Each year, locals and visitors cast their votes for Ocean City’s most loved destinations, and the 2025 Best of Ocean City® winners prove that the Boardwalk remains the heartbeat of the beach town’s vibrant culture. From classic candy shops to legendary seafood and nightlife, these Boardwalk staples have stood out for all the right reasons.
Let’s Just Start with The Boardwalk
Elizabeth Parham -Enjoying the boardwalk !
Ocean City’s iconic Boardwalk is usually a favorite place to stroll, snack, shop, and soak up the beach energy. Stretching three miles and packed with entertainment, shops, food, and fun, visitors continue to “walk the boards” as we like to say.
Chocolate at Dolles Candyland brings customers back each visit.
For sweet treats that have stood the test of time, Dolle’s Candyland took top honors in the candy category. With its unmistakable sweet scent and rich history dating back to 1910, Dolle’s is famous for its saltwater taffy and hand-dipped chocolates. Voters praised the nostalgic charm and variety of treats that keep families coming back generation after generation.
Dolles has been a staple of the boardwalk for decades.
A double win for Dolle’s! The shop also snagged the title for Best Caramel Popcorn—with good reason. Their caramel popcorn is handcrafted in small batches for that perfect crunchy-sweet blend, earning rave reviews for being “worth the drive alone.”
Come out for the best view of the inlet and Assateague Island.
Ocean City’s favorite bar of 2025? That honor goes to The Wedge, a beachfront hotspot known for its unbeatable views, refreshing cocktails, and relaxed vibes. Located right on the sand at the Inlet, The Wedge has become a must-visit for beachgoers looking to sip something cold with the ocean at their feet.
Winner of 2025 Best of Ocean CIty, raw bar and sit down restaurant on the boardwalk.
For sit-down dining, there was a tie at the top! Harrison’s Harbor Watch again secured its place thanks to its renowned raw bar, seafood dishes, and panoramic views of the Inlet. Meanwhile, Shenanigan’s Irish Pub & Grille earned its spot as a lively Boardwalk staple, offering hearty fare, Guinness on tap, and Irish hospitality that’s second to none.
Park Place was voted Best of Ocean City Boardwalk- Shops by editorial staff.
Shoppers spoke loud and clear this year. The Kite Loft, with its colorful displays and sky-high selection of kites, windsocks, and beach gear, won “Best Shop” for its fun, family-friendly experience. Park Place Jewelers, meanwhile, dazzled editorial voters with its sparkling collection of fine jewelry, custom designs, and exceptional customer service—making it the top choice for special souvenirs or seaside sparkle.
2025 Winners
Category
Winner (*editorial winner)
What Shoppers Loved
Pizza
Dough Roller
Tasty, delicious, and a staple of vacation
Candy
Dolle’s Candyland*
Iconic taffy, fudge, and old-fashioned sweets
Caramel Popcorn
Dolle’s Candyland*
Handcrafted, crunchy, buttery-sweet perfection
Bar
The Wedge*
Inlet view with cocktails, outside dining, and a sunset view
Sit-Down Restaurant
Harrison’s Harbor Watch & Shenanigan’s*
Seafood, Irish eats, and unmatched views from both
Shops
The Kite Loft & Park Place Jewelers*
Fun, flair, and fine jewelry with local flair
These 2025 winners celebrate everything that makes Ocean City’s Boardwalk unforgettable. Whether you’re in town for a day or a week, these local favorites are worth a stop—or several.
Dale Carnegie wrote, “Two men looked out from prison bars, One saw the mud, the other saw stars”. The northern stargazer is a dreamer of a fish that always keeps its eyes to the stars. This bizarre species houses its eyes, gill slits, nostrils, and most of its mouth on the top of its bulbous head, facing upwards. Its wedge-shaped body is a black/brown color with white spots, and the average size is between 8-18 inches long. The scientific name of the northern stargazer is Astroscopus guttatus, the first Latin word translating to “one who aims at the stars”. Although they may appear frightful at first glance, even their name is full of poetry.
A Northern Stargazer caught in Worcester Co., Maryland Photo by Nick Denny.
Northern stargazers call the temperate waters of the Atlantic coast and its bays home, ranging from North Carolina to New York. They are a benthic species, dwelling in sandy bottom habitats at depths up to 120 feet. They use their stout pectoral fins like sand shovels and can quickly bury themselves in just a few seconds to hide from predators. Thanks to the unique shape of the stargazer, the eyes and nostrils remain above the sand when the rest of the body is submerged in sandy camouflage, allowing them to see their prey and to breathe when buried. Most fish bring water in through their mouths to breathe, but stargazers uniquely inhale water through their nostrils before exhaling it through their gills. A curtain of fleshy, comb-shaped fringe covers the nostrils to keep out granules of sand and protect the nostrils.
Imagine being an unsuspecting minnow, perhaps a mummichog or bay anchovy, schooling a few inches over the bay bottom. You scan for predators but see nothing except an expanse of amber waves of sand grains. Before you are even aware of what is happening, a northern stargazer rises in a flash, creates a vacuum with its cavernous mouth to suck you in, and swallows you whole.
Juvenile Stargazer off Assateague. Photo by Liz Wist
While the vacuum-powered mouth of the northern stargazer is quite impressive, its remarkable talents do not stop there. Stargazers have a special organ located behind their eyes that produces an electrical shock to defend against predators. The electrical currents the northern stargazer generates are relatively weak, but it is still advised to use caution when handling one of these creatures or else you could be in for a shocking experience. When we think of animals that possess the power of electricity, we think of electric eels deep in the Amazon, but we have them in our own backyard!
Our Coastal Bays serve as a nursery for juvenile stargazers. We get these little darlings for a few years while they take their time maturing in the inshore habitat of sandy bays. Next thing you know the little stargazer larvae have progressed through their juvenile years and are moving offshore to become adults. What parents say is true: they grow up so fast.
How fortunate we are to host such a fascinating species in the Coastal Bays. Northern stargazers are symbols of the awe-inspiring adaptations of nature and the unique variety of life that call our Bays home. If you are lucky enough to stumble across one, let it be a reminder to keep your eyes to the skies and aim for the stars.
