25 Best Things to Do in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Rehoboth Beach is a popular family beach vacation destination on the East Coast. With 30 miles of coastline, sports enthusiasts can indulge themselves in kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing, and surfing, while others can take a walk along the manicured walking trails and admire the scenery. Visitors can attend diverse events throughout the year, dine at great restaurants and explore the attractions. Here are the best things to do in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Photo: Chee/Fotolia

Rehoboth Beach and Boardwalk is the best scenic spot in town and one of the top Rehoboth Beach attractions, featuring interesting local shops, family amusements, and restaurants.

The open air concerts with bands that perform during the warm season are sure to impress, and the colorful beach cottages are charming.

The boardwalk is the city’s most famous attraction.

Take a stroll along the one-mile-long boardwalk and admire the scenic beauty of the area. Photo: Chee/Fotolia

Gordons Pond is a scenic hiking and biking trail in Delaware. Recently expanded, the trail runs past the pond and into the lush forest. Admire the wetlands and the dunes as they offer picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The trail is an elevated boardwalk for about half a mile and the two observation points allow the visitor to appreciate the scenery of the stunning landscape.

There are several types of reptiles and mammals in this area. During the summer, the coastline is a nesting ground for piping plovers, a species of shorebird that is threatened. Photo: stfanic/Fotolia

With rail-trail history dating back to the mid-1800s, the modern day Junction and Breakwater Trail originally opened in 2003 as a 3.6-mile northbound trail out of West Rehoboth. Extended in 2007, it now runs a full 6 miles to Lewes Beach and Cape Henlopen State Park. There are natural coastal forests and wide open farm fields hidden behind the shopping centers of Route 1. It is a nature retreat for walkers, runners, bikers, and families alike.

The trail features an 80-foot long refurbished railroad bridge originally built in 1913. Along with scenic views of a World War II observation tower and coastal wetlands, this pine-studded crushed stone trail offers a perfect outdoor fitness opportunity near the natural beauty and unique history of the Delaware Coast. Junction and Breakwater Trail is one of the best things to do in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Photo: Arun/Fotolia

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Delaware Seashore State Park spreads on 2825 acres surrounded by water. Mostly inaccessible until the construction of two large steel and stone jetties, the park sits between Rehoboth and Indian River Bay on the west and the Atlantic Ocean on the east.

Fully equipped with bathhouses, snacks, umbrellas, chairs, and rafts, the park is a swimming and sunbathing haven. You can drive vehicles straight onto the sand in designated areas for a relaxing day of fishing while wind and waves make for great surfing and sailing. Every July, the park plays host to a Sand Castle Contest.

39415 Inlet Road, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971, 302-227-2800 Photo: graves creative/Fotolia

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Jungle Jim’s is the largest waterpark in the state of Delaware. It features a wave pool, water slides, an activity pool, a kiddie pool, as well as a lazy river. It also has a bumper boat pool, which is a version of bumper cars on water with the added bonus of each boat being equipped with a water gun. If you are wondering what to do in Rehoboth Beach with kids, this is a great place to visit.

Besides all the water activities, there is miniature golf, batting cages, and a cafe. Jungle Jim’s is seasonally open beginning every May. They offer afternoon, daily, and seasonal passes and accept reservations for groups or parties.

36944 Country Club Rd., Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971, 302-227-8444 Photo: starsstudio/Fotolia

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Listed in the National Register of Historic Places and part of The Delaware History Trail, the Indian River Life-Saving Station is a historical destination in the Rehoboth area. Built in response to the large number of shipwrecks occurring in the late 1800s, it was used for night beach patrols and high seas rescues.

The station has been restored to its 1905 appearance and is open for self-guided or staff guided tours. It has been in its current location since 1877. Located on a picturesque white sand beach, the Station is also available to rent for special occasions.

25039 Coastal Highway, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971, 302-227-6991 Photo: Indian River Life-Saving Station

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The Clear Space Theatre Company is a non-profit founded in 2004 that has set out to inspire through high-quality performances and education. Divided into three branches, the Company includes The Acting Company performances, The Arts Institute educational program, and On Tour community presentations. If you are looking for romantic date ideas in Rehoboth Beach, watch a theater performance.

Performances vary from a summer rotation of three popular Broadway shows to spring musicals, spring and fall plays, as well as a seasonal musical during the holidays. With over 1,000 class meetings each year they nurture students of all ages from Broadway Bound one year olds to full semester adult classes. The Clear Space Theatre Company has become a popular spot for performing arts in Southern Delaware, with 47% of operating expenses coming from its own earned income.

