16 Best Things To Do In Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Rehoboth Beach is a picture-perfect beach town situated on Delaware’s Atlantic Coast.
It’s a small city with charming storefronts, a lively boardwalk, beautiful beaches, and lots of delicious food.
Whether you’re seeking family-friendly fun or a special getaway, anyone looking for a fun beach destination will love this seaside retreat in Delaware!
Read on for the best things to do in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.
The Best Things To Do In Rehoboth Beach
Explore Rehoboth Avenue
Rehoboth Avenue is the town’s main drag. It’s lined with boutique shops, local restaurants, and plenty of watering holes with loud music and lots of entertainment. The outdoor Penny Lane Mall, right off Rehoboth Avenue, is great for boutique shopping and souvenir shops.
The core runs for about a mile, from the canal to the beach, with the highest concentration of attractions nearest the beach and boardwalk.
While here, you’ll definitely want to go for a stroll along this bustling stretch.
Go To The Beach
The town’s main beach, aptly named Rehoboth Beach, is centrally located in town, right at the edge of Rehoboth Avenue. This is a stunning, white sand beach where visitors can enjoy the warm sunshine and salty ocean breeze.
Rehoboth Beach connects to Deauville Beach to the north and Poodle Beach to the south. About 1.5 miles separates Deauville from Poodle Beach, so it’s possible to walk the entirety of all three beaches if you wish.
All three fine sand beaches are swimmable, spacious, and open to the public.
The beaches are always free, however, it’s likely you’ll need to pay for parking. To avoid this fee, walk, bike, or catch a ride to the beach.
Tip: If visiting on the weekend, be sure to arrive early to ensure parking and a good spot on the beach.
State Park Beaches
In addition to the beaches in town, there are a handful of state parks near Rehoboth Beach with public beach access. Check out the following:
- Cape Henlopen State Park
- Delaware Seashore State Park
- Fenwick Island State Park Beach
As with the aforementioned beaches, these will get very crowded during summer weekends, so be sure to arrive early. Park passes are required, check out the Delaware State Park Passes for pricing.
Stroll The Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk
The town has a charming, mile long boardwalk lining Rehoboth Beach. Along the boardwalk you’ll find a variety of local boutique shops, quick dining options, games, plus lots of candy and ice cream.
The shops are especially perfect for family entertainment or a quick bite while enjoying the beach!
There are many great businesses along the mile long boardwalk, but some of the most popular are:
- Funland for an amusement park and classic arcade games.
- French fries from Thrasher’s French Fries.
- Toys and games from Rehoboth Toy & Kite Company.
- Treats from Starkey’s Ice Cream & Funnel Cakes, Dolle’s Candyland, or Candy Kitchen.
- Pizza from Louie’s Pizza.
Note: During summer, biking on the boardwalk is only permitted from 5 am – 10 am. In the off-season, visitors can bike any time.
Shop Tax-free At The Tanger Outlets
Delaware is sales tax-free, so be sure to hit The Outlets while you’re in town!
The Tanger Outlets feature a wide variety of brand-name and designer outlet stores. Shop to your heart’s content knowing your stylish digs are discounted and tax-free.
The outlets are located about 3 miles from the beach and have ample free parking.
This is always a favorite among things to do in Rehoboth Beach.
Bike To Gordons Pond
Gordons Pond is located in Cape Henlopen State Park near Rehoboth Beach. The pond is enjoyed by bird watchers, nature lovers, and those seeking quiet solitude.
At just over 2 miles from Rehoboth Beach, the pond is perfect for a easy bike ride.
From town, bike 1.5 miles to Gordon’s Pond parking area, from there follow a gravel trail (used by both hikers and bikers) along the pond’s edge for about 3/4 miles. You’ll eventually arrive at the beautiful Gordons Pond Scenic Overlook!
Tip: If visiting in summer be sure to do this one early, trails and roadways will get very crowded as the day progresses.
Visit The World War II Observation Towers
Eleven former-watchtowers dot the beaches of Delaware and southern New Jersey. During WWII soldiers monitored the coastlines we enjoy today, as they searched for opposing military forces. The 80 year old towers serve as an unusual beach backdrop and a reminder of our not-so-distant past.
