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
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!
Concert week is finally here! If you’re looking for the perfect mix of sun, sand, and rock, the Boardwalk Rock Festival in Ocean City, Maryland delivers all that and more. Held right on the sand along the iconic Ocean City Boardwalk, this inaugural event is celebration of live music, local flavor, and East Coast beach culture. Checkout the updated Boardwalk Rock lineup below.
Whether you’re a die-hard rock fan or just visiting for the weekend, here’s why this festival is one of the best reasons to get to Ocean City this weekend.
The Lineup & Stages
Big names rock the stages! The Boardwalk Rock lineup boasts on Saturday its Rob Zombie, Bush, Flyleaf, Halestorm and closing the night is Def Leppard. On Sunday, rock legend Alice Cooper takes the stage along with Shinedown, Bret Michaels, Three Days Grace and Nickleback.
More Than Just Music
Beyond the incredible performances, the Boardwalk Rock Festival offers an array of activities for attendees. Visitors can explore:
Merchandise Booths – Snag exclusive festival gear and band memorabilia.
Beach & Boardwalk Fun – Take a break from the music and enjoy Ocean City’s famous beaches, arcades, and amusement rides.
Check out Dining Options – Ocean City favorites like Harrison’s Harbor Watch and The Wedge Bar are located inside the festival footprint. Enjoy great food and drink during the festival there!
The Vibe: Pure Ocean City Fun
This isn’t your average music festival. Set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, the Boardwalk Rock Festival blends beachside relaxation with high-energy entertainment. Between sets, stroll the boardwalk to grab an orange crush for the Wedge bar or sit down for a Maryland crabcake at Harrison’s Harbor Watch.
Families, couples, and groups of friends all come together in a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere that’s fun for all ages, with plenty of photo ops, local vendors, and activities for kids and adults alike.
Tips for Festival-Goers
Arrive early for the best seating and parking options.
Bring sunscreen, a beach towel, and a light jacket—it cools off at night!
Check the official festival schedule below and ahead of time to catch your favorite bands.
See the map below for the bus routes and entrances.
Don’t Miss Out on the Fun!
Whether you’re visiting from out of town or a longtime fan of Ocean City, the Boardwalk Rock Festival is an unbeatable way to experience the beach, the boardwalk, and a full day (or weekend) of unforgettable music. With a friendly crowd, nonstop energy, and a picture-perfect setting, it’s the kind of event that makes Ocean City memories last a lifetime.
Spring has arrived, and so has a new season of unforgettable getaways! Our collection of independent hotels are officially reopened for the 2025 season, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome you back. Whether you’re craving a coastal escape, a charming boardwalk retreat, or a scenic weekend by the water, our unique properties are ready to make your stay exceptional. Get ready for fresh experiences, warm hospitality, and all the little touches that make independent travel feel like home. Let the 2025 season begin!
Oceanic Motel: Where The Inlet Meets The Bay
Welcome to one of the most geographically unique locations in Ocean City—where the peaceful bay, vibrant ocean, and iconic Assateague Island come together in one breathtaking view. At The Oceanic, guests can soak up the sunshine at our private outdoor swimming pool, cast a line from our expansive on-site fishing pier, or simply relax on the private bayside beach while boats drift through the inlet.
Whether you’re lounging in a hammock, watching the sunset over the water, or taking a short stroll to the Ocean City Boardwalk for amusements, shopping, and classic eats, every moment here offers something special. The Oceanic isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a place to experience the heart of Ocean City like never before.
Plim Plaza: Classic Ocean City Charm, Right on the Boardwalk
Looking for that perfect Ocean City getaway? Look no further than the Plim Plaza Hotel—an iconic oceanfront destination offering unbeatable views of the Atlantic and a welcoming atmosphere the whole family will love. From its spacious front porch lined with classic wooden rocking chairs to its direct access to the Ocean City Boardwalk, the Plim invites guests to relax, explore, and make lasting memories.
Spend your morning rocking to the rhythm of the waves, then head out for an afternoon of boardwalk adventures—from unique boutiques to one-of-a-kind dining and endless attractions. Whether you’re in the mood for peace and quiet or family-fun excitement, the Plim Plaza puts you in the perfect spot to enjoy it all.
On-site, discover a mini-resort experience complete with four dining options, an Olympic-length swimming pool, three Jacuzzis, and plenty of cozy poolside lounge chairs for soaking up the sun. Guest rooms combine natural textures with modern comforts, creating a laid-back coastal retreat that feels just right after a day by the ocean.
No matter your vacation style, the Plim Plaza Hotel offers a little something for everyone.
Located directly on the iconic Ocean City Boardwalk, the Harrison Hall Hotel places you in the heart of the action—just steps from the beach, amusements, arcades, shops, marinas, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. This oceanfront gem offers a timeless setting for your next coastal getaway.
