The 5 Most Unique Bookstores In Ocean City, MD Right Now (2025 Edition)
Forget the generic souvenir shops and candy stores; Ocean City, Maryland, has quietly cultivated a fascinating literary landscape that goes far beyond the typical summer beach read. As of late 2025, the book scene is vibrant, blending local history, fine art, and even a unique wine-bar concept to create destinations that are essential stops for any bibliophile visiting the Eastern Shore.
This article dives deep into the current and most unique independent bookstores in and immediately surrounding Ocean City, offering fresh, up-to-date details on where to find your next great read, a local author's signature, or simply a quiet, air-conditioned escape from the boardwalk crowds.
The New Wave: Bookstores That Are More Than Just Books
The modern independent bookstore thrives by offering a unique experience, and Ocean City’s newest literary destinations have mastered this concept, turning a simple book-buying trip into a full cultural outing.
1. The Buzzed Word: Where Books Meet Natural Wine
The Buzzed Word is arguably the most innovative bookshop to arrive in the Ocean City area, redefining the concept of a literary hub. Located in North Ocean City, this establishment is a brilliant hybrid: a curated bookshop, a natural wine store, and a wine bar all rolled into one.
The intentional pairing of new titles across all genres with a selection of wildly delicious, all-natural wines creates a sophisticated, yet relaxed, atmosphere. It's a perfect spot to browse for a novel, enjoy a glass of wine, and even pick up a bottle to take back to your rental.
- Unique Selling Point: The only bookstore in the region that doubles as a natural wine bar.
- Vibe: Trendy, modern, and excellent for evening literary meet-ups.
- Topical Authority: Frequently hosts events and book picks, with references to "2025 BEST-OF BOOKS" lists, ensuring the inventory is always current.
2. The Greyhound - An Indie Bookstore & Fine Arts Gallery
Stepping into The Greyhound is like being transported to an English Library, making it a must-visit for those who appreciate history and atmosphere. This indie bookstore is idyllically located within the historic Ayres Building, a structure that has been a staple in the area since 1895.
The shop is owned and operated by proprietors Maury and Susan Ayres Wimbrow. Susan is a native published author, which adds an authentic layer of literary expertise and a strong connection to local storytelling. Beyond books, The Greyhound also functions as a Fine Arts Gallery, showcasing local and regional artists, perfectly blending literature and visual culture.
- Unique Selling Point: English Library atmosphere inside a historic 1895 building; owner is a published author.
- Location Note: While technically in nearby Berlin, MD (a short drive from Ocean City), its unique charm and connection to the Eastern Shore make it an essential entity in the Ocean City literary scene.
The Boardwalk Legend and The Niche Specialists
While the new shops are drawing buzz, Ocean City’s literary history is anchored by a few long-standing favorites and niche specialists that cater to specific interests, from collectibles to local history.
3. Down Under Books: The Boardwalk's Hidden Gem (A Note on Status)
For years, Down Under Books has been celebrated as Ocean City's most iconic "hidden gem." Tucked beneath the Lankford Hotel at 8th Street, right on the famous Ocean City Boardwalk, this quaint spot was the quintessential beach bookstore.
It offered a diverse selection of new and used books, often alongside unique coastal items like shells, signs, and jewelry, making it a beloved local favorite. However, recent reports and business listings suggest the store may be closed or operating on a highly seasonal/inconsistent basis. While you should check its current status before visiting, its legacy as the Boardwalk’s only true bookstore remains a key part of Ocean City’s literary history.
4. Unicorn Bookshop: The Eastern Shore History Hub
For visitors and residents who want to dive into the rich history of the region, the Unicorn Bookshop is a vital resource. This specialist store focuses almost exclusively on collectible, antiquarian, and used books centered on a few key areas:
- Maryland and Eastern Shore history.
- Local maps and cartography.
- The writings of local literary figures, most notably Gilbert Byron.
If you are a collector or simply want a book that is deeply rooted in the local culture—perhaps a historical novel that takes place in Ocean City—this is the definitive destination for topical authority and unique finds.
5. Caprichos Books: The New Book Option in Ocean Pines
Located a short drive away in Ocean Pines, Caprichos Books serves as a reliable source for new releases and a wide variety of genres. It’s a great option for those staying on the mainland side of the region who are looking for a straightforward, well-stocked bookstore.
They frequently host book-related events, including author signings and book tours in the Ocean Pines area, making them a community anchor for book lovers outside the immediate beach resort area.
Establishing Topical Authority: Beyond the Bookstores
A true book lover’s trip to Ocean City involves more than just shopping. The surrounding area offers several entities that enhance the overall literary experience, providing opportunities for reading, learning, and connecting with local authors.
Finding Your Perfect Ocean City Beach Reads
The best beach reads often blend lighthearted fun with compelling stories. Local recommendations frequently include popular titles that are perfect for reading on the sand, such as *Funny Story* by Emily Henry or *Just for the Summer* by Abby Jimenez.
For a deeper dive into the local scene, seek out books that take place in or are about Ocean City, Maryland. These Eastern Shore-themed books, whether fictional tales rooted in the area's history or local biographies, offer a unique reading experience while you’re physically in the setting of the story.
Literary Events and Community Resources
The Ocean City Worcester County Library system is the primary resource for free reading material, programs, and community events. Checking their local branch schedule is key for travelers looking for author presentations or children’s reading hours.
Keep an eye on venues like Pam's Hallmark Shoppes, which occasionally host local author book signings. Furthermore, the prevalence of Little Free Libraries throughout Ocean City and the surrounding communities offers a charming, spontaneous way to swap books and discover unexpected titles during your vacation.
Whether you're looking for a glass of wine with your latest thriller at The Buzzed Word, a historical deep-dive at Unicorn Bookshop, or the atmospheric charm of The Greyhound, Ocean City’s independent bookstores offer a rich, varied, and increasingly unique experience for every kind of reader in 2025.
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