The Boardwalk’s Best Bar in the Ocean City, Maryland Area 2021

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The Boardwalk’s Best Bar in the Ocean City, Maryland Area 2021

The 2021 The Best of Ocean City® voting is closed and the winners have been announced.  Ocean City’s famous boardwalk has bars that are jam-packed at night and great entertainment. The boardwalk is always filled with people and a great view of the beautiful beach and ocean. When you are done having fun, you can always stroll the boardwalk and enjoy the other attractions the boardwalk has to offer. Here are some places that the Ocean City community believes are the best bars on the boardwalk!

 

Cork Bar

 

Since 1964, The Cork Bar has been serving up the Coldest Beer in Ocean City for over 50 years. They have a delicious menu, including their award-winning wings! Cork Bar’s wings are enormous and fried to perfection. Very filling after all the drinks you will consume at the Cork Bar. The Cork boasts the coldest beer in town. It has a great grill with some very good treats; 2 pool tables, a shuffle bowl board, an electronic dartboard, and a jukebox loaded with just about any music. Cork Bar also has a tradition, if you are able to get up on the table and reach the ceiling you are supposed to sign a dollar bill and tape it to the ceiling. It’s a great conversation starter while enjoying a delicious beer.

Shenanigan’s Irish Pub

 

Most of the faces and names have changed, but they have (nearly) all embraced the “Shenanigan’s Way”… providing quality food and service, always remembering it’s the customer who allows us to thrive. Shenanigans staff is unlike no other, they are friendly and will take care of you to the best of their abilities. Their wide variety menu will please everybody that chooses to eat there. If you choose to eat at Shenanigans make sure you try their Guinness beer. We’re forced to spend most of every day in a fast-paced, online world, and Shenanigan’s values their customers’ tweets and posts as much as their competition, but while you are visiting Shenanigan’s make sure you capture a picture with their Guinness beer!

 

The Purple Moose Saloon

 

The legendary Purple Moose Saloon features nightly entertainment in the summer including the best rock bands on the East Coast. When the bands aren’t jamming, the DJs are spinning the rock tunes all night long. Enjoy rockin’ bands, cold drinks, and good friends at the Moose. You can also enjoy playing Keno while enjoying delicious beers. fun atmosphere and friendly bartenders make Purple Moose Saloon the place to feel welcomed by tourists. The Purple Moose Saloon is a perfect place to enjoy live music and delicious food while looking over Ocean City’s breathtaking boardwalk.

 

And the Editor’s Choice Winner is…

Hammerheads

Each year, the staff of OceanCity.com and a group of locals go through each of the categories and give you an option we think deserves your consideration as The Best of Ocean City® for 2021. We think you should definitely visit Hammerheads if you would like to try their crab cake grilled cheese made with texas toast.

Widespread Error: Some Ocean City Tourists Charged Repeatedly for Parking, Some Report Bank Accounts Wiped

Logan Dubel
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Widespread Error: Some Ocean City Tourists Charged Repeatedly for Parking, Some Report Bank Accounts Wiped

By Logan Dubel

All Parking Remains Free Until Tuesday at 5 p.m.

As if there is not enough happening in the Town of Ocean City this week, there is another issue adding fuel to the fire. According to Town of Ocean City sources, those who used Park Mobile machines to park in the resort town were charged anywhere from 50-90 times, taking thousands of dollars out of tourists’ bank accounts. Hundreds of people have reached out to the Ocean City Police Department’s Record Section with complaints and pleas for help as their accounts have been entirely wiped. Unfortunately for the town, 90% of transactions are via credit and debit cards. The glitch impacted parking machines across all municipal lots and paid parking spots.

The problem reportedly began sometime on Thursday or Friday and continued throughout Independence Day weekend as a result of an external software upgrade. The software, Montera, should have increased functionality but instead caused machines to issue multiple charges to the same patrons. Those with debit cards have faced the most difficulties due to the massive number of charges draining their accounts, while those with credit cards may not yet be aware of the issue. Anyone that parked using the Park Mobile machines in Ocean City since July 1 should check to make sure they are not affected.

Issue Not Confined to Ocean City

“On July 1, 2021, the Town’s credit card processing company performed a software upgrade,” said Communications and Marketing Director Jessica Waters. “This upgrade, in turn, caused an issue over the weekend with our parking meters where certain credit card customers have been charged multiple times for the same transaction. The problem is NOT limited to Ocean City, it is system-wide for Flowbird.” Flowbird is the IT vendor contracted by the Town of Ocean City. Officials say that they typically work with this vendor when experiencing difficulties with the kiosks.

While the system appears to be stable as of Tuesday morning, officials suspended parking fees late Monday night and will not resume parking payments until 5:00 p.m. Tuesday. The town records section says that they were made aware of the problem early Saturday morning. The City Engineer has confirmed that the issue is resolved and that refunds are forthcoming. The exact number of patrons impacted remains unclear.

A town records section source says that the situation is heartbreaking for people who live paycheck to paycheck, and higher-level staff at Flowbird are working around the clock to issue refunds. The city has made clear that refunds will come from Flowbird, not the Town of Ocean City. Phones continue to ring off the hook at the town’s record section, and officials are working nonstop, but the source says that the town is just the “middleman” as of now.  While many of the duplicate transactions were eliminated, some transactions did unfortunately process. Flowbird cannot make any promises, but they hope to issue most refunds within the next 2-3 days.

What You Can Do If This Problem Affects You

In the meantime, people are encouraged to call their banks, notify them of the issue, and hopefully stop the continuous charges.

People were initially encouraged to reach out to the Police Department’s Records Section, but now the mishap is in Flowbird’s hands. The town received calls from about 35 people, who provided their license plates, time of arrival and departure, and credit card information. This helped to isolate the incident and allow the refund process to begin.

*This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.*

Photo Friday Winner July 9th

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Photo Friday Winner July 9th

Thank you for all the submissions we had for our Photo Friday Contest this week, we were  overwhelmed by the amount of photos we received. We love receiving photos of your vacation here in Ocean City Md.  They show Fourth of July celebrations, sibling bonding, little kids on the beach, big kids on the Boardwalk, sunny days and stormy days, and lots of happy memories being created! We have put together a selection of your pictures submitted this week, and have a winner.  This week’s randomly selected winner of 2 FREE tickets to Jolly Roger is Cari Parrish Gerke for this great photo a true little 4th of July Diva!  Congratulations Cari. Keep taking pictures of  Ocean City, and be on the look out for next weeks Photo Friday Contest.