20 Baltimore Ave. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971, 302-227-2270 Photo: aerogondo/Fotolia

Eating Rehoboth is a charming way to discover Rehoboth’s history. The tour is conducted by three local residents who will give an insight into downtown Rehoboth beach history with interesting anecdotes.

Visitors are taken on a walk to famous culinary spots and are given an opportunity to interact with the chef with behind the scene access. The walking food tour is about three hours with tastings at five of the best restaurants in town; visitors are requested to dress formally according to the dress code of the restaurants. Photo: Eating Rehoboth

A place to take advantage of Delaware’s tax-free shopping, Tanger Outlets boast three separate malls filled with name-brand and designer shops with deep discounts. Buying directly from the manufacturer allows you to save 30-70% on quality, in-season merchandise.

With everything from clothing, accessories, and footwear, to housewares, toys, and books, there is something for the entire family. IHOP, Applebee’s and Chipotle make for all-day meal options to fuel your shopping spree. The Courtesy Tanger Shuttle helps you navigate the Mile of Style., Tanger Outlet is conveniently situated close to local beaches on Route 1.

36470 Seaside Outlet Drive, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971, 302-226-9223 Photo: Tanger Outlets

DelMarVa Board Sport Adventures is a company that offers paddle boarding and windsurfing adventures. They were recently voted the “Best Place to Stand Up Paddle” by Beachcomber magazine. They also rent equipment suitable for beginners and experimented windsurfers alike.

In addition to windsurfing and paddle boarding, they also offer kayaking adventures. Each of their products is available at hourly, daily, and weekly rates. DelMarVa Board Sport Adventures offers salt water fishing excursions and summer camps, and you can choose to have the rented equipment delivered right to your home. Read more

19470 Coastal Hwy #5, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971, 302-260-9008 Photo: upslim/Fotolia

The Indan River Marina is located within Delaware Seashore State Park at the northern end of the Indian River Inlet. It is noted for being one of the best fishing spots in the area. In 2014, it was voted “Best Marina/Fishing Center” by Coastal Magazine.

It is host to a fleet of charter fishing boats that offer many different types of fishing experiences. The boats offer full and half day tours, in shore and off-shore, as well as tournaments and fish cleaning services. There are additional benefits for being a season-long slip holder such as free electricity and discounted fuel.

39415 Inlet Road, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971, 302-227-3071 Photo: normalfx/Fotolia

karts that can be driven on 5 different courses 365 days a year. They have a pro-style course with a high bank turn, as well as family-friendly options such as two seat karts on a kiddie-track.

The Speedway is part of a complex which contains Fire Mountain Miniature Golf, the White Water Mountain water park, and Fun Park Attractions. They also host parties and events and accept reservations for their busy season in the summer.

18645 Coastal Hwy, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971, 302-645-8064 Photo: malven/Fotolia

The Rehoboth Beach Farmer’s Market is one of the largest farmer’s markets in the area and is known for its large variety of vendors and products. In addition to items traditionally found at farmer’s markets, you can expect to see things such as ice cream, soaps, candles, and treats for dogs.

The market is operational every Tuesday, from 12 to 3 p.m. during the growing season. They also have a handy chart that shows what season vegetables are in at any given time, helping customers make informed decisions about what they purchase. Music and other forms of entertainment are available at the market regularly. Read more Photo: smashingoats/Fotolia

Arena’s has been at Rehoboth Beach since 1990, when they began as a small sandwich shop serving large and scrumptious portions. Visitors will enjoy the friendly atmosphere here as they offer pet friendly outdoor dining during the summer. There are family dining areas and a menu that caters to every palate.

Their gourmet coffees and breakfast are popular in Rehoboth Beach. The outstanding service and quality of food has earned Arena’s the prestigious award of Best of Delaware several times over the years.

Rehoboth Ave, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, 302-227-1272 Photo: Arena’s Deli & Bar

Papa Grande’s is inspired by the flavors and traditions of the Latin American culture. The menu provides an authentic experience of Latino cuisine. You will be greeted by courteous staff, who can help you make a selection based on your preference.

The ambiance is beautiful as you can get a view of the bay at the upper floor seating that has an open air bar. Papa Grande’s has the reputation of serving the best margaritas in town. The star dish on the menu is the Guacamole, but the Padron Peppers and the Mexican Street Corn are equally good.

