7 Best Delaware Beaches

The state of Delaware is situated on a peninsula and as such is nearly surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, Delaware Bay, and the Delaware River, making it a perfect destination for beach-goers. In Delaware, visitors can find beaches like Lewes Beach, which is a great spot for relaxing in peace, or Dewey Beach, which is well known for its nightclubs and rock-and-roll atmosphere. The state has a wide variety of beaches that are great for couples, families and friends. From nature trails at Delaware Seashore State Park to dolphin watching and mini golf at Rehoboth Beach, Delaware and its beaches have everything necessary for a perfect holiday in the sun. Photo: sergojpg/Fotolia

Located in the small town of Bethany Beach on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, this sandy beach has a swimming area, lifeguards on duty, and a wide sandy area as well as a boardwalk. It is known for its peaceful atmosphere, and in fact the town of Bethany Beach is one of three areas in Delaware known as the "Quiet Resorts." Near to the beach is the town of the same name where visitors can find shops and restaurants. Dogs are not permitted on the beach from May 15 through September 30.

214 Garfield Pkwy, Bethany Beach, DE 19930 Photo: Mac/Fotolia

Cape Henlopen’s two swimming beaches are part of Cape Henlopen State Park, a 5,000-acre park with hiking and biking trails, an 18-hole disc golf course, and a basketball court. The beaches both have lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day until Labor Day, and the North Beach has a changing area with showers. Mats are available to allow access to the beach from the boardwalk for guests in wheelchairs or with other disabilities. Cape Henlopen is also home to a pavilion area for picnics and a large building perfect for parties and gatherings that is available for daily rental.

15099 Cape Henlopen Dr, Lewes, DE 19958 Photo: junej/Fotolia

Delaware Seashore State Park is a gorgeous area of land that includes six miles of picturesque shoreline. On the east, visitors will find the gigantic Atlantic Ocean, and to the west they will see the waters of Rehoboth Bay and Indian River Bay, making it the perfect destination for beach bums looking for a wide array of stunning views. The beaches at Delaware Seashore State Park are equipped with swimming areas, lifeguards, concessions, and umbrella, chair, and raft rental. Surfing, sail boating, fishing, and boating are all popular pastimes on the water, and visitors looking to do more than sunbathe will find nature trails on Burton’s Island and Thompson Island.

39415 Inlet Road, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 Photo: CBH/Fotolia

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At Dewey Beach, visitors can dip their feet in the ocean on one side and feel the waters of Rehoboth Bay on the other side. Pets are permitted at this sandy beach where beach-goers are likely to find games of beach volleyball on the sand, and jet-skiers and parasailers in the water. The beach is easily accessed by use of the Jolly Trolley, which will come as a relief to visitors if parking proves difficult. After the sun goes down, visitors can enjoy the many nightclubs in the area, or enjoy a drink at one of the Dewey Beach’s rock and roll bars.

Dewey Beach, DE 19971 Photo: gravescreative/Fotolia

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On a three-mile strip of barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and Little Assawoman Bay, Fenwick Island State Park is full of sandy, sunny spots to relax. Fenwick Island State Park’s beaches offer changing areas, showers, a gift shop, and a concession stand for snacks. During the summer season between Memorial Day and Labor Day, lifeguards are on duty from 9am until 5pm, and chairs, rafts, and umbrellas are available for rental. The park is one of only a few in Delaware that offers a designated surfing area, and vehicles with a fishing permit may also use the park’s three dune crossings for fishing access.

DE-1, Fenwick, DE 19971

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The town of Lewes is charming, peaceful, and picturesque, making Lewes Beach one of the most desired spots on this list for visitors who want a relaxing, quiet holiday. Because of its tranquil and laid-back atmosphere, Lewes Beach has earned the reputation of being the perfect beach for those looking to get away from the beach, where they can relax in the sand with views of the Breakwater Lighthouse or enjoy a swim and some watersport activities in the ocean. Lewes Beach is open daily from 6am until midnight. Nearby in the town of Lewes, visitors can enjoy restaurants, shops, and the history of this small town that looks as though it has been pulled from the pages of a travel brochure.

Lewes Beach, Lewes, DE 19958 Photo: jonbilous/Fotolia

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Rehoboth Beach is a five-star beach that has won many awards as a perfect place for relaxation and play. Besides the sandy shores that are great for sunbathing and the water where visitors can watch for dolphins, Rehoboth Beach also offers miniature golf, arcades, and an amusement park. Shoppers will enjoy the "mile of style," an outlet mall filled with luxury brand names, or the many unique boutiques in town. After a day at the beach or in town, visitors will also enjoy an evening dining at one of Rehoboth Beach’s many delicious restaurants. Rehoboth Beach is open to the public 24 hours a day, although sleeping on the beach is prohibited from 5am until 1am.

N Boardwalk, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 Photo: Chee/Fotolia