Cari Parrish Gerke – This little Diva is Nevaeh. She is loving being here at the beach for the week!
Mandy Horsman Peters – Spending the 4th in OC for many years
Diandra Gunter – Did someone say we can take the boat out on Assawoman Bay?!
Rachel Harper – Gunner filling up our homemade beach pool with buckets from Brass Balls! We used a shower liner!
Brittany Alderson – Enjoying vacation he just started buggy boarding and has had a blast all week with some rough waves.
Karen Chance – fun times
Allison Evans – Baby Jamisons first trip to Ocean City
Wendi Dickie
Kathy Davis – What do you mean it’s time to go?
Beverly Butler – Loves her boogieboard!
Jessica Reichert – Just chilling with his buddies lol!!! #oclifeguardsrock
Jeffrey Seeman – My boy taking on the ocean
Danny Ivancich – Sunset at Northside Park
Julie Peachey – OC Banana boat
Jennifer Hughes Kuhns – Showing her some “Brotherly Love”
Melissa Fedor Hausmann – Night time at the beach!
Tracy Mertz – Relaxing
Amanda Heisey Graham – Representing two of his favorite things, Ocean City and Dumpsers milkshakes
Patricia Hassett-Hook – Cousin love at OCMD! Harlee says… my cousin Liam is cooler than yours!
Nicole DiPadova – Came down to celebrate my daughters HS graduation ! Perfect setting for some pics to remember her accomplishments ! The joy of having your sister living by the bay our Happy Place OCMD
Karen Cline Miller – My granddaughter jumping for joy to be at the beach!
Tara Bishop Reiley – Sitting on the beach and watching this boat go past.
Jennie Dennis Ritt – Blaze, the Beach Bum of The Beach Club at our dock of the bay
Danielle Blair – Two of our favorite things. French fries and seagulls
April Budrecki – My grandkids lovin the sound of the waves! Building sandcastles and memories
Moe Hckrt Rsdn – Went out on her own the saw that HUGE wave coming
Mindy Langer – Diggin’ into the sand in her personalized bucket
Carolyn Smith – Me and my high school girlfriends celebrating my 60th at The Angler happy hour
Kathy Lazor – We were there a week ago, love OC Maryland
Four of my grandson’s…
Tiffany Sanders Hessler – Finally summer!! This is Brynlee enjoying the water!! My girl loves OC!!
Sharita Tanner – On the beach with the family *2021*
Jennifer Sherdel – “Oh Brothers” Attempting to create a beach memory from years past. They may be a bit bigger, but still love to pick on their sister.
Jamie Lynn – My daughter and I had BEAUTIFUL mother daughter beach day yesterday in OC. Our family ♥️’s OCMD.
Kimberly Lynn – My Golden retriever puppy loving the OC sunsets on 94th
Bob Markulic – Riding the boards in style
Gina Bena – My sons first time fishing in the bay on a boat
Brandi Bowman – There last Thursday and this doozy of a storm rolled in!
Gammy Sharrah – Swan Lake on the beach
Karrie Condon – Been here 4 years in a row ,first time we made it all the way out on the pier
Mandy Horsman Peters – Spending the 4th in OC for many years
Michelle Sochurek – I took this pic in the rain Bayside in OC.
Gerry McNelly – Ocean City June 2021
Brooklyn Williamson – Sassy at the beach!
Martin-Peletsky Kim – On 30th street. Thunder storm over the ocean.
Amber Austin – Beach time with my bestie!
Lew Marion – Caroline jumping for joy on 133rd.
Norah Haniman – Taking a spin on the famous carousel
Dot Curran – How did gma get up there!!
Danielle Tagliavia – Our first time at Dead Freddies on the Bay last week! Great view and food!
Lisa Bragg – Brothers at the beach!
Linda Edenfield – Thankful and Blessed to be able to see such a Beautiful Sunrise
Krystle Lee – Boardwalk evening and ice cream. It’s doesn’t get much cooler!!

Tropical Storm Elsa to bring rain and wind to Ocean City

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Tropical Storm Elsa to bring rain and wind to Ocean City

(July 8, 2021): Ocean City Emergency Services is continuing to monitor the projected path of Tropical Storm Elsa. Currently, the effects of the storm are expected to be in the Ocean City area beginning in the afternoon Thursday, July 8 through Friday, July 9.

Tropical Storm Elsa’s Projected Impact on Ocean City

Tropical force winds above 40 mph are expected, with gusts reaching as high as 50 mph. Based on the current track, Ocean City could see 2-4 inches of rain and minor flooding. The potential for tornados across southeast Maryland and Virginia is possible this afternoon into tonight. The Town of Ocean City has begun completing pre-storm action items, including closing the seawall and removing items from the beach. Strong winds and large waves will also create hazardous marine conditions. Beachgoers are reminded to swim only when the lifeguards are on duty. Residents are encouraged to begin securing outdoor furniture, grills, and waters vessels and prepare for power outages.

Events in Ocean City for Thursday Cancelled

Tonight’s downtown Drone Show, Beach Dance Party and Sunset Park Party Night have been canceled. Additional storm-related updates will be posted on various websites, social media outlets, and through the Emergency Alert System.

Stay Updated with OceanCity.com

OceanCity.com will be updating our site and our Facebook page throughout the storm.

Watch the Storm from OceanCity.com’s Live Webcams on the beach and on the bay

 

Sign up for Alerts with the Town

  • City Wide Emergency Alerts: Citizens can sign up for emergency alerts by visiting: https://oceancitymd.gov/enews and subscribing to “City Wide Emergency Alerts.”

Know Your Zone

The Town of Ocean City’s Emergency Services personnel will be working closely with local and state representatives to provide citizens with timely, accurate, and essential information before, during, and after the storm. Citizens are encouraged to Know Your Zone and Division and be prepared for any impact the storm may have on Ocean City. To begin preparing, citizens should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan. For more information regarding storm preparedness, please visit http://www.ready.gov/hurricanes.

The featured image is a screenshot from the WBOC weather app.

The 4 Best Sub Restaurants in the Ocean City, Maryland Area

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The 4 Best Sub Restaurants in the Ocean City, Maryland Area

The 2021 The Best of Ocean City® voting is closed and the winners have been announced. Subs are always popular at the beach.  If you are a sandwich lover, you are in the right place! Ocean City has numerous places to get excellent subs, but here are the Best 4 Sub Restaurants selected by the Ocean City community.

Billy’s Sub Shop

“Best Italian sub around. Can’t get something that good at home.”

Billy’s Sub Shops, aka “Billy’s on the Beach” offers extra large, extra long, delicious subs served on fresh rolls delivered from Philadelphia daily, fresh dough pizzas, subs, milk shakes, ice cream, salads, and a family friendly beach. They have kids favorites like Dino nuggets and grilled cheeses served in a beach bucket with a juice box, making eating here a fun experience for them. Although they have won the Best Subs award, don’t forget they also do a great pizza! People have been eating here for generations (they’ve been around since 1959) and many now bring their own kids to start another Billy’s family traditions.