Relax on our classic, oversized front porch in a cozy rocking chair and take in the sights and sounds of Ocean City. Watch as families wander the boardwalk, children build sandcastles, and waves crash along the shore—all from the comfort of your seat.
Known for its intimate charm and warm hospitality, the Harrison Hall Hotel combines old-fashioned character with modern convenience. Our dedicated staff takes pride in making every guest feel at home, ensuring your stay is both memorable and meaningful.
Come experience the charm, comfort, and convenience of a true Ocean City tradition.
Flagship Oceanfront Hotel: Family-friendly fun at the beach!
The Flagship Oceanfront Hotel is your go-to destination for a classic Ocean City beach vacation. With a warm, welcoming atmosphere and amenities designed for all ages, it’s the perfect place for families to unwind and reconnect. Kids will love the playground courtyard, while adults can relax by the oceanfront pool or enjoy a bite and a drink at the poolside bar & grill. With picnic areas, shuffleboard, and direct beach access, every day at the Flagship is filled with sun, smiles, and seaside memories.
Dunes Court: Nostalgic charm meets beach and boardwalk convenience.
Looking for a beachside stay that blends vintage charm with today’s conveniences? Welcome to Dunes Court—an inviting, budget-friendly destination perfect for families and friends looking to enjoy Ocean City in style. Our classic 3-story motel channels a fun 1960s coastal vibe while offering updated amenities that make every stay easy and comfortable.
Nestled just off the Boardwalk and Atlantic Ocean on Baltimore Avenue, Dunes Court is just steps from the beach, local attractions, unique shops, and great dining. You’ll find us at 2700 Baltimore Ave.—a half block from the sand and perfectly positioned for all your Ocean City adventures
Whether you’re here for a weekend escape or a longer summer stay, Dunes Court offers the charm of the past with the comforts of today—all in an unbeatable location.
When it comes to Ocean City boardwalk hotels, Dunes Suites stands out as the perfect spot for your next family getaway. Located right along the beach, our spacious suites offer sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and private balconies where you can sip your morning coffee to the sound of the surf.
Feel right at home from the moment you arrive. Each suite is thoughtfully designed with a full-size kitchen and all the essentials you need for a relaxed, self-catered vacation. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a weeklong retreat, Dunes Suites blends the ease of beachfront living with the comfort of a true home away from home.
For those seeking a relaxed and convenient Ocean City escape, the Seabonay Motel offers the perfect blend of comfort and location. Situated directly on the ocean and just one block from the end of the iconic Ocean City Boardwalk, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy the best of the beach without the crowds.
Spend your days lounging on the beach—complete with umbrella and chair service—or cool off with a swim in our outdoor pool. With restaurants, shops, and amusements all within walking distance, and the city bus-service nearby for easy access, everything you need is right at your fingertips.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or a full summer getaway, Seabonay Motel makes beachside simplicity feel just right.
Get ready to celebrate at Springfest 2025! From April 24-27, this beloved festival brings four days of live music, incredible shopping, delicious food, and exciting activities—all with FREE admission. There are over 30 free bands as well as ticked performances for entertainment, unique artisan vendors, and special 150th-anniversary celebrations. Mark your calendar and join us for a can’t-miss weekend!
With the inlet lot being closed for this event, parking will be sure to fill up fast. If you’re staying at one of our hotels, consider using the city’s bus service or even taking a stroll down the boardwalk to Springfest. The event is rain or shine, so remember to dress for the conditions!
Thursday: STRANGELOVE The Depeche Mode Experience 7pm
Friday: Hunter Hayes 7pm
Saturday: The Legendary Wailers feat. Junior Marvin & Passafire 6pm
Shopping, Vendors, & Food!
One of the best reasons to come to Springfest is walking through all the tents of artisans and merchants! You can find 8 tents featuring over 200 vendors each, with everything from jewelry and garden sculptures to dog accessories and bath products.
Another favorite reason you’ll find locals and tourists alike at Springfest has to be the food! You can find anything from fresh seafood, Korean and Asian specialties, pit beef, Philly cheesesteaks, gourmet sausages, deep-fried candy bars, soft pretzels, and so much more! Enjoy onsite, or go browsing for things to take home for later! Vendors will also be on-site selling jams, Amish goods, seasonings, olive oils, and other delicious treats.
Other Fun Can’t-Miss Things at Springfest 2025!
Experience a variety of events including a sea glass workshop, yoga on the beach, outdoor games, and a fun scavenger hunt. In celebration of Ocean City’s 150th anniversary, enjoy a stunning flower wall, hands-on workshops, and the 150th Walk of Years showcasing historic photos and exhibits. You also don’t want to miss the OC Stars performance, which is one of Springfest’s annual traditions.
