The best Ocean City Photos

Tony Russo
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Each week, we get photos from dozens of you, we get even more on our Facebook page. The winners are notified individually, but we would love to hear your opinion. Even better, you would love to see your photos. The photos don’t have to be great, or super artsy (although we totally welcome those as well), they just have to be of Ocean City. Maybe you and your family did something awesome you want to share, or maybe you saw something quirky you know people will love. Share the photos here. You might even win tickets to Jolly Roger Amusements. 

Remember to include your email, though. If we can’t get in touch with you, you can’t win. Here are this week’s entries.

Sunrise at 123rd street. July 10th. Sarah Littlefield
The Ocean makes every one smile ……..Beach/July 6th 2017 / near 127th street,
“Puddle Jumper” – First time at the beach. We were on the beach in front of the Flying Cloud condo. Picture was taken August 19, 2016. This is our middle daughter.
Ocean City waves!! My son’s 1st time to the beach!! Picture taken near 50th street! See you this weekend Ocean City! Thank you!!
5:40 am Sunrise in front of Fountainhead Condo’s. We stay there each year for over 10 years now. This is the first year we were able to get up early to see the sunrise.

https://www.oceancity.com/wp-content/gallery/photo-friday/img_20170715_200122_781-6c794c9494416df1a15eff70837bea55acb97007.jpg

Breakfast at the Dough Roller
Spying a game of skill on the Ocean City Boardwalk. This photo was taken 7/17/2017.
This photo was taken 7-24-17 at the Ponte Vista Condo off of 94st. It was taken at dock looking out at the bay during the sunset.

Here are all the Photo Friday photos

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What are you doing here: Prentice Rush

Boardwalk Birdie
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0

More than a quarter of a million people come to Ocean City in the summertime and thousands of them walk the 27 blocks of the Boardwalk each day. In “What Are You Doing Here?” we stop a few of them and find out what brought them to our corner of the Eastern Shore.
Prentice Rush was sitting on a Boardwalk bench on a windy Wednesday, idly playing with his iPhone, doing nothing really. And that’s the way he likes his vacation, which what brought him to Ocean City for the few days.
He’s the type of guy who works hard, but plays lightly. Right now, he’s enjoying the solitude of a not-so perfect beach day to collect his thoughts and to people watch. It’s a rare moment where he has some “me time.”
“I don’t get enough of it at home, since I work and work all the time,” Prentice said. He works with U.S. Foods, a large food distributor out of D.C. “When I’m on vacation, I just like to take it easy. My girls are up in the hotel right now, taking a nap.”
Prentice seems like Ocean City’s perfect customer: a father of two daughters, one 21 years old, and the other 13 years old. He’s making this a family vacation after coming up to the resort for years as a young adult himself.
“I come up with a good friend of mine and we go to Seacrets. That’s adult time,” Prentice said with a grin. “But this is a family vacation and things seem mellow here.”

As a father, he’s not too worried about the notorious crime headlines that have dogged Ocean City since May about shootings and stabbings. So far the craziest thing he’s seen is “college kids doing their thing.”

Moments before, three scruffy-looking boys skateboarded past him and the No Smoking signs with one lit cigarette between them. The smell of burnt marijuana wafted behind the trio.

“I don’t think there’s so much crime here. I’m more concerned about Myrtle Beach. There was a shooting there, and two people got shot. One was a cop,” Prentice said. “That’s a problem. It gets more crazy there.”

Prentice keeps coming back to Ocean City because he finds other resort towns too commercial, a little too into their tourist image.

“I used to go to Virginia Beach every year, and it’s way too crowded on the Boardwalk. I’d be elbowing people. It’s a little commerical here but nowhere to that level,” he said. “It’s more laid back.I like to be around people, but not that much.”

As Prentice seems like a picture-perfect tourist for Ocean City, Ocean City is the perfect place for a city man like Prentice. When he gets tired of being surrounded by strangers on street corners or stuffed in metro cars, he can escape to the beach town that still has the soul of bustling town: complete with jaywalking pedestrians and the occasional traffic jam on Coastal Highway. There’s even expensive fine dining, but here the speciality is Maryland blue crab and seafood.

“I don’t like going to Avon, North Carolina because it’s too laid back there. Virginia Beach is crowded. Here’s a nice mix between the two,” Prentice said. “Good place to people watch, walk on the Boardwalk, and maybe get some me time in.”

10 Reasons to check out Massey’s Landing Resort

Tony Russo
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The Resort at Massey’s Landing  in Millsboro, Del. is one of the premier camping destinations in the region. Build from the ground up with the recreational traveler in mind, the resort provides as much or as little to do as you might feel you need. 

Although the resort is extremely popular with RVers, there are plenty of cottages for people who want the experience but lack the gear. One of the things that makes Massey’s Landing so popular is that although you have access to the Delaware beaches and nightlife in only a short drive, you feel as if you’re in the middle of nowhere. If you want to spend your week (or long weekend) without leaving the resort, there still is plenty to do.

There are a million reasons to plan to vacation at Massey’s Landing Resort, here are our favorite 10:

Indian River Bay access

Massey's landing indian river
Headed out of the bay into Indian River from Massey’s Landing. The Indian River Bridge is in the distance. Massey’s Landing is a great place to set up your Delmarva vacation.

A place to paddle out into the wilderness

The canoe and kayak launch at Massey’s Landing Resort gives you an idea how peaceful the place is. Motorized vessels are launched from elsewhere to preserve the serenity here.

Gear to paddle out with

Although it’s great to have your own gear it isn’t always practical. Massey’s Landing provides access to kayak rentals as well as canoes, stand up paddle boards and lots of other watersport gear.

Spend the most laid-back afternoon you can imagine

The swim-up pool bar is one of the great exclusive amenities at Massey's Landing. It's the only one in the state and is a super-cool way to spend an afternoon.
The swim-up pool bar is one of the great exclusive amenities at Massey’s Landing. It’s the only one in the state and is a super-cool way to spend an afternoon.

It’s easy to resupply at Massey’s Landing Resort

store at masseys landing
The store at Massey’s Landing Resort is fully stocked with necessities as well as snacks, toys, knick knacks and apparel.

You can grab a quick bite at The Jackspot

the jackspot lunch counter
Whether you’re looking for something quick to go, or just to take a little break from cooking, The Jackspot lunch counter has what you need.