They offer delivery at no extra charge, to your home or the beach, and you can phone ahead to place your order and they’ll have it ready for you when you arrive.

Anthony’s Carryout

Although the original owners of Anthony’s Carryout retired last year, Anthony’s Carryout is still here! Everything is good, but I’ll recommend the French Fries, the breakfast sandwiches (especially the Ham & Egg!), and the subs. You’ll notice that one large sub will easily feed four people! They are HUGE! It only takes ONE guy – at Anthony’s – to make the best burger in Ocean City!

Anthony’s Liquor

These subs all have their own names, and visitors make it their first stop in Ocean City to buy their favorite! The original store was built shortly after World War II. Wine was added to the existing beer store in 1970 and the beer & wine store was joined to the chicken carry-out in 1982, allowing customers to come in and shop instead of walking up to the counter. In 1987, the store expanded into the shopping center to the north and their full scale deli was born. Their deli now features sandwiches, home made salads, and meats and cheeses, all sliced to order. They offer quality, selection, and friendly service.

And the Editor’s Choice Winner is…

Billy’s Sub Shop

Each year, the staff of OceanCity.com and a group of locals go through each of the categories and give you an option we think deserves your consideration as the The Best of Ocean City® for 2021. We think you should definitely try the subs at Billy’s if you like fresh bread and meats that are sliced daily!

The perfect Fourth of July

Kristin
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The perfect Fourth of July

I’m new at the whole Fourth-of-July-in-Ocean-City thing. My parents might have taken me here for the holidays as a child, but that was so long ago that I don’t remember much, because they ultimately gave up braving the bumper-to-bumper traffic and crowded boardwalk to stay home and watch the fireworks in Annapolis. As of this year, I’m officially an OC resident and had no choice but to face the traffic and crowds, but I’m happy to report that it wasn’t nearly as bad as I thought it would be. In fact, I’m surprised to report that I actually had a pretty great time.

A patriotic morning margarita

An OC Independence Day novice and a worrier, I was stressed that I would end up spending the gray, overcast holiday inside with nothing interesting to report. So I looked at Tony’s 7 steps to a perfect Fourth of July, tried to follow it to a T, and ended up knocking at least a few things off my list.

I had planned to catch the sunrise and snap a few stereotypical (but beautiful) beach sunrise pictures, and ended up sleeping in instead (I did wake up when my alarm went off but then I checked the weather, saw the gray cloud symbol and used that as an excuse to go back to bed).

BUT I did follow step two: overdo it on breakfast, in that my first meal of the day was a margarita at Tequila Mockingbird. I know, who goes to a Mexican restaurant on the holiday of American independence? Sometimes you just crave a Godfather, their incredible amaretto-flavored margarita, and have to treat yourself.

Margaritas
A Mockingbird and a Godfather margarita. The salt on the rim was more pink and purple but if you squint your eyes, it almost looks red and blue.

Burgers and alternative rock

Our original plan had been to spend the day at Northside Park, so for lunch we ate at the nearby Abbey Burger and enjoyed our burgers while listening to the music provided by 93.5 The Beach, who had set up a truck outside of the restaurant. (I think this most closely follows step six: seek shelter and sustenance, although we were really seeking shelter by the time we went to the boardwalk soon afterward.)

Radio truck
Radio DJs provide Fourth of July burger-eating ambience.

Hiding out

We still had a few hours to pass before the music and fireworks started, so we decided that we’d fully explore the day’s festivities and check out what was happening by the beach and boardwalk. Which might have been for the best, because later there would be some drama near Northside Park at 145th street, where OCPD was called to shut down a fireworks display that wasn’t legally sanctioned.

I was pleasantly surprised that we had no problem getting from North Ocean City to where we ended up parking at 3rd Street. Traffic was minimal. But then we got to the boardwalk and, as expected, there were hoards of people which only grew more and more condensed as the night wore on. Walking from 3rd Street to the Inlet was like a game of Frogger, darting through families and strollers and bikes and trams, so we took shelter at Harbor Inn for the next few hours and enjoyed a few beers while the sun went down.

(Before I go on, let me confess to the worst thing I’ve done on a crowded boardwalk. We hadn’t reached the bar yet and the lines for the bathrooms and Porta Potties were spectacularly long, so I did that thing where you walk into a particularly crowded restaurant, march right past the hostess stand and pretend you’re looking for someone you’re meeting when you’re really looking for the bathroom. I want to apologize here. I know their staff would hate me if they ever knew the truth. But it was too cold to just ‘go’ in the ocean.)

Decorated bar
The bar at Harbor Inn, decked out in red, white and blue stars for the Fourth.

The perfect ending

Once it was dark out, we headed back into the night to find a spot to watch the fireworks. Around Fourth or Fifth Street, we found a section of beach that wasn’t totally clustered, so we took out our cameras, laid back in the sand and waited for the show to start. Turns out, playing Frogger at the boardwalk and beach had been well worth it. The spotlights that illuminate the sky for 100 Nights of Lights turned blue and red, and the fireworks themselves were spectacular. I love the especially big, booming ones that make you feel like you have 3D glasses on, as if they’re reaching out to touch you.

So, to sum the day up, my 7 steps to a perfect Ocean City Fourth of July would be as follows:

  1. Sleep in.
  2. Drink a really good, really flavorful margarita.
  3. Listen to a radio DJ while eating a burger.
  4. Plan on spending your day one place, and then change your mind at the last minute.
  5. Illegal bathroom usage.
  6. Drink beer.
  7. I don’t necessarily recommend you follow any of my steps, but if you don’t at least make it this one: watch the fireworks. You’ve probably seen tens or hundreds of fireworks shows in your lifetime, but to me, they’re always spectacular and I can’t imagine ever getting bored of this holiday tradition.

Profile: Mayor Rick Meehan

Logan Dubel
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Profile: Mayor Rick Meehan

By Logan Dubel

Since taking office in 2006, Ocean City’s longest-serving Mayor, Rick Meehan, has spent a lot of time on the sand, though not catching the warm summer rays like the tourists throughout the resort. Instead, the veteran Mayor travels from street to street, taking on every challenge that comes his way, along with promoting businesses and working to create a family-friendly atmosphere. Now in his sixteenth tourism season as Mayor, Meehan is ready to get back to normal and continue representing Ocean City, Maryland.

