It’s the third week in August and the Back-to-School commercials are serving as a grim reminder that summer is winding down. September and Labor Day Weekend may be slowly creeping in, but the good news is that there is still plenty of time to tackle any lingering items on that Summer 2015 To-Do List that you longingly drafted back in the early spring when the snow was melting. We’ll call it our Summer Bucket List…you know, that list of activities you vowed to do this summer, be it trying a new restaurant, going parasailing for the first time, or taking surfing lessons. Now is the perfect time to make the most of your summer by completing your own summer bucket list. Here are a few from our own list to get you moving:
1. Bonfire at Assateague
Bonfires at Assateague are definitely one of our favorite summertime activities, which is why it makes our ‘must-do’ list every year. While it may seem like a hassle to wrangle up some firewood, pack up a cooler of snacks, grab family and friends and head out to our National Park, it’s actually quite simple and accessible. Just a short drive from Berlin and Ocean City, the beaches at Assateague clear out around sunset, leaving you plenty of space to spread out, set up a fire, and roast hot dogs and marshmallows to your heart’s content. What’s more, the stargazing is astounding, especially if you hail from a big city. Of course we would be remiss if we didn’t remind you to clean up after yourselves and to leave the wildlife (especially the ponies) alone. After all, you’re guests in their home.
2. OC Jetovator and Hoverboard Flights
For the adventurous type, a Summer Bucket List isn’t complete without tackling a new water sport like the OC Jetovator or the Hoverboard. The water is warm and welcoming this time of year, with plenty of sunny days ahead of you so there really is no better time than now to book your flight on the Jetovator, the Hoverboard, or both!
3. All You Can Eat Crab Feast
Summer is synonymous with crab feasts here in Maryland, so you simply cannot go through an entire summer without partaking in at least one all-you-can-eat crab feast at your favorite local crab house. The options are seemingly endless when it comes to picking a restaurant, but we’re partial to Belly Buster and Hooper’s in Ocean City, The Red Roost in Salisbury, Old Mill Crab House in Delmar, and Claws Seafood House in Rehoboth. The key is to load up on Old Bay, have a frosty beverage within arms reach, and secure plenty of portions of butter and apple cider vinegar for dipping.
4. Explore the Shore
All year long we make it our personal mission to explore the shore, but summertime is particularly ideal for exploring local towns and discovering new places. Recently, we made at day trip to Crisfield and we can’t wait to get back. Meeting new people, enjoying local cuisine, uncovering new shopping spots, and soaking up the local flavor are just a few of our favorite aspects of exploring nearby towns. Up next on our radar are Smith Island, MD and Lewes, DE!
5. Fishing Adventures
With easy access to the bays and ocean, it’s no wonder so many locals and visitors enjoy fishing during the summer months. The White Marlin Open was definitely a highlight for 2015, but why not get out on the water and try your own hand at a little fishing. In Ocean City, there’s the Oceanic Fishing Pier, where you can fish from the pier while enjoying the scenic views of the bay, inlet, and Assateague. Or opt for a day out on the boat with a fishing trip aboard the Judith M. Sailing daily, the Judith M fishes many species including Black Sea Bass and Tog, Jacks,Triggerfish, Trout, Flounder, Croakers, Blues, and many more.
6. Kayaking and Canoeing the Pocomoke River
Even on the hottest of days we love any excuse to get outside. Just think of those dark, cold days that keep you trapped inside in January and February! One of our summer bucket list items this year was taking a paddling adventure through the calm, winding trails of the Pocomoke River. Rent a kayak or a canoe for a few hours and enjoy all that nature has to offer. It’s fun for all ages, provides a great workout, and helps you leave any stress back home where it belongs.
7. Riding the Ferris Wheel
The Ferris Wheel at the Pier along the Ocean City boardwalk is iconic, and as such, is a mandatory part of any summer plans. Even if you’ve lived in or around Ocean City your entire life, you should take a ride on the Ferris Wheel at least once every summer. The outstanding views, the sounds of the nearby games and rides, and the smell of the ocean are all what makes the classic summer ride a perfect summer tradition.
8. Testing out the New Cart Coaster
We were lucky enough to take a ride on new Cart Coaster at Jolly Roger’s Speedworld earlier this year, but if you haven’t had a chance to test the new track yourselves, get moving! The Today Show featured the ride recently, spotlighting the park’s latest addition. Challenge your friends and family around the course and see who can reach the finish line first.
9. Bethany Bandstand
Bethany Beach offers a little something for everyone in the summer months, with fantastic food, terrific shopping, and pristine beaches. One of our favorite reasons to head to Bethany however is for their summer concert series at the Bethany Bandstand. Located at the end of Garfield Parkway, the Bandstand hosts a wide variety of performances throughout the summer, with plenty of shows still left to enjoy. To boot, the shows are free!
10. Thrasher’s French Fries
This one is a no-brainer. If you haven’t had a bucket of french fries from Thrasher’s this summer, you have definitely missed the boat on the epitome of summer must-haves. It’s the iconic, summer, staple food of the boardwalk. While the lines can be lengthy at times, it’s well worth it once you nab that warm bucket of fries dripping with vinegar. It’s the true taste of summer at the beach.