Enjoy a drink at the Sand Dollar Bar and Grill

sand dollar bar and grill exterior
The Sand Dollar Bar and Grill at Massey’s Landing Resort is a great place to spend an evening. Open to the Indian River Bay on the back, it provides a laid back atmosphere for even more laid back views.

Get front seats to great views

sandy dollar bar and grill view
The view from the Sandy Dollar bar and grill located on the Massey’s Landing Resort beach is not to be missed.

Lounge in the sun (or twilight) while enjoying your meal

beach seating at the sandy dollar bar and grill
The Sandy Dollar has outdoor seating near the beach as well as deck seating in the bar itself. You can grab a bite from the kitchen and sun yourself while you enjoy the view.

Swim with your dog 

dogs at masseys landing resort
Massey’s Landing Resort has two beaches on the Indian River Bay, one for the people, one for the dogs. Even if you don’t have a dog it’s pleasant to watch them play in the surf.

 

Trying out the Assateague Horse ID app

Kristin
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1

I may have only moved to the Shore a few months ago, but I don’t think the beauty of the Assateague horses will ever get old to me. I’ve been to the island a few times before, but spotting a horse on the beach or right outside your car window is still kind of like seeing Bigfoot (but more majestic?). It’s like when I went to the Smoky Mountains in May. We were driving up, up, up the mountain when we started to see tens of cars stopped and parked alongside the road. We got out of the car to find out what had everyone crowding around the edge of the woods, and saw three black bear cubs just a short distance away. 

Seeing one or several of the island horses provides the same kind of excitement and awe (it’s just a bit less rare and a lot less dangerous than seeing a bear cub), no matter how many times you’ve seen them. That’s why it’s so cool that the Assateague Island Alliance just launched a Horse ID app that’ll allow you to identify who it is exactly you’re marveling at. Here are a few screenshots I took from my own horse ID’ing adventure that’ll show you how it works. 

App rules
First, you have to agree to follow the rules.
Horse app
Then you have to find a horse. Bonus points if you find several, like I did, but you can only ID one at a time.
Horse app
After you take a picture, you’ll be lead to the field identifier. First, identify the color of the horse–there’s black, bay, sorrel pinto, bay pinto, sorrel/chestnut, buckskin, palomino and palomino pinto. I didn’t know what most of these were beforehand, but tap on the little question mark and there will be a description of the color along with an example picture.
Horse app
We’re almost there! Now you just identify the gender and specific characteristics or markings of the horse. There’s a long list of characteristics with more descriptions and pictures for reference.
Horse app
I had to choose from four different horses that were all sorrel/chestnut colored and female with no markings. I’m pretty sure the horse I saw was N9BFV, who doesn’t appear to have a name. (Edit: turns out there were markings I could choose from to ID this horse, like the side her mane is on and the presence of her short forelock. She still appears to be N9BFV.) 
Horse app
And that’s one in the books! It’s pretty cool that the app includes a guide book so you can keep track of all the horses you’ve seen.

You can also view horses that other people have identified under the “Recently ID’d” page. 

Horse on app
Most recently someone had spotted Yankee.

How lucky you are with the app and horse sightings in general just depends on the day you visit. I went on an overcast Saturday and only saw one horse during the several hours I was there (one woman I met on a trail asked desperately, “have you seen any ponies today?”). When I tried to ID it the one pony I saw, I found that I didn’t have good enough reception where I was standing, so I soon gave up, and I don’t think my picture is clear enough to try to ID it from home. 

Horse screenshot
By the way, this is what the screen looks like when you’re taking the picture. Pretty simple. Props to you if you can tell me who this mystery pony is!

But, if your pictures are good enough, you can wait until your phone has better reception and try to identify a horse later on. That’s what I did when I went on Tuesday and got up close and personal with three horses that were hanging around a parking lot. Here are a few non-cellphone photos from my pony ID adventure on Tuesday. Good luck to you on your own expeditions, and don’t give up!

Horse on road
I knew it would be a good day when I crossed the bridge and immediately saw a horse on the road (this is the only cellphone picture because I was driving, albeit very slowly).
Bob the horse
The app tells me that this guy is Bodacious Bob, a 17-year-old Bay Pinto Stallion.
Bob the horse
Bob didn’t seem to mind having his photo taken. Sometimes it seemed like he was posing.
Assateague horses
Time for a little rolling around.
Horse
N9BFV takes a rest in the grass.
Looking at horses
A few people gathered to look out at all the horses that had congregated nearby.
Horses eating
Just a quick bite to eat, and then they were on their way.

Day-tripping at Furnace Town

Kristin
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The Furnace Town Living Heritage Village in Snow Hill is one of my favorite spots for a day trip from Ocean City. The recreated 19th century town should be a mandatory stop for all history buffs, as this little piece of Eastern Shore history is a super engaging educational opportunity for adults and kids alike. While Furnace Town is about a 40 minute drive from OC, the mini-roadtrip will take you through Berlin and Maryland’s Blue Crab Scenic Byway.

If you plan on making the journey yourself (which you should!), I recommend you dedicate the day to exploring a little bit of historic Berlin, taking in the scenery around Pocomoke River and maybe enjoying a meal and a shopping trip in downtown Snow Hill. Furnace Town itself is enough to keep you busy for several hours, but if you want to make the most of the adventure, these pit stops are worth the extra time spent (plus, you’ll want to stop for nourishment at some point anyway). 

I only came for a few hours of self-guided exploration, but visit on the right day and you can partake in a guided tour, a Chesapeake ghost walk or an archaeological dig, and the summer Americana Music Series provides a fun-filled afternoon with live bluegrass and Celtic music, barbecue and local brews. The village also offers classes for kids and adults on 19th century folk crafts like weaving, broom making and printing. 

There’s so much history inside the little tucked-away village, and I received a thorough education during my Sunday day-trip from the historically-costumed villagers. I’ve captioned the photos below with a few tidbits of interest, but I can’t begin to describe the entirety of Furnace Town’s rich and intriguing history–for that, you’ll have to visit for yourself.  

Photos by William Strang-Moya. 

