The sale runs from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM (store hours may vary.) It is a weekend for deals and fabulous finds! Shopping in downtown Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach, and Route One has never offered more merchandise at bargain prices! Don’t forget – TAX FREE!!! Info: 302-227-2233.
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.
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.”
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.”
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.”
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.”
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.”
Image from Ashim D’Silva
Spring Break is the perfect time of year for all ages to visit Rehoboth Beach. Whether you’re a family with children, a group of teenagers or young adults, this coastal destination has something for every interest. You’ll find countless things to do during your spring break vacation in Rehoboth Beach.
Click here to read about tips for planning a spring break in Rehoboth Beach.
Here are some of our suggestions on things to do during spring break in Rehoboth Beach.
Click here to read more about things to do in Rehoboth Beach.
From late February to mid-April, Rehoboth Beach has plenty of events. There’s sure to be something happening during your spring break vacation. Mark your calendar for one of the food festivals, arts and crafts shows, races and more.
Everyone knows that Rehoboth Beach is famous for its sandy coastline, but did you know that the city offers plenty of outdoor activities away from the beach? Visit one of the local parks for hiking, biking, kayaking and more. Cape Henlopen State Park and Delaware Seashore State Park are perfect destinations for some fun in the great outdoors.
Click here to read more about outdoor adventure in Rehoboth Beach.
Rehoboth Beach is an angler’s paradise year-round. However, spring is when flounder start biting again. Head to a dock along the bay or ocean where you can reel in one of the species of fish that call these waters their home. You can also rent a boat or go on a fishing charter for a longer excursion.
Click here to read more about fishing in Rehoboth Beach.
When the weather warms up, you’ll want to spend as much time as possible outside. Rehoboth Beach has a number of restaurants with outdoor patio seating and several that are right on the water. Enjoy the fresh seafood catch of the day while overlooking the Atlantic Ocean or inland bays.
Click here to read more about outdoor dining in Rehoboth Beach.
Spring breakers age 21 and older will love having a beer, wine or cocktail at one of Rehoboth Beach’s local bars, breweries or wine bars. Many of these locations have outdoor seating so you can enjoy your drink in the sunshine.
Click here to read about the Delaware Beach’s local libations.
Image from April Allyson Abel
When you visit Rehoboth Beach, you have plenty of options for overnight accommodations. The most common choices are hotels in Rehoboth Beach or Rehoboth Beach rental properties. Away from the hustle and bustle of the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk and resort area, you can find a more natural setting to spend the night in.
Near Rehoboth Beach, you’ll find plenty of campsites to accommodate everything from simple tents to luxury RVs. Or, choose to stay in a cottage, wood cabin or another rustic home during your camping trip. Here are our favorite campgrounds near Rehoboth Beach.
These campgrounds are just a few miles away from Rehoboth Beach. When you aren’t catching some sleep under the stars, take advantage of the hiking trails, fishing, swimming and other activities available.
Open from May 1 to Oct. 1, Big Oaks Campground is conveniently located in Rehoboth Beach. This family-friendly campground is a hub for activity during the camping season. Take part in friendly competitions, splash in the pool, create art, sing karaoke and dance to live music and DJs. The park also boasts a playground, game room, camp store, shuttle service, picnic tables, fire rings and much more.
Big Oaks offers three types of camping sites: tent camping, pop-up and full hook-up. Bring your own tent or drive your RV to Big Oaks for an overnight stay. For something more comfortable, rent a cabin or mobile home. These have more amenities including air conditioning, kitchen appliances, beds and more.
Image from Big Oaks Campground
Cape Henlopen State Park is a five-acre park located in nearby Lewes. The park became one of the nation’s first public spaces and has drawn visitors from all over searching for outdoor adventure. Hunt, swim or explore the miles of trails at the park.
