Ocean Casino Resort · Atlantic City, New Jersey
The Jersey Shore’s premier beachfront destination just keeps getting better. Stephen Starr dinners, VIP cabanas, ocean view suites, immersive mini golf, and a summer full of reasons to visit.
Ocean Casino Resort is not just another casino. Walk past the game room and you’ll find Stephen Starr restaurants, ocean view suites, a private pool oasis, immersive mini golf, and a summer filled with reasons to visit. Here’s why Ocean should be your next getaway.
The Ocean Casino Resort at a glance
Atlantic City, New Jersey
The station at a glance
The basics
📍Address: 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401
🏨Rooms: Ocean View Suites and Studio Suites
🅿️Parking: Free self-parking for Pearl members and above · Valet parking available
🎰Casino: 135,000 square feet · slot machines, table games and more
🏊Pool: Adults-only pool deck with cabanas and daybeds
💆Spa: Exhale Spa & Bathhouse · cabin massages available
⛳Entertainment: Ocean’s 18 Mini Golf & Bar on site
Get here
Philadelphia: 1 hour
New York City: 2.5 hours
Wilmington, DE: Less than 90 minutes
Baltimore: Less than 3 hours
Dinner on property
🥩 Chez Frites · French Bistro Stephen Starr
☀️ Sunny’s · Stephen Starr Breakfast and Brunch
🍝 LaScala’s Fire · American Italian and Sushi
🥘 Amada · Spanish tapas by chef José Garcés
🍣 Zhen Bang · late night sushi
🍺 Villain & Saint · gastropub
Summer at Ocean Casino Resort The Cabanas at Ocean Casino Resort, perched above the Atlantic City Boardwalk with views of Steel Pier | Photo: Better Living After falling in love with Ocean Casino Resort while on vacation Last winter, we couldn’t wait to see what summer had in store for us. We have returned several times and Ocean in Summer continues to exceed all expectations.
Most visitors to Atlantic City concentrate on the casino floor, but Ocean proves to be a true resort destination above all. Are you planning a day in the city before you go there? Check out our guide to fun things to do in Philadelphia for couples.
Where winter brought comfort Holiday Social Suites and festive Bell bar cocktails, summer offers something completely different: Stephen Starr’s famous restaurantselevated poolside cabanas with ocean views, an all-new mini-golf and bar experience, and a relaxed beachside vibe. Ocean offers a resort experience that leaves gaming as an afterthought rather than the main event.
Our studio suite: 29 floors above it all Our corner studio suite with panoramic views of Atlantic City | Photo: Better Living Our corner studio suite on the 29th floor gave us front row seats to Atlantic City. The floor-to-ceiling windows offered stunning views of the ocean, Steel Pier with its Ferris wheel, the cove filled with boats, and the boardwalk below where people strolled day and night. From sunrise to sunset, the scene outside never stopped changing and quickly became our favorite part of the trip.
The suite itself felt like a real refuge. It was spacious and bright, with powerful blinds for when we wanted to relax. A comfy couch gave us another place to sit and enjoy the view and the mini fridge was great for leftovers.
The king bed was very comfortable, the room was clean and fresh and the shower was one of the best we have ever experienced. Large enough for two, with top and side jets, perfect water pressure, and intuitive temperature controls, it was the holy grail of hotel showers. After days spent in the sun and salty air, stepping into this shower felt like visiting a spa.
Each morning we enjoyed coffee from the Keurig in the room while watching the sun rise over the water. In the evening, the sunset was just as spectacular.
Spectacular sunset views from Studio Suite 2952 | Photo: Better Living I especially enjoyed lying in bed after these showers, sipping coffee, watching TV and still catching glimpses of the spinning Ferris wheel, the boats passing in the cove and the bustling boardwalk below.
This corner suite had everything we wanted: comfort, style and stunning views in summer.
💡 Tip: Corner studio suites on higher floors are worth the upgrade. The views of the ocean, Steel Pier and cove are breathtaking and the rooms are very quiet up there. New this summer: Ocean offers ShoreShot IVa concierge-style in-room IV wellness service for guests who want to recharge between pool days and dinners. There is also a new After the sun, before the fun package which includes a 50-minute Exhale Spa treatment, in-room wellness service and ShoreShot IV service – perfect for transitioning from a day at HQ2 Beachclub to an evening at the restaurant.
Cabanas at Ocean Casino Resort are worth it Inside our Private Cabin with Pool and Ocean View | Photo: Better Living Ocean Casino Resort has completely reinvented the experience with its adults-only pool deck, offering a serene, elevated escape that feels worlds away from the main pool and beach.
No children. No noisy parties. Just calm vibes, ocean breezes and views that stretch endlessly across the Atlantic.
We spent the day bouncing between a daybed and a cabana, and honestly, both were amazing in their own way. Daybeds are comfortable for soaking up the sun, sipping cocktails and watching the coastline sparkle. But the cabin is truly next level.
Cool off in the adults-only pool | Photo: Better Living The cabins feel like your own private retreat. Think plush seating, shade when you need it, a TV, a dining area, and a mini-fridge stocked with free water and soda to keep you refreshed. It’s quiet, intimate and the views are unreal. Skydivers drift at eye level, helicopter rides crisscross the shoreline, and Steel Pier’s iconic rides spin in the background.
Located away from the main pool, the cabana area has its own exclusive pools and jacuzzi, reserved only for cabana and daybed guests. It’s like a VIP hideaway within the resort, and it never feels crowded or chaotic. Just quiet groups enjoying their own piece of paradise.
The service here is also top notch. Our server kept the frozen cocktails flowing poolside all afternoon. We were in full vacation mode.
And if you really want to treat yourself, you can even book a massage directly in your cabin. Exhale Spa and public baths offers a few different styles. There’s nothing like a deep tissue massage with the ocean breeze.
Perfect views of Steel Pier from our pool daybed | Photo: Better Living Ocean Cabanas are open every day, with food and cocktail service throughout the afternoon. You can book online and everything is designed for guests 21 and over. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, the drinks stay cold, and the only thing on your to-do list is to relax.
💡 Tip: The swimming pool season runs from the end of May to September. Cabins book 1-2 weeks in advance for summer weekends. Daybeds are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
America’s Birthday Bar: Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday The installation of the 250th American hall at the Ocean Casino Resort | Photo: Better Living Ocean Casino Resort knows how to throw a party. Last summer, the Lucky Summer of Sevens, a celebration of the resort’s seventh anniversary with fireworks, special dinners and more than $7 million in prizes, set the bar high. This summer they got even bigger.
For 2026, the pop-up Salon 1927 will transform into America’s Birthday Bar, an immersive American-inspired experience celebrating the country’s 250th birthday. The decor is festive and camera-ready, and the cocktail menu is truly impressive. Highlights include the Blueberry Bluecoat Smash, made in partnership with Philadelphia Distilling, and Little Water Distillery’s Liberty Bell, two specialty drinks that seem as local as they are festive.
The June 26 kickoff event features live broadcasts from 93.3 WMMR’s Brent Porche, appearances by historical figures, colonial drummers, free mini cheesesteaks and interactive photo moments throughout the evening. The first 76 guests received a 250th can of limited-edition Yuengling America lager, as well as a chance to win overnight stays and culinary experiences. Instagram opportunities are everywhere. Go and take full advantage of it!
Water Ice Festival: the coolest new summer event on the ocean The First Annual Ice Festival on the Water at the Ocean Casino Resort | Photo: Better Living One of the most exciting additions to the Ocean 2026 summer lineup is the first Water Ice Festivalwhich takes place at the Park on Saturday July 18 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m..
Inspired by the iconic summer treat made famous in South Philadelphia, and as Philadelphia takes center stage this summer for America’s 250th birthday, Ocean is bringing the flavor to the Jersey Shore in a big way. This event Paid family event brings together popsicle vendors from across the region for unlimited tastings, a flavor contest hosted by everyone’s favorite Aunt Mary Pat, face painting, caricatures and fun photo moments.
