We’re sailing daily and welcoming all methods of travel – vehicles, foot passengers and bicycles. We’re back to normal operations, so come join us aboard the vessel, grab a coffee or breakfast from Lewes Coffee Company, stop in for lunch or dinner in the Lewes Terminal, or grab a bite to go in the Cape May terminal. Masks are no longer required indoors or outdoors, nor are they required inside the terminals. Please note that reservations are required. We look forward to welcoming you aboard!
Please check CMLF.com for additional departures times. Sailing 365 days a year!
5 of the Most Instagram-Worthy Sights and Landmarks in the Delaware Beaches
By Arielle Patterson
During your trip to the Delaware Beaches, chances are you’ll be taking tons of pictures. These photos will give your family and friends a mere glimpse into your Delaware Beaches vacation. With so many remarkable and historic attractions and fun-filled activities, you’ll want to find the best backdrop for scenic selfies and group pics. So, break out your camera or cell phone and get ready to explore the Delaware Beach’s picture-perfect sights & landmarks.
1. Fenwick Island Lighthouse
The Fenwick Island Lighthouse was originally constructed in 1858 in an area that was once incredibly isolated. Today, the lighthouse is situated right at the Delaware-Maryland state line amid businesses and homes. Snap a few photos in front of the historic 87-foot-tall light house and, while you’re there, view the Transpeninsular Stone that marks the state line.
2. Gordons Pond Beach
Wide and unobstructed, Gordons Pond Beach at Cape Henlopen State Park is the perfect place for picturesque sunrise and sunset views. While you’re there, take some photos standing by the historic WWII Fire Control towers right on the beach.
3. Indian River Inlet Bridge
If you’re cruising along Coastal Highway, just north of the Indian River Inlet, pull off for a picture-perfect view of the Indian River Inlet Bridge. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Rehoboth and Indian River Bays, the bridge provides scenic photos at all times of day. At night, catch the bridge illuminated with blue and white lights.
4. Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk
The mile-long Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk is filled with photo opportunities. Take a ride on one of the old-fashioned amusements for a bird’s-eye view of the boardwalk. Or have a photo shoot at one of the boardwalk’s other attractions and shops. Grab an ice cream cone and make the ocean the backdrop for the perfect beach summer photo.
5. The Lightship Overfalls (Photo at top of page)
The Lightship Overfalls was the last lightship built for the U.S. Lighthouse Service, commissioned in 1938. Today, the historic lightship is docked along the canal in Lewes. Take your photo in front of this historic landmark—one of only 17 remaining ships and one of the few still open for public tours.
Curated specifically to complement your dockside relaxation. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple sipper, a hard-hitting party starter or an easy mocktail, these dockside lemonades are sure to get the job done and persuade you to craft another round.
Tropical Rum-onade (Photo above) • 2 oz pineapple coconut rum • 1 oz pineapple juice • 1 oz lemon-lime soda • 4 oz lemonade • Sugar for rim (garnish) • Lemon juice (garnish) • Mint (garnish) Sugar your rim using fresh lemon juice (optional). Combine the pineapple coconut rum, pineapple juice, lemon-lime soda and lemonade over ice and mix. Sip away!
Peachy Keen Arnold Palmer • 1 oz bourbon • 1 oz peach liqueur • Splash of simple syrup • 3 oz tea (sweet or unsweet) • 3 oz lemonade • Fresh peaches (sliced) • Mint (garnish) Combine the tea, lemonade, simple syrup, bourbon and peach liquor in a glass over ice and stir. Toss in as many peach slices as desired. Bottoms up!
Wave Catcher • 1 oz vodka • 1 oz blue curaçao • 4 oz lemonade • 2 cups crushed ice • Maraschino cherry (garnish) • 1 lemon (sliced for garnish) Shake your ingredients and 1 cup of crushed ice. Strain and add the other cup of crushed ice. Garnish with your maraschino cherry. Sip and relax!