About

Role: Mayor of the Town of Ocean City (2006-Present), City Council President (1990-2006), City Councilman (1985-2006), Realtor

Hometown(s): Born in New York City, Lived in Cleveland, Ohio, and Baltimore, Maryland

First Vacation to Ocean City: 1962, Commander Hotel

First Job: 9th Street Funcade Arcade, in high school and college

Education: University of Baltimore

Meehan on the 1970s in Ocean City: If they said you could know anyone, you probably could. It was a tiny town, but as the town grew, we grew with it. It was an exciting time to be in Ocean City. We all wanted to be part of the growth.

Meehan on his Career in Government: I really liked being Council President and serving Ocean City as part of the government. As the town grew, there were important decisions to be made, and to be part of those decisions was a great experience. When Mayor Jim Mathias went to the Maryland House of Delegates, I automatically became Mayor. It wasn’t something at the time I was looking to do, but it didn’t take me long to become invested in that position and be the spokesperson for this community at every level.

The Mayors Club: I knew many of the previous leaders of the town, and I was fortunate enough to know Harry Kelly, Fish Powell, and Jim Mathias. I learned a lot from Fish Powell. I didn’t even realize until a few months ago when Mayor Jim Mathias pointed out to me that I had been the longest-serving leader, and that’s quite an honor. It’s a thank you to the people of the town for having trust in me to continue to represent them.

Mayor Meehan’s Ocean City Favorites

 Favorite Restaurants: Fager’s Island, Macky’s Bayside Bar and Grill, and OC Wasabi

Must-Stops on the Boardwalk: Funcade, Alaska Stand, and Thrasher’s French Fries

Favorite Activities: The Boardwalk! Early-morning bike rides or walks, lunch at Shenanigan’s and Franco’s Pizzeria, dinner outside, watching people pass by

Rainy Day Activity: Catch up on work – good opportunity to go inside and work because the outside is normally too enticing

Favorite Time of Year: September – many familiar faces and events

Meehan’s Message to Residents for the Summer

People forget sometimes when they live here that there are all these great things to do. Tourists are having a great time! We have to go out and enjoy all those things ourselves.

Vision

Ocean City is going to continue to grow, and we are expanding our customer base. We have an opportunity to add more special events and sporting tournaments. Opening up opportunities for families to come to town throughout the year is something we need to take advantage of, and I’m looking forward to it.

The 4 Best Pizza Restaurants in the Ocean City, Maryland Area 2021

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The 4 Best Pizza Restaurants in the Ocean City, Maryland Area 2021

The 2021 The Best of Ocean City® voting is closed and the winners have been announced. Pizza has always been a staple in Ocean City. It makes a great take-out meal or a late night snack. Enjoying delicious pizza will always make your day better, here are some restaurants that will definitely surprise your tastebuds.

Grotto’s

To create a market for his pizza, Dominick and his sister spent long hours talking to people and handing out free samples to those who passed by his restaurant. In July of that summer, he noticed he was starting to get many repeat guests. Local Sussex County guests and tourists from the D.C. and Maryland helped to put Grotto Pizza on the map.

Still a pizza-only enterprise, Grotto Pizza continued as a seasonal business from May through October. Customers would take pizzas home at the end of each summer and freeze them in order to have the taste of Grotto Pizza through the winter.

Trattoria Lombardi’s

Trattoria Lombardi’s Restaurant 2021

Trattoria Lombardi’s is a great Italian restaurant with a friendly atmosphere. The staff is by far superb and the food is out of this world! The owner is always there and greets the customers as they come in, which makes you feel right at home! Lombardi’s has plenty of menu options that will satisfy you even if you are a picky eater. They are known for their thin crust pizza and their delicious cannolis.

Dough Roller

During the summers of 1962 and 1963, Bill Gibbs, an Ocean City resident, was a beach boy for Breakers Hotel at Third Street on the Boardwalk. Visitors would ask him every day where to go for lunch. In 1979, Bill Gibbs had the opportunity to buy the Breakers Hotel. Bill knew the front porch of the hotel would be the perfect place for a family friendly restaurant offering pizza and pancakes. The Dough Roller was born and opened in the spring of 1980.

Dough Roller is known for its pizza and pancakes. Their delicious fluffy and golden brown pancakes and thin-crust pizza is a must try! The Dough Roller is a family and Ocean City tradition that has been shared for decades.

And the Editor’s Choice Winner is…

Ripieno’s Italian Restaurant

Ripieno’s Italian Restaurant 2021

Each year, the staff of OceanCity.com and a group of locals go through each of the categories and give you an option we think deserves your consideration as The Best of Ocean City® for 2021. We think you should definitely try the pizza at Ripieno’s if you like Italian style pizza made fresh daily!

The 4 Best Boat Rentals in the Ocean City, Maryland Area 2021

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The 4 Best Boat Rentals in the Ocean City, Maryland Area 2021

The 2021 The Best of Ocean City® voting is closed and the winners have been announced.  Relaxing on a boat, hearing the ocean beneath you is soothing. Take the family out for a relaxing boat ride and maybe catch some fish. Enjoy the rising sun or watch the breathtaking sunset. Ocean City has numerous places that you can rent a boat and go out with family. Here are some boat rentals that the Ocean City community believes are worth the try!

 

48th St Watersports

If you are looking for fun in the sun with your family, 48th Street Watersports has it all. With an amazing beachside facility on the open bay, they are recognized as having the finest location in Ocean City for water sports and beach activities. At 48th Street Watersports you will enjoy getting your feet in the sand and in the sparkling water of the beautiful Isle of Wight Bay. You may even catch one of our amazing sunsets. Not only is 48th Street Watersports Ocean City’s original stand-up paddleboard headquarters, but they are the only place in town to offer catamaran sailing instruction and rentals, as well as kayak eco-tours and paddle fitness classes.

 

Bayside Boat Rentals

Bayside Boat Rentals

 

At Bayside Boat Rentals they have a number of fun and exciting water sport options to offer. Being a family-owned and operated business since 1999 they pride themselves on catering to you and yours, by maintaining a friendly, knowledgeable, and certified staff as well as the most up-to-date, professionally serviced equipment. So, whether it’s enjoying a peaceful afternoon on a pontoon boat while fishing, crabbing, or simply sun-bathing; or it’s blasting across the waves at high speed on one of our Jet Ski or Jet Boat rentals, Bayside can make the experience unforgettable.

Odyssea Watersports

 

As a family, the Crokers, Ron, his wife Sheila, daughter Melissa, and son Timmy were interested in finding a business that they could all build together while bringing a family-oriented business to the watersports industry in Ocean City, MD. Every year, it has grown to where they now have two locations with 26 employees and 37 jet skis today! As the name became more popular and the business grew, more activities were added and they now offer paddle boarding, kayaking, pontoon boat rentals, and nighttime paddleboard glow tours! The goal has stayed the same throughout the 19 years of maintaining Odyssea as a family-owned and operated business, and to make sure each customer feels like a part of the family. Safety and customer service have been the main goals!

