Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, children are allowed in Seacrets until 10pm

Yes, you can use a metal detector with some restrictions depending on where you go. 

Ocean City:

There are no restrictions on using a metal detector in Ocean City.  

Assateague Island State Park:

In the state park on Assateague, metal detectors are only allowed beginning the day after Labor Day through May 30th and only on the ocean side of the primary dune.   During the season you will need to get written permission to use your metal detector from the Park Manager.

National Park on Assateague Island:

“Possessing or using a mineral or metal detector, magnetometer, side scan sonar, other metal detecting device, or sub-bottom profiler is prohibited within areas or lands managed by the National Park Service.”

We have put all those answers together for you in this article: https://www.oceancity.com/maryland-dnr-fishing-regulations/

You need to apply for a Worcester County marriage license. Call the Clerk of Court Office in Snow Hill at 410-632-5500 to find out what’s required and what documents are needed. 

No.  You must wait until after 6 am on the second calendar day after you apply for the license before you can be married.

The hours for applying are 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

According to the Worcester County site,

• “Only the bride or groom need apply. The fee for a marriage license application is $35.00, CASH only, no checks accepted. You will need to show a drivers license or birth certificate for both the bride and groom. No blood test is required. We need to have Social Security numbers for both.
• The fee for a civil ceremony is $25.00, CASH only, no checks accepted. Please make an appointment at the time you apply. We can accommodate no more than six people.
• You must be married in Worcester County, if you obtain your license in this county.
• You must wait until after 6:00 a.m. on the second calendar day after you apply for the license before you can be married.
• The license is valid for six months from the date of issue.
• If either party is divorced, we need documentation of same, please bring papers with you. If bride resumes her maiden name, we will need to see documentation of same.
• If either of you have a deceased spouse, you will need to know the date and place of death.
• If under 18, please call for information.”

All locations are accessible for the physically challenged.

• • Boardwalk at Worcester Street
  • Boardwalk at Caroline Street
  • 3rd Street & St. Louis Avenue next to Skate Park
  • Boardwalk at 9th Street
  • Boardwalk at 27th Street
  • S. Division Street Transit Center
  • Park & Ride on Rt. 50, just west of Harry Kelley Bridge
  • Transit Center on 144th Street

PUBLIC RINSE-OFF STATIONS

Rinse-off spigots are provided at the following locations:

• Caroline Street (4)
• Inlet Beach (4)
• 9th Street (2)

The Town of Ocean City prides itself on hosting free weekly events throughout the summer to help you enjoy your vacation without blowing your budget. Find a full list here.

• The Beach is free
• Walk & Explore the boardwalk
• View Free Events

Yes, you can use a metal detector with some restrictions depending on where you go. 

Ocean City:

There are no restrictions on using a metal detector in Ocean City.  

Assateague Island State Park:

In the state park on Assateague, metal detectors are only allowed beginning the day after Labor Day through May 30th and only on the ocean side of the primary dune.   During the season you will need to get written permission to use your metal detector from the Park Manager.

National Park on Assateague Island:

“Possessing or using a mineral or metal detector, magnetometer, side scan sonar, other metal detecting device, or sub-bottom profiler is prohibited within areas or lands managed by the National Park Service.”

We are in Worcester County at the terminus of Route 50.  Ocean City is the easternmost town in Maryland and as Jim Mathias, the previous Mayor of Ocean City who also served as the State Senator always said, the sun rises first in Ocean City, Maryland.

Ocean City, MD is approximately 3 hours by car from Washington, DC. <a

The White Marlin Open has several rules designed to minimize the number of fish that are actually killed and brought to the scales.  Then, the tournament encourages the anglers to donate their catches to charities in the Ocean City area who help feed those in need.  Catch n Carry processes and flash freezes the fish before distributing the meat to 3 local charities including the Maryland Food Bank.  For more information, you can read this article: https://www.oceancity.com/the-fate-of-fish-at-the-white-marlin-open-in-ocean-city-a-conservation-success-story/

Everybody needs a license unless the following conditions exist:

If a person;

• is less than 16 years of age;
• is a registered angler with the State of Maryland and is fishing from a boat holding a valid tidal/salt water license issued by Potomac River Fisheries Commission, the Commonwealth of Virginia or the State of Maryland.
• possesses a valid commercial tidal fish license;
• is fishing from a licensed commercial fishing pier;
• is a registered angler with the State of Maryland and is fishing on a free fishing pier;
• is the owner or the owners non-paying guest fishing from private real property or an attached pier in the Potomac River;
• is fishing from a licensed charter boat;
• is fishing on a free fishing day – the first two Saturdays in June and July 4;
• is a registered angler with the State of Maryland and possesses a Virginia Saltwater recreational fishing license; or
• possesses a Potomac River Fisheries Commission recreational fishing license.
• Is a resident of MD, on active duty with the armed forces, on leave with official leave orders;

• Ocean City Fishing Pier: 401 S Atlantic Ave
  • No license is required
• 9th Street Fishing Pier: 304 9th St
• Oceanic Fishing Pier: 710 S Philadelphia Avenue
• Free Fishing Boardwalk between 3rd and 4th at Bayside Park at 3rd Street in Ocean City. (Free fish zone)
• Northside Park Fishing Pier: (Free fish zone) 200 125th Street.
• Inlet Park – rocks along the inlet – accessed from the inlet parking lot

We have put all those answers together for you in this article: https://www.oceancity.com/maryland-dnr-fishing-regulations/

Practice schedules are subject to change and are therefore not published. You will likely see planes flying all throughout the week prior to the show. We are unable to post the practice schedules as they are subject to change. 

All the major acts will perform both days. The specific line-ups of each day’s show are posted about 1-2 weeks prior to the show.

A good portion of the show is viewable from 6th Street to 26th Street. The ticketed beach areas are at show center from 13th Street to 17th Street. We cannot guarantee views outside of the ticketed areas.

Ear protection is recommended, especially for children under 5 who may be startled by the noise of the aerial performance teams.

Traffic during the Air Show is very busy, so if at all possible, leave the car behind and either walk or take the bus. If you need to take the car, you can park at the West Ocean City Park and Ride, and then either walk or take the bus over the Rout 50 Bridge. After the show is finished, don’t plan to be any where fast! Spend sometime at the beach, stay for dinner, then head home or back to your hotel. 

There are literally hundreds of places to stay in Ocean City, so choosing just one for your Ocean City vacation can feel a bit overwhelming. No need to worry, though. All these options just mean there’s something for every family and budget, whether that’s with a view of the ocean or the bay, in the midst of all the action on the boardwalk or in quieter North Ocean City. Check out our Ocean City Area Guide to help you find the perfect location, then you can find the accommodations that fit your needs.  You can search hotels here, or compare prices and amenities, and reserve your room right now with our online booking. Happy travels!

First, pick the location that fits your family’s needs. The Ocean City Area Guide should help.  Each area of Ocean City has it’s own feel, from busy with lots of shopping and amusements downtown to the quieter “condo-row” in North Ocean City. Then, search by the amenity you want in the area you’ve chosen.  Do a complete search here. If you want to just compare rates and availability click here. Finally, Ocean City lodging includes more than just hotels. There are also plenty of motels and vacation rentals, if those suit you best.  Click on either of the links above to sort by the type of lodging you like.

Downtown Ocean City runs from the inlet parking lot to the end of the boardwalk between 27th and 28th Street.  Downtown = the famous Ocean City Boardwalk. If you haven’t seen or visited Ocean City’s award-winning Boardwalk, you won’t regret staying where all the action is. First, there’s tons of nearby entertainment including arcades, amusement parks, roller coasters and haunted houses. There’s also classic Boardwalk fare from Thrasher’s Fries and Dumser’s ice cream to Fisher’s Popcorn, and restaurants including the Frog Bar and Harrison’s Harbor Watch. There are plenty of hotels, motels and apartments in the Downtown area of Ocean City that allow you to stay amid all the action. If you want an oceanfront hotel, search for boardwalk hotels in the downtown area.  If you search just for “oceanfront” you will get hotels along the 10 miles of beach.  Beachfront and oceanfront are the same.  You can also search for Bayfront hotels where the sunset views are amazing.  

Midtown Ocean City runs from the end of the Boardwalk at 28th Street to the Route 90 bridge at 62d Street.

Midtown hotels and motels offer quieter stays than their Downtown counterparts. Oftentimes, they have quicker access to the many famous the most bars and restaurants in Ocean City. Midtown is also near enough the Boardwalk for easy access by foot or bike, but distant enough that you only have to get caught up in it by choice. Additionally, the Convention Center on 40th Street, with its new Performing Arts Center, is the hub of a lot of activity in Ocean City, making midtown the ideal location for anyone attending events there. If you don’t want the noise and activity of the Boardwalk but still want to be close to Seacrets, the Convention Center and other Ocean City hot spots, midtown is a great place to start your hotel search.  

North Ocean City runs from 62nd Street to the Delaware Line.

Sometimes called “condo row” because of the many high-rises mixed in along the hotels and motels, Uptown tends to be quieter and is more family-oriented than the midtown and downtown areas. The beach is calmer, but many of the attractions, dining and entertainment options require driving. Northside Park, home to sports fields, free events, and the award-winning Winterfest of Lights, is found uptown. There, you’ll also find the Original Greene Turtle, Gold Coast Mall and many of the locals’ favorite hangouts. Uptown also offers easier access to the golf courses in Delaware, the shopping in Rehoboth, and Delaware Beach activities. By gaining access to this the uptown area across the Route 90 bridge, you’ll alleviate some traffic woes by avoiding downtown Ocean City. Plus, you can always leave your car in the lot where there’s mostly free parking and take the bus downtown to visit the Boardwalk. The Clarion, which offers luxury and great dining as well as great views of the ocean from their restaurant and fabulous beach tunes on the deck at Lenny’s, the Carousel and the Princess Royale are some of uptown’s most iconic hotels, but far from the only options.

Hotels in West Ocean City, MD

Our final stop is actually the first area of town you come to if taking Route 50 all the way into Ocean City. If you want easy access to the Assateague Island National Seashore, first-rate shopping and world-class golf, and don’t mind a drive to the beach, West Ocean City offers exceptional hotel and motel options. Choose one of the hotels or motels in this area and save a little money while you are just minutes from the wild ponies, Tanger Outlets, Sunset Marina, Harborside Bar and Grill, and so much more.  

There are some spots around town, but we would recommend that you park your car at your hotel and use the bus to get around.  You can also park your car at the West Ocean City Park and Ride and catch the bus into Ocean City. The event promoter has more information on their site.

First, check out the OceanCity.com Cruisin’ Guide.  You can also go to the organizer’s site.  

You can find the complete schedule of events for Cruisin’ 2024 on the organizer’s site.

Cruisin’ Ocean City is a celebration of cars – over 3000 hot rods, customs, classics and trucks – in it’s 32nd year.  It includes car shows dotted around Ocean City and the surrounding area as well as entertainment, boardwalk parades, special guests, featured cars, live music, celebrities and more.

Ocean City can experience moderate winds, especially during the spring and fall months. However, winds are generally calmer during the summer. It’s always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before heading to the beach.

Being on the East coast of Maryland we often find ourselves in the middle of some pretty impressive weather systems, but it’s very rare.    While hurricanes are not common in Ocean City, they can occur, especially during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1st to November 30th. Our live webcams get very popular during storms. It’s important to be aware of the hurricane season and to have a plan in place in case of severe weather. Check the emergency information page on OceanCity.com for information and relevant phone numbers and websites.

The water temperature in Ocean City varies depending on the time of year. During the summer months, the water temperature averages around 70-75°F (21-24°C). However, the water can be cooler in the spring and fall.   Surfers don wetsuits and surf all year – regardless of the temperatures.  We, personally, like the warm water we see in Ocean City later in the summer and even into the early fall.

Usually in March and April we see the temperatures rise and linger in the 60’s & 70’s providing excellent weather for enjoying the outside life, walking the boardwalk & beach, biking, and other outdoor activities.  The Beach season begins in May and runs until September or October.

 

Absolutely!  As long as the electricity and internet are working, you can watch some impressive wave action and dramatic skies through the webcams on OceanCity.com.  You can also keep watch on the OceanCity.com Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ocfun

The average high temperature in Ocean City during the summer months (June-August) is around 80-85°F. However, temperatures can sometimes rise into the 90s°F, especially in July and August.

Ocean City experiences occasional rain showers during the summer, usually in the form of afternoon thunderstorms. On average, there are about 8-10 rainy days per month during the summer.

Yes, there are bridges and roads providing vehicle access to the island. In Maryland, you take 611 over the Verrazano bridge.  The State Park is in front of you and if you turn right and follow signs to the National Park, you will encounter that gate several miles up.

Popular activities include camping, fishing, swimming, hiking, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and over-sand vehicle (OSV) use.

Pets are not allowed in certain areas, such as the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and some backcountry campsites. In areas where pets are allowed, they must be kept on a leash.

For the State Beach:

Day Use Areas • Pets allowed in day use areas after Labor Day to the Friday of Memorial Day weekend • Pets allowed on the Rackliffe Trail on the mainland Campground • During the camping season (last week of April – November 1st), pets allowed only in camp loops G, H, and I and adjoining beaches • During the camping season (last week of April- November 1), pets allowed on the hiker/biker path on the west side of Campground Road only • When the campground is closed (November 1st- third week of April), pets are permitted in all campground loops and the beach Marina • Pets allowed in marina areas

For the National Park:

Pets are permitted only in specific areas of the Maryland portion of the National Seashore. Please manage your pets. Pets must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times! Please pick up after your pet.The hot sand and sun can be harder on your pet than it is on you. Unattended and unrestrained animals can disturb and harm island wildlife and other park visitors. Pets are prohibited in the following areas to protect wildlife, habitat and visitors: • The entire Virginia portion of Assateague Island * • All backcountry campsites • Nature trails • Lifeguard-protected beach • Portions of Assateague State Park • North of the State Park to the Ocean City inlet *Pets are prohibited in the entire Virginia portion of Assateague Island, even in your car. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages nearly all of the land area on the Virginia portion of Assateague Island as Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.  

The wild horses graze on marsh grasses, dune grasses, and other vegetation. They also have access to freshwater ponds and springs. The biggest threat to the wild horses are the cars that speed through the parks.  Please be careful and stick to the posted speed limits.  You will get a ticket!

Assateague Island is a barrier island located off the coast of Maryland and Virginia.

Assateague Island is best known for its wild horses, pristine beaches, and the Assateague Lighthouse which is located on the Chincoteague/Virginia side of Assateague Island.

Springfest is the Town of Ocean City’s formal launch of the Summer Season.  It’s a 4 day live music, food, and arts event at the inlet in Ocean City.  

The best place to park is at your hotel.  Then, just take the Ocean City Beach Bus down Coastal Highway to the Inlet.  If you are driving into Ocean City for the day and don’t have a hotel where you can leave your car, we recommend parking at the West Ocean City Park & Ride and take the shuttle from there.  There is some metered street parking downtown, but it fills up fast.  You can also park at the Convention Center and take the bus.

The Town of Ocean City has two stages set up for free concerts throughout Springfest.  There are also three headline concerts which are ticketed.  You can see the headline concerts here. You can also see the OceanCity.com Springfest Guide with the free concerts listed here.

Technically, pets are not allowed at Springfest.  There is an exception for service animals.

If you bought a handicap ticket to one of the headline events that means that your ticket is in one of the handicap zones at the concert.  There, everybody has a seat, but the seats can be removed if you prefer to sit in your own chair or wheelchair.

Great question! There are 3 headline concerts and the rest of the music throughout this 4 day festival at the inlet parking lot are FREE to the public. To find the headline concerts, click here. For a list of the free concerts going on throughout each day of the festival, click here.

Here are the links to the transportation schedules of the trams and buses in Ocean City, MD. Boardwalk Tram Schedule: 10am – 10pm / Thursday – Saturday 10am – 7pm / Sunday Ocean City Beach Bus: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. / Thursday – Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. / Sunday Express Beach Bus Shuttle Schedule: Transport to/from 40th St. South Convention Center parking lot and Springfest fair grounds. Service is approx. every 20 minutes. Thursday – Saturday 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. & Sunday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. More information is available here.

Yes. The bus is normally free from the Park and Ride in West Ocean City, but during the big festival weekends, the Town charges $4 to ride all day. The schedule is here.

Pets are allowed on the beach and boardwalk from October 1 to April 30 in Ocean City and any time on Assateague; however, pets must be leashed at all times and the owner is responsible for removing any waste. There are lots of pet friendly hotels in town. Also,  The Ocean City Dog Park is on 94th Street, bayside.

Pets are only permitted on the Boardwalk between October 1st and April 30th, and they must be kept on a leash.

There are many hotels in Ocean City which welcome dogs. For a full list, click here.

Yes there are quite a few restaurants with outdoor seating which welcome dogs. For a full list, click here.

If you can’t find rooms in one of the various Ocean City hotels that allow pets, or if you chose a rental that doesn’t allow pets but want your dog to join you during the day on your vacation, there are several kennels in the area that will board your pet. Some allow regular day visits and will accept your pet for overnight or extended absences. Village Kennels –  410-352-5108 Bishopville, MD Dogtel Hotel – 410-213-8188 West Ocean City Delmarva Kennels – 302-436-2275 Selbyville, DE    

Yes there are:

• VCA Delmarva Animal Hospital10311 Old Ocean City BoulevardBerlin, MD(410) 629-1800
• Ocean City Animal Hospital11843 Ocean GatewayOcean City, MD (410) 213-1170
• Berlin Animal Hospital, 10302 Old Ocean City Blvd, Berlin, MD 21811 (410) 641-1841
• Precious Paws Animal Hosp Inc118 Atlantic AveOcean View, DE 19970(302) 539-5763
• Whaleyville Animal Hospital8901 Whaleyville Rd, Whaleyville, MD 21872 (410) 352-3311
• Sussex Veterinary Hospital Ltd, 30053 Vines Creek Rd, Dagsboro, DE 19939 (302) 732-9433

Pets are not allowed in certain areas, such as the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and some backcountry campsites. In areas where pets are allowed, they must be kept on a leash.

For the State Beach:

Day Use Areas • Pets allowed in day use areas after Labor Day to the Friday of Memorial Day weekend • Pets allowed on the Rackliffe Trail on the mainland Campground • During the camping season (last week of April – November 1st), pets allowed only in camp loops G, H, and I and adjoining beaches • During the camping season (last week of April- November 1), pets allowed on the hiker/biker path on the west side of Campground Road only • When the campground is closed (November 1st- third week of April), pets are permitted in all campground loops and the beach Marina • Pets allowed in marina areas

For the National Park:

Pets are permitted only in specific areas of the Maryland portion of the National Seashore. Please manage your pets. Pets must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times! Please pick up after your pet.The hot sand and sun can be harder on your pet than it is on you. Unattended and unrestrained animals can disturb and harm island wildlife and other park visitors. Pets are prohibited in the following areas to protect wildlife, habitat and visitors: • The entire Virginia portion of Assateague Island * • All backcountry campsites • Nature trails • Lifeguard-protected beach • Portions of Assateague State Park • North of the State Park to the Ocean City inlet *Pets are prohibited in the entire Virginia portion of Assateague Island, even in your car. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages nearly all of the land area on the Virginia portion of Assateague Island as Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.  

Technically, pets are not allowed at Springfest.  There is an exception for service animals.

You can get from the West Ocean City Park and Ride into Ocean City on the West Ocean City Park-N-Ride Beach Bus. The schedule for this transportation is available here.

The best place to park is at your hotel.  Then, just take the Ocean City Beach Bus down Coastal Highway to the Inlet.  If you are driving into Ocean City for the day and don’t have a hotel where you can leave your car, we recommend parking at the West Ocean City Park & Ride and take the shuttle from there.  There is some metered street parking downtown, but it fills up fast.  You can also park at the Convention Center and take the bus.

Free parking is available on most streets, but can be hard to find during the summer. Find a full list of parking options here.

Trailers and oversized vehicles may not be parked on Baltimore Avenue at any time. Parking a trailer or oversized vehicle on any street or paved public lot without a permit is prohibited between May 1 and October 31. Permits are available to registered participants of Cruisin’ Ocean City, OC BikeFest, and Endless Summer Cruisin’ for a fee of $50 from the event organizer. There are three options for parking your trailer in town without a permit.

Spring: Every 15 min. 6 :00 a.m. – 10 p.m., and every 30 min. 10:00 p.m.- 6:00 a.m Summer: Every 10 min. 6 : 00 a.m. – 3:00 a.m, and every 20 min. 3 :00 a.m.- 6:00 a.m Fall: Approx. every 15 minutes 6 a.m.- 10 p.m., and approx. every 30 minutes 10 p.m. – 6 a.m.

There are three options for parking your trailer in town without a permit. 1. The West Ocean City Park & Ride has limited free trailer parking available starting at noon on the Friday prior to the Cruisin’ OC, OC BikeFest and Endless Summer Cruisin’ events through noon on the Monday immediately following each event. However, no overnight parking is allowed – Vehicles and trailers will be towed if parked between 3:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. 2. The 100th Street gravel lot also has limited trailer parking for a daily fee that can be paid on site. 3. In addition, you may make arrangements with a private property owner to park on their lot. You may not park on any public street. nn

The cost to ride the Ocean City Beach Bus is only $4 for rides all day.  The bus runs from South Division Street Transit Station to and from the 144th Street Transit station and stops all along the way on both north bound and south bound Coastal Highway.

**The Boardwalk tram is suspended indefinitely** The Boardwalk Tram costs $5.00 per person, per boarding, per one way ride. Although the tram runs every day throughout the summer, it may not maintain its normal schedule during during inclement weather due to safety precautions. For further questions please contact Transportation at 410-723-1606. Summer Boardwalk Tram Hours: May 24 – September 2 2024, 12pm -Midnight/Daily Special Events Boardwalk Tram Hours: Springfest: May 2-5 2024, OC Cruisin’ Weekend: May 16-19, Post Labor Day: September 3-8, Bikefest: September 11-15, Sunfest: Thursday, October 24-27

Ocean City, MD is approximately 3 hours by car from Washington, DC. <a

Yes. The bus is normally free from the Park and Ride in West Ocean City, but during the big festival weekends, the Town charges $4 to ride all day. The schedule is here.

