From secluded stretches of soft sand to vibrant boardwalks teeming with life, these beaches offer an unparalleled escape from the ordinary.
Delaware, known for its rich history and charming small towns, also boasts a hidden gem that beckons sun-seekers and beach lovers alike. Nestled along its pristine coastline are some of the East Coast’s best-kept secrets – the top 10 beaches embody the best of Delaware’s natural beauty and coastal allure.
Come with us as we embark on a coastal journey, unveiling the breathtaking vistas and alluring activities that make Delaware’s best beaches a haven for relaxation and adventure seekers.
10 Best Delaware Beaches
1. Bethany Beach
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Bethany Beach is a premier beach resort for relaxing. This peaceful rural village has a warm environment and a family-friendly atmosphere. Its broad, sandy beach is complemented by a promenade lined with stores and restaurants. Even though summer can be hectic, finding a place to lay out a towel is usually manageable with a short walk.
The charm of the location is found in the pure and clean waters with mild waves, which are ideal for swimming. The best time to visit for shell collectors is between October and early May, when the cold water discourages swimmers, leaving more ocean treasures to explore.
2. Rehoboth Beach
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Rehoboth Beach is a renowned tourist resort known for its lively atmosphere and boardwalk. It has a long, sandy beach ideal for sunbathing and swimming. There are numerous shops, restaurants, and entertainment options in town. It can get crowded during high seasons, but there’s always something to do.
Visitors can participate in a variety of water sports and activities. The beach is well-kept, and the water usually is safe to swim in. Due to its bustling charm and recreational activities, Rehoboth Beach draws beachgoers looking for a lively and vibrant vacation resort.
3. Lewes Beach
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Lewes Beach is an ideal family vacation destination for people seeking peace and safety. Its location in a harbor protects tourists from the harsh waves of the Atlantic, making it suitable for young children. The beach’s scenic site on the shore of Delaware Bay provides stunning ocean views, enhanced by a pleasant town backdrop.
Families can have fun splashing about in the water and paddling. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are offered for the more daring, adding an extra element of adventure to this beautiful beach holiday spot.
4. Dewey Beach
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Dewey Beach, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Rehoboth Bay, has a youthful atmosphere. It’s a popular destination for aquatic activities, excellent cuisine, and groovy music. The town comes alive with frenetic nightlife and live performances when the sun goes down, making it ideal for young and energetic people looking for rest and excitement.
The broad, powdery sand beach on Dewey Beach is a noteworthy feature, as are the spectacular coastal residences, which make a stunning environment for an evening stroll during golden hour.
5. Cape Henlopen State Park
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Discover the beauties of Cape Henlopen State Park, a wildlife refuge. Explore Delaware’s natural splendor on nature paths and along the shore. Visit at any time of year, although spring and summer have the best weather by the water. Lifeguards provide safe swimming from Memorial Day through Labor Day, while rangers maintain an eye on the trails.
A little admission fee helps preserve this seaside treasure for future generations. Participate in fishing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities, but keep busy weekends in mind during the summer. You won’t want to miss this outdoor wonderland!
6. Fenwick Island State Park
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Nestled along the Delaware coastline, Fenwick Island State Park beckons with its tranquil charm, making it one of the best beaches in the state. This coastal haven offers a pristine beach, perfect for unwinding amidst nature’s beauty. Throughout the year, visitors can find solace and serenity away from the bustle of city life. The park’s proximity to the Maryland state line lends a unique allure, providing a quieter escape.
Delight in sun-kissed sands, refreshing swims, and leisurely beachcombing. Explore the captivating dunes and encounter local wildlife in this serene retreat. Fenwick Island State Park promises a blissful respite, where the rhythm of the waves sets the tone for relaxation.
7. Slaughter Beach
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With its small-town charm and population of roughly 200 people, Slaughter Beach emanates tranquility during the winter. Surprisingly, it morphs into a popular summer resort, bringing visitors from all over the East Coast.
While the beach provides a natural scene without commercialization, facilities remain nearby. Remember that no lifeguards are on duty, so ask around before swimming. It is best to avoid the water after heavy rain because of the potential influence on water quality and stronger currents.
8. Broadkill Beach
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Broadkill Beach is gaining popularity as a relaxed and less crowded option compared to more extensive nearby beaches. What sets it apart is the absence of entrance or parking fees, but this means minimal facilities, limited to a few portable toilets. A small store at the beach’s edge offers essential supplies like cold beverages and snacks.
However, due to the limited parking space, arriving early during peak summer months is recommended. Embrace the low-key vibe and unspoiled beauty of Broadkill Beach, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a serene coastal retreat.
9. Holts Landing State Park
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Holts Landing State Park has become widely recognized in Delaware for its tranquil and unspoiled beauty, making it one of the best beaches in the state. Its attractiveness stems from the fact that it is a less-crowded alternative to more popular beaches, attracting individuals seeking calmness and a closer connection with nature.
The park’s natural splendor provides breathtaking landscapes and various outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and birdwatching, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. This hidden gem attracts people looking for a laid-back beach experience away from the bustling crowd, earning it a reputation as a favorite among locals and tourists.
10. Delaware Seashore State Park
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Delaware Seashore State Park has several beaches, two with lifeguards and other amenities. For the convenience of beachgoers, each beach has bathhouses, restrooms, showers, and snack bars. Those who prefer to avoid carrying their equipment can rent chairs and umbrellas. Surfers flock to the designated surf beaches, with the North Inlet Day Area beach being trendy. There are non-motorized boat launches and fishing charters available.
Nature pathways wind across the park’s 2,825 acres, providing exploration opportunities. During the summer, the park also conducts interesting educational events, adding to its appeal to nature enthusiasts and families.
Delaware Has Stunning Beaches
Delaware’s diverse coastline offers a collection of stunning beaches catering to all tastes. From the lively boardwalks of Rehoboth Beach to the tranquil serenity of Holts Landing State Park, each beach provides a unique experience. Whether you seek vibrant nightlife or a peaceful escape, Delaware’s top beaches deliver. Embrace the pristine shores, enjoy water adventures, and bask in the natural beauty of the state’s coastal gems. Plan your beach getaway and create unforgettable memories on the ten best beaches in Delaware.
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Prakash Kolli is the founder of the Dividend Power site. He is a self-taught investor, analyst, and writer on dividend growth stocks and financial independence. His writings can be found on Seeking Alpha, InvestorPlace, Business Insider, Nasdaq, TalkMarkets, ValueWalk, The Money Show, Forbes, Yahoo Finance, and leading financial sites. In addition, he is part of the Portfolio Insight and Sure Dividend teams. He was recently in the top 1.0% and 100 (73 out of over 13,450) financial bloggers, as tracked by TipRanks (an independent analyst tracking site) for his articles on Seeking Alpha.