Confirmed suppliers include fan favorites like Philly’s John’s Water Ice and Philadelphia Water Ice Factory, South Philly Ice, Cherry Hill’s Primo Water Ice, Wilmington’s Fusco’s Water Ice & Ice Cream, Rosati Ice, Staten Island’s Uncle Louie G’s, Diane’s Italian Water Ices and many more. The event is proudly presented with support from Wooder Ice, Philadelphia Magazine, Q102 and Wawa.
Water Ice Festival · July 18, 2026 · 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Tickets:
Adults: $20 Children 12 and under: $10 (free for children under 2) Includes unlimited popsicle tastings and voting in the popsicle flavor contest 🎨 Makeup, caricatures, photo moments and family activities throughout the festival.
🏆 Winners announced by Aunt Mary Pat.
👉 Get tickets at theoceanac.com/water-ice-festival. This one will sell out, so don’t wait.
Ocean’s 18 Mini Golf & Bar: Atlantic City’s Funniest New Venue Putting with a 12-foot shark watching over you | Photo: Better Living One of the most talked about new additions to The Ocean is Ocean’s 18 Mini Golf & Barand after playing a game ourselves, we can confirm that the hype is completely deserved. This multi-million dollar entertainment venue spans 8,000 square feet over two floors and uses the same immersive hologram technology found at the Sphere in Las Vegas. As soon as you walk in, you are greeted by a 12-foot great white shark hologram towering over the main bar. It’s the kind of breathtaking entrance that sets the tone for everything that follows.
The bowling pin hole was our favorite on the course | Photo: Better Living The course features two 9-hole layouts so you can play a full 18 or just go for a quick nine. Every hole is creative and surprising, and the bar is there when you need a drink between holes. Our favorite was the bowling pin hole, where you aim your putt straight down a mini lane into a rack full of light-up pins. The whole place glows with neon and black light, and the energy is infectious.
If you’re short on time, you can also head to the Challenge Hole for a chance to win cash, drinks, or even a hotel room. Whether you’re with a group of friends, on a date, or just looking for something to do between the pool and dinner, Ocean’s 18 is a no-brainer. It’s fun for all ages and unlike anything else in Atlantic City right now.
Summer Dinner at Ocean Casino Resort Lobster fries with unlimited golden fries at Chez Frites | Photo: Better Living Dinner at the Ocean Casino Resort is one of the strongest reasons to visit. Award-winning chefs prepare international dishes in upscale and casual venues, and there’s something to satisfy every craving at every price point.
You can enjoy the Spanish tapas of chef José Garcés at I loved itenjoy sushi at the end of the evening at Zhen Bangtreat yourself to gastropub dishes at Villain and Saintor discover refined cuisine at Linguini by the sea. And with Stephen Starr Chez Frites And Sunny now firmly established, plus the arrival of The LaScala fireOcean’s dining program continues to improve.
Stephen Starr in Ocean The bar lined with vintage French cinema posters at Chez Frites | Photo: Better Living Two of Ocean’s most famous restaurants come from Stephen Starr, James Beard Award-winning restaurateur: Chez Frites, which offers a clean contemporary French twist with traditional steaks and fries, and Sunny’s, offering sunny American breakfast and brunch. Starr grew up coming to Atlantic City, worked on the boardwalk as a kid, and you can feel that personal connection in these restaurants.
Chez Frites: Paris on the Jersey Shore Chez Frites · Stephen Starr at Ocean Casino Resort
🕐 Dinner every evening Bar open late
🥩 Fixed price menu with unlimited hand-cut fries · A la carte starters also available
🍔 Cheeseburger Royale and Surf & Turf Special ($99) available nightly
Our Chez Frites dinner consisting of unlimited steak, lobster and fries | Photo: Better Living We had dinner at Chez Frites on our first night. Upon entering, the vintage French cinema posters that cover the walls immediately set the mood. The bar was bustling with couples sipping cocktails and we were seated in a burgundy leather booth that looked like it belonged in Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
Starr was inspired by traditional Parisian entrecôte restaurants where you could eat well and cheaply, and he brought exactly that concept to Ocean.