Definitely the inlet lot.  Here is information from the Town of Ocean City on parking in the inlet lot. Your first 30 minutes are free, including handicapped! Patrons must pay for expired time prior to leaving the Inlet Lot to avoid being billed for additional administrative costs April 1 – May 23, 2024 Monday – Thursday: FREE Parking Friday – Sunday: $3.00/hour May 24 – September 30, 2024 Daily Rate: $3.50/hour July 4, 2024 – $5.00/hour October 1 – October 31, 2024 Monday – Thursday: FREE Parking Friday – Sunday: $3.00/hour

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

When parking at the Inlet Parking Lot in Ocean City, here’s what you need to know: Payment Options:

• You can pay for your parking session when you arrive or before you leave the lot by paying for the amount of time you have stayed.
• Use a nearby kiosk to enter your license plate details and pay for your desired parking duration. Make sure to enter your complete license plate, including numbers.
• There’s a 30-minute grace period to start your parking session, including for handicapped spaces.

Receipt Display:

• There’s no need to display the receipt on your dashboard after payment.

ParkMobile App:

• Alternatively, you can use the ParkMobile App to pay for your parking at the Inlet Parking Lot.

Violation Fees:

• Violations of parking regulations at the Inlet Lot will result in a mailed bill for the time spent in the lot, plus a $25 administrative fee.
• If the violation fee is not paid within 30 days, it will escalate to $50.

Payment Before Leaving:

• To avoid additional administrative costs, make sure to pay for any expired time before leaving the Inlet Lot.

Assistance:

• Parking lot ambassadors are available at the booth located in the center of Row E in the Inlet Parking Lot.
• For technical support and guidance on using the parking machines, you can call the number displayed on the front of the machine.

Following these guidelines ensures a smooth parking experience at the Inlet Parking Lot in Ocean City, Maryland.

OceanCity.com will have lots of great content on the tournament throughout the week.  In addition, the official website (whitemarlinopen.com) is the best source for up-to-date information.

Parking can be limited, especially during peak weigh-in times. Consider alternative transportation options like the Ocean City bus system.  There is parking at the Ocean City Convention Center and the Town of Ocean City frequently runs shuttles from there to Harbour Island.

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. It can get hot and sunny on the docks. Also, bring your camera or phone to capture the action.  You can bring water – but you may also be able to buy water from entrepreneurial vendors.  As usual, bring money if you want to buy an iconic White Marlin Open t-shirt or other cool stuff from vendors.

 

Yes, but book well in advance, as hotels and rentals tend to fill up quickly during the White Marlin Open.  You can find Ocean City hotels here. If you can’t find a hotel in Ocean City, you might try Salisbury.

Yes, absolutely.  Katie Ruskey has come up with several articles to educate readers about the WMO.  Here are just a few for 2024:

• Guide to the White Marlin Open 2024
• Tour the Incredible Boats of the White Marlin Open
• The White Marlin Open:  10 Rules You Probably Didn’t Know
• The White Marlin Open:  A 3 AM Party Like You’ve Never Seen
• Can This Year’s WMO Anglers Top Last Year’s $40,000 Bar Tab for the Teaser’s Cup?

The White Marlin Open is held in Ocean City, Maryland, typically during the first full week of August.

The White Marlin Open has several rules designed to minimize the number of fish that are actually killed and brought to the scales.  Then, the tournament encourages the anglers to donate their catches to charities in the Ocean City area who help feed those in need.  Catch n Carry processes and flash freezes the fish before distributing the meat to 3 local charities including the Maryland Food Bank.  For more information, you can read this article: https://www.oceancity.com/the-fate-of-fish-at-the-white-marlin-open-in-ocean-city-a-conservation-success-story/

It’s the world’s largest and richest billfish tournament. Anglers from around the globe compete to catch white marlin, blue marlin, tuna, wahoo, and dolphin fish (mahi-mahi).

The weigh-ins are free and open to the public. They take place at Harbour Island at 14th Street and the Bay in Ocean City each day of the tournament, typically from 4:00 PM to 9:15 PM.

You can also watch the weigh-ins on the live screen at Marlin Fest in the inlet parking lot.

 

Yes, but there’s a registration fee and limited space. Registration details are usually available on the White Marlin Open’s official website.

The prize money varies depending on the number of boats entered and the categories won. The purse can reach millions of dollars.

Yes, there are often associated events like the Marlin Fest at the Inlet, which features vendors, live music, and food.

Pets are only permitted on the Boardwalk between October 1st and April 30th, and they must be kept on a leash.

Biking is allowed only between the hours of 2 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the summer (Memorial Day through Labor Day). It is allowed anytime of the day and night in the off-season from the Tuesday after Labor Day to the Friday before Memorial Day subject to the following exceptions: Springfest and Sunfest (Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday), between 2:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon of the same day. Class 2 & 3 Electric bicycles are not allowed on the boardwalk at any time.

Q: When are the stores and shops on the Ocean City Boardwalk open?

A: There’s no set time for all stores to open or close on the Ocean City Boardwalk. Each business has its own unique hours of operation.

Q: How can I find out the hours for a specific store or restaurant?

A: The best way to find out the hours for your favorite stores and restaurants is to:

• Check their individual websites
• Look up their hours on their Facebook pages
• Call them directly

Q: Are the stores open year-round?

A: Many stores and restaurants are open seasonally, with their hours varying depending on the time of year.

Q: When do most stores open for the season?

A: Typically, most stores and restaurants begin to open around Memorial Day weekend, often starting with weekend-only hours.

Q: When can I expect most stores to be open daily?

A: As the summer season progresses, you’ll find that most businesses are open daily during the week and on weekends.

Q: Are stores open after Labor Day?

A: Yes, many stores and restaurants remain open on weekends after Labor Day.

Q: Are there any special events that might extend store hours in the fall?

A: Yes, events like Oceans Calling and Sunfest often encourage businesses to remain open, at least on weekends, well into October.

Remember: It’s always best to confirm the hours of operation for a specific store or restaurant before heading to the Ocean City Boardwalk.

There is no universal time for a store to be open or closed.  Each business runs its own hours. So check the website or Facebook page of your favorite business to see their hours. Typically, the shops restaurants and stores open around Memorial Day, at least on the weekends.  As Spring moves into Summer, the businesses are almost all open during the week as well as the weekends.  Most businesses remain open on the weekends after Labor Day and will start closing as we get into October.  Now, with Oceans Calling, Sunfest and other big events in October, you will find the businesses will keep their stores and restaurants open at least on the weekends well into October.

Skateboarding/ rollerblading/ rollerskating is prohibited on the Boardwalk during the summer season, but is allowed anytime of the day and night in the off-season from the Tuesday after Labor Day to the Friday before Memorial Day.

Most are down near the inlet end of the boardwalk.     View the Ocean City Arcade Directory

Yes, the Town of Ocean City provides beach wheelchairs at designated locations from 10am to 5pm daily, from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Chairs are available from the Beach Patrol and must be used within a block of where they are picked up. Chairs can be rented at the following lots: Inlet Lot, 7th St., 30th St., 40th St., 48th St., 59th St., 70th St., 81st St., 89th St., 94th St., 107th St., 120th St., 130th St., 139th St., 145th St.

As of May 1, 2015, the Clean Air Smoking Ban is in effect. All public smoking on the beach/Boardwalk must be confined to designated areas.

**The Boardwalk tram is suspended indefinitely** The Boardwalk Tram costs $5.00 per person, per boarding, per one way ride. Although the tram runs every day throughout the summer, it may not maintain its normal schedule during during inclement weather due to safety precautions. For further questions please contact Transportation at 410-723-1606. Summer Boardwalk Tram Hours: May 24 – September 2 2024, 12pm -Midnight/Daily Special Events Boardwalk Tram Hours: Springfest: May 2-5 2024, OC Cruisin’ Weekend: May 16-19, Post Labor Day: September 3-8, Bikefest: September 11-15, Sunfest: Thursday, October 24-27

Yes, public bathrooms can be found at the following locations: Boardwalk at Worcester Street Boardwalk at Caroline Street 3rd Street & St. Louis Avenue next to Skate Park Boardwalk at 9th Street Boardwalk at 27th Street S. Division Street Transit Center Rinse Stations can be found at: Caroline Street (4) Inlet Beach (4) 9th Street (2)

The rides are located near the inlet south of Somerset Street.  You have Trimper’s Amusements and Jolly Roger at the Pier, both of which are popular.  Trimper’s has the oldest (and most spectacular) carousel located inside so you can enjoy it even if it rains.  Most of the kiddie rides are inside too.