Strawberry Lemonade Tequila Sipper • 2 oz tequila • ½ oz Cointreau • 5 oz strawberry lemonade • Fresh strawberries (garnish) • 1 lemon (sliced for garnish) • mint (garnish) Use the lime juice to salt the rim of your glass. Shake the tequila, Cointreau and strawberry lemonade and strain over ice. Garnish with a fresh strawberry, lemon wedge and mint. Blend ingredients to turn your sipper into a slushie!
Lemonade Sangria Mocktail • 4 oz lemonade • 2 oz club soda • 2 oz white grape juice • 1 orange (sliced) • Fresh strawberries (sliced) • Fresh peached (sliced) • Mint (garnish) Pour your lemonade, club soda and grape juice over ice and stir. Add in as much fruit as desired. Cheers!
hen Delaware Beaches are mentioned, Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach, Dewey Beach and Lewes are typically the first towns that come to mind. While this is not a surprise, knowing their popularity with vacationers, the beach resort’s surrounding areas also have noteworthy attractions not to be overlooked.
Sussex County, the home of the Delaware Beaches, and Kent County, to the north, are full of interesting places to visit. An afternoon to one or a handful of their towns can be a fun, mini getaway in and of itself where visitors can unplug and set off on a road trip on the backroads through the state. Some of these towns are just several miles outside of the shores, where there are completely different landscapes and architecture.
From terrific restaurants and breweries to local shops and museums, the greater area has much to offer visitors exploring the region. Let’s get to know some of the neighboring towns of the Delaware Beaches.
Milton
Located along the Broadkill River, this is a quaint historic town with Victorian homes in a mostly rural setting. Beer enthusiasts will want to check out Dogfish Head Brewery, one of the town’s hotspots, which was the first craft brewery in the state of Delaware. Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge and Edward H. McCabe Nature Preserve provide opportunities to get out into nature, as does taking a tour of a local lavender farm. History buffs will enjoy viewing the exhibits at Milton Historical Society Museum.
Georgetown
Centrally located in Sussex County, this town takes great pride in its well-rounded community. It hosts Return Day, a unique holiday for the state of Delaware held on the Thursday after Election Day in November, at the town center’s “The Circle.” This is a beautiful area including a park and fountain and is listed in the National Historic Record. For a unique cultural experience, check out the Marvel Carriage Museum’s collection of antique carriages and the restored buildings on its property.
Laurel
This historic small town is surrounded by natural beauty. Broad Creek runs through Laurel and the area also has a number of eye-catching lakes and ponds. Not-to-be-missed is Trap Pond State Park, which is an impressive recreational playground with hiking and biking trails, kayaking and canoeing, bird watching opportunities and more. Learn about the town’s history at the Laurel Heritage Museum, in the old Laurel Train Station, and view its distinctive Waller Photographic Collection.
Delmar
On the Delaware-Maryland border, Delmar is known as “The Little Town Too Big for One State.” Along Route 54 stop by the Middle Point – Mason Dixon Marker, a roadside attraction marking where surveyors Mason and Dixon started their historic survey resulting in the dividing line between the northern and southern states of our country. Delmar’s proximity to Salisbury, Maryland also provides the area many “big city” attractions close by.
Millville
This small town, whose motto is “A Beautiful Way of Life,” is just several miles outside of Bethany Beach but feels many miles from the beach crowds. Some of its family-friendly activities in town include a theatre with magic and live entertainment, and a new facility with mini golf and arcade.
Milford
Located in Kent and Sussex counties, this quaint town is all about local. Head downtown and stroll around Riverwalk and enjoy its views of the Mispillion River. Grabbing a great meal and checking out the art scene are also among the many things to do here. Another highlight is Abbotts Mill Nature Center, on Milford Millponds Nature Preserve, with scenic trails, a historic working gristmill and a handicap-accessible boardwalk.
