Tag: hotels

Best Hotels Near Oceans Calling Festival 2026 in Ocean City, MD

Posted on by Taylor

If you’re planning to attend the Oceans Calling Festival 2026 in Ocean City, Maryland, finding the right place to stay can make a huge difference in your experience. Many visitors start searching early for hotels near Oceans Calling Festival 2026 because the popular beachfront music festival attracts more than 50,000 attendees each day. With crowds that large, traffic congestion, crowded parking lots, and long waits for rideshares are common, so booking a conveniently located hotel ahead of time can help you avoid unnecessary stress.

One of the easiest ways to make your festival weekend smoother is by booking a hotel within walking distance of the Oceans Calling Festival grounds. Staying nearby allows you to skip the traffic, enjoy Ocean City’s famous boardwalk, and easily walk back to your room after a full day of live music. Instead of worrying about transportation, you can focus on enjoying the performances, the beach, and the vibrant atmosphere of Ocean City.

To help you plan your trip, here are some of the best hotels near the Oceans Calling Festival in Ocean City, MD, all located within a short walk of the festival.

The Oceanic Motel

Oceanic Motel — 105 S 1st St, Ocean City, MD 21842
Distance from the festival: 0.3 miles

The Oceanic Motel is one of the closest hotels to the Oceans Calling Festival grounds, making it a top choice for festivalgoers who want maximum convenience. Located just a short walk away, this motel lets you go from your room to the festival stages in just minutes. Its proximity to the Ocean City boardwalk and beach also makes it a great option if you want to enjoy the ocean between sets.

Plim Plaza Hotel

Plim Plaza Hotel — 109 N Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, MD 21842
Distance from the festival: 0.6 miles

Located directly on the Ocean City boardwalk, Plim Plaza Hotel is another excellent hotel near the Oceans Calling Festival. Guests can easily walk to the festival grounds while also enjoying nearby restaurants, beach access, and boardwalk attractions. Its lively atmosphere and central location make it a popular choice for visitors spending the weekend enjoying live music in Ocean City.

Harrison Hall Hotel

Harrison Hall Hotel — 1409 Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, MD 21842
Distance from the festival: 1.5 miles

Harrison Hall Hotel is a historic oceanfront property located along the famous Ocean City boardwalk. About a 1.5-mile walk from the festival grounds, it offers a classic beachfront stay while still being conveniently close to the Oceans Calling music festival. Guests can enjoy ocean views, easy boardwalk access, and a relaxing place to unwind after a full day of concerts.

Courtyard Ocean City Oceanfront

Courtyard Ocean City Oceanfront — Two 15th St, Ocean City, MD 21842
Distance from the festival: 1.5 miles

For visitors looking for a more modern stay, Courtyard Ocean City Oceanfront offers comfortable accommodations and excellent amenities. Guests can dine at the popular Captain’s Table restaurant located inside the hotel before or after attending the Oceans Calling Festival. Its boardwalk location also makes it easy to explore nearby attractions, shops, and restaurants.

Quality Inn Boardwalk

Quality Inn Boardwalk — 1601 Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, MD 21842
Distance from the festival: 1.5 miles

Quality Inn Boardwalk is another convenient Ocean City hotel near the Oceans Calling Festival. Located right on Atlantic Avenue, the hotel provides easy access to the boardwalk and the festival area. There’s even a Starbucks just outside the hotel, making it easy to grab a coffee before heading out for a full day of music and entertainment.

Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City

Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City — 1701 Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, MD 21842
Distance from the festival: 1.6 miles

If you prefer a full-service hotel experience, Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City is a fantastic option. Guests can enjoy amenities such as pools, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant when they’re not attending the festival. It’s a comfortable and convenient place to stay while visiting the Oceans Calling Festival in Ocean City, Maryland.

Where to Stay for Oceans Calling Festival in Ocean City

With thousands of visitors attending every year, booking a hotel near the Oceans Calling Festival in Ocean City, MD as early as possible is highly recommended. Staying within walking distance allows you to avoid traffic and parking headaches while making it easy to return to your room whenever you need a break from the crowds.

Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly motel, a historic boardwalk hotel, or a full-service oceanfront property, these accommodations offer convenient access to the Oceans Calling Music Festival 2026. Secure your stay early and get ready for an unforgettable weekend of live music, ocean views, and boardwalk fun in Ocean City.

Don’t forget to check out the lineup announcement here.

Meet Me in OCMD: Time to Rethink the Off-Season for Group Events in Ocean City

Posted on by Jeff

For years, planners have associated beach meetings with peak season in Ocean City… sunny weather, nonstop activity, and the full energy of resort life. But when it comes to planning group events in Ocean City, a new perspective is emerging. Instead of focusing on creating the biggest and busiest event, planners are asking how to create the best overall experience. The answer? The off season.

Why the Off Season Is Ideal for Group Events in Ocean City

As meeting planning continues to evolve, experience has taken center stage in decision-making. At the same time, budgets are more scrutinized than ever, with a clear expectation of return on investment. When demand softens, value opportunities emerge, and that works to a planner’s advantage in off-season resort communities.

Oceanfront destinations still pack a powerful punch after peak season ends. In fact, many would argue they improve. The off season offers open beaches where retreats can truly shine. Rejuvenation takes center stage, and the calmer atmosphere encourages meaningful time with colleagues and peers.

For group events in Ocean City, this shift creates space for deeper engagement.

Budget Advantages Without Sacrificing Experience

Hotels and restaurants have greater flexibility and availability during the off season, prioritizing your needs rather than juggling multiple large-scale events. Rates allow planners to elevate the attendee experience without inflating budgets.

Instead of scaling back to meet financial constraints, planners can scale up strategically. Consider room upgrades, enhanced food and beverage experiences, dynamic guest speakers, or customized team-building activities that bring everyone together in a meaningful way.

Planning group events in Ocean City during the off season allows your event to feel premium, not pared down.

Logistics That Make a Difference

The advantages go beyond atmosphere and budget. Logistics improve with easier travel, less traffic, and smoother arrivals. Smaller crowds and quieter settings allow for stronger connections, focused agendas, and intentional networking.

When you remove distractions, the experience becomes the centerpiece.

A Strategic Shift for the Future of Meetings

The future of meetings is less about doing more; it’s about doing it better. Showcase your agenda against the backdrop of a beautiful beach community filled with restaurants, activities, and amenities — but with the breathing room to enjoy them.

As you review your upcoming calendar, consider the off season not as a fallback, but as a strategic advantage for hosting impactful group events in Ocean City. Don’t forget to also check out these properties who have won ConventionSouth’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards!

This blog has been written by Sara S. Simon, Corporate Director of Sales for the Harrison Group Resort Hotels & Restaurants. For more information on having your event in Ocean City, please click here.

Top 3 Family-Friendly Hotels in Ocean City, Maryland

Posted on by Jeff

Family Fun in OCMD!

Ocean City, Maryland has long been a favorite destination for family vacations, offering sandy beaches, the iconic Boardwalk, and attractions for all ages. Choosing the right hotel can make all the difference, and these three properties stand out for their family-friendly amenities, prime locations, and consistently positive guest experiences.

1. Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City

The Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City remains one of the most popular choices for families visiting the resort. Located oceanfront and just steps from the Boardwalk, this hotel places guests close to Ocean City’s top attractions, including amusement parks, dining, and shopping.

Spacious suites with separate living areas and kitchenettes provide families with room to relax after a day at the beach. Guests also enjoy direct beach access, indoor and outdoor pools, and convenient on-site dining. Its central location and thoughtful amenities make it an easy choice for families returning year after year. Kids also love all the fun weekly activities held poolside for no additional charge.

The hotel is located oceanfront at 1701 Atlantic Avenue in Ocean City and can be found online at OCsuites.com. We also featured this hotel in 2025 for winning the prestigious Torchbearer Award from IHG, read more about this award by clicking here.