About the Author: Brooke Eckert served as the Program and Communications Coordinator for the Maryland Coastal Bays Program from 2024-2025 and resides in Berlin, Maryland.
At this year’s 52nd White Marlin Open in Ocean City, Maryland — the world’s largest billfish tournament — the buzz isn’t just about the million-dollar payouts or Michael Jordan’s Catch 23, 82′ Bayliss making very surprising high-profile appearance. It was also about the fish themselves, especially the often-misidentified duo: the white marlin and the roundscale spearfish.
Known collectively and colloquially as “hatchet marlin” due to their similar shapes and profiles, these two species are notoriously difficult to tell apart. Even seasoned anglers struggle without a trained eye — or a DNA test. Both have long bills, rounded dorsal fins, and similar coloring. However, key differences lie in the lateral line (faint and wavy in white marlin, bold and arched in roundscale spearfish) and subtle body proportions. Another identifying difference is the difference between the anal vent and anal fin on the fish. On a white marlin the distance between the two is approximately two inches whereas the roundscale spearfish is usually around six inches.
The confusion is more than just cosmetic. Misidentifying a roundscale spearfish as a white marlin can affect tournament standings, conservation data, and scientific research. In fact, genetic analysis only confirmed roundscale spearfish as a distinct species in the early 2000s.
This year’s tournament was extended due to weather concerns, giving anglers two extra days to compete — and more chances to reel in a winning catch. With millions on the line, accuracy matters more than ever.
As conservation and sport fishing intersect, the importance of species identification grows. For now, whether it’s a white marlin or a roundscale spearfish, one thing’s for sure: both continue to thrill anglers and scientists alike — and keep tournaments like the White Marlin Open full of mystery, excitement, and record-breaking competition. Remember to watch live here on our homepage to keep up with all the fishing excitement.
After two days of nasty offshore winds that docked a majority of White Marlin Open participants on day 4 and 5, Day 6 (Saturday) finally began to settle down…in the weather aspect. However the scales did the exact opposite!
Saturday: 81 Boats Charged the Canyons
Boats have been patiently waiting the last day of the WMO with smaller wind gusts.
After only 4 boats reported making it out to try their luck on Thursday and 13 on Friday, Saturday made up for the loss with 81 boats heading out. And boy did they make up for lost time. With fish enthusiasts flocking to the scales, they knew something big would happen.
Catch 23’s Second Place Catch
Catch 23 and Michael Jordan came in with a white marlin caught by Trey McMillan.
Around mid day, rumors starting circling the beach that a boat would be in early to the scales carrying a white marlin. When the rumor mill began pressing, the word was that it was non other than Catch 23, Michael Jordan’s 82’ Bayliss. The excitement could be heard around the boardwalk, on the beach, and of course at Harbour Island. I ran for a coffee down the boardwalk and I could hear the White Marlin Open live stream from houses, bars, and even pool decks! One guy had a portable tv outside on his deck so that he wouldn’t miss the action! Now that’s a true fan.
Just like the rumors had said, Catch 23 in fact did make it to the scales! Now, I have to mention that Catch 23 has placed in tournaments in the past few years in various categories, but they usually truck their catches in. BUT this year…this year! Something sparked and yes, Michael Jordan, the GOAT, finally made an appearance at this year’s White Marlin Open. And because he is the GOAT, Catch 23 brought in the first white marlin of the day. Weigh master, Alex, quickly jumped on board the Bayliss to measure to make sure it fit the 70” minimum requirement and…of course it did!
Commentators mentioning that before the fish is officially weighed, the mouth has to be pried open to make sure nothing is inside. Hundreds of people, waited in excited silence as the fish was hung on the scale and hoisted. And coming in at 71 pounds, Catch 23 and angler Trey ‘Crickett” McMillan sky rocketed the team into second place in the white marlin category, just behind Billfisher at 72 pounds!
An Early Christmas Gift from Santa
Santa came to the scales with hopes of an early Christmas gift for Sea Hag.
At 6pm, the Sea Hag slid into the docks carrying a very special friend. Santa Claus on board the Sea Hag seemed like good omen for the team. Out of Pirates Cove, North Carolina ran by Hook Optics, the Pino Family weighed in a 64.5 white marlin, a few pounds shy of the minimum but the effort was there. With 48 years of White Marlin Open experience under their belt, the Pino family did everything the right way- but even Santa couldn’t make it happen.
Later in the Evening
In between boats, don’t forget to stop at the Park Place Jewelers tent at Harbour Island.
Bow Down came back to the scales today with a yellow fin tuna. They didn’t make the minimum weight of 50 pounds (just shy at 48.5). But they got great support from the crowd. Next making the 6:55 bridge, Euphoria came to Harbour Island with high hopes of jumping into place with their white marlin on board. The crowd went wild at the 71.5 inch measurement meaning it was a qualifying fish! Next step was to get it on the scale. And just shy of the minimum 70 pound requirement, Euphoria brought a 64.5 pound white to the scales. Disappointed? Yes. However they mentioned being able to fish together and experience the White Marlin Open as a family meant way more than a qualifying fish.
7th Day Shake Up
Scales are expected to be packed as Day 7 comes to a close at the 2025 WMO.
Sunday is the last day of the extended 2025 White Marlin Open and I’m predicting that it’s going to be one for the books. With a whopping 211 boats going out today (the wind finally gave them a break!), I have a feeling that the leaderboards are going to be shaken up quite a bit. Don’t forget you can watch live here on oceancity.com’s homepage.
The Courtyard by Marriott looked impressive with the rising sunrise this week. Located on the boardwalk at 15th Street.
Courtyard at Marriot on the boardwalk
White Marlin Open fishing tournament
Big Blue Marlin brought in on first day of WMO
Ocean City’s signature fishing tournament, the White Marlin Open, came to Ocean City this week. And the crowds of fishermen and followers came, too. Due to some rough weather the normal five day event was extended by two extra days and continues to this weekend. Headquartered at Harbour Island on the bayside at 17th Street.
