While everyone else was pulling out their sweaters, ordering Pumpkin Spice Lattes, and welcoming the chilly weather, I was doing the opposite.
Back in late September, I was on the beach in Ocean City, Maryland, soaking up the last bit of sunshine like my need for self-care, opulence, unity, and love depended on it— because honestly, it did.
According to our previous interview with Stuart Luther, a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling, “decreased sunlight” and more hectic schedules in the Fall can be contributing factors to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) (also known as “seasonal blues”).
“Decreased sunlight has been seen to impact individuals’ production of brain chemicals, such as serotonin,” he explained, pointing out that serotonin helps to regulate a person’s mood. Serotonin contributes to feelings of happiness and well-being.
As I lay there under the sun and listened to the waves crash, I breathed a sigh of relief. “This is exactly what I needed,” I thought to myself.
The Perfect Stay: Tru by Hilton Ocean City Bayside
I was graciously invited to stay at Tru by Hilton Ocean City Bayside — just six blocks from the beach and boardwalk. The location was perfect: It was close enough to all the fun, but far enough to rest, recharge, and mind my business in peace.
The room itself was cozy, clean, and cute, but if you’re a family of four with heavy luggage (or just one of those people who pack “options”), consider packing light.
Editor’s Note: There aren’t any drawers or a traditional closet, so channel your inner minimalist and leave the third pair of heels at home.
Now, let’s talk about one of my favorite little surprises — breakfast! Every morning, the hotel offered a complimentary spread that made waking up feel like a treat. I was fascinated by their motion-censored pancake maker — yes, you read that right. You wave your hand, and like magic, you have fresh pancakes right in front of you.
And because Tru clearly understands pleasure, they had a condiment bar with all the fixings, including chocolate cookie pieces, whipped cream, and fruit. A dream! It’s the kind of playful, unexpected touch that makes you smile before the day even starts.
And when we weren’t exploring the town, the hotel’s little gaming area became our go-to spot for a little brag-time. There was foosball (which I proudly won, of course) and shuffleboard for those chill moments in between.
Boardwalk Adventures In Ocean City
Our first full day was all about exploring the Ocean City Boardwalk, which is a solid three-mile-long stretch that is much longer than it looks. We all enjoyed the day walking the boardwalk for a little exercise and sightseeing.
If you go, I highly suggest starting at the top (that’s the lively end with the arcades, shops, and the most people-watching action). We started on the quieter end, planning to make it all the way up… until my shoes betrayed me. Shoe malfunctions and a three-mile walk are not a match made in heaven.
Still, it was such a vibe. We watched volleyball games break out on the sand, bikers cruising by like it was a Sunday ritual, and kites painting the sky.
Sometimes, when you stop rushing to “do everything,” you can slow down and enjoy living in the moment.
Bayside Bliss & Balcony Chats
By the time our last day rolled around, the temperature had dropped. I slightly regretted not packing a hoodie, but the chill didn’t stop the good vibes. I spent time on the fourth-floor balcony at the pool, watching the bay shimmer in the distance.
It was one of those slow, sweet moments where time doesn’t matter. The good company and warm sunlight were a quiet reminder that self-care doesn’t always have to be extreme, loud, and flashy. It can be thoughtful and intentional.
Let’s Talk About The Food In Ocean City
What’s a trip to Maryland without seafood? We stopped by Ocean 13, a casual oceanfront gem that gives “let’s eat and chill” energy.
We ordered the Crab Cake Sandwich, Old Bay Honey Wings, and the Shorebilly Fries. The crab cakes were cooked perfectly with just enough seasoning and tasted like they came fresh from the water.
The wings were juicy, flavorful, and seasoned like somebody’s auntie was in the kitchen. And the Shorebilly fries? Delicious, but a little heavy on the seasoning and light on the crab. My lips were dry because the fries were a little salty for my liking.
The Beauty of Doing Nothing
Since it was the off-season, Ocean City was calm. No crowds, no rushing, no pressure to overplan. And I loved that.
This trip reminded me that a real getaway doesn’t always mean being busy. It can be as simple as having a mocktail by the pool, laughing over a foosball game, or watching the sunset without touching your phone.
It was exactly the reset I needed before life shifted back into the hustle and bustle of Fall.
If you ever get the chance, visit Ocean City, MD, in the off-season. You’ll get all the beachy beauty without the crowds — just peace, ocean breeze, and space to breathe.
Related | Romanticize Your Daily Ritual—Tips To Ease Into The New Season!
Editor’s Note: This story has been edited and condensed for clarity.
By BrownStyle Magazine in Special Editions
72 pages, published 1/17/2025