Of the eleven towers, Henlopen Tower and Observation Tower #3 have both been preserved and are open for tours. If you’re able to go to the top, you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views of the Delaware coastline.
If you’d like to learn more about Delaware’s WWII contributions, there’s a three-mile pathway encompassing Cape Henlopen State Park marked with plaques explaining the significance of these towers.
Catch A Free Concert Hosted By The Rehoboth Beach Bandstand
A favorite annual event in Rehoboth Beach is the Bandstand Summer Concert Series. On summer weekends since 1963 the organization has been putting on free concerts for locals and visitors.
Concerts are performed at the end of Rehoboth Avenue, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and are normally held Friday – Sunday from 8 pm – 9:15 pm. Check the events calendar at Bandstand Summer Concert Series.
This definitely one of the best things to do in Rehoboth Beach during summer, and best of all it’s free!
Visit The Rehoboth Art League
The Rehoboth Art League is a wonderful art museum located on the north end of the city. The organization features a 3.5 acre campus with galleries and special exhibits, as well as classes and studios.
Visiting the Rehoboth Art League is one of the best things to do in Rehoboth Beach when it’s raining or you need a break from the hot sun.
Looking for more attractions like this? Check out the Rehoboth Beach Museum, Gallery 50, and Clear Space Theatre Company.
Kayak Or Stand Up Paddle Board
Kayaking and stand up paddle boarding are fun ways stay active during your Rehoboth Beach vacation.
Delmarva Board Sports provides tours, lessons, and rentals for those looking to spend a few hours on the water.
The tours are beginner level and no prior experience is required. You’ll set out on the water with a local guide, surrounded by scenic views, marine life, and migrating birds. Check out this morning tour or sunset tour.
Of course, it’s also possible to go out on your own. Cape Henlopen State Park and Rehoboth Bay are some of the best spots for kayaking or SUPing. Remember, paddlers are required to have a PFD and a whistle on them while on the water.
If needed, check out rentals at: Delmarva Board Sports Rentals.
Try Windsurfing
Feeling extra adventurous? How about windsurfing lessons?
Delmarva Board Sports provide the gear and special instructions to help beginners learn to windsurf in a small group setting.
Be sure to book this one well in advance, as lessons often sell out, you can do so at: Rehoboth Bay Windsurfing Lessons.
Grab A Beer From Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats
While in Rehoboth Beach, be sure to stop by the beloved Dogfish Head Brewery. Alongside a wide variety of craft beers, the restaurant serves up delicious food and fun cocktails.
The brewpub’s laid-back atmosphere, live music events, and excellent brews have made it a popular destination among locals and visitors since the brewery opened in 1995.
Additional Breweries Near Rehoboth Beach
If you love breweries and local beers, you may also like:
- Crooked Hammock Brewery
- Thompson Island Brewing Company
- Dewey Beer Co.
- Revelation Craft Brewing
Visit The Rehoboth Beach Farmers Market
During summer months, be sure to stop by the Rehoboth Beach farmers market!
Here you’ll find local produce from Delaware farmers, as well as craft vendors, baked goods, entertainment, and live music.
The market is located in Grove Park, right off the main strip, and is open every Tuesday from 10 am – 2 pm, May through October.
Visit A Delaware State Park
Rehoboth Beach is surrounded by state parks, making it easy to get out and enjoy the unspoiled natural beauty of Delaware. From woodland and marshes to marinas and popular beach hangouts, Delaware state parks have something for everyone.
A few popular parks near Rehoboth Beach are:
- Cape Henlopen State Park
- Delaware Seashore State Park
- Fenwick Island State Park Beach
Indian River Marina
One of the most popular attractions within the nearby state parks is Indian River Marina, located in Delaware Seashore State Park. This is the state’s largest marina, thanks to its direct access to the Atlantic Ocean.
Here you can walk the marina and admire the boats, cast a line, charter a boat, or grab a bite at a waterfront restaurant.