Attendees at WMOPark Place Jewelers at WMO. Jill, Todd, and Sophia Ferrante.A catch at WMO
Sunset Park Party Nights
These Thursday night free concerts start at 7 pm and run through the end of August. Check them out. Bring your favorite beach chair too. Sponsored by the Ocean City Development Corporation and the Town of Ocean City. For this schedule this summer: Sunset Park Party Nights.
Get ready for a fun waterfront experience at the first-ever Ocean City MD Seafood Festival! Join us on Saturday, September 6, 2025, 12 – 8 PM at Northside Park for a day filled with top Maryland restaurants, live music, chef demonstrations, and more. Sip the day away with a wide variety of wines, beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages, all while enjoying beautiful bay views. Plus, there’s a dedicated kids’ zone with fun activities for the whole family!
Win 2 VIP Tickets!
Want to experience the festival in style? We’re giving away two VIP tickets, a $170 value! Your VIP passes include:
One-hour early admission
A souvenir glass
Unlimited wine, beer, and spirit tastings
Access to the VIP tent with seating and a private bar
You’ll be automatically entered into our random drawing. The winner will be announced on August 14th. Good luck!
MAKE IT A WEEKEND! BOOK A HOTEL & GET 2 FREE TASTING TICKETS
If you are planning a weekend getaway, the weekend of the OC Seafood Festival is the time to do it because you get TWO FREE “WINE, BEER & SPIRITS TASTING TICKETS” with each booking. Then, you can save $15 off each additional ticket (ANY LEVEL) with a special code emailed to you when you make your reservation. Hurry, however, because we have limited free tickets. ALL BOOKINGS MUST BE COMPLETED BY 9/4!
Thank you to everyone who made our Photo Friday contest special this week! As always, your entries beautifully captured the essence of an Ocean City getaway, from families having a blast on the beach to exploring the lively Boardwalk and savoring delicious local dishes!
Here are some of this weeks photos from our Photo Friday contest, and get ready to submit your own photos in next week’s contest which starts tomorrow on our Facebook page.
This week’s randomly selected winner of 2 FREE passes to Nick’s Mini Golfis Jane Getz for this incredible photo of the dark looming storm clouds which appeared over the Ocean City Boardwalk last week! Congratulations Jane!
Jane Getz – Taken Thurs July 31, 2025 around 8pm at the beginning of the boardwalk.Amber Yashinsky Buehler – Her first trip to Ripley’s!Breeana Merryman – Soaking up some sunChelsee Nicole MacEwan – We love taking advantage of all the awesome photo opportunities along the boardwalk! My four kiddos Amelia Skyla Luka and Axel.Chris Siwak – Annual cousins OC tradition!! Always a must every summer!Christine Hildebrand – Boardwalk Seagull buddyChristy Mann – Ready to “roll” in Ocean City!!Danielle Bozic – Embers Island mini golf!David Rossbach Easton – flying high on those OC VibesDawn Renee – Sunset in OCElizabeth Parham -Enjoying the boardwalk!Heather Morgan – Cousins enjoying the boardwalk viewsLeahnralph CrawfordMelissa Fedor Hausmann – Enjoying the crabs they caught!!Nicole Renee – Thanks to Parks and Rec for putting on an amazing volleyball camp at Northside Park this week! These girls had an amazing time and had great coaches teaching themPatricia Saiia – Early Morning Surfing Lesson! What fun!Stephanie Trowbridge -Yearly Brother and Sister’s Picture..they love Ocean CityTammy Curl
Today’s leaderboard on Day 3 of the White Marlin Open shook up in the tuna category AND the first qualifying white marlin came to the scales!
The Rumor Mill
Everyone crowded around the inlet screens to watch aa the scales opened.
Is it fake news or “reel?” Rumors began early today as news was buzzing about a game changing white marlin coming into the scales early! The scales opened at 4 and still no boats yet, but the anticipation was high.
Duffy’s Do It Again
Fishermen try their luck as White Marlin Open competitors race to Harbour Island.
Duffy Boat Works on the Billfisher came in hot to the scales early at 4:30 with 7 flags! Yes that’s 7! 6 released white marlin and 1 boated white marlin. And that’s all it takes is one! Spectators crowded the sand and screen at Marlin Fest as the they unloaded their catch. The tournament record is a 99 pound white marlin so crowds had some high expectations considering the Duffy family was the one on board this boat. And in true Duffy fashion, their catch met the minimum length requirement by just half an inch (70.5) and a weight of 72 pounds taking the leaderboard in the White Marlin Open! And that one fish is now worth $4.6 million.
Hold My Rod!
Seeing the fish live on the scales is a bucket list item for many visitors.
Build Acres came in just after the Billfisher left with in a hot tuna! That big fish weighed a whopping 56 pounds taking first place in the outboard tuna category taking the lead! They reported a rough day at sea, but definitely worth it taking second place in the overall tuna category.
No stranger to the scales, Hot Lick came in about an hour later bringing in a 41.5 pound pound and 44 pound tuna just missing the weight. But it was their 54 pound qualifying tuna weighed in that got things moving.
Movement in the Tuna Category
People flocked to the scales for Day 3 of the WMO weigh ins.
No Limit came in with an angler from Baltimore weighing in a 92.5 pound tuna! And the crowds were here for it! That one moved into second place. It was also the first blue fin tuna to come to the scales this week. The wind really picked up as the Christine Marie came in with a tuna at 46 pounds. Don’t Ask came charging through the large inlet waves to weigh in a 61 pound tuna moving them into third place at Harbour Island! Reel Priority came to the scales wanting to weigh a yellow fin tuna. The angler was from Sparrows Point, Maryland- my home town! But unfortunately it was a mere half a pound shy of the 50 pound minimum.
Looking Ahead
The standings really got shaken up today at boats cruise into what would be the last two days of the tournament. But with earlier tournament decisions extending the event by two days, it looks like many boats still have 1-2 days left of fishing. The weather Thursday looks iffy and Friday’s windy looks strong. Saturday and Sunday look the most promising with sunny skies. I think this year’s tournament will come down to the wire and something big will be happening later in the weekend. We shall see! Don’t forget you can stay up to date and watch the live stream of this year’s White Marlin Open weighs on our homepage.