The Boardwalk is technically open year round, however many businesses close during the offseason. Businesses open on an individual basis, so it’s best to contact them directly if you want to know their offseason schedule.

Definitely the inlet lot.  Here is information from the Town of Ocean City on parking in the inlet lot. Your first 30 minutes are free, including handicapped! Patrons must pay for expired time prior to leaving the Inlet Lot to avoid being billed for additional administrative costs April 1 – May 23, 2024 Monday – Thursday: FREE Parking Friday – Sunday: $3.00/hour May 24 – September 30, 2024 Daily Rate: $3.50/hour July 4, 2024 – $5.00/hour October 1 – October 31, 2024 Monday – Thursday: FREE Parking Friday – Sunday: $3.00/hour

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

When parking at the Inlet Parking Lot in Ocean City, here’s what you need to know: Payment Options:

• You can pay for your parking session when you arrive or before you leave the lot by paying for the amount of time you have stayed.
• Use a nearby kiosk to enter your license plate details and pay for your desired parking duration. Make sure to enter your complete license plate, including numbers.
• There’s a 30-minute grace period to start your parking session, including for handicapped spaces.

Receipt Display:

• There’s no need to display the receipt on your dashboard after payment.

ParkMobile App:

• Alternatively, you can use the ParkMobile App to pay for your parking at the Inlet Parking Lot.

Violation Fees:

• Violations of parking regulations at the Inlet Lot will result in a mailed bill for the time spent in the lot, plus a $25 administrative fee.
• If the violation fee is not paid within 30 days, it will escalate to $50.

Payment Before Leaving:

• To avoid additional administrative costs, make sure to pay for any expired time before leaving the Inlet Lot.

Assistance:

• Parking lot ambassadors are available at the booth located in the center of Row E in the Inlet Parking Lot.
• For technical support and guidance on using the parking machines, you can call the number displayed on the front of the machine.

Following these guidelines ensures a smooth parking experience at the Inlet Parking Lot in Ocean City, Maryland.

There will be a bicycle storage area located on the beach between first and 2nd street. Make sure you bring a lock!

Yes, the standard fare is $4 to Ride-All-Day. Remember to have exact cash or your prepaid photo ID General Bus Pass which can be obtained from City Hall.

The official passenger drop-off and pick-up location for Oceans Calling is located at the 4th Street Municipal Parking Lot which is located at 409 Baltimore Avenue.

We anticipate a steady flow of vehicle and pedestrian traffic throughout the day. The majority of the traffic congestion is anticipated after the festival. We will have an alternate traffic pattern established to allow for additional pedestrian walkways, and the ability to stage multiple Beach Buses along Baltimore Ave for those wishing to take the bus back. To avoid the congestion, take a stroll along the Ocean City Boardwalk or visit a downtown business outside of the festival footprint.

The Boardwalk (Atlantic Ave) from 27th Street to North Division Street will be open to the public. The south end of the Boardwalk, as well as the Boardwalk businesses in that area, will be included in the festival grounds. Therefore, the Boardwalk south of North Division Street will not be open to the general public during the festival weekend.

Guests and their belongings are subject to search upon entry or re-entry. You can help keep the lines moving quickly by leaving large bags at home. The following items are ALLOWED:

• CLEAR bags made up of clear plastic, vinyl, or pvc, and no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″. Small clutch purses and fanny packs with no more than 1 pocket.  Clutch purses no larger than 6″ x 9″ (See Full Bag Policy Below)
• Baby Strollers
• Frisbees
• Binoculars
• Blankets, Sheets, Towels
• Cameras (basic point and shoot consumer-grade cameras) without detachable lenses and other accessories (monopods, selfie sticks, tripods, GoPro mounts, and other attachments are not allowed)
• Empty reusable water bottles and hydration packs (See full bag policy), and plastic or aluminum water bottles
• Sunscreen in non-aerosol containers is allowed in the size of 3.4 ounces or less
• Personal sized hand sanitizer 
• Factory sealed Naloxone/Narcan kit

Prescription Medicine Requirements:

• Anyone needing prescription medicine at the festival must present the pharmacy-labeled container which states the prescription, dosage, and patient name to our medical staff at each entrance gate. Patrons are only allowed a sufficient supply of the prescribed medication for that day.
• Medicines needing to be inhaled or smoked are prohibited unless in a prescribed inhaler.
• Over the counter medications are allowed in a sufficient supply for the day. Bottle contents will be verified by medical personnel at the entry gates.

The following items are PROHIBITED:

• Any bags that are NOT CLEAR bags made up of clear plastic, vinyl, or pvc, and are larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″. Any Small clutch purses and fanny packs with more than 1 pocket.  Clutch purses that are larger than 6″ x 9″ (See Full Bag Policy Below)
• Aerosol containers, including sunscreen and personal beauty products. NOTE: Sunscreen in non-aerosol containers is allowed in the size of 3.4 ounces or less
• Coolers of any kind. (Exceptions may be made for medical use)
• Framed backpacks, multiple pocket back packs and any pack that is not aligned with the allowed backpacks above. (See Full Bag Policy Below)
• Any and all professional audio recording equipment
• Professional cameras and professional recording (photo, video, audio) equipment (NO large professional detachable zoom lenses, stands, monopods, tripods, attachment sticks (selfie sticks) or other commercial equipment.
• Any and all professional video equipment. No video recording will be allowed
• Drones or any other remote flying device
• Hammocks
• Glass containers of any kind
• Illegal and Illicit substances of any kind
• Outside food or beverage (including alcohol) of any kind
• Umbrellas
• Pets (except service animals)
• Selfie sticks
• Skateboards, scooters, bicycles, wagons, carts or any personal motorized vehicles
• Tents, canopies, or shade structures of any kind
• Unauthorized/unlicensed vendors are not allowed. No unauthorized solicitation and materials including handbills, flyers, stickers, beach balls, give-aways, samples, etc.
• Weapons or explosives of any kind
• Fireworks
• Large chains or spiked jewelry
• Bicycles inside festival grounds (free parking is available near festival entrance)
• Carts of any kind (including Red Wagons)
• Chairs of any kind
• Smoking of any kind, including vaping

FULL BAG POLICY:

• ALL bags will be searched before entry.
• Small clutch purses and fanny packs that are 6″ x 9″ or smaller do not need to be clear, but can have no more than one pocket.
• All other bags larger than 6″ x 9″ must be smaller than 12″ x 6″ x 12″ and clear.
• Hydration packs are allowed and do not need to be clear, but must be emptied of all liquid and have no more than two pockets in addition to the one holding the water reservoir.

 

FULL BAG POLICY:

• ALL bags will be searched before entry.
• Small clutch purses and fanny packs that are 6″ x 9″ or smaller do not need to be clear, but can have no more than one pocket.
• All other bags larger than 6″ x 9″ must be smaller than 12″ x 6″ x 12″ and clear.
• Hydration packs are allowed and do not need to be clear, but must be emptied of all liquid and have no more than two pockets in addition to the one holding the water reservoir.