Day Trips From Rehoboth Beach
If time permits during your Rehoboth Beach vacation, consider a day trip. Rehoboth is centrally located on the Atlantic Coast, making it easy to visit much-loved nearby towns.
Some popular day trips from Rehoboth Beach are:
- Dewey Beach, DE for a party on the water.
- Bethany Beach, DE for a picturesque, boardwalk-lined beach.
- Ocean City, MD for lively entertainment and giant beaches.
- Wilmington, Washington D.C., Baltimore, or Philadelphia for a day in the city.
- Cape May, NJ for quiet beaches and grand Victorian architecture.
Things To Do In Rehoboth Beach With Family
Rehoboth Beach is very much a family-friendly destination! Below are some additional thing to do with the family in Rehoboth:
- Spend a day at Jungle Jim’s waterpark.
- Play at the beach.
- Visit Midway Speedway Park.
- Play arcade games or enjoy carnival rides on the boardwalk.
- Hit up Shell We Golf mini golf course.
- Spend the day at Funland.
- Run around one of the area’s many state parks.
Things To Do In Rehoboth Beach During Winter
Rehoboth Beach and its neighboring towns compile a modest, but sizable year-round population, so you’re sure to find things to do even when most tourists are gone.
Below are some of the best things to do in Rehoboth Beach during winter:
- Throw on your warmest winter gear and walk the empty beach and boardwalk.
- Visit Rehoboth Beach Museum.
- Shop at Tanger Outlets.
- Catch a local performance at Clear Space Theatre Company (or take an acting class!).
- Let loose at the indoor trampoline park, Shell We Bounce.
- Grab a cold one from a local brewery.
Where To Stay In Rehoboth Beach
There are a number of local hotels along Rehoboth Avenue nearing the beach. Most are smaller and of the boutique variety. It’s definitely advantageous to book in this area as it’s within quick walking distance of restaurants, nightlife, and most importantly, the beach!
A few miles from the beach, near the Tanger Outlets, are a handful of chain hotels, which are typically less expensive than the aforementioned. The downside being they’re a long walk from the beach, although it would be a reasonable bike ride, if you wish to avoid parking hassles.
Rehoboth Beach Hotels
We stayed at Avenue Inn & Spa and were very pleased with our accommodations! The hotel is centrally located near nightlife, restaurants, and the beach. Our spacious room included free parking, free breakfast, and complimentary happy hour every evening.
For additional hotels near the beach check out:
- The Bellmoor Inn & Spa
- The Breakers Hotel & Suites
- Atlantic Sands Hotel & Conference Center
- Hotel Rehoboth
For hotels outside of the beach area, near the outlets, check out:
Rehoboth Beach Weather
Summer averages hover around 80°F, with days in July and August reaching 90°F.
It can be quite hot even along the beaches thanks to high humidity levels. Brief, but intense, afternoon storms are common during summer months.
Fall and spring are pleasant with highs from the mid-50°F’s to upper 60°F’s. Rain is common during spring, hurricanes and tropical storms are possible in fall.
During winter, snow is possible and averages highs are in the mid-40°F’s with lows dipping just below freezing.
Below are average temperatures throughout the year:
- January – 44° / 32° (High / Low, F°)
- February – 46° / 33°
- March – 52° / 39°
- April – 63° / 48°
- May 74° / 54°
- June 82° / 64°
- July 86° / 69°
- August 85° / 68°
- September 76° / 66°
- October – 68° / 56°
- November – 57° / 46°
- December – 50° / 38°
When To Visit Rehoboth Beach
If you wish to enjoy all that Rehoboth has to offer (ahem, the beach), you’ll want to visit late May through early September.
Fall and late spring bring pleasant weather, although it’ll be too cold for swimming or lounging at the beach.
As you can see, there’s so many excellent things to do in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware! Enjoy your trip and have the best time!
Any questions? Please leave a comment below or reach out on social media.
Looking for more ideas? Check out my additional East Coast guides below or head on over to Visit Delaware Beaches!
More Information For Your Rehoboth Beach Vacation:
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