2. Hilton Ocean City Oceanfront Suites

For families looking for a resort-style experience, Hilton Ocean City Oceanfront Suites offers both space and upscale amenities. This all-suite, oceanfront property features full kitchens, private balconies, and generous living areas, deal for extended stays or larger families.

Kids love the indoor and outdoor pools, lazy river, and recreational features, while parents appreciate the beachfront setting and well-appointed accommodations. With direct access to the beach and a wide range of on-site amenities, this hotel delivers a true oceanfront resort experience in Ocean City.

Free kids activities include learning how to juggle, arts & crafts and on a rainy day, indoor movies. Parents also love the poolside live music, that they can enjoy while the kids play in the pool. The Hilton Oceanfront Suites is located oceanfront on 32nd street in Ocean City and can be found online at OceanCityHilton.com.

3. DoubleTree by Hilton Ocean City Oceanfront

The DoubleTree by Hilton Ocean City Oceanfront is another excellent option for families seeking comfort and convenience. Located along the beach and within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and Boardwalk attractions, it offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Families enjoy oceanfront rooms with private balconies, indoor and outdoor pools, and easy beach access. Known for its warm hospitality and comfortable accommodations, the DoubleTree provides a dependable stay that balances location, amenities, and value, perfect for families looking to experience the best of Ocean City.

Look for the mermaids poolside, for a fun free kids activity that is offered all summer long. The hotel also has a full size volleyball court, large firepit and a spacious private beach area where you can lounge in a hammock or play cornhole.

The Doubletree by Hilton is located oceanfront at 33rd street in Ocean City and can be found online DoubletreeOceanCity.com. Don’t forget to get a famous freshly baked cookie at check in, a Doubletree signature experience.

BONUS! Quality Inn Oceanfront

Perfectly situated on a wide, guarded beach on 54th street, kids love to experience a tropical atmosphere retreat at this 5-story atrium, complete with exotic birds and a koi pond. Accommodations include fully-equipped efficiencies with kitchenettes, private patios or balconies, and on-site dining at the Atrium Cafe. This is a must see! Learn more at QualityInnOceanfront.com. 

Find Your Perfect Family Stay

Whether you prefer a central Boardwalk location, resort-style amenities, or a comfortable beachfront retreat, these three hotels offer outstanding options for family vacations in Ocean City, Maryland. Each provides easy access to the beach and attractions that make Ocean City a favorite year after year.

Four Harrison Group Properties Honored with ConventionSouth’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Award

Posted on by Jeff

The Harrison Group Hotels and Restaurants is proud to announce that four of its Ocean City properties have been recognized with the prestigious 2025 Readers’ Choice Award from ConventionSouth, the leading national multimedia resource for event and meeting planning in the South.

The honored properties include:

“ConventionSouth readers and fans have once again voted to decide the best meeting sites in the South, and it’s no surprise that these Harrison Group properties have been selected,” said ConventionSouth Associate Publisher Tiffany Burtnett. “This recognition comes directly from the nation’s top meeting professionals—those who demand the highest levels of service, creativity, and facility quality. These Ocean City hotels clearly exemplify that commitment.”

The ConventionSouth Readers’ Choice Awards celebrate the most outstanding hotels, venues, and CVBs across the Southern United States. This year, over 7,000 meeting professionals participated in the nomination and voting process—making it one of the most engaging award years in the publication’s 40-year history. The four Harrison Group properties were selected among 502 distinguished hotels, event spaces, and destinations throughout the South.

In addition to highlighting award-winning properties, ConventionSouth’s upcoming Awards Issue will feature its annual “Meeting Professionals to Watch” list, showcasing some of the industry’s most innovative and inspiring planners.

Celebrating more than four decades as a trusted resource for meeting planners, ConventionSouth reaches over 18,000 professionals nationwide who book events across the Southern region.

The Harrison Group Hotels & Restaurants owns and operates 19 hotels and 16 restaurants along the Eastern Seaboard, including several premier properties in Ocean City, Maryland.