Harrington
Take a road trip north to Harrington, located in Kent County, and discover Harrington Raceway & Casino. Try one of Harrington’s excellent dining options or learn about the area’s history at one of its interesting museums. And did you know Harrington plays host to Delaware’s State Fair?
If you’re looking for different scenery and to learn something new, carve out some time for exploring more of Delaware!
Studies show learning a new skill increases white matter in your brain and prevents dementia. But best of all, it’s fun! Sailing, surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, skim boarding—the beach offers endless opportunities to make you smarter.
2. Join a Guided Nature Tour
Tours will expand your knowledge in a short amount of time. With a guide you’ll discover unfamiliar places, spot wildlife and hear about the history or the ecosystem of the area. Learning new facts about your favorite vacation spot is a great way to feel more connected.
3. Take a Hike
The hiking trails in our parks fit perfectly into your vacation time frame. They are short and quickly get you deep into our beautiful coastal ecosystem. Just be sure to pack plenty of bug spray!
4. Hop on a Bike
Instead of driving to lunch at that new restaurant you’re excited to try, ride a bike! You’ll see the area in a new way0.
5. Plan a Family Expedition
Whether by kayak, bike, paddleboard, foot, or a combination, planning a day trip with your family is valuable bonding time. Look at a map and pick out your route. Pack a lunch. Research waypoints. The anticipation you’ll build will add even more to the experience.
Above all else, outdoor adventures create shared memories that last a lifetime. And most importantly—they are a blast!
Photo Above, Courtesy of www.beach-fun.com. Editorial courtesy of Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center
A quaint beach destination with modern flair, Rehoboth Beach is one of the mid-Atlantic’s most popular beach towns. Though garnering the nickname, “The Nation’s Summer Capital,” Rehoboth is truly a year-round destination with quality entertainment, cosmopolitan dining, one-of-a-kind shopping and recreation for all ages.
Award-winning beaches, soft sand, arcades and tax-free shopping are a few of the things that make Rehoboth Beach and Dewey Beach the ultimate family-friendly destination. Rehoboth Beach was named one of the “Top 20 Most Popular Summer Destinations in America” based on Trip Advisor’s hotel pricing report in 2017, while Dewey Beach has been recognized on Top Value Review’s list of “Top 30 Greatest Small Beach Towns on the East Coast.”
Spend a day at Rehoboth’s waterpark or at the ocean for an afternoon of swimming, surfing or just leisurely floating in the waves. Of course, relaxing in the rays is one of the main reasons people come to Rehoboth and Dewey. The beaches are clean and spacious enough for folks to spread out and enjoy a little time in the sun.
Water activities are a big part of enjoying these Delaware beaches year-round. Whether you rent bright-hued, stand-up paddleboards, paddle through calm waters in a kayak or catch the summer breeze from a small sailboat, there are many possibilities for enjoying the water that go beyond a quick dip. For an added dose of adventure, hop aboard a jet ski or try skim boarding or parasailing in Dewey Beach. You can take a three-hour kiteboarding lesson or glide through local waters on a full-size surfboard. In addition, eco-tours by kayak will introduce your family to water-loving wildlife as well as a water taxi across the bay.
Beach fun extends to tours through the watery depths of Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach. Late July through early October is the perfect time for dolphin watching when the gregarious mammals often swim just off the shore. Whales are occasionally spotted in the area and whale-watching cruises are within an hour or two from the shore. Several companies offer close-by dolphin cruises too. For added fun, check out kids’ pirate cruises or take a tour.
A walk along Rehoboth Beach’s quaint and charming mile-long boardwalk is a must. As a matter of fact, Coastal Living named Rehoboth Beach one of its “10 Great Coastal Boardwalks.” To the east there’s clear blue water, white sand and a sea of beach umbrellas. To the west lies loads of eclectic shops and restaurants.