Country Calling is back for year two and its looking and better than ever! The Country Calling Festival is set to return to Ocean City, Maryland, from October 3 to 5, 2025. This event has moved to a three-day event over two days last year and will feature over 25 country artists. These artists will performing across three stages: two on the beach and one along the boardwalk. Who can forget last year’s amazing weather as country’s top artist graced the stage.
This year’s lineup includes renowned artists such as Carrie Underwood, Brooks & Dunn, Luke Bryan, Jordan Davis, Gabby Barrett, and closing out the show on Sunday is Luke Combs.
Presale tickets will be available starting at 10 a.m. on Friday, March 28, 2025. For more details on ticket options and to sign up for the presale, visit the official festival website.
In addition to the musical performances, attendees can enjoy offerings from boardwalk businesses within the festival area, including restaurants, bars, and variety shops. The festival grounds also encompass Jolly Roger at the Pier, featuring amusement park rides and games.
Now’s the time to reserve your hotel reservations, with several great opportunities available close to the venue. Just steps from the entrance gates, check out the Oceanic Motel at the Inlet and the Plim Plaza Hotel on Second Street. Further down along the boardwalk, check out the Harrison Hall hotel and Courtyard by Marriott hotel on 15th street. Keep walking down the boardwalk and you’ll find the Quality Inn Boardwalk on 16th street and the Holiday Inn & Suites on 17th street. Before leaving the boardwalk, you will find the Flagship Hotel on 26th street, Dune Suites, Dunes Court and the Seabonay on 27th street. All are perfect locations for concert attendees in Ocean City, Maryland!
For the latest updates and additional information, refer to the official website, CountryCallingFestival.com
Big news today for country music fans! Promoters announced today that the festival will be a three day event, adding an extra day over last year. The 2025 festival is scheduled for October 3-5, 2025. While the lineup for 2025 has not yet been announced, attendees can expect a similar format with multiple stages and a diverse selection of country artists.
The Country Calling Festival is an annual country music event held in Ocean City, Maryland. The inaugural festival took place on October 4-5, 2024, featuring over 25 artists performing across three stages—two on the beach and one along the boardwalk.
Now’s the time to reserve your hotel reservations, with several great opportunities available close to the venue. Just steps from the entrance gates, check out the Oceanic Motel at the Inlet and the Plim Plaza Hotel on Second Street. Further down along the boardwalk, check out the Harrison Hall hotel and Courtyard by Marriott hotel on 15th street. Keep walking down the boardwalk and you’ll find the Quality Inn Boardwalk on 16th street and the Holiday Inn & Suites on 17th street. Before leaving the boardwalk, you will find the Flagship Hotel on 26th street, Dune Suites, Dunes Court and the Seabonay on 27th street. All are perfect locations for concert attendees in Ocean City, Maryland! For more information on the concert, please visit CountryCallingFestival.com.
The 27th annual Endless Summer Cruisin’ brought the streets of Ocean City, Maryland, alive once again with the roar of classic cars and the enthusiasm of auto enthusiasts from all over. This year’s event featured a fantastic lineup of over 3,200 cruisers, including vintage classics, hot rods, and custom builds, shining brightly under the October sun.
Whether you cruised down Coastal Highway or just enjoyed the sights, the event offered plenty of opportunities for fun and entertainment. For those who couldn’t make it this year, don’t worry—next year promises even more excitement with OC Cruisin’ 2025, scheduled for May 1-4, and Endless Summer Cruisin’ 2025 on October 9-12. Be sure to mark your calendars!
Here are some photos of the incredible rides that graced this year’s event, giving you a reason to plan your visit next year. Be sure to visit this page to book your stay in advance!
Going to Oceans Calling or Country’s Calling in Ocean City, Maryland?? Then you try out these drink specials at Marlin Moon, instead the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel on 33rd street.
Ocean City, Maryland – (September 18, 2024): The Town of Ocean City and its Special Events Division have announced a date change for the Springfest. The four-day festival, which is celebrating its 34th anniversary in 2025, is traditionally held in the first week of May. In 2025, the event will move to an earlier time slot, taking place from April 24-27, 2025.
“As our event calendar continues to evolve and we strive to create the best possible experiences for residents and visitors, we recognized the opportunity to shift the dates,” said Ocean City Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo. “We believe moving the event one week earlier will better align with the town’s overall schedule, and we’re confident it will allow us to continue delivering a fantastic experience.”
Special Events Director Frank Miller echoed the Perlozzo’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of this change for the event’s long-term success. “We’ve always strived to deliver top-tier events, and this adjustment allows us to reimagine our current event to bring an even better event to the town next April,” said Miller. “We are grateful to our community and participants for their understanding as we work to enhance the experience for everyone involved.”
