
Homer Gudelsky Park Stinky Beach
A charming, small bay beach offering calm waters perfect for toddlers and dogs, with opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the limited parking

Homer Gudelsky Park Stinky Beach
Best Time
Beat the limited parking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, small bay beach offering calm waters perfect for toddlers and dogs, with opportunities for wildlife spotting.
"Adorable but tiny. Only water access down the way a bit, otherwise blocked by a rock barrier. Super cute, though."
🚗 Parking is a Premium
Only 5 spots! Arrive super early or consider parking on a nearby residential street for a fee.
🐾 Pet Paradise
This beach is very dog-friendly, perfect for tiring out your canine companions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Calm Bay Waters
Bay side of Homer Gudelsky Park
Gentle waves perfect for toddlers and dogs to splash and play safely. A peaceful alternative to the ocean.

Dog-Friendly Fun
Entire beach area
Bring your furry friends! This beach is a great spot for dogs to swim and explore the shallow waters.

Wildlife Spotting
Shallow bay waters
Keep an eye out for fish and even manta rays in the shallows. A surprising natural encounter.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the 'Stinky' Charm
Bay vs. Ocean: Know Your Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is a Premium
Only 5 spots! Arrive super early or consider parking on a nearby residential street for a fee.
🐾 Pet Paradise
This beach is very dog-friendly, perfect for tiring out your canine companions.
👶 Toddler-Approved
Calm bay waters make it ideal for little ones who dislike ocean waves.
🎣 Fishing Hotspot
A good spot for fishing, with a tackle shop conveniently close by.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is a Premium
Only 5 spots! Arrive super early or consider parking on a nearby residential street for a fee.
🐾 Pet Paradise
This beach is very dog-friendly, perfect for tiring out your canine companions.
👶 Toddler-Approved
Calm bay waters make it ideal for little ones who dislike ocean waves.
🎣 Fishing Hotspot
A good spot for fishing, with a tackle shop conveniently close by.
📍 Hard to Find?
It can be tricky to locate. Look for the park entrance and follow signs for bay access.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Homer Gudelsky Park's Stinky Beach is praised as a charming, quiet bay-side escape, particularly loved for its calm waters ideal for toddlers and dogs. While its small size and extremely limited parking are noted drawbacks, visitors appreciate the opportunity for wildlife spotting and a more relaxed beach experience.
"Cute small beach, with a small spot that has access to the water. You can put sun tents up or chairs. Dog friendly; i had brought my kitten with me. The parkinglot is only 5 spaces tho"
Hiro Atlas
"Nice little beach to avoid a crowd for a bit and watch the Bayside action."
Jesse Kent
"Adorable but tiny. Only water access down the way a bit, otherwise blocked by a rock barrier. Super cute, though."
Stephen Steinberg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Finding Stinky Beach can be a bit of a treasure hunt! Look for Homer Gudelsky Park and then follow signs for bay access. Parking is extremely limited, with only about 5 spots available. Some residents across from the park may offer paid parking in their driveways.
Public transportation options directly to Stinky Beach are not widely advertised. Given the limited parking, consider ride-sharing services or biking if you're staying nearby.
For families, arriving very early is key to securing one of the few parking spots. Alternatively, explore ride-sharing or see if a local offers driveway parking. The calm bay waters are a big plus for kids.
The beach itself is a natural area, so while you can access it from the park, navigating sandy terrain with a stroller might be challenging. Consider a carrier for very young children.
No, Stinky Beach is exclusively a bay-side beach. Access to the ocean is separate and typically involves different parks or beach areas in Ocean City.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no direct entrance fee for Stinky Beach itself. However, parking can be an issue, and some residents may charge for parking in their driveways, typically around $10.
As a public park and beach area, Stinky Beach is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no official posted hours, but it's best to visit when there's natural light for safety and enjoyment.
No advance booking is required for Stinky Beach. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis for parking and beach access.
Generally, you can bring standard beach items like chairs and sun tents. Keep in mind it's a natural area, so be mindful of leaving no trace. Dogs are welcome.
Stinky Beach is known for being a smaller, less crowded alternative to the main ocean beaches. However, due to limited parking, it can feel full quickly on busy days.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Stinky Beach is perfect for relaxing, sunbathing, and letting dogs swim. You can also enjoy watching the bay's activity, fishing, and observing local wildlife like fish and manta rays.
Yes, the bay waters are calm and shallow, making it excellent for swimming, especially for toddlers and those who prefer gentle water.
Specific restroom facilities directly at Stinky Beach are not widely mentioned. It's advisable to use facilities at Homer Gudelsky Park or plan accordingly.
Visitors have reported seeing various fish and even manta rays in the shallow waters. There's also a chance of encountering other local wildlife in the surrounding bushes.
While it's a lovely spot for a few hours of relaxation, its small size and limited amenities might make it less ideal for a full-day excursion compared to larger beach destinations. It's great for a quick outing.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food vendors or restaurants directly at Stinky Beach. It's a natural park area, so it's recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks or dine at nearby establishments in Ocean City.
Picnicking is a great idea for Stinky Beach! Pack your own food and enjoy a meal with a view of the bay. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Ocean City has numerous seafood restaurants. For recommendations, check local guides or ask residents for their favorite spots, as Stinky Beach itself lacks dining options.
You'll need to drive a short distance to find grocery stores in Ocean City for picnic supplies. Plan your shopping trip before heading to the beach.
Regulations regarding alcohol on public beaches can vary. It's best to check local ordinances for Ocean City, Maryland, before bringing any alcoholic beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the serene bay views, the calm water, and any wildlife you spot. It's also a charming spot for candid shots of pets and children enjoying the water.
While not directly facing west, the bay side can offer beautiful light and reflections, especially in the late afternoon. The calm water provides a lovely backdrop.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. This also coincides with better parking availability.
Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and local park rules. It's advisable to check current regulations before flying a drone in the area.
The charm of Stinky Beach lies in its natural beauty and quiet atmosphere rather than specific landmarks. Focus on the serene bay and the interactions of people and pets with the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Key tip: Arrive very early to secure one of the limited parking spots. If parking is an issue, consider a ride-share. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as there are no concessions on-site. It's a great spot for a relaxed, low-key beach outing.
🐶 Pet Owners
Remember that parking is extremely limited, so plan your visit accordingly. Bring water for your pets, especially on warm days. It’s a wonderful spot for a quick outing to let your dog enjoy the water.
🎣 Anglers and Nature Enthusiasts
It's a quieter alternative for those seeking a more natural and less crowded experience. The calm waters also make it interesting for observing marine life up close.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Parking Puzzle
Pro Tip: If you're visiting with a group, consider carpooling to maximize your chances of finding a spot together. Alternatively, explore the possibility of parking further away and taking a short walk, though this might be less convenient with beach gear.
The Bay Beach Advantage for Families and Pets
This calm environment also makes it a paradise for pet owners. Dogs can swim and play in the water without the same safety concerns as on the ocean side. Many reviewers highlight how much their dogs enjoyed the opportunity to swim and explore the shoreline. It's a great place to tire out your furry friends in a controlled and enjoyable setting.
Discovering the Unexpected Wildlife
Beyond the water, the surrounding natural areas can also be a point of interest. Keep an eye out for local birdlife and other small creatures that inhabit the coastal vegetation. It’s a reminder of the diverse ecosystem present in the Ocean City area, even in seemingly small beach spots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit