Surprise Announcement – Blackbeard’s Cave Downsizing, Selling Park Equipment

A surprise Wednesday announcement is marking a transition for a family favorite Ocean County spot for fun.

Blackbeard's Cave Family Entertainment Center in Bayville announced that they will be going through a pretty big transition, closing a large part of the park, and selling off equipment.

The family fun destination has stood on Route 9 in Bayville for decades, with everything from mini golf, to batting cages, carnival-style rides, and more.

The Wednesday morning announcement that was posted to Facebook said that there have been a number of factors in the decision to downsize, including the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.

The post points out that a large part of the property is leased, but that they still plan to transition part of the park to a smaller section of the land that they own.

To go along with the downsizing, Blackbeard's officials said that they'll be selling parts, equipment, and trailers starting next week.

While the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic contributed to the decision, the Facebook post notes that things have been tough for some time:

Blackbeard’s Cave has had a rough couple of years financially, failing equipment, insanely high maintenance costs, taxes, and rent on the portion of the park that is leased.

The announcement specifically points out that they will not be closing for good, though, with a smaller park planned for the 2021 outdoor activity season.

It also notes that their annual Halloween attraction, "Dark Carnival", will go on as planned starting on October 2nd.

Here's the full announcement from the Blackbeard's Cave Family Entertainment Center Facebook page: