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
- Seacrets Jamaica USA – Iconic bayfront fun, now composting behind the scenes
- Fish Tales – Family-friendly dining, eco-conscious waste practices
- The Hobbit – Waterfront dining with a green mindset
- Dough Roller (42nd St) – Pizza & pancakes, and compost bins
- Plus: Bayside Skillet, Longboard Cafe, Mother’s Cantina, Real Raw Organics, and more
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
- Visit the Delmarva Discovery Museum, to learn about river ecosystems.
- Explore Pocomoke River State Park for hiking, paddling, and camping in a preserved environment
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
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