist, particularly in locations that are more crowded or have fewer police officers patrolling them.
Ocean City’s Position Among the Most Dangerous Tourist Destinations in the United States
A combination of Ocean City’s prominence as a major resort destination and the per-capita crime rates lands it on lists of dangerous areas for visitors around the United States.
Although Ocean City is not as notorious as some huge metropolitan crime centers, it is nevertheless on the list of places that tourists should avoid.
This inclusion brings to light the significance of maintaining monitoring and awareness, especially in vacation destinations that appear to be welcoming to families.
Read Also: This Wisconsin Site Ranked Among Most Dangerous Tourist Attractions in U.S.
Advice on How to Avoid Danger While in Ocean City
- Be sure to keep your valuables safe, especially when you are on the beach or the boardwalk.
- At the time of departure, holiday rentals should be secured by locking all doors and windows.
- When you are out at night, use caution, and try to travel in groups if you can.
- Make use of transit options that have a good reputation, especially after dark.
Watch out for pickpockets in areas that are crowded.
Ocean City continues to be one of the most popular summer vacation destinations on the East Coast; yet, it is also widely acknowledged as one of the most hazardous tourist destinations in the United States.
This is primarily due to the high crime rates, seasonal increases in property crime, and the large number of people who are not familiar with the geographical area.
It is strongly recommended that everyone who is contemplating a visit exercise heightened alert and take precautions that are common sense.
