Within easy reach of much of the Northeast, Delaware is a hot spot all summer long for beach activity. Its 28 miles of coastline actually stretch out and zip zag to over 380 miles when measuring using the NOAA method. Whether visiting for just the weekend or looking to move in, there are some exceptional little oceanside towns to explore.
6 Best Beach Towns in Delaware
No matter what kind of vacation or hometown you’re looking for, Delaware’s 28 miles of coastline (381 miles using NOAA) of beachfront is sure to provide a terrific time. The top beach towns in the state each have something unique to offer for those looking to move in or just visit for a holiday. Perks …
Top Beaches and Coastal Towns in DE
Among the most popular destinations in the state include gems like Dewey, Bethany, and Rehoboth Beaches. The white sand beaches and clean ocean water are the perfect way to spend a summer day in the sun. Spend your evenings along a bustling boardwalk or quaint historic district, and you’ll love every minute spent in “The First State”.
Guide to Visiting the Beaches in Delaware
According to CRS, Delaware’s coastline stretches for 28 miles (381 miles by NOAA), and the state is home to some beautiful beaches that are easy to miss. The First State may not be as well known for its beach activities as more southern states such as Florida, but when it comes to providing tourists with a fun time by the water, Delaware is more than capable of holding its own.
The state’s best beaches are on the southern part of Delaware’s coastline. The US Natural Resources Defense Council gave five stars, the highest grade possible, to beaches in Sussex County because the water in the ocean is so clean.
The beach community of Rehoboth Beach in Delaware is perhaps the most famous beach town in the state. It’s sometimes marketed as the “Nation’s Summer Capital.”
It has been a tourist town since the 1870s, and it’s still one of the most popular places to go on vacation because of its high-end restaurants, historic boardwalk, beautiful beaches, and great tax-free shopping. This section of the shore is often visited by famous people on vacation, like Kathie Lee Gifford and Denzel Washington, among others.
One of the towns that get the least attention is Slaughter Beach, which, despite its moniker, is a tranquil haven for horseshoe crabs.
The trendy and youthful population prefers to congregate in Dewey Beach, located immediately south of Rehoboth. Dewey has plenty of water sports and beach volleyball opportunities during the day, with numerous nightlife options for those who like to keep the fun going after sunset.
Delaware Coastal Climate
Between May and August, beachgoers in Delaware will find the most favorable conditions. The summer brings the most visitors and the highest average temperatures (ranging from the upper 60s °F to the upper 80s °F), but they might also get a few rain showers. It’s the time of year when spending time on the boardwalk and lying on warm sand is most enjoyable.
After Labor Day, tourists will notice fewer people, cheaper hotel rates, and temperatures that make for a lovely autumn, ranging from about 55-78 °F. Although guests will probably be able to find reduced room rates, certain attractions may be closed or have more restricted operating hours once the summer season has ended.
Winters in Delaware are pleasant, with temperatures seldom dropping below the low 30s °F.
Accommodations
Condo rentals and motels with ocean views are very popular along the Delaware shore. Several places feature low-cost hotels and properties listed on short-term rental sites like Airbnb and VRBO.
The cost of lodging varies widely depending on the season; if you know when you’ll be traveling, it’s best to look into it as soon as possible. The number of people in your group may also have an impact on the accommodations that are available to you.
There are a lot of campsites along the coast as well, particularly in the Rehoboth Beach region in locations like Delaware Seashore State Park and Gordon Ponds State Park Area. Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Delaware Beaches is a campsite that is geared at families and is located close to Slaughter Beach in Lincoln.
Numerous other pleasant camping locations may be found along the coast of Delaware and in the surrounding regions.
Activities
The state of Delaware is home to a number of beaches that are not only great for swimming but also boating and fishing. Paddling a kayak, playing beach volleyball, soaking up the sun on the sand, and sunbathing are other popular things to do along the coast of this region.
Because this state does not have a sales tax, many tourists travel here to shop at various outlet stores, souvenir shops, and boutiques. Before or after spending time by the ocean, go hiking or wildlife viewing at Fenwick Island State Park or Cape Henlopen. Both of these parks are located near beaches too.
No matter where you go to enjoy the ocean breeze and some fresh air, the beaches in Delaware are sure to satisfy your needs. Not only is it a beautiful state, but it also has some of the East Coast’s most underrated coastlines.