 

And the Editor’s Choice Winner is…

Bahia Marina

Each year, the staff of OceanCity.com and a group of locals go through each of the categories and give you an option we think deserves your consideration as The Best of Ocean City® for 2021.  We think you should definitely visit Bahia Marina if you would like to try an experience that will make you fall in love with the Chesapeake Bay.

Golf in Ocean City

Logan Dubel
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Golf in Ocean City

There’s more to do in Ocean City besides lounging on the beach! If you’re looking for a relaxing yet challenging activity, there is nothing better than golf. If you’re looking for a full-fledged course, Ocean City has you covered.

There are ten pro courses available for use in and around the resort.

  • Eagle’s Landing Golf Course in Berlin, Maryland, is always a favorite of visitors. Owned and operated by the Town of Ocean City since 1991, the course frequently welcomes tourists of all ages and skill levels. Eagle’s Landing features scenic views of the bay and Assateague Island, along with an abundance of wildlife. There are no memberships at Eagle’s Landing, but there is a local rewards program for year-round residents, which includes offers of discounted rates. Morning and evening tee times fill up fast, so be sure to book your slot early online or by calling the course. “We always say that we offer premium golf at an affordable price. Golf is not cheap anywhere, but we are less expensive than other premium courses,” said Bob Croll, Head Golf Professional at Eagle’s Landing. “We have an award-winning layout and are consistently voted among the top courses in the state. This is not just a great course, but one that people enjoy.” Call 443-736-2224 for more information.
  • Baywood Greens – Millsboro, Delaware – 302-947-9800
  • Bear Trap Dunes – Ocean View, Delaware – 302-537-5600
  • The Bay Club – West Course – Berlin, Maryland – 410-641-4081
  • Blue Water Golf – Ocean City, Maryland – 410-726-6255
  • Rum Pointe Seaside Golf Links – Berlin, Maryland – 410-629-1414
  • Glen Riddle – War Admiral – Berlin, Maryland – 410-213-2325
  • Bayside Resort Golf Club – Selbyville, Delaware – 302-436-3400
  • Lighthouse Sound Golf Club – Bishopville, Maryland – 410-641-1189
  • Nutter’s Crossing – Salisbury, Maryland – 410-860-4653

To see more courses and deals, visit ocgolfing.com.

Ocean City, Maryland Beach Patrol information

OceanCity.com
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Ocean City, Maryland Beach Patrol information

The Ocean City Beach Patrol is an organization of men and women dedicated to ocean rescue and beach safety along the shoreline of Ocean City, Md. In what follows, we’ll provide much of the basic Ocean City Maryland Beach Patrol Information you should have to understand how the OCBP works, what it is important and how to join. Many are educators during the year including Melbourne LeRoy Arbin III, better known locally as Captain Butch Arbin, a summer guard for 40 years and head of all the “surf rescue technicians” (SRTs) who patrol the beaches throughout the summer. More than 200 men and women dedicated to maintaining a safe and orderly environment along the ten miles of Maryland’s mid-Atlantic shoreline that is Ocean City.

SRT is a title hard-earned, well respected, and often coveted title in Ocean City, Maryland. Their duties include educating the public, warning of potential dangers from rip tides to jelly fish, rescuing distressed and injured swimmers, responding to emergency situations, administering first aid, reuniting the lost with the searching, enforcing city ordinances, and miscellaneous other tasks as assigned.
The Beach Patrol or SRTs are on duty from 10 am until 5:30 pm daily, Memorial Day through Labor Day. After Labor Day and through Sunfest weekend (usually the third week in September), the Beach Patrol implements Fall schedule which includes fewer guards and fewer stands. After Sunfest, the Beach Patrol no longer mans the guard stands on the beach, but has roaming patrols on four-wheel drive vehicles that monitor the beach and swimmers through October. While the Beach Patrol strongly encourages people not to swim when SRT’s are not in the stands, they are available to lend a hand if necessary to save the swimmers who don’t heed their warnings.

Information on How to Qualify for the Beach Patrol

The lifeguards that become SRT’s are athletic, hard-working and responsible individuals who are qualified by Ocean City’s team specifically. If you want to work as a surf rescue technician in Ocean City, Maryland, contact Captain Arbin at Beach Patrol Headquarters at 410-289-7556. More information can be found at the Town’s website:

You can also email for more information toocbp@ococean.com

List of OCBP Qualifications:

  • 17 years of age or older.
  • must be able to
    • Complete a 300 meter soft sand run in less than 65 seconds (400 meter run in 80 seconds offsite testing.)
    • Complete a 400 meter ocean swim in less than 10 minutes (500 meter in less than 10 minutes offsite in a pool.)
    • enter and exit the ocean through the surf
    • Complete a series of simulated rescues in the surf incorporating the rescue buoy.
    • Complete a rescue using a cross-chest carry and victim removal techniques.
    • Complete a medley of 150 meter run, 100 meter swim, and a 150 meter run.
    • Complete a tower transport of the SRT chair a distance of 20 meters.
    • Complete a series of basic lifesaving skills in which you perform holds and releases in a controlled water setting.
    • Complete a personal interview.
    • move an unconscious person of 150 lbs.
    • see for 400 meters
    • hear and locate a whistle blast from 300 meters
    • speak and read English

 

Once a candidate meets the necessary physical requirements, the Ocean City beach patrol trains for the job in an 8-day surf rescue academy. All necessary skills, techniques, procedures and protocols will be taught during this paid training program. Topics include open water rescue, beach patrol policies and procedures, basic oceanography, use of rescue equipment, first aid, CPR, semaphore communications (series of signals using flags), radio protocol, and physical training consistent with the demanding nature of being an Ocean City life guard. Following graduation from the academy, potential SRTs will have 3 weeks of supervised probation. Only those that graduate from one of the most rigorous training program in the nation will be allowed to sit on the lifeguard stands you see on the beaches in Ocean City, Maryland.

SRTs in the Ocean City Beach Patrol have to re-certify each year. Lt. West Smith is the Beach Patrol’s Director of Training — he is also a professor at the University of Miami — and will be the primary contact during the training and recertification processes.

Ocean City Maryland Junior Beach Patrol
Members of the Ocean City Maryland Junior Beach patrol.

Junior Beach Patrol Information

For those under 17 who think that the Ocean City Beach Patrol is something that might interest them, there is the Junior Beach Patrol program that mimics the training and activities of the certified SRTs.. Registration for this program begins in early March and is a four day program offered each week beginnin in July and running through mid-August. There is also a one afternoon introductory camp offered on Thursdays. More information is available from the Recreation and Parks Department at 410-250-0125.