Downtown Rehoboth Beach includes a nostalgic and thrilling amusement park, arcades, delicious restaurants, boutique shopping and numerous spots to grab a snack, in addition to a mile-long boardwalk. Or earn your dinner by surf fishing, deep-sea fishing, clamming or crabbing. Then, on weekends during the summer, there are often festivals, art shows and concerts just off the boardwalk all year long. The Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk is one of this area’s most beloved features.
When you need a break from seeking shells, sunbathing, swimming and water sports, more than 100 familiar outlet stores in the Rehoboth Beach area sell big-name brands—and all shopping is tax-free. In addition, there are dozens of individually owned boutiques and galleries operating in Rehoboth Beach. Shop ‘til you drop for everything from souvenir T-shirts and sunglasses, to bright and beautiful swimwear and fun and funky unique clothing and jewelry. Create and purchase a photo of your family dressed in period garb from the early 1800s through 1930s, set against elaborate sets designed to represent each period, at an old-time photo shop.
Biking is a popular way to get around Dewey and Rehoboth. Rent a bike and enjoy an early morning ride on the boardwalk. Opt for the longer trails in the area for a scenic ride through one of the many state parks.
For leisurely views of local plants, wildlife and water, Cape Henlopen State Park includes trails with varying degrees of difficulty and length. The Gordons Pond Trail features crushed stone that easily accommodates hikers, bikers and strollers. In addition to forested areas, open fields and marshes, this lovely park is home to a pavilion, concessions and two iconic WWII towers and the Fort Miles Historical Area.
Bird watching is a favorite pastime in spring and fall. Twelve feet wide and six miles long, the handicap accessible Junction and Breakwater Trail is created with crushed stone and equipped with restrooms and bike racks. The trailhead begins at the historic Wolfe House and meets Tanger Outlet Center.
For the price of a donation, Rehoboth Beach Museum will introduce your family to the legacy of fun at Rehoboth Beach, through its history, culture and architecture. Check out vintage bathing suits, surfboards and even archaeological artifacts. Antique postcards provide black-and-white glimpses of beach life too. Founded by the nonprofit Rehoboth Beach Historical Society in 1975, the museum is located inside Rehoboth Beach’s former ice house and maintains the Anna Hazzard Tent House—a turn-of-the-century “tent” house where religious “Camp Meeting” gatherings took place. The museum runs children’s and adult programs throughout the year.
This area is called “The Culinary Capital of the Culinary Coast™.” It features seafood-focused menus, coffeehouse retreats, ethnic cuisine and comfort food—and most restaurants cater to kids. Classic cinnamon rolls, cookies and house-made pies delight families. Parents appreciate kid-friendly options at local restaurants plus terrific happy hour prices. Find tacos, burgers and stellar seafood. Romantic adult dining is made perfect while sitting on an outdoor deck during warm weather months. Don’t forget beach treats ranging from fries, candy and ice cream.
At night, the city continues to sizzle with nightly concerts at the oceanfront and popular downtown cosmopolitan hotspots to mingle with friends. Many also head to nearby Dewey Beach for a night out on the town. Dewey is a more casual and smaller version of Rehoboth, featuring nightlife plus attractions that draw pleasure seekers. A trolley connects to the two towns in the summer for easy traveling between each.
This is the kind of place that hosts sidewalk sales, a scarecrow contest, restaurant week, jazz festivals, fireworks and free bandstand performances—all equally popular with kids and adults, visitors and locals. Dewey Beach also hosts nightly movies and bonfires on the beach during the summer.
Readers of Coastal Style Magazine voted the local Sea Witch® Festival a 2017 “Best Of” winner. Over the three-day event, the Sea Witch® Festival draws approximately 200,000 visitors every year who love it for its costume parade full of ghosts and goblins, the best costumed dog contest, amazing musicians, artisans and vendors, and live entertainment. Youngsters can join a Kid’s Treasure Hunt, go trick-or-treating and ride ponies on the beach. Families can try old-fashioned beach games such as the wacky Broom Tossing Contest.
Both Dewey Beach and Rehoboth Beach offer a world-class beach getaway that is both eclectic and traditional. From the boardwalk to the boutiques, these two towns are full of excitement year-round.
Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center Visit www.Beach-Fun.com for more information or stop by the Visitors Center located at 501 Rehoboth Avenue, Rehoboth Beach.
Editorial courtesy of the Bethany-Fenwick Chamber of Commerce
*Photo above by Bethany Beach Ocean Suites
The name says it all: come to Delaware’s Quiet Resorts area for a relaxing coastal beach experience.The Quiet Resorts area is comprised of 10 towns: Bethany Beach, Clarksville, Dagsboro, Fenwick Island, Frankford, Millville, Ocean View, Roxana, Selbyville and South Bethany.
If you want to breathe in the ocean air and feel the ocean breezes, Bethany Beach and Fenwick Island are calling.These two towns are the most popular vacation destinations in the Quiet Resorts because of their public beach access.Located along Delaware’s southern coast, Bethany Beach and Fenwick Island are sandwiched between bustling Ocean City to the south and the serene Delaware Seashore State Park to the north, offering a perfect combination of the two: the excitement and the amenities of the boardwalk with the beauty and tranquility of nature.The area is an ideal retreat for families and the perfect environment for a laid-back beach getaway.
Fenwick Island Lighthouse
Fenwick Island lies right on the Delaware-Maryland state line, just north of Ocean City, Maryland. Quiet and uncrowded, Fenwick offers some of the cleanest beaches in the region. If you need a break from sun and sand, check out one of the most popular attractions in Fenwick Island: the Fenwick Island Lighthouse, an 87-foot-tall structure built in 1859. The towering white beacon is open for tours throughout the summer, except when it’s raining.
Family-friendly entertainment is abundant in Fenwick! Choose a mini-golf destination to work on your putting game or take to the racetrack to try your hand at go-kart driving. Visit Thunder Lagoon Water Park for a day of fun for all ages, where you can cool off on one of six water slides or meander down a lazy river.If you still haven’t gotten your fill of water activities, consider renting a kayak and paddle around the beautiful Assawoman Bay.If you’re looking for live entertainment, head inland to the Freeman Stage and spend an evening enjoying a performance from Grammy-nominated artists.
Many unique treasures and souvenirs can be found in Fenwick Island’s boutique stores. From clothing to candy or knickknacks and beach accessories, you are sure to find a special item that will serve as a reminder of your vacation for years to come. And, you won’t want to miss the weekly Fenwick Island Farmers Market for the Island’s locally grown produce and homemade goodies.Head to the parking lot of Warren’s Station Family Restaurant every Friday from 8 a.m.–noon, late June through Labor Day, to shop local.Don’t forget, all Delaware shopping is tax-free, making your vacation money go further!
Photo Courtesy of Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce
Bethany Beach also offers a quiet destination for a relaxing, family-friendly vacation with plenty to do just a short drive away.It’s an ideal location for those in search of a laid-back beach getaway with the convenience of nearby attractions. With accommodations for groups of all sizes, vacationers can choose from waterfront rentals, charming bed & breakfasts or homes just a short bike ride to the beach.
While the town’s atmosphere is decidedly laid-back with small-town charm, Bethany Beach offers all the modern amenities and services you would expect, including unique shops and diverse restaurant choices. A typical day for Bethany Beach vacationers often consists of spending time on the beach, leisurely perusing area specialty shops, visiting with friends and dining in one of the area’s many restaurants.
From mouth-watering smoked barbecue to a fresh local catch, in an upscale or casual setting, dining choices are plentiful in Bethany Beach.Don’t forget about the most important meal of the day, dessert!Ice cream is one of the most popular treats for Bethany Beach visitors, and you will not be disappointed with your options.
What’s a beach vacation without a walk on the boardwalk?Bethany Beach’s half-mile boardwalk is a great place to stroll and enjoy the ocean views, shop or catch a live show. Regular concerts at the Bethany Beach Bandstand during the summer months offer a variety of musical entertainment, from tribute bands to Army bands.Other exciting events in town include movies on the beach, talent shows, beach bonfires and morning beach yoga.The town goes all out on July 4, with an Independence Day parade, horseshoe-throwing competition and a grand finale of fireworks and patriotic evening entertainment.
You won’t want to leave town until you stop by the Bethany Beach Farmers Market on Sunday morning. The market is open every Sunday, beginning in mid-June through Labor Day.Load up on freshly picked local fruits and vegetables, from juicy blueberries to Sussex County sweet corn, a “take-home” memory of your Bethany Beach vacation.
Whether your idea of paradise involves a beach towel and a boogie board or a good meal and a day of shopping, the Quiet Resorts of Bethany Beach and Fenwick Island are sure to please.
For more information about Bethany Beach, Fenwick Island and surrounding areas, contact the Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce at 1-800-962-SURF or visit TheQuietResorts.com. During your vacation, don’t forget to relax and to shop, dine and stay local!
Local Experts Share What They Love about the Delaware Beaches
By Arielle Patterson
There are so many reasons to love the Delaware Beaches. From the charming cities and towns situated along the ocean and bays, to the tax-free shopping and array of activities and attractions, coastal Delaware has so much to offer both first-time and long-time vacationers. I asked local experts what they love about the Delaware Beaches. Here’s what they had to say.
From left to right: Scott Thomas, Executive Director of Southern Delaware Tourism; Carol Everhart, President/CEO of the Rehoboth-Dewey Chamber of Commerce; Betsy Reamer, Executive Director of the Lewes Chamber of Commerce; and Paul Kuhns, Mayor of the City of Rehoboth.
What do you love most about the Delaware Beaches?
Scott Thomas: “The friendly vibe, beautiful scenery and small towns. It’s a breath of fresh air when you get here. We’re a collection of small towns, so it’s like you have a continuing charm as you go through the area. Each town has a different personality, but they all have the same charm.”
Carol Everhart: “The variety. You can go from the Quiet Resorts to downtown Rehoboth where you have a boardwalk and open-land beaches. Everything is within 10 miles—the ocean, the bay, fishing and hiking. Just in downtown Rehoboth alone you have over 100 eateries, retail shopping and outlet shopping—all tax free.”
Betsy Reamer: “I moved down here 25 years ago, and I had always lived in metropolitan areas where I had to travel long distances to get to beaches for my vacations. When I moved down here, I got so close to the beaches that I felt like I was on a permanent vacation here. The state has done such a fabulous job of preserving the beaches. So many of them are undeveloped and natural, as you’re driving down the coast from Lewes to Fenwick Island. The beauty is amazing to me. The municipalities have done a good job of keeping the development to a minimum and limiting the sizes of properties, so the sightlines aren’t obstructed.”
Paul Kuhns: “I enjoy walking along the coastline and the abundance of open space we have in coastal Delaware.”
How would you describe life in the Delaware Beaches?
Scott Thomas: “A bad day here is better than a good day most anywhere else. Life is more enriching from what you’re surrounded by. Whether that’s the water or taking a run, you’re reminded that we’re in a mid-Atlantic paradise.”
Carol Everhart: “This is a resort beach community. It’s leisurely and recreational which makes life light and fun. There are also cultural opportunities, with theaters and the arts.”
Betsy Reamer: “I’ve lived in large metropolitan areas. Right away you realize it’s much more laid back down here. Lewes has been a more year-round town. A lot of our businesses stay open throughout the year.”
Paul Kuhns: “I would describe beach life here as slow and easy.”
What is your favorite thing to do with your family?
Scott Thomas: “Riding bikes on the trails that connect our towns. You can start in Dewey or Rehoboth and go through Gordon’s Pond and Cape Henlopen State Park, then take the Gordon’s Pond Trail to historic Lewes. You can take as many breaks as you want and enjoy the scenery. You can really make a whole day of it.”
Carol Everhart: “This is an amazing area for seniors. My husband and I enjoy any place we can be near the water. We love the water-side dining and outdoor concerts. We also love the nearby vineyard and farmers markets.”
Betsy Reamer: “With my husband, we love to go to all of the cultural events in Lewes. When my grandson visits, we take him to the beach where he can boogie board. He also loves the Seaside Nature Center at Cape Henlopen State Park.”
Paul Kuhns: “My family enjoys a backyard barbecue. When my nieces and nephews are in town, we head to Funland. This classic boardwalk amusement park is the perfect family-friendly summer fun place.”
What is your favorite “hidden gem” in the Delaware Beaches?
Scott Thomas: “Paddling along the Broadkill River in a kayak is one of my favorites. As you travel inland, you can take your pick of hidden gems. There are some special spots that have been around for a long time such as taking the Woodland Ferry across the Nanticoke River that connects the towns of Bethel and Woodland. Newer hidden gems are popping up as well like the Delaware Botanic Gardens just outside of Dagsboro.”
Carol Everhart: “I love Gordon’s Pond. There’s a wonderful hiking and biking trail to get there. The view, walking down Gordon’s Pond, over the water, is breathtaking. It is nature at its best.”
Betsy Reamer: “I think one thing a lot of people don’t realize when they come here is the variety of cultural activities that take place. The quality of them is every bit as good as a larger metropolitan area. For example, Coastal Concerts has performers that have performed at the Kennedy Center. There are theaters, the Rehoboth Art League, galleries—there’s just so much to do here. Until people live here, they don’t realize there’s a whole cultural landscape here.”
Paul Kuhns: “Cape Henlopen State Park. Rehoboth’s hidden gem is a beautiful state park located at the point where the Delaware River meets the Atlantic. This nature preserve offers something for everyone, from its beaches, trails for biking and hiking, a fishing pier and historic remnants dating back to an earlier time in American history.”
What’s your favorite beach or outdoor attraction to go to and why?
Scott Thomas: “Dewey Beach is close to my heart because I grew up there, spent every summer there and made so many special memories there, and continue to make them.”
Carol Everhart: “I love the concerts at the [Bethany Beach] bandstand. They’re free and have excellent performances there. I also love the free movies and bonfires at Dewey Beach.”
Betsy Reamer: “Cape Henlopen State Park and Lewes beach. I love Lewes beach because I can take my grandson down there. It’s kind of a wave-less beach, which is perfect for him. Cape Henlopen State Park is such an amazing attraction—it’s 5,000 acres of beautifully kept natural landscaping.”
Paul Kuhns: “My favorite place to spend time outside is in Rehoboth Beach. I enjoy walking around town and along our beach and boardwalk.”
5 Tips for Booking a Vacation Rental in Rehoboth Beach
When you plan a trip to Rehoboth Beach, there are many things to take into account, including where you will stay. There are a number of fantastic hotels, motels and resorts in Rehoboth Beach, but renting a vacation property is the only way to truly enjoy the comforts of home while on vacation.
There are countless of vacation rental properties in Rehoboth Beach to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a romantic cottage-style home or something big enough for family and friends, there are plenty of options. It can be daunting with so many options. Before you book your Rehoboth Beach rental property, keep these tips in mind.
Here are five tips for booking a vacation rental in Rehoboth Beach.
Look for Properties with Multiple Reviews
A rental property may have spectacular photos that instantly capture your attention, however, pay attention to customer reviews. The best insight into how a rental property is comes from former renters. Reviews allow former renters to share their unfiltered experience at a property. They’ll also give you the inside scoop on the amenities, area and more.
Avoid Scams by Booking through Reputable Sources
There are many sources for booking a rental property in Rehoboth Beach. While AirBnB, VRBO, HomeAway and more are popular vacation rental websites, they often leave room for potential scammers. Rehoboth Beach has many rental companies to choose from, each offering different types of properties all across the city. These companies and their realtors are experts in Rehoboth Beach that will help find the perfect accommodation for your visit.
