New Beach Regulations Bring Joy Within the Surfing Community

Ocean City surfers should have a better chance of catching waves this summer following a change to the resort’s southern surf beach parameters. This is in a bid to accommodate the growing popularity of the sport and enhance the overall beach experience. The authorities have announced that surfing will now be permitted throughout the day. This is even while lifeguards are on duty.

With the expansion of surfing opportunities and the positive impact it is expected to have on the local economy, one question arises. As surfers are granted more freedom to ride the waves throughout the day, will it lead to a more evenly distributed surfing crowd along the southern surf beach? As summer approaches, all eyes are on Ocean City to see how this change will transform the surfing scene and enhance the overall beach atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.

Ocean City Adopts Changes to the Surfing Zone: More Beach Spaces and Swimming Possibilities

Surfers are permitted to catch waves in specified surfing zones from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. seven days a week, from Memorial Day to Sunfest (end of September). They have exclusive access to two weekday alternating surfing beaches plus a third spot close to the inlet. Since certain city blocks won’t host surfing beaches for more than 20 years, the rotation method ensures equity and diversity.

The surfing ban is occasionally modified by bad weather, enabling surfers to ride waves on any beach as long as they keep a safe distance from non-surfers. With authorized surf beach facilitators (SBFs) overseeing smooth operations and instructing beachgoers about surfing restrictions, the beach patrol’s attentive efforts are focused on safety.

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The dedication to safety at Ocean City extends to the issuance of special event licenses for activities like surfing competitions, where swimming and wading are prohibited to ensure a pleasant experience. Representatives of the Eastern Surfing Association requested revisions to the rules a few months ago. That’s according to City Manager Terry McGean, as staff confers with council members, the mayor, and hotel owners. They also discussed with beach shop owners and Beach Patrol representatives that the surfing zone in Ocean City is expanding.

“It’s much easier to give the beach back to the general public than to take it away,” City Manager Terry McGean said of the reason for the suggestion. The recommendation, which provides a broader southern surfing beach, adjusts its width based on surfing demand. It was approved by the council with the exception of one member who was not present, according to OC Today.

Be aware of the guidelines before visiting Ocean City’s beaches

From beach rules to horseback riding and pet regulations, Ocean City offers a range of unique guidelines. No beach tags are required and the beach is open to the public from 6 am to 10 pm. Alcoholic beverages, grills, excessive noise, and ball playing have their restrictions. Surfing is allowed in designated areas, while lifeguards ensure safety from 10 am to 5:30 pm. Horseback riding permits are available for winter and early spring. Pets are welcome on the beach and boardwalk, from October 1st to April 30th.

Visit your neighborhood surf shop or beach patrol website to stay up to date on your daily surfing beach rotation. It’s important to keep in mind that visiting Ocean City’s surf beach is a privilege. Enjoy the thrills of the ocean while keeping safety first.

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