2026-02-18 08:01:58
When summer arrives, southern Delaware offers classic sun, sea, and sand with options for every travel style — from family-friendly getaways to lively nights out and quieter escapes. Along the coast you’ll find great food, good fun, and plenty of time in the Atlantic surf.
Rehoboth: The Ideal of Seaside Fun
Rehoboth Beach is a summertime favorite, especially for a stroll along the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk. Known as “the nation’s summer capital,” the area draws sunbathers, shoppers, and families. Right off the boardwalk, Funland offers rides, classic midway games, and an arcade. For tax-free shopping and dining, explore Rehoboth Avenue or visit the outlets at Tanger Rehoboth Beach.
Lively Days and Nights in Dewey Beach
Dewey Beach is known for sunny Atlantic and bayside beaches and a nightlife scene that stays energetic all summer. Take a break from sunbathing with coaching in skimboarding, surfing, or skateboarding at Alley Oop Skim. For food and drinks, visit Dewey Beer Co. or Woody’s Dewey Beach. In the evening, catch live music at Bottle and Cork or enjoy nightly entertainment at The Starboard.
Luxuriate in Laid-Back Lewes
Historic Lewes offers an easygoing alternative close to Rehoboth. Enjoy dining and shopping, plus a calmer beach on the Delaware Bay. Explore the water with Cape Water Tours or ride the Cape May–Lewes Ferry. Learn about local heritage at the Cannonball House Maritime Museum. For trails and history, visit Cape Henlopen State Park and Fort Miles Museum, then head to The Point for a memorable sunset.
Throttle Down in Bethany Beach
Bethany Beach has a calmer, family-friendly atmosphere with shopping, dining, and a boardwalk perfect for strolling. Explore Delaware Seashore State Park and visit the historic Indian River Life-Saving Station. For a casual meal and live music, stop by Big Chill Beach Club.
South Bethany: A Hidden Secret
South Bethany is a smaller, quieter beach community with a family feel and a beach about a mile long. It’s close to nearby attractions while still offering low-key sunbathing, biking, and sunset views. Spend time on Indian River Bay, and consider a stop at Grotto Pizza for a slice of sauce-swirled pie.
Take It Easy on Fenwick Island
Fenwick Island is Delaware’s southernmost beach town, known for its 1859 lighthouse. Fenwick Island State Park offers three miles of beach, while nearby attractions include Thunder Lagoon Water Park and Viking Golf and Go-Karts. Dine at One Coastal or enjoy waterfront seafood at Catch 54 and Harpoon Hanna’s. Visit the DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum, and head inland for a wine slushie at Salted Vines Vineyard and Winery.
Laid-Back Long Neck
On the inland side of Indian River Bay, Long Neck offers a residential, small-town feel while staying close to the beaches. Food highlights include waterfront tiki-hut dining at Paradise Grill and seafood favorites at Yellowfins Bar and Grill (try the yellowfin tuna nachos).
(Slightly) Inland with an Ocean View
Just a mile inland from Bethany Beach, Ocean View features historic buildings and art galleries. Don’t miss Good Earth, a restaurant and market known for fresh cuisine and garden dining. Nearby, you’ll find Millville’s boardwalk, Agape Creamery, and Dickens Parlour Theatre for dinner-and-a-show entertainment.
West Side Creative Market, Rehoboth Beach
Held Mondays and Fridays from Memorial Day through Labor Day, this market features local artist vendors, live music, food trucks, and craft cocktails.
Running of the Bull, Dewey Beach
Dress in red and white and “run” with the bull through the streets of Dewey, then enjoy drinks and live music afterward at The Starboard.
Fourth of July Festivities, Statewide
Fireworks displays take place across the state, making Independence Day a festive time to visit Delaware.
Delaware State Fair, Harrington
A major summer event featuring exhibits, carnival rides, competitions, and nightly concerts.
Wyoming Peach Festival, Wyoming
An annual community festival with crafts, vendors, food, and displays celebrating Delaware peaches.
Outdoor Fine Art and Fine Craft Show, Rehoboth Beach
A long-running annual event featuring more than 100 artists from across the country.
Amish Country Bike Tour, Dover
A scenic bike tour through Amish country, known for its pie stop along the route.
Brandywine Festival of the Arts, Wilmington
A Delaware tradition spanning more than half a century and one of the largest arts festivals in the state.
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Summer Stays
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