Ocean City, New Jersey, long celebrated as “America’s Greatest Family Resort,” continues to evolve in 2025. Whether you’re a frequent visitor or watching from afar, there’s plenty happening—from boardwalk transformations and safety concerns to trends in tourism and great youth initiatives. Let’s dive into the latest developments.
1. Boardwalk Changes & Wonderland Pier’s New Chapter
One of the most significant local stories recently has been the closure and redevelopment of Gillian’s Wonderland Pier, a family favorite for nearly a century. Owner and former mayor Jay Gillian announced in August 2024 that the pier would close after the 2024 season due to financial unviability. The official closure took place on October 13, 2024, prompting an outpouring of nostalgia and civic concern from both residents and visitors.
Following the shutdown, developer Eustace Mita revealed plans for a major redevelopment: a 252‑room Icona resort with retail space, keeping a nod to the amusement park by preserving the historic Carousel and Giant Wheel. While the proposed project aims to revitalize that stretch of boardwalk, many locals fear zoning changes that could allow alcohol sales—so far prohibited by Ocean City’s long-standing dry laws—would alter the town’s family-friendly character.
Meanwhile, Playland’s Castaway Cove is preparing for a surge in visitors this summer, now being the only amusement park left along the Ocean City Boardwalk. The owners are remodeling to accommodate crowds, including expanding the arcade and rebuilding its iconic pirate ship attraction that burned a few years ago
2. Public Safety & Law Enforcement Initiatives on the Boardwalk
Public safety has become a recurring concern, especially during peak weekends like Memorial Day. Officials reported a coordinated juvenile fight that led to the stabbing of a 15‑year‑old, alongside incidents of shoplifting and widespread disorderly conduct on the boardwalk. City leaders—including Mayor Jay Gillian—emphasized that law enforcement would take a zero‑tolerance approach to such behavior, making a point to warn both teens and parents ahead of the busy summer season.
In response, there have been calls from locals to enforce stricter policies, such as curfews or bans on unaccompanied minors after certain hours. Though curfews already exist (currently set at 11 pm), some suggest they should be moved earlier to 9 pm or even 10 pm to reduce late‑night gatherings. Others worry, though, that overly strict rules may dampen nighttime activity that attracts younger visitors and revenue.
Despite these tensions, local sentiment remains split. Families and older residents support tougher measures to maintain safety and preserve the resort’s peacefulness, while youth-oriented businesses and beaches thrive off the energy that comes with boardwalk nightlife. The city’s challenge is to strike a balance between community standards and seasonal vibrancy.
3. Tourism Trends & Economic Shifts
In 2025, tourism dynamics at Ocean City are shifting subtly—somewhat buoyed by broader pricing trends along the Jersey Shore. According to a recent summer vacation index, costs at many nearby beach towns have dropped 📉 roughly 5% compared to last year, making the region more accessible to families on a budget. Ocean City remains competitive, though it has faced criticism for rising accommodation costs.
One major economic headache for many tourists is the city’s new 3% vacation‑rental tax, approved by a narrow 4–3 vote. This levy applies to short‑term stays booked through platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, effectively adding $75 on a $2,500 rental. However, families booking through local realtors or staying in hotels and motels are exempt. Critics worry this could price out budget‑conscious travelers or push them to neighboring shore towns.
Supporters of the tax argue it helps offset increased use of city resources—cleanup, policing, beach maintenance—driven by tourism. Opponents, however, claim it unfairly penalizes digital platforms and could impact small local economies reliant on rental income and visitor spending. Airbnb, for instance, warned that the tax might deter families and harm local businesses that depend on short‑term rental guests.
4. Spotlight on Schools and Student Achievements
Ocean City School District continues gaining attention for its innovative programs and student successes. In June and July 2025, the district highlighted a series of inspiring initiatives: a mental‑health resource guide published by the OC Minds Matter Club, science engagements under the “Bringing Wetlands to Life” campaign, and various arts projects across all grade levels
One standout story featured Ocean City High School student Gillian Acocella, whose charcoal drawing earned first place in New Jersey’s 2nd Congressional District competition and advanced to national recognition—a proud highlight for the school’s visual arts program. Similarly, another H.S. senior, Christopher Garrabrant, was selected as a finalist for a national National Honor Society scholarship based on leadership and community service.
The district’s superintendent, Dr. Christian Angelillo, has also been sharing its progressive educational methods at workshops across the state—with Ocean City serving as a showcase for promising practices in learning and wellness initiatives. Such efforts reinforce the community’s investment in education and its role in shaping positive youth development.
5. Infrastructure, Heritage & Environmental Highlights
Beyond tourism and schools, Ocean City is focused on infrastructure upgrades and environmental protections. Officials are currently reviewing safety plans to prevent vehicle attacks on crowded boardwalk areas in light of national events, reinforcing barriers and crowd protocols accordingly .
Meanwhile, the historic Ocean City Life‑Saving Station, a Carpenter Gothic structure built in 1886 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2013, remains an enduring cultural asset. It stands as the only intact life‑saving station of its type in New Jersey and one of just six in the entire country—an architectural gem tangibly linking the city’s past to its present.
At the state level, offshore energy discussions have gained traction—but not directly tied to Ocean City—for instance the Atlantic Shores Wind project planned off the New Jersey coast. Though it doesn’t land in Ocean City, it’s part of broader conversations about sustainable infrastructure and environmental stewardship along the Jersey Shore region.
Final Thoughts
Ocean City, NJ is navigating a season of transition. From the emotional farewell to Wonderland Pier and the arrival of a new Icona resort, to debates on public safety, rental taxation, and youth activity on the boardwalk—2025 is a year that could redefine the town’s identity. Meanwhile, the school district’s achievements and attention to historic preservation reinforce the character that residents and visitors cherish.
What remains constant is the town’s commitment to family values—though balancing tradition with change has never felt more complex. For locals and fans alike, the coming months promise fresh developments and spirited discussions shaping Ocean City’s future.
If you’d like a deeper dive into any of these stories—like Wonderland Pier’s redevelopment plans, the architectural significance of the Life‑Saving Station, or the ocean rental tax law—just let me know.
