This 110-room beachfront DoubleTree by Hilton Ocean City Oceanfront is about a 10-minute walk to the Ocean City Boardwalk. Spacious rooms at this budget-friendly property include kitchenettes, and those facing the beach offer beautiful views. Renovations are underway, and some of the rooms still await updating, including the bathrooms and kitchenettes. An outdoor pool and the indoor pool with a sky-dome ceiling are popular features. An on-site restaurant serves breakfast (not included in the room rate), but no other meals. Travelers might also want to check out the Sleep Inn & Suites, which is a about 15-minute walk south of the Boardwalk -- it includes breakfast but not the same ocean views as the Double Tree.

The 79-room Crystal Beach Hotel is a value stay on the northern end of the boardwalk, directly across from the ocean. Rooms are spacious and comfortable with kitchenettes and free Wi-Fi, plus many have ocean views. Decor is dated, however. The only on-site amenity is a small outdoor pool with loungers on a concrete patio. It is a short drive -- or tram ride -- to a livelier section of the boardwalk, but those seeking a quiet beach vacation appreciate being removed from the bustle. Those looking for a hotel with more on-site amenities should check out the nearby Grand Hotel & Spa, with its indoor and outdoor pools, 24-hour coffee shop, and full service spa.