When you’re packing your bags for your first ever casino weekend getaway, your mind will likely start drifting off into possibility—where do I even begin? And how do I cash in on one of those highly coveted casino jackpots?

Casinos are vibrant, exciting, and welcoming places for newcomers and gaming veterans alike. But if you’re new to gambling, you’ll need to know a few basics to get started. Below, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make the most of your upcoming casino vacation. 

Get ready to win big.

A Casino Guide for Newcomers

Let’s zoom in on the casino—while the electric casino floor is inviting to seasoned players, it can be intimidating for newcomers. Let’s help you shake off some of the jitters and game like a pro. 

Must-Know Casino Etiquette

Most casino etiquette is based on mutual respect: social rules like waiting your turn and generally being courteous to others are certainly applicable here. 

However, there are some specifics to keep in mind:

• Be alert at the table – While you might use your phone to check in to a table or a slot machine using Ocean Casino Resort’s cardless gaming platform, be sure to put your phone away as soon as the game starts. 
• Only sit at tables where you’re playing – If you want to watch a friend play a game, stand behind them instead of taking up a seat at the table. 
• Tip casino workers – Tipping is standard practice in casinos, but chips are the most common tipping currency. After you leave a table game or receive a drink from a casino cocktail server, tip with a chip.
• Mind your hands – Once a game begins (when cards are dealt or the roulette wheel is spun, for instance), don’t touch your chips. In addition, if you’re playing a card game, it’s a common practice to only touch your cards with one hand. 
• Practice patience – Don’t sit at a table until the previous game ends, and don’t leave the table until your current game is complete. 
• Don’t delay games – While taking your time is normal for newcomers, making showy delays (to blow on dice before rolling them, for instance) is generally considered rude. 

When in doubt, ask a dealer at an empty table for pointers and help—casino staff want you to feel at home and get a feel for the unspoken rules. 

Navigating Slot Machines

Slot machines are an excellent gaming option for newcomers. All you have to do to get started is:

• Insert your Ocean Casino Rewards Card or scan the machine’s QR code with your phone to check into a slot.
• Choose the denomination range you’d like to play with.
• Place a bet within that denomination range.
• Hit the “Spin” button (or your chosen machine’s equivalent) and start your game.

Most slot machines are based on a symbols matching system: randomized symbols appear in a line, and the number of matching symbols determines your payout. However, some slots have other rewards like bonus spins or free games. Each slot machine offers a quick tutorial that will help you learn the ropes.

Table Game How-Tos

Ocean Casino Resort offers a wide selection of table games, including:

• Baccarat
• Various kinds of poker (including blackjack)
• Roulette
• Craps

While each of these games is relatively simple, they all have unique rules. To learn to play, you have two options:

1. Ask a dealer – If you notice an empty table (or a table with a few open seats), approach and ask if you can learn to play. The person running the table game will give you a quick overview of the rules. Other players sitting at the table may chime in with tips, too. 
2. Watch other players – While maintaining appropriate personal space, watch a few rounds of play before sitting down at a table to get a feel for players’ motions and actions. If you came to the casino with an experienced player, consider asking them to walk you through their gameplay. 

Cashing Out

When you’re ready to call it a day and cash in your chips, you have two options:

1. Cash out at the table – If you’re playing a table game (like blackjack) and want to cash out, wait until the game has finished. Tell the dealer that you’d like to cash out, and present your chips. Try to separate them by denomination as a courtesy to the dealer if you have time. 
2. Cash out at the cage – Take any vouchers and chips to our teller desk to exchange them for cash. 

However, feel free to ask any dealer or Pit Boss for help cashing out if needed.

Introducing Cardless Gaming: A Seamless Casino Experience

At Ocean Casino Resort, we’re making it easier than ever to quickly check into a game, start playing, and keep winning big. 

Our newest innovation? Cardless gaming. All you’ll need to do to get started is:

1. Sign up for an Ocean Rewards account. 
2. Download the Ocean mobile app. 
3. Sign into your Ocean Rewards account in the app. 
4. Scroll down to “Cardless Gaming” and choose your game.
5. Click “Cardless Login” on a slot machine or show your app to a dealer to start playing. 

After a few setup steps, you’ll be breezing seamlessly between slots and tables—no more fumbling for cards. 

Go for the Rewards: Ocean Casino Rewards Perks

Whether you’re looking to bet on sports in Atlantic City, try your luck with slots, or show off your poker prowess, the best way to take advantage of everything Ocean Casino Resort has to offer is by signing up for our exclusive rewards program. 

Ocean Rewards members earn perks like:

• Offers – From free gifts to discounted room rates, Ocean Rewards members get access to members-only offers throughout their stay. 
• Comp dollars – Many table games and slots offer Comp Dollars—rewards you can use toward dining, tickets to events at Ovation Hall, spa visits, and more. 
• Same-day free play – Ocean Rewards members get special free play offers at every slot machine on our casino floor. 

First-time casino players and long-time gamblers alike can maximize their casino vacation with rewards—sign up at the Ocean Rewards desk before you start playing!

Ocean Casino Resort: The Home of Big Wins in Atlantic City

Casino vacations can be unforgettable experiences for the entire family—whether you’re a bona fide gamer or a first-time player. When you’re looking for an Atlantic City Boardwalk hotel with an irresistible casino floor, turn to Ocean Casino Resort: the home of big wins on the Boardwalk. 

But our gambling experiences are just the tip of the iceberg. During your stay, don’t forget to check out our award-winning spa, scrumptious dining concepts, and slate of world-class entertainment. 
Start planning your stay now.