When coming to Ocean City, Maryland for vacation, you want to make sure you get the best of the best! Here are the Best of Ocean City 2025 — Restaurant Winners, voted by locals and visitors alike. OceanCity.com voters have spoken—these local favorites took top honors in their categories:
Longboard Café (Wings)
Crowned the town’s go‑to spot for wings, Longboard Café stood out for its crispy, well‑seasoned offerings and surf‑themed menu—earning praise as locals’ favorite wings destination. They also got an award for taking care of people with dietary restrictions.
Harpoon Hanna’s (Seafood & Sunday Brunch)
Voters selected Harpoon Hanna’s as the premier seafood restaurant in the area. They also won best Sunday brunch stop. With several seating options- indoor, outdoor, and patio- the energy makes it quintessential Ocean City brunch.
Guido’s Burridos (Mexican)
Guido’s Burridos earned acclaim as Ocean City’s best for Mexican fare. Reviewers celebrated its burrito bowls and flavorful combos—“the best burrito bowl I’ve had” sums it up nicely.
Sello’s (Italian)
Recognized as Ocean City’s Italian standout, Sello’s was praised by locals and foodies alike. Reviewers called it “some of the best Italian I’ve ever had” with excellent parmigiana and pasta offerings.
Blue Fish (Asian)
Blue Fish topped the Asian cuisine category in garnering the highest number of votes in the Best of Ocean City® polls. Known for its sushi, stylish ambiance, and consistent quality, it’s frequently cited by visitors seeking pan‑Asian flavors in OC.
Anthony’s Liquors (Carry-out & Subs)
A longtime local favorite, Anthony’s Liquors won the most votes in both the “Best Carry-out” AND the “Best Subs” categories. Beloved for the “Spinnaker” hoagie and other deli classics, it delivers simple, satisfying beach‑side subs. And you have to try their pickles!
Berlin Beer Company (New Restaurant)
As the newest addition on the list, Berlin Beer Company took top honors as the “Best New Restaurant.” Its welcome arrival reflects well on OC’s expanding dining scene, particularly attracting those looking for casual food and local brews.
Captain’s Table (Crab Cake)
Awarded for the town’s best crab cake, Captain’s Table impressed voters with its creamy, well‑seasoned crab cakes praised in Editorial mentions as a sit‑down standout destination.
Harrison’s Harbour Watch (Raw Bar & Best Sit Down Restaurant on the Boardwalk)
Harrison’s Harbour Watch dominated both raw bar and sit‑down restaurant categories. With an award‑winning oyster stew and waterfront views, it’s consistently rated among Ocean City’s top full-service seafood dining spots.
These winning restaurants reflect the diverse tastes and vibrant dining culture of Ocean City in 2025. From Baja‑style tacos and elevated wings to classic Italian, sushi, and standout crab cakes—residents and visitors have spoken clearly picking the best of the best. To see all the restaurant winners, click here.
If you’re planning your next visit to Ocean City any of the above spots come highly recommended—and voted number one by people like you. Look for our weekly restaurant menu recommendations where you will see many of the this year’s winners.
Download the Best of Ocean City® Trails to See All the Winners
Download all the Best of Ocean City® Trails to explore the top restaurants, bars, activities, and boardwalk spots voted on by thousands of locals and visitors. These free, mobile-friendly trails guide you to 2025’s official winners, letting you check in as you go, unlock exclusive coupons, and earn points toward awesome prizes. Whether you’re craving award-winning crab cakes, looking for the best happy hour, or planning a day of family fun, the Best of Ocean City® Trails make it easy—and rewarding—to experience the very best Ocean City has to offer.
It’s Day 2 of the 2025 White Marlin Open and it’s going to be hard to match yesterday’s vibe. If you don’t remember, Barbara B came in with a bang weighing in a 929.5 pound blue marlin- making tournament history. So the expectations were high!
Waiting for the Scales to Open
People flocked to the scales for Day 2 of the WMO weigh ins.
Veteran Captain, Tucker Colquhoun, of Special Situation, got into the scales before the scales were even open at 4pm. But knowing they had a sizable white marlin on board, they did everything they could to get that fish to the scales when it mattered. The scale zzzzzzed its wail, and the marlin just missed the qualifying weight of 70 pounds coming in at 67 pounds. But they weren’t totally disappointed as they released three other white marlin awarding them a good amount of points in their category.
She’s Got It
Seeing the fish live on the scales is a bucket list item for many visitors.
As boats began to glide through the inlet, Hot Lick came in ready to weigh a tuna. Local lady, Pam Taylor, moved into 2nd place in the tuna category with 52 pound tuna. If Pam sounds familiar, it’s probably because she’s the name behind The Tunas and Tiara Tournament here in Ocean City, Maryland.
Just Shy, Just Shy, Just Shy
In between fish and boats, patrons were able to do a little shopping both at the scales and Marlin Fest.
Another outboard came in weighing in a 48 yellow fin from the Second Ammendment, again just missing that 50 pound qualifying weight. Both outboards that have shown to the scales today have two more days left to bring in some tuna and we wish them lots of luck!
A 19 pound mahi came in on the Phenom 45, just 1 pound shy of the 20 pound qualifier. Just after 6pm, 30 Deep came in “flying a lot of laundry” as Andy Motsko announced. They weighed several tuna and just as the ones before, they were all just shy of the minimum weight requirement of 50 pounds.
6:30 seemed like the sweet spot for boats to return home. Several boats were spotted parading back in. And the Badabing went straight for the scales. A 45.5 pound tuna came up on the scales and….again! Just shy of the minimum.
Rho Sham Bo brought in two mahi to weigh. The first at 17 pounds and the second…finally a 27 pound mahi moves into second place in the mahi category! We weighed…and weighed…and weighed all day with “just shy” and Rho Sham Bo brought it to fruition for us and broke the spell! Game On slid into the scales with a 51.5 pound tuna taking third place! Shortly after a 95 pound tuna was hoisted up off of the Mama C. Not only did they move into first place in the tuna category, they released several white marlin as well throughout the day, making it a great day of fishing for the Mama C. (And let’s not forget that their 95 pound tuna is currently worth $1.8!) Another boat came in from Owings Mills just missing the tuna category by a few points.