The event will retain its usual fan-favorite features, including concerts, delicious Eastern Shore delicacies, and the best craft vendors on the East Coast. More details about the event will be released as the event draws near. “The new dates bring excitement and opportunity to an event that has kicked off our season each year,” Miller continued. “We look forward to offering the tradition that our residents and visitors love while sprinkling in the excitement of a new date and new opportunity.”
Ocean City, Maryland – (September 17, 2024): In a joint announcement, the Town of Ocean City and the producers of the popular Cruisin’ Ocean City event revealed that the event is moving from its previously planned dates. The event, scheduled for mid-May, will move to May 1-4, 2025.
“As our shoulder seasons continue to evolve, we have begun to look closely at our event calendar, and we have made adjustments that we think will benefit our events and our community,” commented Ocean City’s director of tourism and business development, Tom Perlozzo. “After three decades, Cruisin’ Ocean City has built a long-standing relationship with our businesses, residents, and visitors. Although change can be challenging, we believe the new event dates will greatly benefit the event’s overall success.”
Along with the adjustment to the Cruisin’ Ocean City event, the Town of Ocean City is also announcing a date change for the annual Springfest celebration, which will now take place April 24-27, 2025. “Realigning the dates for both Springfest and Cruisin’ Ocean City gives us a unique opportunity to create a more cohesive festival experience for our guests,” added Perlozzo. “We’re excited to see these signature events grow together and draw even more visitors to Ocean City in the spring.”
According to event promoters, this change will take work, but it will prove to be the best option for the event to grow in the future. “As producers of the event, providing continuity in succeeding years is of utmost importance,” commented Meredith Herbert of Special Event Productions. “With that in mind, changing the dates for 2025 allowed us to solidify the future dates for 2026 and 2027.”
According to Herbert, the new dates will eventually give the event full use of the Roland E. Powell Convention Center’s Exhibit Halls space, which they have not had in previous years. Further, although the dates will be new, the event will feature the same format as other Cruisin’ years, including Boardwalk Parades, a kickoff concert night, and satellite car shows throughout the community.
“We are excited to return to the first week in May of 2025, which historically is the weekend that hosted the first Cruisin’ Ocean City,” Herbert said. “Regardless of the date, we are confident the event will provide the same amazing experience our guests have grown to love over the last 34 years.”
Those currently registered for the event who cannot attend the new dates can request a refund or transfer prior to March 1, 2025. Please send an email to infoevent@specialeventpro.com. We apologize for any inconvenience and thank you for your understanding and continued support. Please note that Endless Summer Cruisin’ 2024 will be held in the coming weeks, October 10-13, 2024, and we look forward to seeing everyone soon!
**The previous information has been provided to us by the Town of Ocean City**
This year marks the exciting debut of the Country Calling Music Festival in Ocean City, MD! While this is the festival’s first year, its counterpart, Oceans Calling, attracts a staggering 50,000 people each day. With such large crowds, finding transportation or, worse, parking can be a major challenge. But don’t let that stress get in the way of your fun.
One simple solution? Stay at a hotel within walking distance from the festival. Not only will you skip the hassle of traffic, but you’ll also enjoy the luxury of strolling to and from the event with ease. Here are some conveniently located hotels that will keep you close to the action:
Distance from the festival: 0.3 miles Located just a short walk from the festival grounds, this motel offers the ultimate convenience if you want to be right in the thick of things.
Distance from the festival: 0.6 miles A little farther but still well within walking distance, Plim Plaza Hotel offers a comfortable stay with great amenities. With its prime location on the boardwalk, you’ll be close to not only the festival but also the beach and local restaurants.
Distance from the festival: 1.5 miles For those who don’t mind a slightly longer walk, Harrison Hall is a great choice. Set along the boardwalk, this historic hotel gives you the best of both worlds: proximity to the festival and a beachfront stay.
Distance from the festival: 1.6 miles If you prefer a full-service hotel with a range of amenities, this is a fantastic choice. When your not at the festival you can enjoy the pools, fitness center, or the restaurant.
With so many hotel options nearby, attending the first-ever Country Calling Festival in Ocean City couldn’t be easier. Whether you want a quick walk from your room to the festival or a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, these accommodations will ensure you’re close to all the excitement!
So, book your stay now and get ready to enjoy a weekend full of country music, good vibes, and the beauty of Ocean City!
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Our collection of independent hotels are officially reopened for the 2025 season, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome you back. Whether you’re craving a coastal escape, a charming boardwalk retreat, or a scenic weekend by the water, our unique properties are ready to make your stay exceptional. Get ready for fresh experiences, warm hospitality, and all the little touches that make independent travel feel like home. Let the 2025 season begin!