There are two entrances at the festival. One located at the intersection of the Boardwalk and Talbor Street and the other located at the intersection of Boardwalk and S Division Street (next to Dumber’s Dairyland). There are specially designated lanes at each Festival entrance for patrons with disabilities. Look for the accessible signs above the entrance lanes or ask a staff member to direct you to the lanes. The Access Center will be located at  the main Guest Services & Information tent located just inside the festival entrance located off of the main Boardwalk and South Division Street. Our Access Center services include, but are not limited to:

• Answers to questions specific to the accessibility Program
• Information relevant to our patrons with disabilities
• Requests for accessibility Wristbands
• Power outlets for recharging powered mobility devices
• Programming information in large print and braille for reference

The Festival is wheelchair accessible but is a large venue with great distances between activities and attractions. It is outdoors and across city streets and pathways. Some travel is over natural terrain and terrain designed for motor vehicles. If it should rain, there could be mud. The Festival does not provide personal care, golf cart rides, or push service of any kind or wheelchairs for rent or loan. Wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, and three or four-wheeled scooters are allowed only for use by patrons with mobility disabilities. For safety reasons, requests to use other power-driven mobility devices will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Powered wheelchairs may also be charged at the Access Center. Patrons should bring all cords and accessories needed to charge their devices. Chargers must use a 110-volt, 20-amp circuit. Accessible portable toilets are available at the ends of each bank of portable toilets throughout the Festival venue.  The Festival provides many American Sign Language (ASL) interpreted music performances for patrons who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. Please email access@oceanscallingfestival.com to request a specific performance be interpreted. We ask that you make a request as soon as possible to allow adequate time to prepare. We will make every effort to accommodate, but cannot guarantee, requests not timely submitted. A schedule of interpreted sets will be posted to the website closer to the event. Outside food and drink is not allowed inside the Festival, but if a patron has special medical dietary restrictions, items will be allowed. Patrons are allowed to bring their medically necessary materials and medications into the Festival, provided that all medicine has a prescription label with the patron’s name. Our personnel at the entry gates will verify the contents of any medically necessary materials. Out of concern for the Festival staff who handle the trash, please dispose of your medical waste and syringes in the proper disposal, which is located at the medical tent. Please see the official Festival map for the location of the medical tent. Please do not dispose of these items in other trash bins at the Festival. Pets are not allowed within the Festival grounds. However, service animals, which have been trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability, are welcome. If accompanied by a service animal, you will be provided a Patron Notice of Responsibility for a Service Animal or you can request the form in advance from access@oceanscallingfestival.com. Please enter through the accessible lane at either entrance.

The Oceans Calling Box Office is located at 5 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842  Box Office Hours Thursday 9/28: 12PM-6PM Friday 9/29: 10AM-10PM Saturday 9/30: 11AM-10PM Sunday 10/1: 11AM-9:30PM

There are lockers available for rent.  Reserve you locker in advance of the festival here. 

Parking in the downtown area will be extremely limited during the festival weekend. If you are driving from outside of Ocean City, parking options are available at the West Ocean City Park and Ride, the Oceans City Convention Center, and the 100th Street Municipal Parking Lot. Public Transportation will be available to and from the festival from these locations. Each of these lots offers ADA parking. Public transportation, walking/biking, and ride-sharing are encouraged.

If you are looking for a lost or misplaced item visit our Lost & Found services page. If you’re at the festival and want to visit the lost and found in person. The lost & found is located at the Guest Services booth close to the Main Entrance. Check back closer to the festival for an exact location.

Admission to Winterfest of Lights is $6 for guests aged 12 and older. Children aged 11 and younger can enter for free.

Yes, the Winterfest of Lights is subject to closure for inclement weather. Visitors are advised to check for updates or call 410-289-2800 for more information.

Yes, pets are welcome on Wednesday evenings at Winterfest of Lights.

Yes, mobility devices, including scooters and powered wheelchairs, are available for rent on-site at $10.00 per two hours. Standard wheelchairs are also available. For rentals, you can contact Scooters-4-Rent.com at (302) 280-6203.

Yes, you can get a cup of hot chocolate, get a picture with Santa Claus, buy arts, crafts and unique gifts.

The Winterfest of Lights in Ocean City, MD, features the beloved Winterfest Express tram ride, multiple trolley stops, a Stuff The Jeep event on November 18-19, and various attractions such as the 50-foot Christmas tree, Santa Claus’s reindeer, the Field of Lights, 12 Drummers Drumming, and the Winterfest Ring selfie spot.

Absolutely! Ocean City brought back the beloved Winterfest Express tram which provides a couple of stops as you go around the park so you can walk around and then get on the next tram in 2023. The tram path and the walking path are different. The tram path circumnavigates the park while the walking paths wind through the lights.

Tickets for the Winterfest of Lights can be purchased on the Town’s commerce site.  Admission is $6 for guests aged 12 and older, and children aged 11 and younger can enter for free.

The Winterfest of Lights in Ocean City, Maryland is set up in Northside Park.  The address for your navigation system is:   200 125th St, Ocean City, MD 21842 Parking is available inside the park and on the side streets around the park.  You can also take the Ocean City bus from your hotel.  These buses are running every half hour and the ride all day cost is $4.  You can see the real-time location of buses here: https://oct.transloc.com/

Yes, you can enter Winterfest for free by participating in the Stuff The Jeep event on November 18-19. Donate a new toy (up to four per group) and enjoy free entry. The event is a collaboration with Marine Corps League, OC Jeep Club, Sugar Planet, and Toys for Tots.

Special attractions include the 50-foot Christmas tree, Santa Claus’s reindeer, the Field of Lights, 12 Drummers Drumming, and the Winterfest Ring selfie spot. These displays contribute to a magical and festive atmosphere.

Yes, there is a holiday-themed parade by the OC Jeep Club on November 18.  Shore Craft Beer is hosting a “Let’s Get Lit” Fest on December 2nd with hotel packages at the Cambria and wristbands for all ticket-holders that get’s them discounts at bars and restaurants around town all weekend.  Of course, the Ocean City Christmas Parade is a fun holiday event scheduled for December 2.

This map will help you navigate the 58-acre Northside Park and explore the various attractions.  

Always. The beach is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and the Ocean City Beach Patrol is on duty 10 a.m.- 5:30 p.m. Always obey the Beach Patrol’s instructions, swim near a lifeguard at all times, and have a buddy with you when you’re in the surf. NOTE: Town Ordinances prohibit throwing balls/Frisbees and other sports on the beach between 9am and 5:30pm from May 30 to September 15.

There is plenty of Free parking in the West Ocean City Park and ride. There you can buy an all day bus ticket that will take you pretty much anywhere worth going in Ocean City. There’s not a ton of free parking in town but the Park and Ride is one of your best bets. You can pay to park at the meters around town and in the Inlet. Here’s more information on municipal parking.

All locations are accessible for the physically challenged.

• • Boardwalk at Worcester Street
  • Boardwalk at Caroline Street
  • 3rd Street & St. Louis Avenue next to Skate Park
  • Boardwalk at 9th Street
  • Boardwalk at 27th Street
  • S. Division Street Transit Center
  • Park & Ride on Rt. 50, just west of Harry Kelley Bridge
  • Transit Center on 144th Street

PUBLIC RINSE-OFF STATIONS

Rinse-off spigots are provided at the following locations:

• Caroline Street (4)
• Inlet Beach (4)
• 9th Street (2)

That depends, but there’s an algorithm. Two beaches are reserved every day as ‘surfing beaches’ and their locations rotate daily. In addition, one section of beach along the inlet is reserved for surfers. It’s open Monday to Friday during the summer, except on July 4. Check out our surfing page for more information. To discover today’s surfing beaches or learn about the OC surf report:

• Check Ocean 98.1 WOCM or other local radio stations
• Call the OC Beach Patrol at (410) 289-7556
• Visit http://oceancitymd.gov/Recreation_and_Parks/Beach_Patrol

Surf fishing is welcomed in Ocean City, but for safety’s sake, regulations require you remain 50 yards away from anyone on the beach or in the water between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. There are regulations against luring sharks and chumming.

