The Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum is the preservation of the 1891 building that was once used as a base for the U.S Life Saving Service, which later became the U.S. Coast Guard, on the corner of Caroline Street.
The surfmen stationed at the Ocean City station were well respected and an integral part of the community. Over the years, the Coast Guard’s primary mission was search and rescue and watching for German submarines on the coast during WWII.
Even with these responsibilities, they supported the community in many other ways, acting as unofficial lifeguards for beachgoers before the creation of the Ocean City Beach Patrol, and assisting as backup manpower for the OC Volunteer Fire Company.
Once the building was no longer in use after 1964, it was scheduled for demolition in 1977. A group of citizens formed the Ocean City Museum Society with the mission to ​​inspire and support the interpretation and appreciation of the cultural and natural history of Ocean City.
The original building was preserved and relocated to its current location at the southern end of the Ocean City Boardwalk.
Free Summer Programs
The OC Life-Saving Station Museum now offers daily programs throughout the summer. These events are free and great for all ages! Check it out through the month of August and add it to your bucket list for next year’s summer trip.
Monday - History of Our Surfmen
Learn the history of the heroic men stationed in the U.S. Life Saving Station to rescue ships in distress off the coast of Ocean City, MD.
Tuesday - Beach Safety
The famous OC Beach Patrol is ready to share surf safety tips for all ages.
Wednesday - Knot Tying
Ever wanted to learn cool sailor knots? Now’s your chance! Practice nautical knots with the U.S. Coast Guard.
Thursday - All About Sharks
Shark lovers, this one’s for you! Learn about the types of sharks found on Ocean City’s coast.
Friday - Land, Sky & Sea
Become an expert on how the island was formed, the birds that live in our beach town, and all the magnificent sea life in the bay and ocean.
Saturday - Aquarium Feeding
See up close some of the wildlife that lives in nearby waters and watch them devour their breakfast.
At Explore OC, we love any opportunity to learn about the amazing history of our beach town. Help us support the Ocean City Museum Society to preserve, educate others, and continue to research the history of coastal Worcester County, Maryland.
Donate here or plan your visit today! Not able to make it to town? Take the virtual tour here.