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Sustainable Travel Guide to Maryland’s Coast

Sustainable Travel Guide to Maryland’s Coast

Eco-Friendly Things to Do in Ocean City, Berlin & Beyond
Maryland’s Coast isn’t just a summer getaway—it’s a community that cares. Locals, businesses, and visitors all play a part in keeping our beaches, bays, and small towns beautiful for the next generation.

From zero-waste initiatives in Ocean City to pollinator-friendly programs in Berlin and eco-tours on the Pocomoke River, Worcester County is leading the way in sustainable tourism. And you can be part of it.

If you’re planning a trip and want to give back while you explore, this guide will show you simple ways to enjoy Maryland’s Coast—the green way.

Eco-Friendly Things to Do in Ocean City, MD

Go Green OC: Zero-Waste on the Coast

Ocean City is working to become America’s first zero-waste resort town, thanks to Go Green OC. Since 2018, this local nonprofit has composted over 1 million pounds of food waste, teaming up with restaurants, festivals, and businesses to reduce trash.

In 2024 alone, they:

  • Diverted 305,000 pounds of food waste
  • Composted 75,000 pounds of fruit rinds
  • Supported green efforts at Oceans Calling, Country Calling, and Bike Fest
  • Donated surplus meals to Diakonia Inc.
     

When you support Go Green OC partner businesses, you’re part of the solution.

Where to Eat & Support OC’s Green Businesses

Want to Get Involved?

  • Volunteer with Go Green OC: gogreenwithoc.org
  • Adopt Your Beach with OC Surf Club: Organize a cleanup, adopt a beach section, or just pick up as you walk. Every little bit helps. ocsurfclub.org

 

Sustainable Things to Do in Berlin, MD

Just minutes from OC, Berlin is both a Bee City USA and a Sustainable Maryland Community.

  • The town uses vinegar-based weed maintenance to protect pollinators.
  • Community gardens and green spaces support native plants and wildlife.
  • Local shops & restaurants are mindful of their environmental footprint.
     

When you stroll through Berlin, shop small, and dine local, you’re supporting a town that truly walks the walk.

Maryland Coastal Bays: Protecting Our Waterways

Worcester County’s coastal bays and estuaries are vital ecosystems. The Maryland Coastal Bays Program (MCBP) protects these waterways through restoration projects, eco-tours, and citizen science.

How You Can Help:

  • Volunteer for shoreline & island cleanups
  • Join living shoreline & oyster restoration tours
  • Participate in citizen science & wildlife monitoring
  • Take an eco-tour to learn more
     

Details at: mdcoastalbays.org

Eco-Tourism in Snow Hill & Pocomoke

Snow Hill

  • Paddle the Pocomoke River on guided eco-tours
  • Walk nature trails & spot wildlife in protected wetlands

Pocomoke

These hidden gems show that sustainable tourism goes beyond the beach.

One Day, The Green Way: Sample Sustainable Itinerary

Here’s how to enjoy Maryland’s Coast with a lighter footprint:

  • Morning: Coffee & kombucha at Real Raw Organics
  • Mid-morning: Beach cleanup walk with OC Surf Club
  • Lunch: Fish tacos at Longboard Cafe (Go Green OC partner)
  • Afternoon: Paddleboard eco-tour with Maryland Coastal Bays
  • Evening: Sunset dinner at Fish Tales, nightcap at Seacrets Jamaica USA
  • All Day: Bring your reusable water bottle, avoid plastic bags, and pack out your trash
     

Why Sustainable Tourism Matters on Maryland’s Coast

Every mindful choice:

  • Protects our beaches, bays & small towns
  • Supports local businesses doing it right
  • Keeps this destination special for generations to come

Be Part of the Green Wave

Before you pack your beach bag, think green.

  • Support eco-conscious businesses
  • Volunteer or join a cleanup
  • Make sustainable choices during your trip
  • Share your experience with #GoGreenOC & #MarylandsCoast
     

When you explore Maryland’s Coast with care, you’re not just making memories—you’re helping protect the places that made them

Catalogued in: Beach Blog