For more information, visit www.HarrisonGroupHotels.com.

OC Rock & Ride: Bikefest 2025

Posted on by Haven

Known in the past as Bikefest, Ocean City, Maryland’s annual motorcycle festival is back with a brand new look! Local organizers Matthew and Tyler Odachowski are proud to present OC Rock & Ride, a fresh take on Bikefest dedicated to preserving the rally’s spirit. The event will begin on Wednesday, September 10th, and end on the 13th.

Tickets and Lineup

With performances from bands including Queensrÿche, Slaughter, and Quiet Riot, rock and roll is being brought right to the inlet! Tickets are available online, starting at only $41 for a single-day general admission pass. Upgrades and multi-day packs are also for sale through the official OC Rock & Ride website.

OC Rock & Ride is also partnering with local charities to make a difference in our community. The four-day event draws over 160,000 attendees, providing support for several non-profit organizations:

Beyond the Stage

As part of the plan to preserve the spirit of Bikefest, OC Rock & Ride will welcome back many longtime Bikefest traditions. The event features more than just music, so take a step beyond the stage to explore everything the festival has to offer!

Vendors

This year, more than 85 sellers will make up the vendor villages, one of the most popular parts of Bikefest. The vendors will be set up in two locations. The Convention Center near 40th Street will host over 60 vendors, while the inlet area will feature about 30. Visit the OC Rock & Ride website to see a full list of participating businesses.

From custom gear to jewelry, the vendor areas have something for everyone. Also, because no festival experience is complete without it, OC Rock & Ride will feature a wide variety of food vendors to keep you fueled through the event!

Stunts, Poker Runs, and More

Beyond the music and vendors, there are a variety of stunt shows and activities to enjoy, including the thrilling Globe of Death performance and a huge fireworks display.

Don’t miss Cruizin’ the Coast, with exciting new stops across Worcester County, Somerset County, and Downtown Salisbury, each offering scenic views and an incredible experience! Every $50 ticket includes admission for one rider and 1 Cruzin’ the Coast t-shirt. Bikers can pick up their stamp cards at the locations listed below starting on Monday, then visit participating locations Thursday and Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Monday – Tuesday(8 AM to 5 PM)
  • OC Rock & Ride Main Office (Look for the OC Rock & Ride Sign)
    12046 Ocean Gateway
    Ocean City, MD 21842
Wednesday 9/10 – Friday 9/12 (9 AM – 5 PM)
  • Ticket booth at the Ocean City Inlet
    809 S Atlantic Ave
    Ocean City, MD 21842
  • OC Rock & Ride Info Booth at the Convention Center (South Lot)
    4001 Coastal Hwy
    Ocean City, MD 21842

To learn more about OC Rock & Ride, click here. Learn more about nearby hotels under the lodging page or at ocmdhotels.com.

Ocean’s Calling 2025 – Times & FAQ’s

Posted on by Haven

Ocean’s Calling is a three day music festival taking place this September in Ocean City Maryland. Featuring headliners such as Green Day, Noah Kahan, Fall Out Boy, and Weezer, the event brings in a huge crowd each year. The festival grounds are right on the beach, creating one of the most unique and memorable venues ever! With endless food vendors, onsite bars, merch stands, and music all day long, Ocean’s Calling is an experience that you’ll never forget! If you’re planning a visit or looking to buy tickets, check out our blog about which artists are to appear onstage here.

Friday, September 26

Kicking off the festival are artists Izzy Escobar and Chef Antonia Lofaso, who will take the Sea Bright and the Carousel stages at 12:15. Water stands, merch stands, bars, food vendors, and more will also open at this time. Friday includes many well-known artists and bands such as the Spin Doctors, Fountains of Wayne, Live, Nelly, O.A.R., The Black Crowes, Cake, Lenny Kravitz, and Green Day! Green Day will take the final performance on Friday with an almost 2 hour set accompanied by an ASL interpreter.