Wicked Tuna
Team Wicked came to the scales with some fish to weigh. But the fish wasn’t what caught the crowds eyes at first. What was astonishing was the brilliant pink color! While the color was the chatter, the scale flashed 47.5 pounds- once again just shy of the minimum.
Round Out the Evening
Everyone will be packing Harbour Island again tomorrow for Day 3 of the WMO.
A 55 pound tuna comes into place on the Release around 7:30. Blue Runner came in with a 51.5 tuna and a 47.5 pound tuna. And Sweet Freedom came in with a 26.5 pound mahi to end the scales for the evening.
It was a busy day for boats as 212 of the 282 boats fished today. With the extended 2 days, it’s still anyone’s game! Let’s cheer on these incredible anglers and crew and wish them luck for Day 3 of 7 for this 2025 White Marlin Open. Don’t forget you can watch live here on our website and recap the previous days happenings.
Ok- The day didn’t start like we thought for this year’s 2025 White Marlin Open. With off shore winds ripping waves up to ten feet, there were a surprising number of boats that charged into the wind! 128 boats left out of Ocean City’s inlet at 4 am in search for the that perfect catch.
Day 1 of 7
People gather at the inlet with the rumor of a “large fish” coming back to the scales on Day 1.
No- that’s not a typo. This year’s five day tournament was extended by two days due to the weather impact for boats off shore. With that being said, almost half of the fleet decided to take the marlin by the fins and head out today!
Early Reports and Rumors?
Looking for the flags on all the boats coming back in after leaving at 4am!
While boats have limited communication via cellphone and social media offshore, some incredible technology allows for fishermen to link up with video chats back here on shore. It was reported that three different times video chats were connected with three different boats, all three boats were hooked up! One was said to be doubled up (fighting two fish at the same time!). The next offshore report came when a boat reported a “very large” fish coming into the scales rumored to be pushing 800 pounds.
Welcome Back Boys
It’s about 5:45 and boats are steadily coming back in. People are flocking to Marlin Fest and cheers and applause are being heard from crowds watching flags being flown from their favorite boats.
C- Student student came in first getting a big welcome from the crowd for being the first boat in. Weighing in a tuna at 52.5 pounds, it led the scales to start the evening. Then Tom Cat came in flying two tuna flags. Crowds anxiously waited to see if it would surpass the C- Student. Just shy of the 50 pound minimum, the Tom Cat weighed two nice yellow fin in the 40 pound range.
We’ve Been Waiting For This!
History making blue marlin at 2025 White Marlin Open
Finally at 6:20, the Barbara B came to the scales. And the rumbling could be heard from Harbour Island all the way to Marlin Fest. A blue marlin was reported on board and it’s exactly the excitement we’ve been needing! With a White Marlin Open minimum length of 114” this fish measured first at 130”! The crowd erupted in excitement for the next part- the weight! Everyone held their breath at the sight of the mighty fish being hoisted up on the scale. Dock crews took their time to make sure all protocols were taken.
And that mighty fish, brought in by Barbara B, made history weighing in at 929.5 pounds, making is the 5th heaviest blue marlin in White Marlin Open history!! And they weren’t done!
Barbara B pulled out a mahi weighing in at 32.5 pounds taking first place in the mahi category! When jokingly asked where they went to drop their lines, Barbara B was very tight lipped- as they should be!
Tuna- Outboard Division
Even though that history making blue marlin it was hard to follow, the Bow Down came in wanting to weigh in a tuna. After getting it on the scales, the numbers flashed a surprising 52.5- which means a tie with the Barbara B! Both boats were registered in different boat categories, so at this time, both boats could possibly win some money!
Slow Scales
Marlin Fest is the perfect place to watch boats come in and out during the WMO.
After the excitement of the Barbara B, the scale at Harbour Island was slow. Few boats tickled in through the inlet as crowds dwindled down.
It was definitely a Day 1 to remember for this year’s 52nd White Marlin Open. I can’t wait to see what history we can make tomorrow! Be sure to watch the action live on our live stream here. And if you’re looking for something to do while you’re waiting for the boats to come back in , check out my recommendation list! See you tomorrow for Day 2.
The White Marlin Open is the world’s largest billfish tournament—and while the boats are out chasing trophies on the high seas, there’s plenty of action happening back onshore. Whether you’re cheering on a boat, here for the vibes, or just want to make the most of your time in Ocean City, let us help you plan the perfect day.
Here are some great ways to enjoy the White Marlin Open even if you’re not fishing in the tournament.
With direct access to Park Place Jewelers, these signature bracelets are the perfect memory.
Visit The Kite Loft for beach toys, kites, and fun souvenirs
Stop by Park Place Jewelers to pick up the special 150th Anniversary Ocean City bracelet—a keepsake you’ll treasure
7. Picnic at Marlin Fest
Anthony’s Liquors 2021
Pick up dinner from Anthony’s Liquors—winner of this year’s Best of Ocean City awards
Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic-style meal at Marlin Fest
Don’t miss the signature White Marlin Bourbon Cocktail—a brand-new addition for 2025!
8. Keep the Party Going at Crawl Street Tavern
Live music, great drinks, even better company.
After the boats roll back in and the crowd roars at the weigh-ins, stroll to Crawl Street Tavern
Enjoy live music, drinks, and a laid-back vibe to close out your day in Ocean City style
No matter how you spend your day, the White Marlin Open offers the perfect mix of excitement on the water and fun ashore. Let us help you make it one to remember!
The Shoreham Hotel always looking nice in the rising sunrise. Oldest hotel (built in 1923) on the Ocean City Boardwalk and home to Shenanigans Irish Pub and Grille.
Shoreham Hotel
The Harbor Inn (1935) is the oldest bar in Ocean City. Celebrating its 90th anniversary. Located on Somerset Street in downtown Ocean City.
Harbor Inn
The service station near the Route 50 Bridge is close to completion as its canopy and fuel pumps are installed this past week.