Cape Henlopen State Park also boasts over 150 camp sites that can accommodate RVs and tents, many with two-point hook-ups. In addition to those sites, there are 12 cabins available for rent year-round that feature an outdoor spigot, communal bathhouse and outdoor fire ring.
Click here to read more about Cape Henlopen State Park.
Delaware Seashore State Park receives millions of visitors every year looking to take advantage of the park’s outdoor recreation. The state park is situated along 6.5 miles of undeveloped coastline, making it the perfect locale for a peaceful camping trip. There are two waterfront campgrounds at Delaware Seashore State Park, one on each side of the Indian Ricer Inlet. These can accommodate both tents and RVs.
The North Inlet campsites feature three-point hook-ups for electricity, water and sewage while the South Inlet campsites are standard with no hook-ups. Both campsites also house bathhouses and laundry facilities. They are conveniently located to the park’s trails, camp store, restaurants, bait and tackle shop, and the Indian River Life-Saving Station.
Click here to read more about Delaware Seashore State Park.
Image from Delaware Seashore State Park
A vacation to the Delaware Beaches is, of course, the perfect setting for lounging in the sand and splashing in the waves. Aside from the beach, Bethany Beach, Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach, Fenwick Island and Lewes offer several other experiences for outdoor exploration. These are a great way to connect with family, friends and the area’s natural environment.
Here are some ways to have an outdoor adventure in Bethany Beach, Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach, Fenwick Island and Lewes.
There’s no better way to experience coastal Delaware’s more natural settings than on a guided tour. These knowledgeable guides can take you to new locales where you can learn more about the history and ecosystem of the area while spotting local wildlife. By foot or by boat, you’ll certainly enjoy getting to see a different side of the Delaware Beaches.
Coastal Kayak offers kayak and paddleboard tours through some of the Delaware coastline’s waterways. Book one of the eco tours to get a closer look at area wildlife and the natural environment.
Click here for a Coastal Kayak coupon.
Located on Rehoboth Beach, Delaware Seashore State Park offers six miles of shoreline perfect for swimming, fishing, crabbing, kayaking, wind surfing, eco tours and more. The Delaware Seashore trail system features several miles of trails just waiting to be explored. There are also two campgrounds, on each side of the Indian River Inlet, for some outdoor adventure after dark.
The Delaware coastline is the perfect destination for thrilling watersports. Whether you choose surfing, jet skiing, paddling, parasailing or one of the other exciting watersports, you’re sure to enjoy your time on the water. The towns within the Delaware Beaches have several sport outfitters in the area that can teach you how to use the equipment before you head out on your own.
Island Watersports has one of the largest selections of rental boats on the Eastern Shore. Find everything you need for a day on the water, including pontoon boats, jet boats, and jet ski rentals. They also offer paddleboards, wake boards, surf boards and more.
Take flight with Dewey Beach Parasail. Reach great heights and get a bird’s-eye view of Dewey Beach and Indian River on one of their parasailing adventures.
Click here for a Dewey Beach Parasail coupon.
For more relaxing fun outdoors, play a round of golf on one of the courses near the Delaware Beaches. Lower your handicap on these beautifully designed courses with views that you’ll only find in coastal Delaware.
Bayside Resort Golf Club’s courses boast wide-open fairways, pine trees and marshlands. Bear Trap Dunes offers golfers a coastal escape across 27 holes, perfect for beginners and experts.
The kids will love the thrilling sights and obstacles at the local mini golf courses. Go on a pirate adventure and search for lost treasure at Captain Jack’s Pirate Golf. Or, play 19 holes in mythical Scandinavia with Vikings and a two-headed dragon at Viking Golf & Go-Karts.
Rehoboth Beach is a quaint, oceanfront city that is perfect for a vacation. Known as “The Nation’s Summer Capital,” a trip to Rehoboth Beach is sure to be filled with fun in the water, on the boardwalk and downtown. While there are a number of hotels in Rehoboth Beach, enjoy the comforts of home on your vacation by renting.