Saturday, September 27

With artists like Noah Kahan and bands like Good Charlotte, Modest Mouse, and Franz Ferdinand, Saturday is going to be packed with incredible music! Don’t miss O.A.R. & Friends, which features a mystery guest appearance. The final performance by Noah Kahan is ASL interpreted, ensuring a great night for everybody! While the doors open at 12:00 p.m., the first performances are not set to begin until 12:30. If you don’t want to miss any music, it’s the perfect amount of time to stop by the merch stands set up around the festival grounds!

Sunday, September 28

The final day of the festival, Sunday, September 28, keeps the music going with sets from Marcy Playground, 4 Non Blondes, and Blind Melon. Weezer will also take the stage, delivering their signature hits to the Ocean City crowd for the second year in a row. Closing out the weekend, Fall Out Boy headlines with a nearly two hour set beginning at 9:15 p.m. on the Sea Bright stage!

FAQ

  • Are tickets for Ocean’s Calling still available?

Yes, tickets for the event are still available for purchase through the official Ocean’s Calling website! Three day tickets are currently waitlisted, but there are single day passes still for sale.

  • What is the best time to arrive at the festival grounds?

If you’re looking to beat the crowds and find parking, it’s best to arrive from 11 to 12. Doors open at 12:00 p.m., so arriving earlier will give you time to get a good spot in line.

  • What am I allowed to bring into the festival?

You can bring:

  • Check what bags are allowed at the festival
  • Empty reusable water bottles and hydration packs, and plastic or aluminum water bottles
  • Baby strollers, including stroller wagons designed to transport children with children present
  • Binoculars
  • Cameras (basic point and shoot consumer-grade cameras) without detachable lenses and other accessories (monopods, selfie sticks, tripods, GoPro mounts, and other attachments are not allowed)
  • Personal-sized hand sanitizer
  • Portable battery packs
  • Personal misting fans with a bottle no larger than 1.5 L (must be empty upon entry)
  • Sunscreen in non-aerosol containers is allowed in the size of 3.4 ounces or less
  • Factory sealed Naloxone/Narcan kit
  • Hydration/Electrolyte packets in factory sealed single serving package(s)
  • Frisbees
  • Blankets, sheets, towels

You cannot bring:

  • Any bag that is not aligned with the allowed bags
  • Aerosol containers, including sunscreen and personal beauty products
  • Coolers of any kind. (Exceptions may be made for medical use)
  • Any and all professional audio recording equipment
  • Professional cameras and professional recording (photo, video, audio) equipment
    • NO large professional detachable zoom lenses, stands, monopods, tripods, attachment sticks (selfie sticks) or other commercial equipment
  • Any and all professional video equipment. No video recording will be allowed
  • Drones or any other remote flying device
  • Hammocks
  • Inflatables of any kind
  • Glass containers of any kind
  • Illegal and illicit substances of any kind
  • Outside food or beverage (including alcohol) of any kind
  • Umbrellas
  • Pets (except service animals)
  • Selfie sticks
  • Skateboards, scooters, bicycles, wagons, carts, or any personal motorized vehicles
  • Tents, canopies, or shade structures of any kind
  • Unauthorized/unlicensed vendors are not allowed. No unauthorized solicitation and materials including handbills, flyers, stickers, beach balls, giveaways, samples, etc.
  • Weapons or explosives of any kind
  • Fireworks
  • Large chains or spiked jewelry
  • Bicycles inside festival grounds (free parking is available near festival entrance)
  • Carts of any kind (including Red Wagons)
  • Chairs of any kind
  • Smoking (including vaping)

More Info

For more information about Ocean’s Calling, check out their website here. The website includes festival maps, transportation guides, hotel booking services, merchandise, and more! Visit their help page for any questions about the event.

With three jam-packed days of music, ocean views, and nonstop entertainment, Ocean’s Calling is shaping up to be one of the biggest music events of the year! Whether you’re here for your favorite band just to soak up the festival atmosphere, this is one weekend you won’t want to miss.