Beach Safety Presentations

Every Sunday morning at various locations along the ten mile Ocean City beach, Surf Rescue Technicians will give a brief overview of Ocean City and the beach environment. They will tell spectators about the weather and beach conditions for the day and will be available to answer any questions.

Public Education Outreach Programs

Just when you thought the Ocean City Beach Patrol spent all their time training and working on the beaches in Ocean City, you learn something new: the participants offer activities, programs, speakers, and seminars to various groups such as boy and girl scouts, church groups, camps, schools, and civic organizations. They will conduct water safety demonstrations and talks not just in Ocean City, but throughout the region. They also provide tips and strategies for keeping children safe on the beach and in the ocean. If you are interested in this program and a speaker from the Ocean City Beach Patrol, contact them at 410-289-7556 or email them at ocbp@ococean.com.

Surfing Beaches

During the off-season, surfing along Ocean City’s beaches is not controlled. During the high season, however, surfing is only allowed at certain beaches during the hours when the beach is guarded. Please click here for more information on the surfing beaches in Ocean City, Maryland.

Contact Information:

Town of Ocean City Beach Patrol

109 Dorchester St.Ocean City, MD 21842
410-289-7556

All Fireworks Canceled After Unintentional Explosion

Logan Dubel
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All Fireworks Canceled After Unintentional Explosion
Video of the explosion was caught on video by Gilly Gene @GillyOfThe412, right on the Beach.

Independence Day 2021 was supposed to mark a return to normalcy in Ocean City, but after an accidental release of fireworks on the beach, that is surely not the case. Downtown fireworks were initially canceled and now other displays uptown at Northside Park as well as at Seacrets have been called off out of an abundance of caution. For those who watched the fireworks detonate Sunday morning, those are the only displays they will see in the skies of Ocean City this Independence Day.  Fireworks at all three locations were managed by the same vendor, Starfire Corporation.

In a statement early Sunday afternoon, the Town of Ocean City noted that the cause remains unknown and that safety is their top priority. “A perimeter around the fireworks site has been established and will remain in place until the safety inspections are complete, which could take several days.  At this time, areas of the Boardwalk have also been closed to pedestrian traffic until a thorough safety inspection has been completed.” According to Councilman Peter Buas, the Boardwalk is now back open following seven hours of hard work.

The Ocean City Fire Department says that at approximately 10:15 a.m., they received a call for a vehicle fire at Dorchester Street and the Beach. The area was immediately evacuated and a significant portion of the downtown beach remained cleared for hours as a result of the mishap. Approximately four blocks of the Boardwalk were closed. When crews arrived, they did not see a vehicle fire but instead saw that fireworks intended for release tonight had accidentally discharged and exploded. Initial reports indicate that while taking out the fireworks from the Ryder truck carrying them, one firework accidentally discharged, leading to others exploding as well.

Sunday evening on the Boardwalk. Photo courtesy of OCDC Executive Director Glenn Irwin.

Employees of the fireworks company suffered minor injuries but refused transport to the hospital. No beachgoers were injured.

Ocean City Fire Chief Richie Bowers noted that safety precautions were in place, and those actions helped avoid any major injuries, “Prior to the fireworks being off loaded from the vehicle, Fire Marshals secure a safe zone around the fireworks and put other safety protocols in place,” Bowers said. “It is this very zone and safety protocols that kept anyone else from being injured.”

Employees from Starfire Corporation were unavailable for comment on Sunday afternoon. This is the first time the company worked with the Town of Ocean City to put on a fireworks show. After these events, it is possible it will be the last. Celebration Fireworks, the company previously responsible for displays in the resort, backed out of the Ocean City show due to constraints on their business as a result of the pandemic. In April, Ocean City Today reported that the company hoped to focus on smaller shows in the Pennsylvania region amid staff layoffs. At the time, council members voted unanimously to approve Starfire Corporation’s agreement for Independence Day 2021, and already considered hiring them for future events based on the success of July 4th. The company, also located in Pennsylvania, previously bid on the contract.  After Sunday’s mishap, it is likely the town will be looking for a new vendor for New Year’s and Independence Day 2022.  Unfortunately, the massive failure for the estimated $65,000 show, a $10,000 increase from last year’s contract, is a “performance” people will never forget.

Fireworks in Ocean Pines, managed by a different vendor, went on as planned at 9:15 p.m. Despite many reminders that the resort prohibits fireworks, many independent illegal displays continued throughout Sunday night.

Updates

Monday Morning 

Click HERE to watch the video, courtesy of Gilly Gene @GillyOfThe412.

*This story is developing, stay tuned for updates*

Ocean City Beach Patrol 2021 Graduation Day

Anne
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Ocean City Beach Patrol 2021 Graduation Day

The Ocean City Beach Patrol are a group of men and women who look out for us every day during the summer months on the beach, and are there should the worst happen and we need rescued from the strong waves and currents along the shoreline of Ocean City. Yesterday was the Ocean City Beach Patrol’s  test and graduation day. We captured just a few of the moments that took place. Make sure you thank your local life guard next time to see them!

The beach patrol is on duty every day from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. from the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through Sunfest weekend.

1930 – Ocean City Beach Patrol (OCBP) established.
1933 – Inlet cut through the beach to the bay.
1935 – Captain Robert S. Craig takes command of the season lifesaving operation
1946 – Beach Patrol expands to 18 personnel — three times the size of the original group.
1977 – First females hired as Ocean City lifeguards.
1987 – Robert S. Craig retires as captain of the Beach Patrol and is succeeded by George A. Schoepf. Schoepf served as Assistant Captain under Craig for over thirty years.
1997 – July The first OCBP JBP is formed
2005 – April Beach Patrol Webpage goes live.
2006 – June First paid JBP Asst. Inst. position
2007 – May the Ocean City Development Corporation begins managing a rooming house that is rented exclusively to Beach Patrol employees
2015 – Beach Patrol moves into a State of the Art Beach Patrol Headquarters at 109 Dorchester St. leaving behind for demolition the old Police Department on Dorchester St.

You can learn more about the Ocean City Beach Patrol here.

 

Photo Friday Winner July 2nd 2021

Anne
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Photo Friday Winner July 2nd 2021

Thank you for all the submissions we had for our Photo Friday Contest this week. We love receiving photos of your vacation here in Ocean City Md, and we have put together a selection of your pictures submitted this week.  They show family and friends enjoying the the beach and the Boardwalk,  the young and the old, sunrises and sunsets, and lots of happy, smiling faces!  This week’s randomly selected winner of 2 FREE tickets to Jolly Roger is Amanda McCartney for this great photo of father and son enjoying a great day at the beach in Ocean City!  Congratulations Amanda. Keep taking pictures of  Ocean City, and be on the look out for next weeks Photo Friday Contest.