210 2nd Street, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971, 302-212-2409 Photo: Papa Grande’s

The Rehoboth Art League is a group that sets out to encourage art in education and help promote professional artists. They offer a wide range of courses for both children and adults on topics such as pottery, writing, painting, and sculpting.

They also have a number of outreach programs that seek to bring art to those who might otherwise not be exposed. In addition to their educational and outreach programs, they also regularly host events such as the Cottage Tour of Art, Holiday Fair Show, and an Open House.

12 Dodds Lane, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971, 302-227-8408 Photo: Rehoboth Art League

Lupo Italian Kitchen has an interesting menu with an enviable wine list. Their own wine bottles offer value for money, and diners can try it with either the Veal Parmesan or the Chicken Parmesan that are popular here. With trained staff to guide you, you can be sure that whatever you order, it will be delicious.

The Fresh Pasta and meatballs, Grilled Artichokes and the Homemade Mozzarella are other popular items on the menu, while Marinated Olives and Calamari are delicious for starters.

247 Rehoboth Ave, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971, 302-226-2240 Photo: Lupo Italian Kitchen

Salt Air offers a delicious cuisine that is seasonal and fresh. Their menu changes regularly according to the produce available locally. They serve organic meats, poultry, and a delectable selection of sea food. Indulge in their scrumptious homemade desserts, and explore the selection of savory grapes, spirits, and brew.

Trained waiters will help you with their Brown List that features a selection of bourbons and whiskey. The dessert cocktails and martini come highly recommended.

50 Wilmington Ave, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971, 302-227-3744 Photo: Salt Air

The Rehoboth Beach Historical Society runs the Rehoboth Beach Museum, which was founded in 1975. The Museum has two parts. The first is the Anna Hazzard Tent House, which is home of many local artifacts.

It is one of the oldest homes in the area and was used as a “Camp Meeting” gatherings in the late 1800’s. The other facet of the museum is the Ice House, which is the primary home of the museum. The Ice House formerly played an important economic role in the area and now has many exhibits and collections of local history. Admission to the museum is by donation.

511 Rehoboth Avenue, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971, 302-227-7310 Photo: Rehoboth Beach Museum

Big Fish Grill was founded in 1997 and is part of the Delaware Culinary Trail. They have earned the Best Seafood at the Beach award; it is their unique blend of original recipes that are prepared with fresh ingredients and an impressive customer service that has contributed to their success.

You will find their menu diverse as they offer not only fresh seafood that is personally handpicked, but also juicy steaks and chicken. Sit back and enjoy the ambiance, while indulging in a Fresh Baked Oyster, Fresh Blue Crab Loaded Tots, or a Fresh Homemade Handcrafted Pizza.

20298 Coastal Highways, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971 Photo: Big Fish Grill

Funland has been offering entertainment for the whole family from 1962. Five of their original rides are still running and different generations have enjoyed the same ride. There are nineteen rides at Funland, so there is something for each member of the family.

The classic rides such as the carousel are as popular as the Superflip or the Freefall that target the adventurous riders. Their sixteen midway games are designed for all age groups; try the Fishing in the Duck Pond, Skeeball or their unique mix of machines at the arcade.

6 Delaware Avenue, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971, 302-227-1921 Photo: Funland

The Jolly Trolley Fixed Route is a route between Rehoboth Beach and Dewey Beach that has been in operation since 1992. Besides daily routes, they also have specials on events like New Year’s Eve and are available for limousine and charter services.

They collaborate with local businesses and offer narrated tours that take you on a historical tour of Rehoboth Beach. During the peak summer season, trolleys arrive at their designated stops about 5 to 15 minutes on average. The trolleys run seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and their basic schedule has trolleys arriving at stops every 30 minutes. Photo: Jolly Trolley of Rehoboth Beach

The Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats is a well-known restaurant in Rehoboth Beach. It has been open since 1995 and is almost as old as the brewery itself. The restaurant is notable for being a proving ground for their beers. It is common to find beers at the restaurant that are unavailable anywhere else.

In addition to their “off-centered” ales which have gained national recognition, Dogfish Head has introduced a line of distilled spirits featuring variations of gin, vodka, and rum. The restaurant is open at noon, seven days per week, all year, and hosts local and out-of-town musicians regularly.

320 Rehoboth Ave., Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971, 302-226-BREW

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