New gas station moves ahead
Greek Fest
Greek Fest volunteers
Hope you got to attend the popular Greek Fest held at the Ocean City Convention Center last week? Excellent Greek food, pastries, vendors and traditional music made this annual event another success.
Stormy weather
Stormy boardwalk
A dark cloud deck covered Ocean City and its boardwalk this past Thursday evening.
Photo credit to Stephanie Meehan of Funcade on this picture.
OCEAN CITY, MD — August 1, 2025 — The Art League of Ocean City’s annual “Artists Paint OC Festival and Competition” is August 13-17, 2025 when 54 professional plein air artists paint local landscapes in the area. This is the 20th year for the outdoor painting event in the resort with special celebrations planned throughout the festival.
The public is invited to view the art and take home their masterpiece during the “Wet Paint Art Sales” on Saturday, August 16, 5-7 p.m. and Sunday, August 17, 12-3 p.m. at the Ocean City Center for the Arts, 502 94th St. bayside. Admission is free.
“Fifty artists will be capturing a moment in time on canvas, and this is your opportunity – one that only happens once a year – to purchase these beautiful original paintings of iconic local scenes that are hot off the easel at very affordable prices,” Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League, said. “And this year, we’re celebrating the 20th year of our plein air festival with some special events, including a collectible poster, now on sale at the Arts Center and around town.”
Rosemary Williams age 7 NorwoodSchool 3rdPlace
“En plein air” is a French expression that means “in the open air,” used to describe the art of painting outdoors. The annual Artists Paint OC Festival brings in more than 50 plein air painters to the resort, all professional regional artists. Artists will paint Wednesday through Saturday and compete for more than $11,000 in cash prizes, with $2,500 going to the first-place winner.
On Saturday, August 16, the artists will bring their best work to the Arts Center to be judged by juror Sara Linda Poly. The Wet Paint Art Sale begins at 5 p.m., a free celebratory event that brings the artists together with the public with opportunities to purchase more than 250 just-painted landscapes. The party goes until 7 p.m. and includes live music, complimentary hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar.
Sunday morning’s Quick Paint on the Boardwalk on August 17, sponsored by the Ocean City Development Corp., is an easy opportunity for the public to watch the artists paint. Artists gather on the south end of the Ocean City Boardwalk near Thrashers to paint against the clock from 9-11 a.m. They then bring their work to the Arts Center to be judged by plein air artist Kirk McBride where winners will be announced.
RajendraKC
“This is an intense competition where artists are given two hours to capture a scene on the Boardwalk in paint, battling weather, subject matter that moves, and painting among crowds of onlookers,” Thaler said. “It is amazing to see what they capture.”
The public may purchase the Quick Paint artwork or select from hundreds of other paintings from 12-3 p.m. at the Arts Center. The party begins at 1 p.m. with live music and complimentary refreshments. Admission is free.
For the first time, on Sunday morning from 9-11 a.m. at the Art League table on the Boardwalk near Thrashers, art activities for children will be available with opportunities to win prizes, sponsored by Dough Roller.
Erica DeHart
Sunday also features the third annual “Kids Paint OC” event, featuring the plein air artwork of youth ages 6-17. The children painted outdoors from July 1-31 and brought their work to the Arts Center to be exhibited. Kids Paint OC artwork will be on display on Sunday, August 17, from noon-3 p.m., and $575 in cash prizes will be awarded by judges Tamara Mills, fine art coordinator for the Worcester Co. Board of Education; artist David Simpson; and Sasha Mete, a 2025 Art League scholarship winner. The event is made possible by the Art League with support from the Worcester County Arts Council and John Sisson.
Sponsors for the “Artists Paint OC Festival” are PNC Bank, Charles and Mechelle Nichols, Shore United Bank, Maryland’s Coast, Reese Cropper III, Laura Jenkins, Longboard Café, Emily and Paul Schwab, Town of Ocean City, OCHMRA, Ed and Emmy Challenger, Virginia and Wayne Outten, Betty Huang, Farming Community of Worcester County, Marian Bickerstaff, Berta Maginniss, and the Mid-Atlantic Plein Air Painters Assn.
The artists scheduled to paint and exhibit are Carolyn Aberbach of Bethany Beach, De.; Jon Bandish of Dagsboro, De.; Judy Benton of Ocean City, Md.; Christopher Best of Crownsville, Md.; Genie Blake of Media, Pa; Alexandra Bradley of West Chester, Pa.; Jacqueline Bruce-Yamin of Washington, D.C.; Donna Brumbergs of Frankford, De.; Taylor Collins of Dover, De.; Ann Crostic of Baltimore, Md.; Erica DeHart of Coatesville, Pa.;John Eiseman of Hebron, Md.; Nancy Fine of Hampstead, Md.; and Rhona Ford of Easton, Md.
Mason Wharton age 10 Wicomico Day 1st Place
Also Gerilyn Gaskill of Georgetown, De.; Kathy Gibson of Ocean Pines, Md.; Arthur Gutkin of Millsboro, De.; Catherine Homens of Elkridge, Md.; Patti Lucas Hopkins of Cambridge, Md.; Betty Huang of Easton, Md.; Kathy Huegel of Bethany Beach, De.; Fred Jackson of King of Prussia, Pa.; Frederick Johnson of Greenbackville, Va.; Rajendra KC of Falls Church, Va.; Ed Lewandowski of Bridgeville, De.; Bruce Ley of Lewis Center, Oh.; Mimi Little of Port Republic, Md.; Judith Loeber of Millsboro, De.; Yelena MacLeod of Ocean Pines, Md.; Liz Maynes of Bethesda, Md.; Mike McSorley of Millford, De.; Katherine Miller of Salisbury, Md.; Rebecca Morgan of Berlin, Md.; Martha Pileggi of Milford, De.; Jose Ramírez of Cambridge, Md.; and Jim Rehak of Seaford, De.