Holiday Inn & Suites on 17th Street in Ocean City, Maryland Wins Prestigious Torchbearer Award from IHG® Hotels & Resorts

Posted on by Jeff

Ocean City, MD – The Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City, located on 17th Street and the Boardwalk, is proud to announce it has received the 2024 IHG® Torchbearer Award, the highest honors granted by IHG Hotels & Resorts. This elite recognition is awarded to hotels that have achieved the highest levels of excellence in quality, service, and overall guest satisfaction.

The Torchbearer Award places the Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City among the top-performing properties within the IHG global portfolio, which includes more than 6,000 hotels in over 100 countries. This distinction is a testament to the hotel’s unwavering commitment to hospitality, operational excellence, and creating memorable guest experiences.

Owned and operated by the Harrison Group, one of the most established hospitality companies in mid-Atlantic region, the Holiday Inn & Suites has long been a flagship destination for visitors seeking upscale accommodation with stunning oceanfront views, resort-style amenities, and the warmth of family-owned service.

“We are deeply honored to receive the IHG Torchbearer Award,” said Natalie Vallieres, General Manager of the hotel. “This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of our incredible team, who strive every day to deliver a world-class experience to our guests. It also reaffirms our long-standing commitment to excellence and to Ocean City as a premier destination.”

The hotel features spacious suites with private balconies, an on-site fine dining restaurant, indoor and outdoor pools, and a prime location just steps from the beach and on Ocean City Boardwalk. The Torchbearer Award solidifies its position as not just a local favorite, but a national standard-bearer for hospitality.

For more information about the Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City or to book your stay, please visit www.ocsuites.com or click here to learn more about them on this website. Make sure to follow the hotel on social media at the handle of ocsuites on Facebook and Instagram. The Harrison Group corporate office is located in Ocean City, Maryland and can be found online at www.harrisongrouphotels.com.

General Manager Natalie Vallerieres pictured with the award and members of her manangement team.

Ocean City, Maryland’s Top Ten Places to Visit

Posted on by Haven

 From the shores of Assateague Island to Jolly Roger Splash Mountain, Ocean City has a collection of attractions like no other! To help narrow the list of possibilities, these are Ocean City, Maryland’s top ten places to visit.  

10: Paradise Watersports 

With the largest reserved jet ski area in Ocean City, Paradise Watersports is a great destination for a thrilling experience on the water! You can rent a jet ski, go parasailing, or even climb aboard a safari boat for a tour of the wild ponies and animals of Assateague Island. You can also board their tiki boat for the ultimate party experience! Each boat is equipped with a Coast Guard Certified Captain and first mate to ensure a safe and exciting time. 

9: Dumsers Dairyland 

Since 1939, Dumsers Dairyland has been a part of Ocean City’s nostalgic beach-town atmosphere. Whether you’re searching for a quick treat or a place to relax in the hot summer weather, any of Dumsers Dairyland’s seven locations will be perfect for you! You can choose from many types of soft serve ice cream, hand scooped ice cream, milkshakes, sundaes, sorbet’s, specials, and more! 

8: Baja Amusements 

Ever since its first race in 1981, Baja Amusements has delivered fun for all ages on their 8 high-speed go-kart tracks. Kids as young as 5 years old can have their turn behind the wheel on the Junior Speedway. Baja also features several rides including a carousel, the frog hopper, and the spin zone! If you’re looking for even more excitement, you can try your hand at mini golf, test your skills in the arcade, or grab a snack and relax between races. With a mix of adrenaline-pumping tracks and attractions, Baja Amusements is the best stop for a full day of fun!

7: Jolly Roger Splash Mountain 

Jolly Roger at 30th St. is a must-visit destination for both tourists and locals looking for family-friendly fun in Ocean City! One of the park’s four areas is Splash Mountain, home to 16 thrilling water slides that offer something for every age. Among them is the Aqualoop, a 360º semi-transparent looping slide that’s the only one of its kind on the East Coast! Park passes are available at the main entrance, but visitors should keep an eye out for discounted passes offered at participating OCMD hotels.