Furnace
We’ll start with the famous kiln for which the village was named. In 1828, the Nassawango Iron Furnace was erected and it’s the only piece of architecture in the Living Village that’s actually original to Furnace Town. Until 1850, laborers loaded raw materials into the top of the furnace and then heated it to 3,000 degrees to produce slag (which was tossed into the swamp) and iron, which was poured into molds and transported to Baltimore, Philadelphia and New York. 
Furnace info
The museum in the village details the iron making process. When the furnace was in use, about 300 people lived in the town and worked as blacksmiths, broom makers, wainwrights, wheelwrights, bakers, cobblers, coopers and weavers.
Stuffed wolf
There’s also some pretty cool wildlife on display in the museum. Families survived mostly off of their gardens and the animals they hunted. 
Onions
There’s even a garden outside that has herbs, spices and vegetables growing, true to what families in Furnace Town really would have grown for themselves.
Weaver
In the Weave House, weaver Sarah Campbell works on making the scarves that are sold in Furnace Town’s Visitor Center. In the 19th century, clothes were woven by hand and were much more expensive than the mass-produced, factory-made clothes available to us today. Campbell explained that many working class families would only buy clothes for their first-born daughter and son, passing down the hand-me-downs to the younger kids in order to save money.
Weaving
The machines that Campbell and the other weavers work on are 200-300 years old. Here, she’s loading up the loom, a two-day process that requires nimble fingers and a lot of patience. 
Church
On the opposite side of town from the Weave House is the Old Nazareth Church.
School teacher
And down the path from the church is the schoolhouse. “Schoolteacher” Savanna Hastings holds up a photo of schoolchildren similar to those that would have attended school in Furnace Town. The Mt. Zion One Room Schoolhouse was actually built in 1869 near Whiton, 19 years after Furnace Town was abandoned, and was used as a school until 1931. The building was later moved to Snow Hill and reopened in 1964 to teach others the history of the schoolhouse. It was only recently moved to Furnace Town, where it now stands. 
Paddle
The schoolhouse has a variety of 19th century relics, like the ol’ wooden paddle. Hastings says kids get terrified when she shows it to them, thinking she’s really about to use the old punishment device. 
Cat
Missy, a 15-year-old cat, was lying around outside the Wood Shop on Sunday afternoon. She’s known to come and go around the village, but while she’s a  friendly old cat, she tends to stay away from crowds. 
Wood shop worker
Bill Cecil works in the Wood Shop, and if you have any questions, he’s the guy to go to–Cecil has a wealth of knowledge on Furnace Town. 
Furnace town arch
Admittedly, I do not know the significance of this branch arch, but I did awkwardly pose for a photo underneath it. Behind me is the pavilion, and a glimpse of the Visitor Center. 
Flower
If you don’t visit Furnace Town for its historical significance, at least come to see all the beautiful growing things. Just be prepared with bug spray if you come during the summer, because the only downside of the village (and most places outdoors) is the occasional buzzing right by your ear. 

 

6 ways to get the most out of driving on the Assateague Island Beach

Joanna Laslo
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On the OSV (over sand vehicles) side of Assateague Island National Seashore, there are miles of unspoiled beaches with ample private space between each beach goer.  For a truly peaceful and amazing day at the beach, Assateague is, without doubt, the place to go.  If you have a four wheel drive vehicle with good clearance, you can enjoy a truly unique experience . You must buy a day use OSV pass to drive on the beach. Passes are available at the Ranger Station at the toll gate to the National Park.  The state portion of the beach is not available to over sand vehicles. Here are a few tips to help make your OSV experience on Assategue the best.

Arrive Early

145 over sand vehicles are allowed on Assateague National beach at one time.  Once the max number of allowed vehicles is reached, a line starts to form with a “one car off, one car on policy.” It may be some time before the 146th car is allowed to pull forward onto the beach.  For this reason, it is best to arrive no later than 7:00 am to pick a good beach spot. The best time is just before sunrise.

 

Come prepared

You will need:

A car jack, a board (to put under a car jack to support it), a shovel, a tire gauge, and a rope or tow strap,  at least 10 feet long.

Before you drive on sand, your vehicle’s tires must to be deflated to 15 pounds, use the tire gauge frequently as too little air in a tire could cause the tire to roll off the rim, or allow sand to enter the rim.  Too much air and the tire will be more likely to “bog down” in the sand and you’ll need to dig or get towed out. Shift to 4 wheel drive and you are ready to go!

Plan for fun

Bring at least three bundles of firewood (which may be purchased on Rt 376, Berlin-Assateague road, or in one of the small beach shops along the way). A starter log might be useful to bring along as well.

Also bring a lighter, beach chairs, blanket, umbrella, starter log, and cookout food like hot dogs, rolls, marshmallows, graham crackers, two or three Hershey bars and enough long sticks (bayberry, hickory or walnut are best) for everyone to have one.

A bucket of fried chicken always tastes better on the beach than anywhere in the world!!

Be certain you bring enough water for each person to consume at least eight – 8 oz bottles of water for the day.

A fishing rod, sand spike, bait, net and sharp knife will also add to your enjoyment.

Drive safe!

Do not make sharp turns in soft sand.  Try to stay in tracks when possible. Second gear is typically the right speed for the beach.  When you find the perfect spot, steer gently towards the ocean then pull forward and back in the same tracks.  By driving over the same tracks repeatedly, the sand becomes packed down and this should prevent your vehicle from becoming stuck when you decide to leave at the end of the day.  Be cautious and mindful of the tides.  If the tide is low, allow a minimum of 10 feet for high tide.  It will keep you from scurrying to move your vehicle when the tide rolls in.  It is best for the life of your vehicle to stay out of wet sand. Etiquette dictates that you  be at least 50 yards away from the closest fellow beach goer.

Enjoy the sights

Sunrise is amazing on the beach with the sun reflecting on the ocean and the brilliant orange, yellow and red flowing across the water.  With the sun up, It is time to bait your hook, throw your line into the surf and set your pole in the sand with a sand spike. Put up the umbrella, spread out your blanket and set up the beach chairs. The umbrella will come in handy when that sun is a little higher overhead to help prevent too much sun exposure or to cut some of the wind.

Frequently wild ponies will walk close by on the beach. While they are a pleasure to watch,  please do not touch or feed  them.  Ponies kick and bite. Fishing, surfing, playing frisbee, and  sleeping peacefully on the beach with the sound of the waves washing onto the shore, makes the day pass all too quickly.

Have a fire

Dig your campfire hole with your shovel, place the paper in the bottom of the pit with the starter log on top of the paper.   Lay a bundle of wood on top and light it.  The sticks are the cooking utensils for perfect bonfire hot dogs.  Marshmallows on graham crackers with a square of Hershey’s chocolate is legendary!

evening bonfire

When you are ready to break camp and head home, fill in the campfire pit to prevent another vehicle from pulling onto hot coals, or drive into a hole. Pick up and remove all trash and take it to the trash receptacles by the air station back at the entrance/exit to the off road access.