And Russell Reno of Ridgeley, Md.; Al Richards of West Chester, Pa.; Gregg Rosner of Selbyville, De.; Eva Rotolo of Lutherville, Md.; Maggii Sarfaty of Easton, Md.; Stacey Sass of St. Michaels, Md.; John Schisler of Georgetown, De.; David Simpson of Parsonsburg, Md.; Helen Smith of Berlin, Md.; Barbara Stepura of White Plains, Md.; Gail Stern of Berlin, Md.; Nancy Thomas of Ridgeley, Md.; Dora Todd of Chincoteague, Va.; Mary Veiga of Baltimore, Md.; Cheryl Wisbrock of Bethany Beach, De.; Lori Yates of Easton, Md.; Dennis Young of New Castle, De.; and Vicky Zhou of Oakton, Va.
The plein air exhibit and sale continue at the Arts Center until September 27.
More information is available at OCart.org or by calling 410-524-9433.
The Art League of Ocean City is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting artistic expression and appreciation for the creative arts in our communitythrough education, exhibits, scholarship, programs, and community art projects. Funding is provided in part by the Worcester County Arts Council, Maryland State Arts Council, and the National Endowment of the Arts, organizations dedicated to cultivating a vibrant cultural community where the arts thrive.
OCEAN CITY, MD — July 31, 2025 — The Art League of Ocean City invites the public to a discussion on “Artificial Intelligence in the Arts” on Sunday, Aug. 10, 1-3 p.m. at the Ocean City Center for the Arts, 94th St. bayside. Diane Stulz, a long-time educator and specialist in technology and education, will lead the discussion. There is no charge to attend.
Diane Stulz
Stulz is Coordinator of Instruction at Worcester Co. Public Schools and offers workshops on artificial intelligence. She will lead a discussion on intellectual property, the role of AI in the visual arts and writing, how to determine AI, and pros and cons. There will be the opportunity for questions and collaboration.
“I will talk about what is artificial intelligence and how it impacts our everyday lives now, because it’s everywhere. We all use it,” Stulz said. “I want to make sure people walk away with something they can use.”
Stultz will discuss the definition of personal intellectual property and what happens when an artist or writer puts things into AI or creates with AI. Stultz will lead activities to show how AI can enhance those activities.
“I just read a study that if we turn too much over to AI, we lose our ability to be creative,” Stulz continued. “You can’t always trust AI. It’s first job is to make you happy. If you tell it what you’re looking for and it can’t find a source for that, it will just make it up … Rather than telling AI to just edit this piece of work, we need to tell it to highlight any recommended edits and to tell me why.
“As teachers, we have to be cognizant of teaching our students how to use AI so we don’t lose that ability for our students to write or to create or to reason. That’s where AI is really scary for me,” she concluded.
Everyone is welcome to this free discussion, and the Art League will offer light refreshments. Reservations are not required but suggested at OCart.org/classes.
More information is available by calling the Arts Center at 410-524-9433 or at OCart.org/classes.
About eighteen months ago I wrote an article on the tremendous growth of this small start up organization called Beach Heroes-OC and its positive impacts on all of Ocean City. The time of this first report was March of 2024 and, they had a strong showing on a cold, windy day in Ocean City. All volunteers were wearing winter clothing that day. At that time, their winter volunteer numbers were averaging twenty five to thirty five people and their summer seasonal numbers were averaging fifty to sixty people. These were impressive numbers.
But nothing compared to their current volunteer explosion! According to Colleen DeGroot, one of six Beach Heroes OC’s administrators, their off season volunteers have jumped thirty to forty percent, and this 2025 summer, their volunteer numbers have been averaging between eighty and one-hundred people!
July 29th clean up picture with v
On this sunny, but hot and humid Tuesday morning in late July (July 29th), Beach Heroes OC had a record attendance at 119 volunteers! Colleen added that there were thirty two new members for this Tuesday clean up and new volunteers come each week. Today’s attendance broke a recent Tuesday attendance of 115 people.
The Organization and its Volunteers
Starting in 2016, this group of volunteers started out as a small group that has evolved into an efficient, cleaning machine. They meet every Tuesday morning, year-round, to clean a section of Ocean City. From its simple beginnings, known as Clean Beach OC, the organization was eventually renamed Beach Heroes OC. The volunteer pool keeps growing, as community awareness increases. The Beach Heroes OC’s administrators are:
Gayle Myrta, Cindy Hudson, Lee Myers, Amy Senft, Leslie Eisenhauer, and Colleen DeGroot.
Administrators of Beach Heroes OC
Beach Heroes OC continues its original purpose as, “Our Misson is to support Ocean City’s litter free campaign by meeting weekly to collect debris, and to dispose of it responsibly. We strive to be good stewards of our coast community, building community relationships, and be a model of volunteerism, so that future generations can continue such stewardship and enjoy the benefits of coastal living.”
Beach Heroes OC volunteers consist of a range of people and ages. Most of its volunteers are area residents who have relocated from elsewhere to live and enjoy the Ocean City coastal area. Others are tourists coming from other parts of Maryland and Delaware and beyond; who just appreciate volunteering for a good cause for an area they have come to love.
For today’s clean up there were two other organizations helping out: Calleva Group and Shore Good 4H from Salisbury. Calleva is involved in outdoor education and adventure programs that promote personal growth and community/ healthy lifestyle.
Calleva Group volunteers
According to Administrator Colleen, “Our biggest accomplishment is bringing awareness to the litter issue and having so many people that care about the environment to join us.” She adds,” our biggest challenge is finding adequate parking for our growing team. Local businesses have been very kink to let us use their lots when they are closed.”
Typical clean-up day
So, what’s a typical day for a Beach Heroes OC volunteer? It starts with the weekly clean-up gathering on a Tuesday at 9am. However, some volunteers will arrive earlier to start their assigned tasks. The group convenes at a designated location where trash bags, litter grabbers, and gloves are distributed. After an hour of cleaning, the full group meets at the original starting point to review the total volume or weight of trash collected that day, for fellowship, and to take a group picture that is shared with its many Face Book followers.
Volunteers will cover a five or six street area of Ocean City each week. Some will clean the beach while other volunteers will clean the interior blocks and bayside area. The size of the area to be cleaned is dependent on the number of volunteers that show up. The group generally avoids the parking fee areas in the Town that operate during the summer months but gets to these areas in the off-season months. Tuesdays have been selected because it is easier for the volunteers to find a place to park than on weekends. Plus, after weekends there tends to be a greater volume of trash that accumulates, which coincides with more people being in Ocean City and thus more litter. As Leslie Eisenhauer, one of its administrators, states, “While we know the Town does a great job of cleaning, we are the extra set of “boots on the ground” working in the bushes, parking lots, dunes, and marshes picking up the trash out and preventing it from getting into the bay and ocean.”