When you rent a Rehoboth Beach vacation beach house, cottage, townhouse or condo, you’ll be able to live like a local. Rehoboth Beach vacation rentals are able to sleep plenty of guests and you can even bring your pet, as many rentals in Rehoboth Beach are pet-friendly. Whether you stay in a cozy condo overlooking the water or a large house near the boardwalk, you’re sure to enjoy your trip to Rehoboth even more in your vacation rental.
Rehoboth Beach is less than two square miles but there are plenty of rentals to choose from by the water, bay and close to downtown Rehoboth. When selecting your vacation rental, keep in mind how you’ll be spending most of your trip so you can find a rental property that is in a conveniently located community.
Rehoboth Avenue, the main street that represents downtown Rehoboth, divides North and South Rehoboth. If it’s out of your budget to stay in an ocean-block vacation property, consider one of the tree-lined neighborhoods near Rehoboth Avenue. Renting near downtown Rehoboth puts you close to some of the area’s best shopping, restaurants and more with easy access to the beach via public transportation.
South Rehoboth is one of the most sought-after rental locations in Rehoboth Beach. South Rehoboth runs from Rehoboth Avenue to Silver Lake, a 45-acre freshwater lake. This area offers close proximity to all of the exciting activities and attractions on the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk. You’ll be mere walking distance to some of the boardwalk’s best, including Funland, the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand and plenty of eateries and beachside bars. Choose from charming Victorian-style homes or something more modern, as well as condos with a view and plenty of amenities.
North of the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk is where you’ll find charming beach houses and condos. This quaint area is also known as The Pines, named for the vast number of pine trees in the area. North Rehoboth offers renters a bit more privacy while still being in an oceanside location. Trade the beach for a lake for a day when you stay in North Rehoboth. The area is home to Lake Gerar and the beautifully landscaped park.
Just outside of Rehoboth Beach is the seaside community of Henlopen Acres. Henlopen Acres is perfect for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Rehoboth Beach for a more peaceful respite. The rental properties in Henlopen Acres are north of the beach but include amenities, such as a beach club, tennis courts, marina and access to a private beach. The vacation rental homes in Henlopen Acres are perfect for if you’re looking for a getaway in a secluded neighborhood.
North of Henlopen Acres is the oceanfront community of North Shores. Many of the homes, townhomes and condos in North Shores are either oceanfront or offer views of the water. Located directly across from Cape Henlopen State Park and Gordons Pond State Park, North Shores are perfect for travelers looking to have some outdoor fun in a natural setting. Those renting a property in North Shores will have access to a private beach, tennis courts, marina and playground.
There are lots of rental companies to choose from when planning your Rehoboth Beach vacation. Seachange Vacation Rentals, Mann & Sons, Inc. Realtors, Long & Foster Vacation Rentals and Vacation Rentals by RE/MAX are some of the best ranked vacation rental agencies in Rehoboth Beach. They offer incredible vacation homes all over the area. Find luxury homes, condo communities with added benefits or more affordable options when searching for a Rehoboth Beach rental property.
Don’t leave your pet at home while you enjoy a beach getaway. Several rental companies in Rehoboth Beach, including Jack Lingo Realtor, Long & Foster Vacation Rentals and Seachange Vacation Rentals, have properties that are pet-friendly. Be sure to contact the companies to learn any pet policies and additional fees.
There are also online services for renting vacation properties in Rehoboth Beach. Websites like Flip Key, Airbnb, HomeAway and VRBO act as the middle man, connecting potential renters to local property owners.
Here are a few tips to help you when searching for vacation rentals in Rehoboth Beach:
Make Rehoboth Beach your second home by staying at a scenic and conveniently-located vacation rental property.
Click here to read more about tips for booking a Rehoboth Beach vacation rental.