Pets are allowed on the beach and boardwalk from October 1 to April 30 in Ocean City and any time on Assateague; however, pets must be leashed at all times and the owner is responsible for removing any waste. There are lots of pet friendly hotels in town. Also,  The Ocean City Dog Park is on 94th Street, bayside.

Yes, there are bridges and roads providing vehicle access to the island. In Maryland, you take 611 over the Verrazano bridge.  The State Park is in front of you and if you turn right and follow signs to the National Park, you will encounter that gate several miles up.

YES! You do not need a license or any permission to metal detect on OC’s beaches, but it is prohibited in the National Park on Assateague and allowed between Labor Day and Memorial Day in the state park on Assateague Island.  You can obtain written permission from the Park Manager in the State Park if you want to use a metal detector during the high tourism season. The Ocean City beach is 10 continuous miles of all sand, has a large number of daily visitors, and get frequent coastal storms, which is all great for metal detecting.   If you have lost an important piece of jewelry or metallic item on your visit to the beach, try contacting one of the local metal detecting specialists on theringfinders.com.  Many have high success rates on finding your item for a very reasonable fee. 

Popular activities include camping, fishing, swimming, hiking, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and over-sand vehicle (OSV) use.

Yes, Bonfires are allowed on the beach, but you must first get a permit. Bonfire must be a minimum of 75 feet away from the dunes and only untreated, natural wood may be used in the bonfire. The bonfire permit only covers the singular date and location specified.  Additional locations or dates will require additional, separate permits. The person obtaining the permit must be present during the hours of the bonfire and be over 21.  More information on bonfires on the beach at Assateague and in Ocean City is available here.

Yes, the Town of Ocean City provides beach wheelchairs at designated locations from 10am to 5pm daily, from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Chairs are available from the Beach Patrol and must be used within a block of where they are picked up. Chairs can be rented at the following lots: Inlet Lot, 7th St., 30th St., 40th St., 48th St., 59th St., 70th St., 81st St., 89th St., 94th St., 107th St., 120th St., 130th St., 139th St., 145th St.

Yes, you may set up your sun shade, canopies, pop-up tents and umbrellas however they must be behind the lifeguard towers so their view to the water is not obstructed.  Nothing between the line of lifeguard towers and the water.

Yes, you can use a metal detector with some restrictions depending on where you go. 

Ocean City:

There are no restrictions on using a metal detector in Ocean City.  

Assateague Island State Park:

In the state park on Assateague, metal detectors are only allowed beginning the day after Labor Day through May 30th and only on the ocean side of the primary dune.   During the season you will need to get written permission to use your metal detector from the Park Manager.

National Park on Assateague Island:

“Possessing or using a mineral or metal detector, magnetometer, side scan sonar, other metal detecting device, or sub-bottom profiler is prohibited within areas or lands managed by the National Park Service.”

During the summer season, the Ocean City Beach Patrol is on duty from 9am- 5pm.

As of May 1, 2015, the Clean Air Smoking Ban is in effect. All public smoking on the beach/Boardwalk must be confined to designated areas.

Assateague Island is a barrier island located off the coast of Maryland and Virginia.

Yes, public bathrooms can be found at the following locations: Boardwalk at Worcester Street Boardwalk at Caroline Street 3rd Street & St. Louis Avenue next to Skate Park Boardwalk at 9th Street Boardwalk at 27th Street S. Division Street Transit Center Rinse Stations can be found at: Caroline Street (4) Inlet Beach (4) 9th Street (2)

Traditionally, the Pop-up Rally event takes place the last week of September. In 2021, we expect it to occur on September 24-26.

The Town of Ocean City and the Ocean City Police Department do not make any money from the traffic citations issued. In the state of Maryland, the money from paid District Court traffic citations goes to the Maryland General Fund.

Each Motor Event is a little different; however, one thing that can always be expected is heavier traffic, noise and strict enforcement of vehicle laws. Because the safety of our residents, staff and visitors is our number one priority in Ocean City, it’s imperative for motorists to abide by traffic laws and be cautious of heavy pedestrian traffic. In some cases, Ocean City establishes a Special Event Zone, where speeds are lowered and fines are increased for violations.

Not at all. The Town welcomes car enthusiasts 365 days a year, as long as they obey all local and state laws. However, the Town does not welcome the huge, unruly crowds associated with the Pop-up Rally and the disorderly conduct that has resulted from this gathering.

Ocean City establishes a Special Event Zone three times each year. The Special Event Zone coincides with Cruisin Ocean City, Endless Summer Cruisin and the Pop-up Rally event. With thousands of motorists on Coastal Highway during these events, the Special Event Zone helps deter motor violations. The lowered speed limit and increased fines and penalties in the Special Event Zone have been successful tools for law enforcement officers during large Motor Events. These types of events draw large crowds of pedestrians and spectators. The Special Event Zone helps to keep our pedestrians safe on the sidewalks and in the designated crosswalks. n

Along with the Special Event Zone legislation, which was passed in 2018 by the State of Maryland, legislation passed in early 2020 will allow the Town of Ocean City to continue addressing lawlessness and unruly behavior with stricter fines and jail sentences for the most serious violations. To view the Special Event Zone Bill, visit: oceancitymd.gov/specialeventzone

The Special Event Zone applies to all of the roads within the corporate limit of the Town of Ocean City. The town limits begin midway on the Route 50 and Route 90 bridges and extend from the inlet to the Delaware State Line. This year, the Special Event Zone is being extended to include all roads in Worcester County. the expectation that they will follow our local laws and ordinances. There is no simple solution to the challenges faced during various Motor Events, but the Town of Ocean City is working hard to find solutions that positively impact everyone.

Trailers and oversized vehicles may not be parked on Baltimore Avenue at any time. Parking a trailer or oversized vehicle on any street or paved public lot without a permit is prohibited between May 1 and October 31. Permits are available to registered participants of Cruisin’ Ocean City, OC BikeFest, and Endless Summer Cruisin’ for a fee of $50 from the event organizer. There are three options for parking your trailer in town without a permit.

In April 2018, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan signed the “Special Event Zone” bill into law, allowing authorities in Worcester County to designate Special Event Zones during large events, particularly motor events. The legislation allows officials to lower speed limits in the Special Event Zone. In addition, legislation signed in 2020 allowed for increased penalties for specific motor vehicle violations. Similar to a Construction Zone, violators will face increased fines, or in some cases arrest, if violations occur in a Special Event Zone. Special Event Zones are in place during motor events in Ocean City due to the high volume of motor vehicles and pedestrians on/near the roadways. The zone can be implemented for authorized and unauthorized events to ensure the safety of those in our town.

There are three options for parking your trailer in town without a permit. 1. The West Ocean City Park & Ride has limited free trailer parking available starting at noon on the Friday prior to the Cruisin’ OC, OC BikeFest and Endless Summer Cruisin’ events through noon on the Monday immediately following each event. However, no overnight parking is allowed – Vehicles and trailers will be towed if parked between 3:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. 2. The 100th Street gravel lot also has limited trailer parking for a daily fee that can be paid on site. 3. In addition, you may make arrangements with a private property owner to park on their lot. You may not park on any public street. nn

Ocean City cannot stop people from coming to visit our community; however, we can deter violations through our Special Event Zone. In addition to Special Event Zone legislation, the Town of Ocean City and the Ocean City Police Department are working closely with the State of Maryland, our partners in the business community and participants of the Pop-up Rally event to develop a plan for peace during these events. Our resort community welcomes everyone with

Each Motor Event in Ocean City is different. For residents, the biggest impact on our community comes during the Pop-Up Rally event and Spring Cruisin’. Although the promoters of Spring Cruisin’ have worked very hard to make positive changes to the event, there is still significant traffic congestion. During the Pop-Up Rally, the town recommends staying off the road for the weekend, as residents are safer at home.