Provided refreshments at clean up event
During the summer season, volunteers will often collet the ever-increasing amount of single use plastic bags, cups, and straws in addition to bottles, diapers, and paper products. For the off-season months, when construction is more prevalent in the resort, volunteers will often collect construction debris.
These committed volunteers will arrive in nice weather, middling weather, and even in poor weather to clean the beach and streets of Ocean City. The administrators will only cancel a clean-up event if the weather is going to be very wet, snowing, or other extreme conditions.
Clean up awards
Volunteers receiving their award shirts
To show its appreciation of its volunteers, Beach Heroes OC awards its regular volunteers with three levels of gifts. If a volunteer works five days the participant will receive a blue T-shirt with the group’s emblem. Volunteers that work fifteen days will receive a blue long sleeve T-shirt. If one volunteers twenty-five times, they will get a blue hooded sweat shirt. These volunteer days do not have to be consecutive, but only cumulative. A specific volunteer is charged with tracking these volunteer days. Not only does Beach Heroes provide these gifts to recognize their regular volunteers’ efforts, but as Leslie stated last year, “it also creates a sense of belonging and draws attention to the litter issue in OC when our ‘sea of blue’ is along the streets on Tuesday mornings.”
End of year stats for 2024 cleanup activity:
Volunteer hours worked of 2,967.
3,346 bags of trash
267 blocks cleaned
23 parking lots cleaned
254 shirts awarded
All of these numbers are much higher than their impressive 2023 stats.
Partners and Sponsors
Beach Heroes OC continues to work with the Town of Ocean City and receives some of its supplies, like liter grabbers and large trash bags, from the Town.
The group continues to partner with other community groups in multi group cleaning efforts on and off the island. These groups include the Maryland Coastal Bays Program, Assateague Coastal Trust, Ocean City Surf Rider Foundation, and Ocean City Surf Club. Beach Heroes OC has received a proclamation for its cleanup efforts from the Town of Ocean City and Volunteer of the Year award from the OC Surf Club.
According to Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan, “Keeping Ocean City clean is a responsibility we all share, and the Beach Heroes-OC clean-ups play an important role in that effort. These dedicated volunteers are making a lasting impact by protecting our environment and preserving the beauty of Ocean City for everyone to enjoy. I look forward to joining them again at another clean-up.”
Town of Ocean City proclamation to Beach Heroes OC
Beach Heroes OC also gets assistance in many ways from a number of local and area businesses. This number has doubled since March 2024. These include K-Coast Surf Shop, Shotti’s Point restaurant, The Wave Riding School, Malibu’s Surf Shop, Spicer Bros. Construction, and Royal Plus CAT, Royal Plus Electric, Quiet Storm Surf Shop, Dough Roller Restaurants, Baja Amusements, The Mortgage Link, Captain Joe’s Charters, and the Town of Ocean City.
Colleen Degroot says, “The businesses have been so supportive of our efforts by donating trash bags and allowing us to park in their lots, to sponsoring our blue T-shirts and hoodies for our volunteers.”
Comments from Beach Heroes OC volunteers:
Greg and Doreen Redmen stated they have volunteered at least twenty five times. They are Ocean City residents. According to Greg as to why they volunteer, “God has helped us and we would like to help others.” Doreen added, “There is a community spirit for this event and it continues to grow. Friends from our church (Community Church in Berlin) volunteer, too, and there’s such a feeling of comradery.”
Angela Pfeiffer was volunteering with her two young daughters. Angela, from Frederick, Maryland, stated that this was their first time volunteering for this event. She added,” We are volunteering for the Girl Scouts Love the Outdoor Challenge and this is one of the community activities that are doing great things.”
Angela Pfeiffer and her daughters
Jim and Barb Harvey are from West Ocean City and have volunteered about fifty times for Beach Heroes OC. Barb added that they are out as often as then can but usually weekly. Jim stated, “This is a great thing to do. We are retired and get lots of gratitude doing this volunteer work.” Barb added, “It’s great having people drive by while we are cleaning and hear the drivers say, “Thank You.” It makes us feel good. This is a nice community event and we get to meet many people.”
Volunteers Jim and Barb Harvey
Robin and Richard Boord have volunteered numerous times since May 2024. The Boords live in West Ocean City. Robin states,” We love to give back to the town that means so much to us. This is where we live and we want others to see how beautiful our town is.”
OCMD Santa states, “I love doing something that directly benefits my community.” You have now heard it from Santa kids, so you better pay attention to stay on his nice list!!
Mr. and Mrs Santa
Upcoming Cleanup Dates and locations to meet in August
Regular Tuesday Cleanups from 9-10 am:
August 5 1st Street (bayside of DeLazy Lizard lot)
August 12 Convention Center Dr. (Bayside of OCCC south lot)
August 19 123rd Street (Bayside – Dumsers Dairyland lot
August 26 144th Street (Bayside – St. Andrews Parish Center lot)
Looking to volunteer?
The best way to learn more about the Beach Heroes OC clean-up efforts is to follow them on Facebook. Each month Beach Heroes will post its cleaning schedule including the location, date and time to meet. There is no need to let them know of your interest in volunteering ahead of time. Just show up, meet the group, and start cleaning with them!! You can start earning your volunteer time to get a blue T-shirt, blue long sleeve T-shirt or hooded sweatshirt and make that Sea of Blue a tidal wave of civic pride!!
Get ready for a fun waterfront experience at the first-ever Ocean City MD Seafood Festival! Join us on Saturday, September 6, 2025, 12 – 8 PM at Northside Park for a day filled with top Maryland restaurants, live music, chef demonstrations, and more. Sip the day away with a wide variety of wines, beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages, all while enjoying beautiful bay views. Plus, there’s a dedicated kids’ zone with fun activities for the whole family!