Amanda McCartney – Beach happiness
Amber Florig – We were just there this past week and didnt want to leave!!! Cant wait to be back!!
Stacy Spadaro – Love this action shot of my girl on her boogie board, taken by her god-mother
Aditi Dahal – The boy’s enjoying the sunrise @123 street!
Britt Parshall – Early morning walk for sea shells
Chelsea Kemp – This was our girls weekend early sunrise “love” picture this past weekend ! Sunrises are always so worth the early rise
Lindsay Duke- Beach time is the best time.
Lindsey Shinn – They were so excited to finally get to the beach they ran in sweat pants and all! Just taking a break and soaking it all in.
Jackie Young – Spending the week with my amazing family
Stacy Spadaro – 2 for the running… 6 moms and best friends took 12 kids to OC last week to celebrate the end of virtual learning! Beaches, pools, Alley Oops, boardwalk and sunsets! We all needed it
Susie Govoni – My son, Matthew, age 8. Perfect photo op with the MD boat passing by
Brianne Nicole – I have a picture just like this as a baby. My little guys first trip to OCMD. What a great week!
Jennie Dennis Ritt – Friends, making more friends at the dock of our bay
Dottie Varano Capple – Bayside near 78th street
Megan Walling – O what fun it is to be in OC!!!
Kaitlyn Jarzynka – My daughter Paisley living her best life
Elizabeth Helmick – Me and my boyfriend on the Juidth M
Casey Marie Shiffner – Sneaking out before big brother wakes up to play in the waves at sunrise. Sweet little moments with my girl
Kayla Barkley – The De lazy lizard yummy food and great drinks
Kayla Barkley – Days in on 22nd St
Kev Lee – Her first of many vacations to Oc
Amanda McCartney – Beach happiness
Briana Neff – There’s nothing like that blue cotton candy smile while strolling the oc boardwalk
Sabrina Mueller – A beautiful ending to a rainy day
Jessica Tillotson – Our favorite park
Laura Barton – My baby on the balcony at The Barefoot Mailman. You can just see the gratification on his face! He loves OC vacations
Amanda Lynn – My 9 year old, Kellie, running up to the waves. She couldn’t wait to get in the water!
Jamie Ruckle Niemiera – We had a great trip last week! Here is one I captured at sunset.
Terri Darlene Connor-Jameson – Their favorite place to be Jolly Rogers Amusement Park
Rose Lano – Creating memories OC Beach
Shannon Lang Waterbury – The air show was amazing!
Kelly Kready – Love building sand castles
Stacy Snedden – Enjoying the beautiful sunrise yesterday morning
Kimberly Morales – Always fun renting a pontoon boat and exploring the bay ( my daughter behind the wheel having a blast)!
Lisa Montley Scherer – Granddaughters enjoying the beach
Dana Byrd – Closing out the day on the bay
Vincent Spallone – The kids saying Hi welcome to ocean city to the passing boat
April Strasser – We love OC and finding Olaf ⛄️ on the boardwalk every year we visit
Taylor Brudnak – Fun on the boardwalk
Karen Cline Miller – My granddaughter in a glass ball on the beach. We had so much fun this past weekend at OC, MD!
Amanda Fitzpatrick – They love me enough to wear matching swimsuits on our vacations
Megan A. Nye – Enjoying her kids Dauquri at Tequila Mockingbird Inc
Susan Newton Bishop – Bike rides on the Boards with my family! One of our favorite things to do! Love OC!
Katie Bair – My son broke his arm weeks before we went and I told him we will just deal with it and we did. We love oc we will be back hopefully after his cast is off.
Donna Gordon Kestermann – Having my family by my side means more than they’ll ever know! We love OC

Top Ten Things to Do With Children, Ocean City, MD

Ann McGinnis Hillyer
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Top Ten Things to Do With Children, Ocean City, MD

Top Ten Things to Do With Children, Ocean City, MD

 

1.  Play at the Beach — I remember the days when my family would bring me to the beach and my brother and sister and I would crane our necks, anxiously awaiting that first siting of the Atlantic Ocean.  Once you check into your hotel or condo, just bring the kids down to the beach and let them run, make sandcastles, ride the waves, swim, and generally enjoy what Ocean City has been offering to children for hundreds of years:  a great ocean playground and the wide, white sandy beaches that equal summer fun and have for decades.

2.  Participate in the many FREE activities offered by the Town:  

  • Free Family Movie Nightsstart at 8:30 every Monday and Friday on the beach at 27th Street. Movies start at around 8:30 and run to around 10:30, weather permitting. June 25 through August 10, 2012.  The Carousel Hotel at 118th St shows movies outside on Wednesday nights through August 29 and the Princess Royale has them on Thursday nights through August 30th.  

 

  • The Family Beach Olympicsare held Tuesday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on the 27th Street beach. This free event includes sand castle contests, tug of war, relay games and more. (Children must be accompanied by parents or guardians.) through August 7, 2012.

 

  • Free Concerts on the Beachfeature free music for the whole family, Wednesday evenings from 8:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Division Street beach. Bring your beach chairs and/or blankets, and enjoy beautiful music in a beautiful setting. July 11, 18, 25 August 8,15,22,29, 2012.                     

              

  • Sundays mean Sundaes in the Park. This popular event combines a free concert with ice cream for a small fee at Northside Park, 127th Street (bayside) from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. While parents enjoy the music, children will enjoy special entertainment just for them. August 5,12,19,26, 2012.

 

  • Free Morning programs and demonstrations are held Monday through Saturday at 10:00 a.m., at the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum (south end of the boardwalk). See feedings at the museum’s aquarium, and learn about sharks, beach safety and knot-tying, to name a few.


For more information about any of these free events, go to www.OceanCity.com/Events

3. Explore Assateague:  From wild ponies of Misty of Chincoteague fame to kayak adventures offered by Super Fun EcoTours, the wildlife and beach activites are sure to please children of all ages.  There are two parks — State and Federal.  Pets are allowed on leashes, tours are available if scheduled in advance, the parks run fishing and exploration clinics, and you can’t beat the wide open beaches, camping, and unlimited views of the Atlantic ocean.  (Click here for more information.)  If you are lucky, you and your kids will see the dolphin hunting and swimming lazily offshore, blue fish swimming by, ponies playing in the waves, and the wild Sika Elk grazing along the road on your way in.  Assateague is magical and certainly shouldn’t be missed.  Check out our Assateague Guide

4.  Eat at one of the many child-friendly restaurants:

  • Fish Tales — they serve the kids meals in frisbees and have a large pirate ship for climbing.
  • Macky’s Bayside Bar and Grill — They are located right on the bay and you can sit in the sand and monitor your children as they wade in the water and discover the thrill of seeing horseshoe crabs swim by.
  • Seacrets — This is a great adult playground and the management imposes a lot of restrictions on children, but if your kids want  a DAYTIME experience in a fun restaurant with a Jamaican theme and sand floors, bring them to Seacrets.  They won’t soon forget it.
  • Captain’s Table — This restaurant has fabulous food and offers a child-friendly, but slightly grown-up dinner.  Bring your kids, the management loves them and your kids will love the fabulous food and relaxed staff.