Known as “The Nation’s Summer Capital,” Rehoboth Beach has been a coastal vacation destination for decades. Families, groups of friends and couples alike come to enjoy fun in the sun at this beach resort town. Between spending a day on the water and heading to Main Street in downtown Rehoboth, there’s so much to do year-round. Rehoboth Beach is the perfect destination for those looking for entertainment, shopping, fun on the water and relaxation.
Rehoboth Beach is full of activities and attractions that are sure to please every traveler. From walking the popular boardwalk to the quaint tree-lined streets in town, take advantage of all there is to do in Rehoboth Beach.
Featured on National Geographic’s list of the “Top 10 U.S. Boardwalks,” the Rehoboth Beach boardwalk is the epicenter of summer fun. This one-mile boardwalk is brimming with delicious restaurants, beach shops and a mix of nostalgic and modern entertainment. Open year-round, the Rehoboth Beach boardwalk plays host to a number of popular events, including the Rehoboth Beach Chocolate Festival and Cherry Blossom Festival.
With the coastline right at your feet, there are many opportunities for some fun on the water when you visit Rehoboth Beach. Hit the waves on a surf board or take to the sky while parasailing.
Kayaking, and standup paddleboarding are the best ways to explore the Rehoboth Beach oceanfront. Get up close and person with the local ecosystems and paddle beside the aquatic life. You can also spot wildlife like whales and dolphins on a relaxing boat tour.
For those looking for a little more thrill, rent a watercraft such as a jet ski. Nothing will boost your adrenaline like the sea air hitting your face as you fly across the water.
There’s more outdoor fun to be had that’s not in the water. The golf courses near Rehoboth Beach provide an experience like no other. The acclaimed courses take advantage of the picturesque natural setting of the Delaware coastline. Anyone from beginners to seasoned players will love going teeing up on these golf courses.
Click here to read more about golfing in the Delaware Beaches.
Rehoboth Beach is known for being a pristine, family-friendly beach, but the fun doesn’t stop once you leave the sand. There are plenty of amusement parks and other attractions that both adults and kids will love.
Ride one of the many amusement rides or play one of the old-fashioned carnival games at Funland. Splash the day away at Jungle Jim’s, Delaware’s largest waterpark. Let the kids race down waterslides while you float your cares away in the lazy river.
Click here to read more about family fun in the Delaware Beaches.
As day turns to night, the fun doesn’t stop in Rehoboth Beach and nearby Dewey Beach. From music festivals and concerts to cocktails at a laid-back bar, Rehoboth and Dewey Beach offer plenty of fun after dark.
If you’re looking for live music, the local bars offer many genres. Have drinks on a patio while talented bands and artists perform pop, rock and more inside or onstage. There are also a number of restaurants that are open to satisfy any late-night cravings. Enjoy a glass of wine while indulging in some after-hours eats.
Rehoboth Beach is home to both the Indian River Marina and the Delaware Seashore State Parks. Delaware Seashore State Park has miles of trails and shoreline to explore. Head out on the scenic land trails by foot, bike or atop a horse. Launch a kayak to capture photos of the natural setting.
Just north of the Delaware Seashore State Park is the Indian River Marina. The marina is the perfect place to fish year-round. You’ll be just close by to the Atlantic Ocean and the bays.
Click here to read more about Delaware Seashore State Park.
Rehoboth Beach, and Delaware in general, are a prime place to shop because shopping is tax-free in the state. Shopping in Rehoboth Beach makes for the perfect activity day or night, rain or shine.
In a coastal town like Rehoboth Beach, it’s easy to find beach apparel, accessories and necessities as well as souvenirs to remember your vacation. You can find all this and more by visiting some of the shops along the Rehoboth Beach boardwalk.
Located on Route 1 in Rehoboth Beach, the Tanger Outlets are a hot spot for both locals and visitors looking to shop until they drop. The shopping center is made up of three sections, Surfside, Bayside and Seaside, that are filled with brand-name retailers offering merchandise at a discount. Find apparel, accessories, specialty stores and more at the Tanger Outlets Rehoboth Beach. Utilize the convenient free shuttle that will take you between all three locations.
