Rated One of the Nation’s Top Coastal Boardwalks
Rehoboth Beach comes alive during summertime. Known as the “Nation’s Summer Capital,” Rehoboth Beach is an epicenter for coastal fun. The heart of Rehoboth Beach is the mile-long boardwalk. During summer, the boardwalk is bustling with activities as people traverse all of the shops, restaurants and amusements on the boardwalk. A trip to Rehoboth Beach is not complete without exploring all the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk has to offer.
History of the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk
Rehoboth Beach’s original boardwalk, built in 1873, ran the entire length of the Rehoboth Beach oceanfront. Over the years. the boardwalk has changed due to severe storms. While the size and distance of the boardwalk has changed, what hasn’t changed are some of the many restaurants and amusements that have become local staples.
Things to Do on the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk
Funland
The perfect place for family-fun, rides and games, Funland is an amusement park right on the boardwalk. Boasting almost 20 rides as well as midway games, arcade games and a prize redemption center, Funland is great for all ages. Funland is open seasonally beginning in mid-May. Entry is free but tickets must be purchased to go on rides and play the games.
Zelkey’s Beach Arcades
Enjoy classic games to win awesome prizes at one of Zelkey’s three arcades on the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk. Open seasonally from April–October, put your skills to the test as you play skee-ball, pinball and more.
Ryan’s Mini Golf
The whole family will love playing a game of mini golf. This budget-friendly activity features a rooftop course with plenty of obstacles to avoid.
Rehoboth Beach Bandstand
Free live music comes to the Rehoboth Bandstand throughout the summer. Located right across from the boardwalk, on Rehoboth Avenue, this historic bandstand provides free summer concerts to Rehoboth Beach visitors.
Bike Rentals
One of the best ways to explore everything on this one-mile boardwalk is by bike. Visit a local bike rental shop to cruise the boardwalk with family and friends. Remember, bikes are only allowed on the boardwalk between 5–10 a.m. from May 15–September 15.
Shopping on the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk
You can find several specialty shops right on the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk.
Stuart Kingston, Inc. is an auction house and store selling fine art, home décor and high-end collectables. Those traveling with children will want to stop by the Rehoboth Toy & Kite Company. This shop offers the largest selection of kites, games, and toys on the Delaware coast. Also on the boardwalk is Harry K Jewelry, perfect for purchasing a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry, and Candy Kitchen, where you can find almost every sweet imaginable.
More retailers at Penny Lane Mall and the other shops located just walking distance from the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk. Remember all shopping in Delaware is tax free!
Restaurants on the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk
When you need a break from the shopping, games and rides on the boardwalk, relax with a bite to eat from one of the conveniently located restaurants. Enjoy classic beach fare such as hot dogs, French fries and a slice of pizza. Grab a quick bite from Gus & Gus Place or Thrasher’s French Fries. Or, sit down at a beach bar right on the boardwalk for fresh seafood and filling burgers. Wash down your meal with a cold beer or frozen cocktail from one of these waterfront bars. For a more upscale meal with a view of the water, visit Victoria’s Restaurant or Salero Restaurante.
Don’t forget a sweet treat! Rehoboth Beach is famous for its ice cream, salt water taffy and homemade fudge. It’s easy to spot the Dolle’s sign as you walk the boardwalk. Dolle’s Candyland has been serving some of the area’s best homemade candy since 1927.
Hotels near the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk
If you’re looking to stay close to all of the attractions and activities on the boardwalk, be sure to book your stay at one of the many hotels located on the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk. These range from upscale hotels with gorgeous décor to family-friendly hotels with outdoor pools. No matter what you choose, you’re guaranteed access to some of the area’s best shopping, restaurants and activities along with a fantastic waterfront view.
Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk Events
The Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk also plays host to a number of wonderful events for every age and interest throughout the year. Be sure to see what’s happening on the boardwalk when you visit Rehoboth Beach.
Information about the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk
Here are some things you need to know before visiting the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk.
Parking near the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk
There are several metered spots located walking distance from the boardwalk. Parking meters charge $2 per hour. Parking meters are active from Memorial Day weekend through the second Sunday after Labor Day between the hours of 10 a.m.–midnight. Parking meters can be paid with quarters, credit card or via the ParkMobile phone app.
Rehoboth Beach Handicap Access
Ramps from the boardwalk to the beach are available at Maryland Avenue and Laurel Street. The Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk also has Mobi-Mats and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant pathways.
Beach wheelchairs are available to rent from late-May until late-September. These wheelchairs are given out on a first come, first served basis from the Beach Wheelchair Supervisor at Beach Patrol Headquarters. For more information on beach wheelchairs, call 302-227-2280.
Pets on the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk
Animals are prohibited on the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk from May 1–September 30. Service animals, including seeing eye dogs and law enforcement animals, are exempt from this law.
Prohibited Vehicles and Skating Rules
Vehicles and skate boards are not allowed on the boardwalk. Rollerblades and roller skates are not allowed on the boardwalk from May 15–September 15.