Our server Jacob provided exceptional service with great recommendations. Chez Frites quickly became our favorite dish of the trip. We visited Paris for our anniversary and enjoyed steak fries and mussels and fries there, and the experience took us right back to those French bistros.
We started with the Brie Crustbaked brie wrapped in puff pastry with seasonal jam and fresh berries. It’s rich and elegant and the perfect thing to share over a glass of wine while you decide on your main course.
The French onion soup at Chez Frites is a must-try | Photo: Better Living THE French onion soup is one we would order on every visit. It arrives in a classic white pot with a table-stopping pull of cheese, bubbling and golden on top, rich and flavorful throughout. It’s exactly what you’d expect from a Parisian bistro, and it definitely delivers.
The Surf and Turf Frites special $99 at Chez Frites | Photo: Better Living New this season: THE Surf & Turf Special ($99) is the most indulgent way to do Chez Frites, and we loved every bite. It starts with a glass of bubbles and a mixed greens salad, then arrives in the form of a Prime NY Strip accompanied by a South African lobster tail, plus unlimited hand-cut fries, of course. You finish with your choice of Crème Brûlée or Valrhona Dark Chocolate Mousse. I saved my glass of bubbles for last and sipped it with the chocolate mousse, and honestly, it might have been the best decision of the entire trip. Bubbles and dark chocolate after a surf and turf dinner is a combination we’ll be repeating. The steak arrived with expertly grilled char and we asked for a side of béarnaise sauce. The lobster, a South African big tail, was tender and sweet. Its flavor was close to that of Maine lobster, a little firmer and almost twice as large. It was served with pulled butter and chimichurri. We wanted to order another one.
The Cheeseburger Royale at Chez Frites, accompanied by Pinot Noir | Photo: Better Living Another new feature on the menu: the Cheeseburger Royale. Double smash patties, American cheese, onions, pickles and special sauce, served with unlimited fries and choice of béarnaise, pepper or chimichurri. We paired it with a pinot noir, and ordering a smash burger at a French bistro with a glass of red wine just works. It was both chic and unpretentious, which is exactly what Chez Frites is.
But let’s not forget the fries.
Golden, crispy, perfectly salty and unlimited. Our server Jacob mentioned that people average two servings. We hit three without shame. They arrive hot, and just when you think you’re done, Jacob appears with “Would you like more fries?” Yes. Always yes.
Profiteroles with hot chocolate sauce served at the table at Chez Frites | Photo: Better Living Dessert was Profiterolesthree choux puffs filled with vanilla ice cream. Jacob brought a small pitcher of hot chocolate sauce to pour over them for a dramatic presentation. THE Dark Valrhona Chocolate Mousse arrives in a beautiful coupe glass, silky and deeply chocolaty, topped with whipped cream and chocolate pearls alongside a glass of bubbles. Both were an exceptional conclusion to a meal that represented the authentic magic of Parisian bistros.
We stayed for a last drink at the bar, not ready for the end of the evening. The bartender made us New York Sours with egg white foam floating on top, a red wine float creating a beautiful sunset effect in the glass. The bar became our regular evening spot for the rest of the weekend.
Sunny’s: Breakfast and Brunch in Atlantic City Sunny’s · Stephen Starr at Ocean Casino Resort
🕐 Daily breakfast and brunch · 11th floor with ocean light
☀️ Walk-ins are welcome · expect waits on weekend mornings
Elvis’ French Toast at Sunny’s with Peanut Butter Whipped Cream | Photo: Better Living The first morning we headed to Sunny to 11 a.m. for brunch. Stephen Starr created the concept after sitting in the resort, looking out at the ocean and thinking about “the sun.” That’s exactly what you get. On the eleventh floor, the space shines with morning light.
The coffee comes in bright yellow cups. It’s a small touch, but it instantly makes the experience happier se.
Sunny’s Lobster Roll on a Grilled Portuguese Roll | Photo: Better Living We started with the Lobster rollbrimming with large chunks of lobster lightly dressed in lemon mayonnaise on a buttery toasted Portuguese roll. This is what summer looks like. THE Maryland Crab Cake followed, any large piece with almost no toppings, pan fried golden brown and served with remoulade.
Then came The Elvis. This double-stack French toast is filled with peanut butter whipped cream, maple caramel sauce, banana slices, and bacon bits. Everything works without being overwhelming. The peanut butter cream and French toast are lighter than expected, while the banana, bacon, and maple bring it all together. We love dessert for breakfast, and this one suits the King perfectly.
We came back the next morning for simpler options. THE Two eggs to your liking came with crispy potatoes and bacon which was a great start to the day. THE Matzo Ball Soup surprised us one summer morning, but these tender matzo balls in a rich chicken broth with fresh dill proved comfort food with no set time or season.
Sunny’s Famous Monkey Bread with Cinnamon Butter and Frosting | Photo: Better Living Their already famous Monkey Bread this also had to happen. These warm, fluffy pillows were topped with cinnamon butter and served with glaze for dipping. Fun to share and even better with coffee.
Sunny’s cocktails are just as memorable. THE Spa Day blends Hendrick’s, aloe, cucumber and mint into something that tastes like self-care, while the Tequila Sunrise Mimosa brings vacation vibes to any morning.
LaScala’s Fire: an Italian-American classic reinvented LaScala’s Fire · Ocean Casino Resort · Casino Level
📍 Casino level near The District food court · right next to Ocean’s 18 mini golf course
🍝 Italian-American dishes · fresh sushi · craft cocktails
🥃 Macallan whiskey experience at the bar
LaScala’s Fire on the casino floor of the Ocean Casino Resort | Photo: Better Living One of the best surprises of this summer’s visit was The LaScala firetucked away on the back casino level, near The District food court, right next to Ocean’s 18 Mini Golf. Easy to walk past if you don’t know it’s there. Look for it. We had lunch there twice in one weekend, which says everything you need to know.
From the moment you walk in, the staff makes you feel like family. Manager Betty sets the tone for the entire place and everyone on the team follows her lead. You are greeted warmly, taken care of throughout and dispatched as if you were a regular, even on your first visit. The atmosphere is fun and laid back – the place where you settle in, lose track of time and end up ordering an extra round. Everything is prepared daily and the menu reads like one of the greatest hits of Italian-American cuisine, reinvented with great care.
We went straight for the sushi on both visits, which we know seems strange in an Italian restaurant. Trust us on this one.
LaScala Fire-Spiced Salmon Crispy Rice Squares | Photo: Better Living THE Crispy rice squares with spicy salmon are beautifully executed and we’re still talking about them. The rolls are huge and incredibly fresh. The poke bowl is generous enough for two. We would return to LaScala just for the sushi and drinks, and we mean it.
On the Italian side, the Italian egg rolls with roasted pork, tangy provolone, broccoli rabe and Calabrian chili sauce are crispy, flavorful and completely addictive. Alicia’s Meatballs and Italian Salad is a meal in itself, an extra-large meatball with ricotta and famous tomato sauce nestled atop romaine, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes and red onion.
THE Baked lasagna is pure comfort. Meat sauce, ricotta, mozzarella and their famous tomato sauce, perfectly layered and served hot. The kind of dish Grandma would approve of.
Spicy chicken escalope rigatoni with burrata and hot honey | Photo: Better Living THE Spicy Chicken Escalope Rigatoni with burrata, warm LaScala honey, and vodka cream sauce, it was one of the best pasta dishes we ate all weekend. Rich, spicy and completely satisfying. THE Fig and smoked prosciutto pizza with fig jam, basil pesto and crumbled gorgonzola, it’s just as good. The sweet-salty balance is perfect.
At the bar, bartender Vickie knows her stuff. She makes great cocktails and is great company while you decide what to order next. LaScala’s also offers a special whiskey experience where you choose your Macallan expression, from the 25th year to the Harmony Collection and beyond, and it’s served on a beautifully sculpted ice sphere in a rocks glass.
LaScala Cookie Pan, Espresso Martini and Cappuccino | Photo: Better Living For dessert, the LaScala Cookie PanDavid’s chocolate chip cookies and brownies, baked to order with caramel syrup, chocolate shavings and vanilla ice cream, are a must-try. And you can’t leave without Espresso Martini. Vanilla vodka, freshly ground Italian espresso and Kahlúa. Silky, bold and perfect to end a meal.
See also
The one at LaScala is hidden in plain sight, making its discovery seem like a reward. Don’t miss it.
Amada by chef José Garcés I loved it · Chef José Garcés · Ocean Casino Resort
🥘 Spanish tapas · paella · ocean view at sunset
⏳ Paella requires time in advance · plan accordingly
Mariscos Paella in Amada, loaded with lobster, shrimp, scallops and more | Photo: Better Living On our last evening we had dinner at I loved itthe Spanish masterpiece by chef José Garcés. The ocean views from the dining room are striking, especially at sunset.
We started with the new crispy pork belly with chicharronesa deeply flavorful and beautifully presented tapa that sets the tone for the entire meal. The pork belly is tender and rich, the chicharron adds crunch, and the marinated filling runs right through it. It’s a new addition to the menu and already a must-try.
Crispy pork belly with chicharrones at Amada, a new must-have | Photo: Better Living The tapas portions were generous and easily shareable. THE Stuffed piquillos featured roasted sweet peppers stuffed with crab and topped with marcona almonds, offering sweet, savory and nutty flavors in harmony. THE meatballslamb meatballs with sherry and foie gras cream, were as delicious as they look. We also loved the Coca Coastprime rib flatbread with horseradish cream, crispy bacon and arugula, and the Beloved empanada with spinach and Manchego.
This time we made room for Seafood Paellaand we are very happy we did. The pan arrives loaded with lobster, shrimp, scallops, mussels, clams and squid over deeply flavored saffron rice with smoked paprika aioli. It takes time to prepare, like any authentic paella, but it’s worth every minute of waiting. On our previous visits we always ran out of room before ordering this one. Consider this non-negotiable going forward.
At the moment when the Scallop cake arrived, an almond cake with white chocolate ice cream and a bright amarena cherry, we were perfectly full.
Gaming, Entertainment and Nightlife at Ocean Casino Resort The Ocean Casino | Photo: Better Living THE ocean casino itself spans 135,000 square feet with a modern design that feels more like Vegas than old Atlantic City. We tried our luck with a few fun games, bouncing between slots and table games. Contemporary design with extensive fabric installations and dynamic lighting creates an energetic atmosphere that makes play feel like part of the resort experience rather than being the sole focus. And if you’re an Ocean Rewards cardholder, summer 2026 brings more than $10 million in giveaways, including a $1 million sweepstakes running from June 25 to July 6.
We spent evenings starting with a cocktail at the Chez Frites bar or the lobby bar before heading to the casino. But honestly, between the restaurants, pool, and mini golf, gaming almost seemed optional.
Ovation Hall: world-class concerts just steps from the beach What surprised us most about Ocean was how complete the entertainment package was. Room of ovations is a 4,500-seat concert venue located directly on the property, and the summer 2026 lineup is truly impressive. Diana Ross, Sebastian Maniscalco, Matt Rife, Lenny Kravitz, Dirty Heads and 311, John Fogerty and Steve Winwood and Collective Soul are all on the schedule. The venue recently invested $1.5 million in a new Meyer Sound PANTHER system and in the sound quality of the shows. It’s an intimate setting for artists of this size, and being able to walk from your suite to a world-class show and back is something you enjoy in a way you wouldn’t expect.