Read the Fine Print
In life, we typically skim over the fine print of a contract. Before you sign anything and pay any money, be sure to read all of the fine print on the rental agreement. This includes cancellation policy, house rules, hidden fees and more. It’s important to know exactly what your stay in the rental entails before you submit your payment.
Do a Damage Check
Once you arrive to your rental property, do a walk through to check for any damage. If you can’t do this walkthrough with the property owner or a realtor, take pictures to show to the owner or agency immediately. Best case is that the owner or agency already knows about any issues, but it’s better to be safe and protect your security deposit. You’ll also want to check that all of the utilities and appliances, including water, air conditioning units, lights and other electrical outlets, are working.
Ask the Property Owner for Tips on the Area
After you book or once you arrive to your Rehoboth Beach vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask the realtor or property owner for some advice and/or suggestions. They can be your local guides who give you tips on the area, things to do nearby, parking and more. Or, just pick up a Delaware Beaches Visitors Guide or visit DelawareBeaches.guide to find attractions, activities, restaurants, coupons and so much more.
Summer vacation is all about indulging and enjoying life. At the Delaware Beaches, enjoy the sand in your toes and the sound of waves crashing as you sip on the ice-cold beverage in your hand. Whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur or you just want to cool off with a frozen cocktail, you’re sure to find the perfect summer libation.
According to Josh Grapski, managing partner of La Vida Hospitality, Delaware’s craft beverage scene is booming with new breweries and distilleries.
Craft Beer on the Delaware Beaches
Local industry leaders like Dogfish Head Brewery introduced the area to the craft beer scene and led the way for smaller breweries like Crooked Hammock in Lewes. Crooked Hammock specializes in “easy drinking” craft-beers. Grab a pint of their signature Wai Ola California-style coconut beer, while you listen to live music in their beer garden.
Grapski says the craft beer scene has created a sub-tourism business for the area through tours and tastings. Follow along the Delaware Beer, Wine & Spirits Trail for a thirst-quenching experience. With several participating breweries near the coast, you can take a tour of the facilities, enjoy tastings and make memories while enjoying the state’s finest craft beverages.
The Delaware Beaches’ Twist on Classic Cocktails
While innovation is emerging along the coastline, the easygoing, fun drinking scene has not been forgotten. Grapski says that the Delaware Beaches lay claim to being the home of the crushes, plus you can never go wrong with a margarita. However, you’ll find more than just the traditional orange crush and frozen margarita.
Bartenders in the Delaware Beaches take classic recipes and put a twist on them. Fork and Flask at Nage in Rehoboth Beach takes an artisanal approach to their cocktails. Try a jalapeño watermelon margarita or their classic Summer Lovin’, made with raspberry vodka and white cranberry.
Sip a Vintage from Delaware’s First Winery
During your trip to the Delaware Beaches, head to Lewes to visit Delaware’s first and only winery, Nassau Valley Vineyards. Peg Raley and her father Bob established the vineyard on a family-owned farm site outside of Lewes back in 1993. At that time, state laws did not allow farm wineries. Peg drafted laws and convinced the Delaware General Assembly to create legislation for farm wineries.
Nassau Valley Vineyards produces 13 wines, crafted from Eastern Shore grapes and fruits, as well as regionally-grown fruit. Taste the varied wines, from the barrel-aged cabernet to a French-style rosé. For dessert, try their 2012 Peach Ambrosia, crafted from 100 percent fermented peach juice.
Take a tour of Nassau Valley’s winery along a self-guided or guided group tour. Discover your new favorite of their award-winning wines in the tasting room and even sip on some of their unique small batch wines.
From Rehoboth to Lewes, the perfect sip of summer is waiting to be imbibed in the Delaware Beaches.