Inflate your tires at the air station. Most tires require 35 pounds, but check required pressure for your specific tire,  and drive slowly as you leave the park.  Many wild animals move about at the end of each day and into the early evening.  Fox, deer, rabbits, and raccoons are all frequently observed.   Before leaving the island, take a minute to look at the stars.  Away from the city lights, the stars are a vibrant ending to a magical day!

Bikes to the Beach Spring Rally in full swing

Kristin
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3

Every spring, Ocean City becomes a biker haven at the weekend-long Bikes to the Beach Rally held the first weekend in May. 

What is Bikes to the Beach? 

About seven years ago, Hooper’s Crab House General Manager Ryan Intrieri teamed up with Oasis Bar and Grill in Whaleyville to create the spring rally, then in late April, providing entertainment to motorcycle enthusiasts during a normally slow weekend in Ocean City. 

The rally has grown tremendously since that first fateful rally, and now tens of thousands of bikers participate every year, turning the once-slow weekend into a bustling, bike-friendly event. 

What happens over the weekend? 

Short answer: a lot. The festivities vary from year to year, but Bikes to the Beach has been known to host hot dog-eating contests, frozen t-shirt contests, paintball manhunts, a Motorcycle Rodeo and even circus-style entertainment including jugglers, unicyclists and contortionists. 

Here’s some of the entertainment and events that have already been confirmed for the 2017 rally. 

First Annual Hunter James Hudson Scholarship Ride – On May 6, participating riders will meet at the lot across from Stephen Decatur High School and cruise the back roads to Suicide Bridge Restaurant in Hurlock, MD for lunch and door prizes. Proceeds from the ride go toward the Hunter James Hudson Scholarship Fund, awarded to a deserving Stephen Decatur High School student every year for the next 30 years.

Music – The rally is known for the many varied musical acts that jam out at restaurants all around town. Here’s a taste of just what you can expect this year. (Check the rally’s official website for an updated schedule with performance times.) 

May 4 – at Seacrets: Full Circle Duo (rock)

May 5 – Hooper’s Crab House: Matt Wolske (acoustic), Dust n Bones (rock), Pistol Whipped (country/rock). Oasis Bar and Grill: Skid Lid (classic rock). Seacrets: Opposite Directions (acoustic rock), the Benjamins with DJ Tuff

May 6 – Hooper’s: Kings Ransom (classic rock), Kaotik (party rock), No Tell Motel (southern rock/country). Oasis: At Risk (party rock), Kickback (modern country). Seacrets: Freddie Long Band, the Benderz with DJ Tuff

May 7 – Hooper’s: DJ JonBoi (rock/country). Seacrets: Victoria Watts

Riders Poker Run – For almost as long as Bikes to the Beach has existed, American Legion Post #166 has hosted a poker run in support of American troops and the local community. This year the poker run is on May 6 and is open to the public. 

Don’t feed dog food to Assateague Horses

Boardwalk Birdie
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When visiting beautiful, wild Assateague Island, remember not to feed the famous wild horses and to cover up all food on campgrounds! Assateague Island National Seashore  officials say a young mare died last week after munching on some dog food.

The seven-year-old mare, identified as N2BHS-AI but nicknamed Chama Wingapo, was found dead in a campground on July 20. Chama Wingapo was one mare to birth a foal last year during the summer of love, where five foals were born.

There were no visible injuries on the horse, but an investigation showed that she had ingested large amount of dog food as early as July 17. Following a dissection, Assateague officials determined that the dog food caused a blockage, which lead to a rupture of the intestine.

Why would dog food be deadly to tough horses that can withstand scorching heat, swarms of mosquitos, stormy weather and poor quality food found on a remote, windswept island? Assateague Island officials said most dog food contains corn, soybean, and animal products with a very high carbohydrate, protein and fat content. This recipe is too rich for a feral animal whose natural diet consists of low nutrient, high fiber saltmarsh and beach grasses.

In addition to the fearless nature of the horses, which are used to humans and stealing treats from picnic baskets, Assateague Island National Seashore officials are reminding visitors to keep human treats covered.

“Sadly, this incident demonstrates that ‘a fed horse is a dead horse.’ While the dog food may not have been given directly to the horse, the dog food was not properly stored away from the horses and other wildlife,” said AINS Chief of Interpretation and Education Liz Davis via Facebook post.  “All food, including your pet’s food, must be properly stored. This tragic incident could have been prevented by simply storing pet food in a vehicle.”

Visitors are also asked to leave water spigots around the campsites off for the wild ponies as well, no matter how hot the days get. Horses will associate the spigots as a potential water source, visting them as part of their routines.

Therefore, the horses could get territorial and kick and bite anything (or anyone) who gets too close to the water spigot.

Since we’re all visitors at Assateague Island, remember that we’re responsible for every item we bring into the island. Here’s a few tips to follow while out watching the wild ponies play on the beach:

  • Horses can open snap-on lids and latches. Coolers and containers “stored” under picnic tables are not secure from horses and wildlife. Secure all coolers with a nylon strap to prevent wildlife from opening.
  • Secure all tote or beach bags with a zippered closure. Horses can easily access open totes and bags.
  • Store all unattended food in your vehicle.
  • Store all pet food in your vehicle. Do not leave your pet’s food and water bowls unattended. Horses, like your pets, are opportunists and will take advantage of a free meal.
  • Keep food stored if horses are in your immediate vicinity. Wait until they have moved on before beginning your meal.
  • Dispose of your trash immediately in dumpsters. The smell from food wrappers will attract horses and other wildlife, and if ingested could cause death.

Renting a wheelchair in Ocean City

Kristin
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3

beach wheelchairIf you need to rent a wheelchair at any point during your Ocean City vacation, there are several options in-town that make equipment rentals easy and convenient. The best place to rent a wheelchair depends on what exactly you need, when you need it and how long you’ll be using it for, so check the guide below before you decide where to rent from.

For the entire vacation

For long-term use during your vacation, Sand Helper offers rentals of wheelchairs, portable mobility scooters, and motorized beach wheelchairs and they deliver all items to your door. They offer daily, multi-day, and weekly rentals. PMI Rentals offers manual wheelchairs, transport chairs and walkers, all for $50 a week or less. They can deliver straight to your door, or you can pick up your equipment at their location at 126th street. Another option is Assawoman Wheelchair Rentals, which specializes in wheelchair and handicap equipment.

