There's a certain charm to The Barefoot Mailman, a simple four-story motel with iron-fenced balconies overlooking a seasonal outdoor pool. Like so many hotels, the style isn't exactly the most notable -- expect to see plenty of homey accents, like a small reception area packed full of details like wallpaper borders and beachy furniture, plus plenty of tourist information and even Barefoot Mailman paraphernalia. The hotel draws lots of repeat guests, in part for its excellent location just one block from the ocean. The property is popular among families, and dogs are treated particularly well here: They're offered treats upon check-in and there is a dog walking area around the exterior of the hotel.  

It's hard to beat this hotel's location, as it sits just one block away from Ocean City's beach. There are all manner of hotels in any direction, and plenty of restaurants within a five to 10-minute walk. The Jolly Roger Amusement Park -- a popular pay-as-you-go family attraction -- is also a 10-minute walk from the hotel, as is the Roland E. Powell Convention Center. The Coastal Highway is just a half-block away in the other direction, while Ocean City's boardwalk is a five-minute drive from the hotel. It's a 20-minute drive to Assateague Island National Seashore, an undeveloped swath of shore that's home to wild ponies. Both the Baltimore and Philadelphia airports are about two-and-a-half hours away by car.

There are just 36 rooms at this hotel and while they are clean and homey, the overall look is dated. Expect to see floral-pattern bedspreads, heavy curtains, and mid-tone cherry furniture that's a bit worn plus yellow wallpaper and green pattern carpets. Still, beds are comfortable and all rooms come with mini-fridges, microwaves, coffeemakers, ironing facilities, and modern flat-screen TVs. Rooms also have private balconies, and some on higher-level floors have ocean views in the distance. Efficiency Rooms offer burners as well as dishes and utensils. All rooms have similar straightforward bathrooms with shower/tub combos and acrylic surrounds, faux-marble sinks, and tile floors. We did spots some rust on metal fixtures like door hinges and curtain rods.

This motel has most of the standard features for a budget property in the area, including an outdoor pool. It's surrounded by a well-kept deck and several lounge chairs. There is no dining area or breakfast served at the hotel but guests have access to facilities and the hotel’s sister property down the street, Castle in the Sand. Wi-Fi is free in rooms and throughout the property, and free parking is available. Pets are allowed to be unattended in rooms and there's a designated dog walking area, though there are nightly fees.