6: Harrison’s Harbor Watch 

Whether you’re planning a relaxing date night or looking for the perfect lunch spot, Harrison’s Harbor Watch is a must-visit. With its unmatched views of the inlet, the setting is as memorable as the meal. The restaurant is also well-suited for groups, offering spacious booths and large tables for comfortable dining. The menu features a variety of fresh seafood dishes made with high-quality ingredients, making it a go-to destination for anyone craving a taste of the coast.

5: Trimper Rides 

If you’re looking to add a little thrill to your Ocean City visit, Trimper Rides on the boardwalk is a great place to start. Just steps away from Harrison’s Harbor Watch, you can end your visit with a meal by the inlet. Trimpers offers 22 rides that range from classic carousels to high-energy roller coasters, making it a staple of the Ocean City experience.

4: Northside Park 

Northside Park is a scenic 58-acre bayfront recreational space offering year-round fun for everybody! Visitors in the summer can enjoy Sundaes in the Park for free bayside concerts and beautiful sunset views. After the sun sets, fireworks are set off over the bay as a magical end to an unforgettable night.

3: The Wave Riding School

If you’re looking to catch some waves during your visit in Ocean City, there’s not better place to go than K-Coast Surf Shop! Partnered with the Wave Riding School, the shop offers 1.5 hour long surf lessons at only $99. The school’s team of instructors are among the best, ensuring a safe and productive experience for surfers of any level. Call or text 443-203-WAVE (9283) for details and book online today!

2: Breakfast at Coastal Salt

Coastal Salt opened its doors in the Spring of 2020 with visions of providing excellent culinary experiences through honest, inventive, and locally sourced cuisine. Located right on the boardwalk, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the early morning sun with a fresh ocean breeze! Coastal Salt has a wonderful breakfast menu complete with different types of omelets and morning delicacies.

1: Assateague Island

Assateague Island is an unforgettable destination, best known for its wildlife that roam freely across the beaches and marshes. The island’s coastline offers a place for swimming and sunbathing without the crowds. Hiking and biking trails wind through the area, offering beautiful views and encounters with herds of wild ponies. Whether you’re drawn by wildlife, adventure, or relaxation, Assateague is a destination for every type of traveler!

Your Guide to Fourth of July Weekend in Ocean City, Maryland

Posted on by Haven

Nothing can compare to the sight of fireworks over the nighttime waves of Ocean City, Maryland. The classic beach-town charm builds a magical atmosphere for the perfect Fourth of July celebration. From the iconic downtown fireworks to hidden gems such as the Chesapeake Ghost Walk, Ocean City has just about everything to offer! 

The firework show in downtown Ocean City is one of two simultaneous firework displays on the Fourth of July. The celebration will begin at 8:00 p.m. on the beach when DJ Kutt takes the Caroline Street Stage. The official show is expected to begin at 9:30 p.m. over the ocean, so don’t forget to bring a blanket and beach chair!

At Northside Park, 125th Street and the bay, a separate firework show will take place at the same time as the downtown celebration. Radio Ocean City will kick off the northern event at with DJ entertainment from 8:00 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. “Northside Park is the perfect place for families to watch the colorful displays light up the evening sky and lagoon,” said Mayor Rick Meehan. “We encourage spectators to get there early to claim their spot to watch the fireworks.”

It is important to keep in mind that parking will be very limited throughout the day. The Inlet Lot will have a rate of $6 per hour, but it is suggested to take a bus. The bus will run from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m. and provide ride all-day passes for $4. Anybody on the road should expect delays due to heavy traffic.

Other Weekend Events in Ocean City

Ocean City is always buzzing with exciting places to go and unforgettable experiences, but July 5th and 6th have a variety of special events you won’t want to miss. 

Ocean Pines Farmers and Artisans Market

On July 5th, Ocean Pines is proud to open the Farmers and Artisans Market, where you can find one-of-a-kind goods and enjoy the cozy atmosphere of White Horse Park! It’s the perfect place to find fresh produce and locally handcrafted items while supporting one of Ocean City’s communities. If you’re looking for a getaway from the weekend crowds, the Farmers and Artisans Market should be on your list of places to go. The event runs from 8:00 a.m. to noon on Saturday. 

Chesapeake Ghost Tours

Locally owned since 2014, Chesapeake Ghost Tours presents one of nine locations right here in historic Ocean City! From 8:00 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. on Saturday night, guests will be taken on a journey through the very streets on which haunting stories take place. The tour will uncover stories of eerie local legends and unexplained occurrences throughout the town’s history. Can you brave the secrets of Ocean City’s paranormal? 

Camel and Ostrich Races

For an event you won’t forget, visit Ocean Downs Casino to watch camels and ostriches live on the race track! The event is well-organized and focuses on the safety of both the animals and attendees. Seating is available, but standing areas provide great views of the action as well. It’s recommended to arrive early, as parking and seating can fill quickly! Watch the races on Saturday between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m.

Sundaes in the Park

On Sunday evening from 7:00 to 9:00, Northside Park is the ultimate destination for kids and adults alike! Free live music spanning across many genres is only one of the park’s excellent entertainment options. Kids can play while you indulge in ice cream or a featured beverage under a stunning sunset view. Whether you’re ending your weekend or just getting started, Sundaes in the Park is a perfect way to enjoy a summer evening.

Marlin Moon Featured Cocktails

Marlin Moon’s special July cocktail menu features refreshing, summer-inspired drinks crafted to celebrate the season. The featured highlight is a vibrant blend of Tito’s Vodka, blue curaçao, cherry juice, and sparkling lemonade. Keep an eye out for additional limited-time cocktails that showcase bold flavors, seasonal ingredients, and the spirit of summer in every sip.

2025 OCMD Hotels Photo Contest Is Back!

Posted on by admin

The Shoot Your Stay Photo Contest is Back – and Bigger Than Ever!

Get ready to dive into another summer of unforgettable memories — the Shoot Your Stay Photo Contest returns for its third year! Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just love snapping photos on your phone, this is your chance to showcase your Ocean City adventure in a whole new way.

This summer, we’re inviting you to capture the magic of Ocean City — from golden sunrises and breezy beach walks to poolside cocktails and evening boardwalk strolls. Whether you’re surfing at sunrise, building sandcastles with the kids, or soaking in the view with your favorite people, every moment is a memory worth sharing and give you a chance to win big!

How To Join The Fun:

Submission Dates: Friday, May 16 – Sunday, October 5
Participating Hotels:
Hilton Oceanfront Suites, Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites, DoubleTree Oceanfront, Courtyard by Marriott, Holiday Inn Oceanfront, Quality Inn Oceanfront, Quality Inn Boardwalk, Dunes Suites, Dunes Court, Plim Plaza, Harrison Hall, Flagship, Seabonay, and Oceanic Motel.

 How to Submit Your Photos:

  • Tag @OCMDHotels or a participating hotel on social media
  • Send a direct message with your photo
  • Or upload your entry directly at OCMDHotels.com/photocontest

Contest Details:

  • Grand Prize Winner: Chosen by public vote on OCMDHotels.com/photocontest
  • Finalists: One winner will be selected from each participating property and announced in early October.

What You Could Win:

  • Grand Prize: A 3-night stay at an OCMDHotels.com property in 2025, a $250 gift card to OCMDRestaurants.com, and an exclusive OCMDHotels.com swag bag
  • Finalists: A 1-night stay at the hotel you entered with and a swag bag

Terms and conditions apply. Prizes are not redeemable for cash, are subject to availability, and may not be used during holiday weeks. Submitting photos gives consent for photos to be used for marketing purposes in print, social media and other forms of advertising.

Go ahead, capture the magic, soak in the sun, and share your favorite moments. Your perfect Ocean City photo could win you the ultimate beachside escape in 2025.

Submit your best shots today at OCMDHotels.com/photocontest — we can’t wait to see Ocean City through your lens!

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