A Motor Event is a term that is used in Ocean City to describe an event or gathering that brings thousands of vehicles to our resort town. A Motor Event can be authorized in partnership with the Town of Ocean City or can be unauthorized.

If you have concerns regarding your vehicle’s modifications, the Ocean City Police Department’s Traffic Safety Unit has provided two resources that you can check regarding the state of Maryland’s regulations. The first resource is COMAR, and you can visit their website at http://www.dsd.state.md.us/COMAR/title_search/Title_List.aspx. Title 11 is where the majority of the regulations for vehicles can be located. In addition to reviewing COMAR, please review the most current Maryland Transportation Articles/Code 22 at https://casetext.com/statute/code-of- maryland/transportation/title-22-vehicle-laws-equipment-of-vehicles. Both of these resources will cover the laws that apply to vehicles within the state of Maryland.

Ocean City typically hosts six authorized Motor Events each year, taking place primarily in the Spring and Fall. These events include Cruisin, the OC Car & Truck Show, OC Bikefest, Jeep Week, Corvette Weekend, and Endless Summer Cruisin. In addition, we have one unauthorized Motor Event, which is commonly referred to by participants as H2Oi. The Town of Ocean City, however, refers to this unauthorized event as a Pop-up Rally event.

Yes, the City Council is aware of the economic impact of the Pop-up Rally event. The Pop-up Rally also costs our community more than just money. The Town also pays a substantial cost in staff time and resources to cope with the rally. But perhaps the biggest cost of all is the effect the rally has on the quality of life for our residents and visitors. Its important for car enthusiasts and Pop-Up Rally participants to know that Ocean City welcomes everyone to our resort community, with the expectation that they follow our laws and ordinances in order to keep everyone safe.

The Town of Ocean City works closely with event promoters of authorized Motor Events to assure our residents, visitors and event participants are equally accommodated. Most of the authorized events offer contests, parades and concerts. These additional activities create a family-friendly atmosphere for everyone to enjoy. The Pop-up Rally event, however, has no formal schedule, which results in an enormous amount of traffic and large gatherings in parking lots and sidewalks. In addition, the Pop-up Rally does not have a designated event promoter for the Town of Ocean City to communicate with like the authorized Motor Events do.

While some businesses do benefit financially from the Pop-up Rallies, others do not. Some of the businesses that have benefited financially from the Pop-up Rally event still believe that overall the event is not a good fit for our community. Regardless, the Town is focused on the non-monetary concerns our community has expressed. The Town of Ocean City has been working closely with the Chamber of Commerce and the Hotel Motel Restaurant Association to prioritize keeping our community safe.

The Town of Ocean City prides itself on hosting free weekly events throughout the summer to help you enjoy your vacation without blowing your budget. Find a full list here.

• The Beach is free
• Walk & Explore the boardwalk
• View Free Events

Admission to Winterfest of Lights is $6 for guests aged 12 and older. Children aged 11 and younger can enter for free.

Yes, the Winterfest of Lights is subject to closure for inclement weather. Visitors are advised to check for updates or call 410-289-2800 for more information.

There are some spots around town, but we would recommend that you park your car at your hotel and use the bus to get around.  You can also park your car at the West Ocean City Park and Ride and catch the bus into Ocean City. The event promoter has more information on their site.

Yes, pets are welcome on Wednesday evenings at Winterfest of Lights.

First, check out the OceanCity.com Cruisin’ Guide.  You can also go to the organizer’s site.  

Yes, mobility devices, including scooters and powered wheelchairs, are available for rent on-site at $10.00 per two hours. Standard wheelchairs are also available. For rentals, you can contact Scooters-4-Rent.com at (302) 280-6203.

You can find the complete schedule of events for Cruisin’ 2024 on the organizer’s site.

Yes, you can get a cup of hot chocolate, get a picture with Santa Claus, buy arts, crafts and unique gifts.

Winterfest of Lights runs from mid-November to New Year’s Eve. Take a look at our Winterfest page for the complete dates and information.

The Winterfest of Lights in Ocean City, MD, features the beloved Winterfest Express tram ride, multiple trolley stops, a Stuff The Jeep event on November 18-19, and various attractions such as the 50-foot Christmas tree, Santa Claus’s reindeer, the Field of Lights, 12 Drummers Drumming, and the Winterfest Ring selfie spot.

Absolutely! Ocean City brought back the beloved Winterfest Express tram which provides a couple of stops as you go around the park so you can walk around and then get on the next tram in 2023. The tram path and the walking path are different. The tram path circumnavigates the park while the walking paths wind through the lights.

The White Marlin Open has several rules designed to minimize the number of fish that are actually killed and brought to the scales.  Then, the tournament encourages the anglers to donate their catches to charities in the Ocean City area who help feed those in need.  Catch n Carry processes and flash freezes the fish before distributing the meat to 3 local charities including the Maryland Food Bank.  For more information, you can read this article: https://www.oceancity.com/the-fate-of-fish-at-the-white-marlin-open-in-ocean-city-a-conservation-success-story/

Sunfest takes place in late September. Check out our Sunfest page for updated dates and information.

Tickets for the Winterfest of Lights can be purchased on the Town’s commerce site.  Admission is $6 for guests aged 12 and older, and children aged 11 and younger can enter for free.

The Winterfest of Lights in Ocean City, Maryland is set up in Northside Park.  The address for your navigation system is:   200 125th St, Ocean City, MD 21842 Parking is available inside the park and on the side streets around the park.  You can also take the Ocean City bus from your hotel.  These buses are running every half hour and the ride all day cost is $4.  You can see the real-time location of buses here: https://oct.transloc.com/

Yes, you can enter Winterfest for free by participating in the Stuff The Jeep event on November 18-19. Donate a new toy (up to four per group) and enjoy free entry. The event is a collaboration with Marine Corps League, OC Jeep Club, Sugar Planet, and Toys for Tots.

**The Boardwalk tram is suspended indefinitely** The Boardwalk Tram costs $5.00 per person, per boarding, per one way ride. Although the tram runs every day throughout the summer, it may not maintain its normal schedule during during inclement weather due to safety precautions. For further questions please contact Transportation at 410-723-1606. Summer Boardwalk Tram Hours: May 24 – September 2 2024, 12pm -Midnight/Daily Special Events Boardwalk Tram Hours: Springfest: May 2-5 2024, OC Cruisin’ Weekend: May 16-19, Post Labor Day: September 3-8, Bikefest: September 11-15, Sunfest: Thursday, October 24-27

Yes. The bus is normally free from the Park and Ride in West Ocean City, but during the big festival weekends, the Town charges $4 to ride all day. The schedule is here.

Special attractions include the 50-foot Christmas tree, Santa Claus’s reindeer, the Field of Lights, 12 Drummers Drumming, and the Winterfest Ring selfie spot. These displays contribute to a magical and festive atmosphere.

Cruisin’ Ocean City is a celebration of cars – over 3000 hot rods, customs, classics and trucks – in it’s 32nd year.  It includes car shows dotted around Ocean City and the surrounding area as well as entertainment, boardwalk parades, special guests, featured cars, live music, celebrities and more.

Yes, there is a holiday-themed parade by the OC Jeep Club on November 18.  Shore Craft Beer is hosting a “Let’s Get Lit” Fest on December 2nd with hotel packages at the Cambria and wristbands for all ticket-holders that get’s them discounts at bars and restaurants around town all weekend.  Of course, the Ocean City Christmas Parade is a fun holiday event scheduled for December 2.

This map will help you navigate the 58-acre Northside Park and explore the various attractions.