For the day

For renting by the day, Dandy Don’s Bike Rentals offers manual wheelchairs at their location on North Division street.

If you only need something for a few hours, Boardwalk Segways offers wheelchairs, beach wheelchairs that can be maneuvered more easily in the sand, and mobility scooters. Their convenient location between 8th and 9th streets makes it easy to rent and head straight to the beach.

For the beach

Sand Helper offers rentals of battery powered beach wheelchairs. Controlled by a joystick, this all-terrain mobility scooter is simple to operate. Sand Helper delivers the motorized wheelchair to your vacation residence.

Another option for beach wheelchairs between Memorial Day and Labor Day is to get one from the beach itself. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., wheelchairs are available at a first-come, first-served basis and can be found at the Inlet Lot and at Somerset, Talbot, N. Division, 7th, 27th, 30th, 40th, 48th 59th, 70th, 81st, 89th, 94th 107th, 120th, 130th, 139th and 145th streets. Lifeguards provide access to the chairs, which can be used within one block of where the chair is assigned.

By reservation

The Sand Helper motorized beach wheelchair can be reserved online Here or by calling (855) 743-5737

Beach wheelchairs are available at the Ocean City Visitors Center in the Convention Center, where they can be reserved for 1-3 days of use (410-289-2800).

Hotels may also provide wheelchairs, or information on where you can get a wheelchair closest to you – just call ahead or check at their concierge desk.

Wheelchair/Handicap accessibility in Ocean City

Wheelchair access to the beach in Ocean City is available all the way from the Inlet to 145th Street. You’ll find such access marked by a blue sign on the street entrances at the streets where beach wheelchairs are available (as listed above), in addition to 1st, 12th, 25th, 35th and 37th streets. 

The Town of Ocean City also provides ADA Paratransit Service, which can be scheduled by calling the Department of Transportation one business day in advance at 410-723-1606.

Finally, an ADA Playground is located at 125th street and includes ground and above-ground level play equipment with a bonded rubber safety surface. 

Best Bars in Ocean City (2017)

Kristin
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10

Each year OceanCity.com readers vote on the best of everything in Ocean City. We also have a panel of experts around Ocean City who pick their favorites based on local experiences, which we refer to as Editor’s Choice. Click here for this year’s voting ~~~~~>.

Ocean City is known for being a family-friendly resort, but the town has a vibrant and exciting nightlife scene in the summer. Sometimes it just seems criminal to sit out on the beach without a Piña Colada in one hand and an orange crush in the other, and with so many bars lining the streets of Coastal Highway, it can be hard to decide where to get your drink of choice. 

Read on for a list of last year’s “Best Bars” winners.

Seacrets

You already know that Seacrets is the place to go for a good time on the sand with live music, food and a gorgeous view of the bay, but it’s also the place to go when you’re looking for a good drink. The Best Drink in Ocean City, in fact. Whether you’re seeking out a cold beer (I recommend the Seacrets Tropicale that they brew at their distillery next door), a glass of wine, a margarita or a mixed drink, Seacrets has what you’re looking for. Treat yourself to one of their specialty drinks like their house pina colada Pain in de Ass or the creamy Jamaican Bobsled, or keep it classic with a cold whiskey shandy.

Runner-up: Fish Tales 

Editor’s choice: Longboard Cafe

Established in 2013, the Longboard Cafe is a relatively new addition to the Best of Ocean City. Since its opening, the Cafe has shaken up the OC restaurant and bar scene and constantly impresses visitors with its delicious food, fast, friendly service, classy but casual ambience and, of course, the cocktails. Sip on a cucumber jalapeno margarita, a Bikini Martini or a frozen Lava Flow–the Longboard Cafe has no shortage of unique and exceptionally tasty drinks. 

Best Bar Overall

Fish Tales

Not only does Fish Tales have the Best Waterfront Dining, but they have the Best Bar in Ocean City, too. Seacrets was a close second (they do have the best drinks), but Fish Tales can’t be beat with their quaint marina atmosphere, playground for the kids and delicious summer drinks for the grown-ups. Try a Clear Conscious Cocktail, a fruity Summertime Sipper or a Fish Tales Original like the Pretty In Pink, the signature drink of the Poor Girls Open where proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society.

Runner-up: Seacrets

Editor’s choice: The Angler

While The Angler is mostly known for its seafood and party boat fishing trips, they also have a large and diverse drink selection that can be enjoyed outside or around their rustically ship-shaped bar. There’s often live music, too, so you can drink one of the Angler’s many brews on tap or a specialty drink (like “A Punch in the Coconuts”) while jamming out and feeling that bayside breeze. 

Angler ocean city
Even if you’re not out on the water, you’ll still feel like you’re on a boat just sitting at the Angler’s bar. 

Best Happy Hour

Coconuts 

Coconuts is a hidden gem inside the Castle in the Sand hotel, and their Best Happy Hour is every day from 5 – 6 p.m. They call it the fastest hour on the beach, and time sure does fly when the bar is offering 2 for 1 drink specials for 60 minutes out of every day. Unfortunately, your half-the-price tab doesn’t equal half the hangover, but Coconuts’ cocktails are worth it.

Runner-up: M.R. Ducks

Editor’s choice: The Globe

What cooler place is there to spend your Happy Hour than in a 100-year-old theater-turned-restaurant and bar? Visiting the Globe requires a trip out to Berlin, but the 20-minute drive is worth the daily 3-6 p.m. Happy Hour specials. The Globe is a beautiful and historic hub for great food and displays of art, and they also host the occasional Murder Mystery Dinner, which is probably the most fun and unique way to enjoy your drink. 

The Globe Berlin Restaurant
The Globe is the perfect combination of history and Happy Hour.

Best Sunset View

Fager’s Island 

There are seemingly unlimited options for bayside bars in Ocean City with views of the sunset, but the view from Fager’s Island is absolutely unbeatable. Grab a drink and head down the pier to their gazebo on the water, where you can watch the sky turn orange and pink as the sun goes down over the water.

Runner-up: Fish Tales 

Editor’s choice: Ropewalk 

While the Ropewalk is pretty well-known for its family-friendly atmosphere and quality lunch and dinner fare, the 82nd street restaurant is also one of the best places to enjoy a bayside sunset. Kids can run around on the playground and grown-ups can simply stick their toes in the sand while the sky changes color before their eyes.

Best Live Music

Seacrets

In the summer, DJs provide dance-party ambience every night at Seacrets. One glance at their event calendar will tell you that Seacrets has music booked for months in advance, from bands like Ballyhoo! and Rebelution to themed festivals like the Yogivibez Fest.