A shopping excursion in downtown Rehoboth is not complete without visit the Penny Lane Mall. This open-air mall has a number of shops ranging from boutiques to well-known retailers. Be sure to explore each nook of this charming alley to discover one-of-a-kind finds.
Just off Rehoboth Beach Main Street you’ll find fresh produce and locally-made arts and crafts at the Rehoboth Beach Farmers Market. Open from May–October, with seasonal markets in November and December, the Rehoboth Beach Farmers Market showcases over 40 vendors, live music, story-time for children and cooking demonstrations.
Rehoboth Beach’s laid-back atmosphere extends beyond the beach and into its restaurants. Find classic beach eats like Thrasher’s French Fries, ice cream, salt water taffy and more on the boardwalk. You can also enjoy kid-friendly fare, bar bites and other classic dishes at a number of restaurants both on and off the Rehoboth Beach boardwalk.
Those looking for something more upscale will find that there are several restaurants offering gourmet cuisine prepared by world-class chefs. Many of the restaurants in Rehoboth Beach believe in serving food that is farm-to-table, meaning you’ll get ingredients locally-sourced straight from area farms.
Since Rehoboth Beach is right on the coast, you can expect area restaurants to serve the freshest seafood. Succulent seafood such as crabs, clams, shrimp, oysters and more are served in different styles. Indulge in traditional dishes like raw oysters and crabs seasoned with Old Bay, or see what else Rehoboth Beach chefs are creating using local seafood.
Dine with a view of the Atlantic Ocean or at a secluded table in a dimly lit cottage-style restaurant. Whatever setting you choose, it will be complemented by fantastic meal.
The hotels in Rehoboth Beach can offer comfort, convenience to local attractions, views of the Atlantic Ocean and so much more. There’s a hotel for every type of traveler with accommodations and amenities that are sure to wow you.
Looking to save when staying in Rehoboth Beach? There are also many hotels that offer affordable deals throughout the year. Take advantage of hotel packages that can save you money and get you discounts to area restaurants, shops and attractions.
Don’t forget your four-legged friends when you visit Rehoboth Beach. A number of hotels are pet-friendly meaning you and man’s best friend can both enjoy this beach getaway.
Whether you choose to spend your day relaxing on the pristine, family-friendly beach and boardwalk or get out and explore downtown Rehoboth and the surrounding area, you’re sure to enjoy your time in Rehoboth Beach.
Images and editorial supplied by 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.
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. 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-sized 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.
A walk along Rehoboth Beach’s quaint and charming mile-long Boardwalk is a must. As a matter of fact, Coastal Living Magazine 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. Nearly a mile long, the Rehoboth boardwalk area includes a small, though thrilling amusement park, arcades, delicious restaurants, outlet shopping and many spots when you’re looking to grab an afternoon snack. 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 right on the boardwalk. 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, especially considering the summer traffic. Rent a bike and explore each town or 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.
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 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, terrific burgers and stellar seafood. Romantic, adult dining is made perfect while sitting on an outdoor deck during warm weather months.
At night, the town continues to sizzle with nightly concerts at the oceanfront, popular downtown cosmopolitan hotspots to mingle with friends. Many also head to nearby Dewey Beach for a night out on the town. Dewey, a more casual and smaller version of Rehoboth, features many popular nightlife attractions that draw pleasure seekers into the late evening. A trolley connects to the two towns in the summer for easy travelling between each.
This is the kind of place that hosts sandcastle contests, fireworks and free Bandstand performances—all equally popular with kids and adults, visitors and locals. Dewey Beach hosts nightly movies and bonfires.
Readers of Coastal Style Magazine voted the local Sea Witch Halloween & Fiddlers’ Festival® a 2017 “Best Of” winner. The Sea Witch Halloween 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, horse shows on the beach 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 old-fashioned. 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.