HQ2 Beachclub: Day and night life by the ocean HQ2 Beach Club is Ocean’s day and nightlife destination, and it operates all summer. Think of the vibe of a pool party with world-famous DJs on the weekend. This summer’s HQ2 lineup includes Loud Luxury, Steve Aoki, Two Friends and Fisher. Whether you want to spend an afternoon dancing by the water or stay late into the night, HQ2 is the energy hub of the property when the sun is out.
And on Friday evenings in July, the park lights up with a patriotic-themed drone show celebrating America’s 250th birthday. The colors and formations above the Atlantic are worth observing.
Summer vs. Winter at Ocean Casino Resort Piña Colada served poolside at Ocean Casino Resort | Photo: Better Living Having experienced both seasons, Océan masters seasonal transformation. Winter brought cozy Holiday Social Suites with hot chocolate stations and Christmas trees, the festive setting Bell barcomfort food at Harperand warming cocktails by the indoor fire pits.
Summer brings a completely different energy. Sunny days at the pool, Stephen Starr’s restaurants, a round of mini golf with a cocktail in hand, frozen drinks overlooking the ocean, live music at Ovation Hall, and that laid-back coastal atmosphere that makes Ocean feel like a real resort. If we had to recommend a season, summer would win it for first-time visitors. But if you’ve ever been in summer, winter is worth a visit for a whole different experience. Looking for another Jersey Shore getaway? Check out our review of Icon of Avalon.
Is Ocean Casino Resort worth visiting? Ocean Casino Resort Tower Reaching the Summer Sky | Photo: Better Living Ocean Casino Resort has redefined what Atlantic City can be and is absolutely worth the trip. It’s not just a casino with a few restaurants attached. It’s a complete luxury resort that has games if you want.
The catering alone justifies the trip. At Stephen Starr’s Frites and Sunny’s, Chef Garcés’ Amada and the irresistible LaScala’s Fire offer more good meals than a long weekend can handle. Add to that the elevated pool experience, Ocean’s 18 Mini Golf & Bar, America’s Birthday Bar and those stunning suite views, and you have a destination that rivals any East Coast resort.
Since we are less than 90 minutes away Wilmington, DE we keep coming back and are already planning our next return before the pool season ends in September.
Whether you’re here for the food, the pool, a date night at the mini golf course, or just to escape reality for a weekend, Ocean always offers more than you expect from Atlantic City. If you’re planning a trip to the Jersey Shore, check out our weekend getaways from Philadelphia guide for more ideas near you.
Plan your visit The Ocean Casino Resort Boardwalk Entrance | Photo: Better Living How to get there and booking tips
Getting there
🚗 Philadelphia: 1 hour
🚗 New York City: 2.5 hours by car
🅿️ Free self-parking for Pearl members and above
🚗 Valet available at the entrance
🚁 From New York: Blade Helicopter Service Direct to Ocean Rooftop Heliport · Select Weekends
✈️ Arrive in style: Ocean’s own private jet service is available to customers coast-to-coast
Booking Tips
🍽️ Book Chez Frites when reserving your room
☀️ Sunny’s accepts walk-ins but expect waits on weekend mornings
🍝 LaScala’s Fire is ideal for a casual lunch with no reservations necessary
🏖️ Pool cabanas to be reserved 1-2 weeks in advance for weekends · daybeds are allocated on a first come, first served basis
🏨 Corner studio suites located on upper floors are available orth the upgrade
⛳ Book Ocean’s 18 Mini Golf in advance as it fills up quickly
Don’t miss summer 2026
🍧 Water Ice Festival at the Park · Saturday July 18, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. · buy tickets here
🇺🇸 America’s Birthday Bar at 1927 Lounge with specialty cocktails made in Philadelphia all summer long
🦈 Ocean’s 18 Mini Golf & Bar · the 12-foot shark hologram is worth the trip alone
Best time to visit: The swimming pool season lasts until September. Weekdays offer easier restaurant reservations and more pool space. Summer 2026 events and America’s Birthday Bar continue throughout the season.