Runner-up: Coconuts 

Editor’s choice: The Angler 

From country to reggae, the Angler hosts some of the best local acts several nights a week and is also one of the best places for grabbing a drink and relaxing to the soothing sound of an acoustic guitar or ukulele. Like Seacrets, the Angler’s entertainment calendar is always full and music lovers are always welcome to stop by.  

Best Sports Bar

Like all the best bartenders, Jonnie was around as much or as little as needed.

Pickles

Pickles Pub is the epitome of the American sports bar. Located on 8th street right in the heart of Ocean City, you can catch the game on Pickles’ high-def TVs, play a game of pool or listen to live music while sipping on whatever craft beer suits your fancy – they’ve got 10 rotating local craft taps and 14 beers from around the country.

Runner-up: Buxy’s Salty Dog Saloon

Editor’s choice: The Original Greene Turtle 

As the Greene Turtle pub continues to expand to other parts of the country, Ocean City locals take pride in the fact that the original Greene Turtle first made its home in North OC over four decades ago. And it’s still one of the best sports bars in town.  Come to watch a game and drink a beer or just to enjoy a few of the Turtle’s irresistible wings, and be sure to take home a souvenir t-shirt from the original Greene Turtle. 

Greene Turtle
See you at the Turtle.

Best Craft Beer

OC Brewing

Maybe it’s their wide selection of beer that makes Ocean City Brewing Company the best in town – they’ve got 24+ craft beers on tap at any given moment – or maybe it’s the beer they brew themselves, ranging from light to dark, seasonal or year-round, with bold flavors and a variety of hops. Either way, OC Brewing Company is any craft beer connoisseur’s dream.

Runner-up: 45th Street Taphouse

Editor’s choice: Fins Ale House & Raw Bar

Fins Ale House is built around the philosophy that every employee and customer that walks through their door is family. And when someone is family, you want to treat them to the biggest and best craft beer selection that you possibly can. Maybe that’s why Fins has such a great selection, to be enjoyed with only the freshest fish and raw oysters in town, making for the perfect family dinner.

Best Brewery

 

The ever-changing menu at Burley Oak always keeps things fresh. 

Burley Oak

If you like drinking locally, Burley Oak is as local as it gets. Their Berlin, MD taproom will serve you a beer made with sustainable materials and local ingredients, and with new beers released every month, there’s always something different to try. Listen to live music at their cozy bar or buy a case of beer to take home. If you can’t make the trek to Berlin, there are dozens of restaurants in the heart of Ocean City that offer Burley Oak beers, too.

Runner-up: Ocean City Brewing Company

Editor’s choice: Fin City Brewing Company 

Fin City (not to be confused with Fins Ale House, though both are exceptional in their own right) is the oldest brewery in Ocean City. They’re great because they’re always coming out with new releases (or reel-eases) and brew some of the best-tasting Session and Double IPAs in town. They also offer Catch of the Day IPAs, small batches made with seasonal ingredients that are only brewed once. 

Best Drinks





Owls and ice cream at Sundaes in the Park

Kristin
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0

The Town of Ocean City hosts Sundaes in the Park almost every Sunday evening in the summer from 7 to 9 p.m. There’s live music, ice cream sundaes (of course) and sometimes a few surprises, too. This past Sunday, July 16, not only did I watch the sunset over the Assawoman Bay with a sundae in hand, but I also met a few scaly and feathered Delmarva natives.

Northside Park
As soon as you get close to the park, you can hear the music playing. At the right time of day, the trees cast a beautiful reflection over the water. That’s when you know you’re in the right place.
Barn owl
As I soon found out, the Maryland Park Service from Assateague State Park had a tent near the stage on this particular Sunday, where they showcased a variety of animals that live near the Shore.
Barn owl
The owls, like this barn owl, were a hit among the crowd.
Red-tailed hawks
Two red-tailed hawks perched under the tent, eyeing their onlookers.
Screech owls
These two–tiny, wide-eyed screech owls were a fan favorite. 
Box turtle
One curious kid got up close and personal with the Eastern box turtle. “What’s his name?” he asked the ranger. She replied, “We don’t give the animals names because they’re wild.”
Snake
Others preferred to watch from afar. A snake slithered around its cage, right next to some of the items for sale, like those big, scaly talon gloves.
Uprizing
Okay, that’s all for the animals. Now back to the normal Sundaes in the Park stuff. The band playing this Sunday was Uprizing, an R&B/funk outfit from the Chesapeake Bay region.
Sundaes in the Park crowd
Uprizing drew quite a crowd. Then again, weather-permitting, Sundaes always have a sizable turnout.
Ice cream topping station
And then there’s the ice cream,  of course. Two tables with toppings like sprinkles, nuts and cherries. 
Ice cream
One scoop is $3.25, two scoops for $4. Not a bad deal for ice cream, music and a beautiful evening.
Colored sand
There was also a sand art table, where you can create a cute memento by filling a clear bottle with any arrangement of colored sand.
Sunset
All in all, not a bad afternoon. We seemed to have come on the right day–after all, what’s better than ice cream, tiny animals and a summer sunset?

Winners named in Between Water and Sky exhibition

Tony Russo
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0

The Worcester County Arts Council is proud to announce winners in the juried art competition: “Between Water and Sky”.
Marcy Snyder was awarded with a first place for her watercolor painting titled: “From the Deck of the Pocomoke River Boat”, Ellen Scott placed second for the watercolor painting, “Steamed Crabs, Newark MD”, and Dee Brua won third prize for the “Storm Coming”, watercolor.
Honorable mention awards were given to the following artists: Mitzi Ash for her silk collage titled “Weaving the Waves at Dawn”, Marina Borovok for the oil painting “The Hand of God that Protects You”, Brigitte Bowden for her oil painting “Isle of Wight”, and Don Grafer for the acrylic painting, “Ocean Sunrise”.
The winning artwork was selected by Kevin Fitzgerald, an accomplished and award winning local artist and art educator recognized for his paintings of seascapes and landscapes.
Winners were honored at the opening reception held on July 14 at the Arts Council Gallery located at 6 Jefferson Street in downtown Berlin.
Eleven other artists were also chosen to exhibit their work in the show. Exhibiting artists include: Marian Bickerstaff, Megan Burak, Hyoe Choi, Rachel Douglass, Sandy Glassman, Rudelle Hall, Robert Johnson, Geo McElroy, Isobel Morris, Nancy Rider,and Susan Rosskopf.
The exhibit is on display through July 31 and all artwork is available for sale. The Gallery hours are Monday – Friday, and some Saturdays from 11 am to 3 pm.
Pictured above are Marina Borovok, Mitzi Ash, Brigitte Bowden, Don Grafer, Dee Brua, Marcy Snyder, Ellen Scott, and Kevin Fitzgerald.

Creature Feature: Egrets vs. Herons

Kristin
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0

The marshes on Delmarva are known for their picturesque landscape, that low-tide smell you get as you’re driving by with your windows down, and wildlife. 

Lots of wetland-dwelling creatures call the marshes in Ocean City their home. I already wrote a little about the turtles that inhabit the wetlands, but there’s plenty of other species, too – some with elegant long legs, feathers and wings. 

The egrets and herons of Delmarva remind me a lot of ghosts. Not just because they’re white and can fly, but because if you get too close, they’ll vanish in an instant. If you’re looking to catch one in its natural habitat, bring binoculars! One second you’ll think you see such a bird from the corner of your eye, but when you go to get a closer look, it’s gone. 

As you can tell from the video, egrets and herons are the picture of tranquility. While they might be wary of humans, left alone the graceful birds are totally at peace soaking up the sun. They’re basically how we all aspire to be while on vacation on the beach, so maybe we can learn a little something from them. Just dip your toes (or talons) in the water and take in the atmosphere. 

Egrets vs. herons: what’s the difference?

I’m going to let you in on a little secret: there isn’t really a difference between egrets and herons. 

Well, there is, but it’s only in appearance, not biology. An egret is really a type of heron, usually white and with fine plumes that develop during breeding season. There are three types that hang out on Delmarva, each with distinct physical features.

Egrets on Delmarva

The Snowy Egret: These guys have milky white plumage the color of snow, black legs and bright yellow feet. 

Snowy Egret
A glamorous Snowy Egret, plumes a-blazin’.

The Great Egret: Is larger than its Snowy siblings and typically has black feet rather than yellow.

Great Egret
A Great Egret with the catch of the day.

The Cattle Egret: Small like the Snowy Egret, usually black-legged, but with feathers that can take on an orange-y red hue during its youth. They get their name from their tendency to follow cattle around in fields, as cattle tend to stir up the insects that Cattle Egrets eat. 

Cattle Egret
A Cattle Egret with a vibrant beak.

All three species were endangered in the 19th and 20th centuries, nearly hunted to extinction due to their beautiful plumes that were once a fashion trend. This over-hunting spawned some of the first laws to protect birds, and today the Egret is, thankfully, no longer endangered.

Herons on Delmarva 

There are lots. Of the 64 heron species in the world, 11 of them can be found in the Delmarva region.

Heron species on the peninsula include the Great Blue and Little Blue Heron, who both have distinctly blue and purple-toned feathers, the blue, purple and white Tricolored Heron, the tiny and appropriately-named Green Heron, the Black-crowned Night-Heron and the Yellow-crowned Night Heron.  There are also American Bitterns and Least Bitterns which, like the egret, are another species of heron. They’re short-necked and more secretive than herons and egrets, often active at night.

These species are all noticeably colored, so if you see a white or mostly-white heron, it’s probably an egret. 

How can I see one for myself?

Easily. They’re everywhere, especially when you’re around the Delmarva bays and marshes.

Of course, as mentioned before, most of these species are quite shy and won’t stick around long once they see that you’re near.

If there’s a specific spot on the water where you’ve seen herons frequent, your best bet is to stake out the area and wait quietly for a bird to appear.  Many photographers find that the more time they spend with a bird, the closer it will allow them to get – it just takes a lot of time and patience to build such a relationship. If you’re trying to capture the majesty of the heron, use a zoom lens. And although you might be trying to build a relationship with a bird, don’t feed it. Herons and egrets, like ducks and other waterfowl, aren’t meant to eat bread or Cheerios, and are perfectly capable of hunting their own fish and insects. 

An evening at the Family Beach Olympics

Kristin
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0

For several years now, the town of Ocean City and the Commander Hotel have been hosting the Family Beach Olympics on 27th street. This year, the Olympics are held on most Tuesday evenings in the summer, where families are brought together for two hours of sandy fun, music and a little friendly competition.

I went to check out the games on July 12, the second Beach Olympics of the summer, and it’s safe to say that parents and kids alike were having a grand old Olympian time.  

Family Olympics set up
All the gaming equipment waits to be used in competition, while the surfin’ sounds of the Beach Boys play from the speakers. 
Beach Olympics sign
The sign on 27th street, at the very end of the boardwalk. For families who are looking for free fun but aren’t as competitively spirited, Movies on the Beach happen in the same spot every Monday and Friday night. 
Family Olympics staff
Family Beach Olympics staff members Chris Germano, Lindsey Rickards and program coordinator Trisha Connell pose while families are hard at work building sandcastles behind them. 

Beach Olympics are fun for young and old

“This is the second [Olympics], we had one two weeks ago,” Connell said. “It’s great, we had a huge turnout – we weren’t quite expecting as many families as we had. Tonight is a good, manageable number.” There was no Family Olympics last week, on the Fourth of July, and for good reason. The week before the Fourth, staff members were scrambling to provide gaming equipment and fun for the surprising amount of families that had turned out.

Sandcastle building
But even on the 11th, tens of families showed up ready to build and play.
Crater sandcastle
Most of the sculptures weren’t even castles, but creative craters, animals and even a pair of kid-made flip flops that would later be engraved with “OC.” 
Beach Olympics family
Here, a family poses with their mermaid in the sand (in the midst of being built).

Competitive sand sculpture building

OCBP
Even Ocean City Beach Patrol Members came out to build a sandy hippopotamus. 
Shovels down
After about 45 minutes, Connell yelled into her megaphone, “Shovels down!” Let the judging begin. 
Crabba the Hut sculpture
First, second and third place winners were awarded gift cards. “Crabba the Hut” here ended up taking first place, but it was a close competition!
Beach Olympics winners
The Angress family from Freehold, New Jersey pose in front of “Crabba.” This is their second summer in Ocean City and their first Family Beach Olympics, where they ended up taking home $100 in gift certificate prizes.
Hula hoop contests
After the sandcastles were judged and awarded, the games commenced. Here, two teams of families were divided and, holding hands, they raced to bring their hula hoops full circle.
Sack race
After the hula hoop competition was the sack races, and while there were many trips and falls, the sand provides a pretty safe landing.
Egg races
Annnd, the egg-on-a-spoon race. If you drop the egg, you have to return to the start (needless to say, this one took awhile).
Bean bag races
Finishing up the evening with a beanbag-on-the-head race, while other families commence in a little tug-of-war behind them. Even if you don’t win anything at the Family Beach Olympics, you’re sure to have a great (and hilarious, and sometimes a little embarrassing) time. 