5.  Play Miniature Golf

 

        Need to work on your putting with the family before you head out to the big leagues? Mini golf is widely popular from West Ocean City all the way to Fenwick Island.  With venues that offer a true Viking experience, to erupting volcanoes the possibilities are endless! Enjoy one of the many places that offer mini-golf for a date night, family fun, or just to work on your putting. For more detailed information on which scene best suits your needs visit http://www.ocgolf.com/

 6.  Walk the Boardwalk, play the games, ride the rides, and enjoy a warm summer evening.  Don’t forget a Dumser’s ice cream cone rolled in sprinkles and a tub of warm caramel popcorn with or without nuts.  Check out our Boardwalk Guide.

7.  Play a match of tennis with the family

           In the mood for a match of tennis? Visit the incredible tennis center, which has the honor of being one of only 3,000 USTA Tennis Welcome Centers throughout the United States. With 6 premier courts and 3 Lee fast dry clay green courts 8. Clamming and

        8.  Crabbing Galore!

        Some of the best memories for kids is catching their first crab with a line of string and a chicken leg or reaching down after finding a clam with their toes! Here in Ocean City, at low tide, you can find clams in the bars just offshore of the Convention Hall at 41st Street. There are also fabulous clamming locations of the sandy beaches of Assateague. Look for both the state park as well as the national park to fulfill your clamming dreams!

 

9. Surf Lessons

Take a surfing lesson.  Many of the surf shops in town offer lessons.  Click here for our surfing guide.  Here is a list of all the surf shops in Ocean City that provide surf lessons. Most even offer a family surf lesson package where all members can learn to ride the incredible waves in Ocean City.

  • Sailing, Etc.
  •  Backdoor Surf Shop
  •  Surfer Girl & Guys Too
  •  Ocean Atlantic Surfing Products
  • Malibu’s Surf Shop
  • Chauncey’s Surf Shop
  •  Endless Summer Surf Shop

10. If you are staying at a hotel with kids activities…

M    Make sure to check out all of the scheduled events, activities, and camps available for children at the hotel you are staying at. Most offer fun tours of the beach and historic sections of Ocean City as well as beach activities to keep your child active. Check out these hotels to see some great activities specifically catered to children!

 

OC on the Big Screen: Art League Presents Film Challenge

Logan Dubel
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OC on the Big Screen: Art League Presents Film Challenge

The cameras are rolling, and the lights are bright in Ocean City as filmmakers take on the 4th Annual Ocean City Film Challenge. Calling on filmmakers from the Delmarva Peninsula and the surrounding region, the summer contest encourages local creativity and originality. For lovers of Ocean City and its unique community, this is the perfect opportunity to combine a passion for film and production with a chance to experience the resort intimately unlike anything before.

So, how does the challenge work? For those looking to participate, act fast. Filmmakers must register for the contest before July 9 by filling out a Google Form. However, have no fear, there is indeed more time to craft your storyline, get out your camera and tripod, and make nonstop edits. Final cuts are due on July 31 either online through Oceancityfilmfest@gmail.com or via flash drive at the Art League of Ocean City on 94th Street.

There is no shortage of stories or activity in the town, in the midst of the summer explosion that brings a total of more than eight million tourists. “Ocean City is a beautiful landscape, and there’s so much that artists can take advantage of right here in town,” said Film Festival Director B.L. Strang-Moya. “There are many ways to tell a story through motion picture, and the challenge pushes filmmakers to explore these boundaries.”

The OC Film Challenge is home to the most Ocean City-specific content available anywhere, requiring all short movies to be about or shot in the town. Do not spend too much time along our ten miles of beaches though, unless filming of course, because time is of the essence. All shorts must be filmed throughout July, though the contest permits some archival footage and photographs, which may come in handy due to any remaining Covid-19 limitations. Other regulations include avoiding using copyrighted material, making content preferably appropriate for people of all ages, and keeping the shorts under ten minutes.

Filmmakers should certainly take creative risks because there are major rewards. The top three films will take home all-access passes for the 2022 Ocean City Film Festival. The top winner will receive a hotel stay, as well as a cash prize of $150. The second-place film will earn a reward of $100 and a swag bag, while the third-place winner will receive $50. Still, everyone is a winner, as all other films will qualify for day passes to the festival.

Strang-Moya, a filmmaker himself, encourages participants to go big or go home. “The only guidance I have is to simply do it. It is kind of a big deal that this contest ensures you a spot in the OCFF annual program, AND it’s totally free to enter,” he said. “This is not pay-to-play like other similar events such as 36, 48, and or 72-hour film festival events. The OCFC gives you one whole month to make a short film. That shouldn’t be taken for granted – especially for new and emerging filmmakers.”

In addition, the OC Film Challenge, a program of the Art League of Ocean City, provides what every aspiring filmmaker and producer seeks – a platform. The shorts will earn a slot at a screening during the ArtX festival on August 21 in Northside Park, which draws massive crowds. Plus, the films will gain exposure again in March at the 2022 festival.  

The contest, which still garnered significant success in 2020 during the height of the pandemic, proves that creativity is possible no matter the circumstances.

Since launching in 2017, the Ocean City Film Challenge has grown tremendously, thanks to the creative vision of B.L. Strang-Moya, a young filmmaker who just a few years ago set out on a journey of building a community and reputable platform for creators like him. Now, with international recognition and a growing, robust program, he hopes to continue the success this summer.

“Each year new filmmakers entering the challenge, and it becomes surprisingly more competitive even as technology evolves, and the local filmmakers have access to better equipment. Like anything else, the challenge grows over time. Last year we had the challenge of executing the event within the limitations of COVID-19 regulations,” Strang-Moya explained. “Regardless of the pandemic, last year was easily our most competitive film challenge to date. There was a broad range of narratives and visual styles brought to the contest. This year the stakes are incredibly high for contestants. The pandemic limits are few, and the bar is pretty damn high after last year’s entries.”

If interested, be sure to register for the challenge and think outside of the box when filming the best sights and sounds of Ocean City.

For questions or concerns, call 410-524-9433 or email oceancityfilmfest@gmail.com.

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