Frequently Asked Questions Is the Ocean Casino Resort worth the trip? Yes, absolutely. Ocean has redefined what Atlantic City can be. It is a complete luxury resort with world-class restaurants by Stephen Starr and José Garcés, an adults-only pool with cabanas, Ocean’s 18 Mini Golf & Bar, live concerts at Ovation Hall, HQ2 Beachclub and 1,860 newly renovated guest rooms and suites. The gambling is there if you want it, but it’s easy to go an entire weekend without ever setting foot in the casino.
What are the restaurants at Ocean Casino Resort? Ocean has one of the deepest restaurant lineups in Atlantic City. Both Chez Frites and Sunny’s are from James Beard Award-winning restaurateur Stephen Starr. Amada is the famous Spanish tapas restaurant of chef José Garcés. LaScala’s Fire offers exceptional Italian-American cuisine and sushi on the casino level. Villain & Saint offers gastropub fare and Zhen Bang handles the late-night sushi and noodles. Linguini By The Sea is the gourmet option for special occasions.
How far is Ocean Casino Resort from Philadelphia? Ocean Casino Resort is approximately 1 hour from Philadelphia by car, making it one of the closest true resort destinations for Philadelphia residents. It’s about 2.5 hours from New York by car, and New York guests can also book Blade helicopter service directly to Ocean’s rooftop helipad on select weekends.
What is the Surf and Turf special at Chez Frites? The Surf & Turf Frites special costs $99 and includes a glass of bubbles, mixed greens salad, Prime NY Strip, South African lobster tail, unlimited hand-cut fries and your choice of crème brûlée or Valrhona dark chocolate mousse for dessert. It’s offered daily and is the most indulgent way to experience Chez Frites.
Ocean Casino Resort – Does the hotel have a pool? Yes. Ocean features an adults-only pool deck with private cabanas and daybeds, all overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The cabana area has its own exclusive swimming pools and a jacuzzi reserved for cabana and daybed guests. The swimming pool season runs from the end of May to September. Cabins must be reserved 1-2 weeks in advance on summer weekends and must be reserved online. Daybeds are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
What is Ocean’s 18 Mini Golf and Bar? Ocean’s 18 Mini Golf & Bar is an 8,000 square foot, multi-million dollar entertainment venue located inside the Ocean Casino Resort, featuring two immersive 9-hole mini golf courses and a full bar. The venue uses hologram technology from the same company behind The Sphere in Las Vegas, including a 12-foot great white shark hologram at the entrance. It is open to all ages and fills up quickly on weekends.
What is the Water Ice Festival at Ocean Casino Resort? The first annual Water Ice Festival will take place at The Park at Ocean Casino Resort on Saturday, July 18, 2026 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. It brings together more than 30 popsicle vendors from across the tri-state area for a ticketed family event with unlimited tastings, a flavor contest hosted by Aunt Mary Pat, face painting, caricatures and photo moments. Adult tickets are $20, children 12 and under are $10, and children under 2 are free.
What concerts are happening at the Ocean Casino Resort this summer? Ocean’s Ovation Hall offers a major concert lineup for summer 2026, including Diana Ross, Lenny Kravitz, Sebastian Maniscalco, Matt Rife, Dirty Heads and 311, John Fogerty and Steve Winwood, Collective Soul, Slightly Stoopid, Blues Traveler, and more. HQ2 Beachclub features sets from Loud Luxury, Steve Aoki, Two Friends and Fisher. Check theoceanac.com/entertainment for the full schedule and tickets.
When is the best time to visit the Océan Casino Resort? Summer is peak season and the best time to experience all that Ocean has to offer: the cabanas, HQ2 Beachclub, concerts at Ovation Hall, Water Ice Festival and America’s Birthday Bar. The swimming pool season runs from the end of May to September. Weekdays offer easier restaurant reservations and more pool space than weekends. The ocean is also excellent in winter, when it transforms with holiday programming and warm indoor experiences.
Ready to experience summer at Ocean Casino Resort? World-class restaurants, VIP cabanas, ocean view suites, live concerts, and Jersey Shore’s best summer programming, all in one place.
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