Scoping out the beach

Kristin
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5

One thing you’ll notice at the beach is that the scopes guys – and girls, too – are all young, friendly and extremely tan. 

Ethan Quinn, like Ferris Berlin and countless others, is a scopes guy. And if you’re not familiar with the scopes folks, you haven’t spent enough time on the beach. After awhile, and especially when you’re with your family, the blue-shorts-wearing photographers are sure to approach you and ask if you’re interested in a picture. It’s just part of the job.

Also with the job comes frequent rejection, the cold shoulder from impatient moms who just aren’t interested in whatever these kids are touting, but on the other hand, there’s also the opportunity to make someone’s day by providing them with the perfect memento from their Ocean City vacation.

Scopes guy
Two-year scopes veteran Ethan Quinn models his regalia out on the beach at 120th street. 

Quinn wears his Scopes shorts with the scopes themselves – those tiny keychain telescopes with photos inside – hanging off his waistband. He works long days out in the sun and at the photo studio, from 10 a.m. to around 4:30 or 5, and his jurisdiction runs from 117th to 125th street. Quinn, a Lancaster, PA native, is working his second summer as a scopes guy, and the word that he uses most to describe his job is simply “fun.”

“I’ve been vacationing here since I was a kid and I came down here and was like, why not live on the beach and not just vacation?” he said. “So I came down here, applied for a job and it turned out to be awesome.”

He says that anyone who thinks they might be interested in hawking scopes around the beach should at least try it out. He’s gained much more from this job than he might have as a line cook or boardwalk shop cashier – in fact, this job changed his life.

“I was not the most outgoing, energetic person, but I applied anyway and it’s changed me as a person,” Quinn said. “It’s made me a better person as a whole. I was a shy kind of guy, but this job made me better as a person and I do better in school…The interactions with the people just make you happy and energetic and excited.”

On the beach, where visiting families have come from all over the world (mostly the East Coast, but still) and from all walks of life, there’s never a dull moment. Especially when your job requires you to get to know all these people. 

“You meet some fun people, some crazy people, some out-of-the-ordinary families who ask for ridiculous pictures,” he said. “Mom and dad doing backflips as the kids are holding hands. Some crazy things that you’d never expect.”

So the next time a scopes guy approaches you and asks if you’d like your picture taken, seize* the opportunity. You’ll be meeting someone who’s just as excited to be on the beach as you are, you’ll get a little souvenir and you’ll help them make commission, too. If you’re like me and already have several scopes from vacations past (thanks, mom), a “no thanks, but how is your day going?” goes a long way. 

Scopes back
Now back to work. 

*My brain was not functioning correctly when this article was originally published. “Cease” has been changed to “seize.” I do want you to get Scopes done, because they’re cool.      –ed. 

If you’re looking for a condo, it’s a renter’s market

Joanna Laslo
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2

Historically, Ocean city condo rentals have been profitable and therefore have been considered sound financial investments. Over the past 30-plus years of this writer’s experience, the properties have been steady and dependable. . Even though the local Brokers had a slightly slower year in 2016, all of us in the real estate condo rental business had every reason to believe 2017 would be a good year for vacationers. Unfortunately, it slowly became apparent, as the rental inquiries became fewer over the Spring, the vacation rental market was declining.

No one really understands the present depression in the real estate rental market, especially in the midst of such a strong sales market, but speculation abounds. One rental manager believes we have “out-priced ourselves.” He stated the August weeks are doing better with his company and feels the reason is the lower prices available during that month.
Another manager, Chris Mitchell, of Coldwell Banker, said, “The 2017 season has been on the softer side compared to last year. We have seen an increase of renters booking closer to arrival, which has been a growing trend over the last several years”.
Mitchell added that, “[M]any of these guests are looking for shorter stays and all are looking for the best deal. Our rental agents are working hard to convert all inquiries into rentals for our owners, but it is definitely a tighter market this year.”
While a few companies report a much smaller loss of rental income so far this year, the general consensus is the overall condo rental market in Ocean City has dropped between 10-15% this summer!
It seems Ocean City is not the only summer rental location experiencing this drop in vacationers. Some property owners in Ocean City are also owners of rental properties in Myrtle Beach, Miami, Williamsburg or Cape Hatteras. Those owners reported those locations are also struggling to fill empty rental weeks.
Inside Hook surveyed 1,300 American adults about their summer plans. This survey backs up the point that the prices are the largest stumbling block in obtaining enough rentals to be sure the properties are booked. Hook quotes an astonishing 58 percent of Americans prefer to take vacation after Labor Day due to lower prices during that time frame.
In 2016 Market Watch reported millions of Americans were giving their vacation days back to their employer, stating that “a new survey of 2200 workers found only approximately one half of the vacation days are actually taken. 
Comparing 2016 with this year, the market has declined in 2017.
Perhaps the CBS news report of 2016 could have been a precursor of a downturn in the market for the near future when  their report indicated that 42 percent of the population of the United States did not take a single day of vacation last year.

The main concern is for the property owners, many of whom rely upon the rental income from these beach condos or town homes.   Possibly the loss of rentals may be caused by the unusually mild Spring and early Summer>  The results of which have adversely affected property owners and rental companies alike leaving the streets of Ocean City  sparsely populated by beach visitors.

Slow season in Ocean City

Irrespective of the wide spread speculation regarding this phenomenon, it is agreed by all, that the market is unusually soft, and rates are of paramount importance to rental customers.  Sadly,  however, there is no general agreement as to what may be done to alleviate the stressed market, or to encourage a stronger rental market in the future.

Potential buyers of investment properties should closely evaluate expenses associated with the investment property and be certain they can carry the costs of condo ownership without an absolute dependence upon possible rental income.  This is not meant to discourage such investments since, despite the soft market at this time, the condo market overall does provide income, and vacation rentals are still a viable economic alternative for tenants rather than to rent 2-4 hotels rooms to accommodate their families. Current investment property owners may benefit from reducing their rates to attract those cost-conscious vacationers and ensure  more positive rental seasons to come.

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