Why Is Rehoboth Beach Worth Visiting?
Before we get into all the things to do in Rehoboth Beach, let’s learn something about ‘The Nation’s Summer Capital.’ Rehoboth Beach is a popular summer destination on the Atlantic coast, known for its beautiful boardwalk and clean beaches, and there’s much more to this coastal town than just that.
The area was first settled by the Lenape people, before being seized by the Duke of York in the 17th century. The city was founded in 1873 as a site for Methodist camp meetings and named after the adjacent Rehoboth Bay. Rehoboth is the name of three biblical places, sharing the meaning ‘broad spaces.’
Rehoboth Beach’s transformation into a resort town began when the Henlopen Hotel was established in 1879. By the early 20th century, Rehoboth was a well-known summer resort for wealthy families from Wilmington, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.
Rehoboth Beach is home to less than 2,000 people, but swells to approximately 25,000 during the summer months. The town has a diverse range of things to offer visitors, from its dog-friendly beaches to the boardwalk, which is a National Historic Landmark. And of course, no visit to Rehoboth would be complete without trying some of its delicious food!
Things to Do in Rehoboth Beach – Must-See Places Downtown
Rehoboth Beach is a world-class beach destination. We’re talking white sand beaches, carnival rides, boat rentals, boardwalk games and all the taffy you can eat! To get the most out of your visit, take the time to explore the town. Here are some things to do in Rehoboth Beach.
Treat Yourself to Some Delicious Food and Drinks
Eat your heart out at one of the many restaurants Rehoboth Beach has to offer. You can’t go wrong with dining along the water or inside one of the many restaurants in downtown Rehoboth Beach. Everyone has their favorite eatery in town, but some popular choices are:
- Fins Fish House & Raw Bar;
- Dogfish Head Brewery & Eats;
- Purple Parrot Grill Beach Haus & Biergarten;
- Go Fish;
- Henlopen City Oyster House.
Take a Stroll on the Boardwalk
The Rehoboth Beach boardwalk is lined with souvenir shops and stands selling ice cream and pizza. It’s also a great place to people-watch, as you’ll see plenty of locals and tourists alike enjoying the sunny weather. If you want to take things up a notch, consider renting a bike or surrey and pedaling your way down the boardwalk.
Ride the Roller Coasters at Funland
Funland is an old-fashioned, family-friendly amusement park established in 1962, just steps from the ocean. It’s a classic shore tradition for families to visit Funland each year. The park offers more than two dozen rides, including roller coasters, carousels, and the Ferris Wheel.
Catch a Show at the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand
The Rehoboth Beach Bandstand is a large, open-air pavilion that hosts concerts and events throughout the summer. The schedule is packed with top-notch performers, so be sure to check it out when you’re in town.
Go Shopping at the Tanger Outlets Rehoboth Beach
Rehoboth Beach is a tax-free shopping haven, with plenty of charming boutiques and galleries to explore. However, if you’re looking for high-quality goods at low prices, you’ll find that Tanger Outlets Rehoboth Beach is just the place for you. Here, you’ll find everything from name brand apparel and accessories to home decor and gifts.
Visit Rehoboth Beach Museum
The Rehoboth Beach Historical Society & Museum has been preserving the history of this city since 1972. They offer exhibits on the area’s rich history, as well as guided walking tours during the summer. This is a great way to learn more about the town’s history before or after a day at the beach.
Outdoor Things to Do in Rehoboth Beach
If you’re only visiting the town for a day or two, you’ll be hard-pressed to decide between all the wonderfully fun outdoor things to do in Rehoboth Beach. Here are some of our top recommendations:
- Take a scenic stroll or bike ride down the Junction & Breakwater Trail.
- Go kayaking or paddleboarding on Rehoboth Bay.
- Explore the nearby state parks.
For nature lovers, the Delaware Seashore State Park and the Cape Henlopen State Park are both definitely worth a visit.
There’s a variety of outdoor activities at Cape Henlopen State Park. You can hike the trails, go birding, fish from several piers, or visit the World War II observation towers that still stand there (Fort Miles Historical Area). There’s also a large off-leash dog park where your furry friend can stretch his legs and play with other canines.
Delaware Seashore State Park offers six miles of beach with lifeguards and surf fishing. You’ll also find two campgrounds and picnic areas with shelters. Enjoy bicycling along the oceanfront or playing volleyball on the beach. Take a stroll along the nature trail and watch for wildlife like bald eagles, foxes and deer.
Gordon Pond Wildlife Area is home to many different species of migratory birds and waterfowl. Explore the hiking trails and watch for shorebirds, egrets, herons and other birds around the pond, salt marsh and tidal creeks that border it.
Relax on the Beaches
Of course, no visit to Rehoboth would be complete without spending some time on the beach. You can relax in the sun, build sandcastles with the kids, go swimming or bodyboarding in the waves, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore.
Rehoboth Beach is the longest beach in the city known by the same name. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the sun, surf and sand. There are also several restaurants and bars located nearby, as well as the boardwalk where you can take a walk, go for a run or ride your bike.
Poodle Beach is a great place to bring your furry friend for a day at the beach. Dogs are allowed on the beach from October to April, and there’s even a doggie water fountain where they can drink. There’s also Deauville Beach, which is a bit more secluded and quiet than Rehoboth Beach. It’s the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a relaxing day by the water.
Enjoy Your Visit to Rehoboth Beach!
Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying for the summer, there’s no shortage of things to do in Rehoboth Beach. From amusement parks and shopping to museums and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone in this charming seaside town. And if you want to see more of the area, be sure to visit Dewey Beach and Lewes Beach!
Similar Posts:
- Things to Do in Delaware. Tourist Attractions, Beaches, and Fun Activities – All in Our Guide
- Top Things to do in Pensacola, FL. Top Tourist Attractions and Beaches in Pensacola
- Best Things To Do In Fort Walton Beach, FL: Top Tourist Attractions And Places To Go
- Things to Do in Cocoa Beach, FL: 10 Activities and Tourist Attractions You Don’t Want to Miss
- Things to Do in North Myrtle Beach, SC – Have Fun in the Amusement Park and Explore Myrtle Beach Attractions
- Things to Do in Miami Beach – Places Where You’ll Have a Blast
- Things to Do in Wildwood, NJ: The Best Wildwood Attractions to Visit on Your Jersey Shore Vacation
- Things to Do in Daytona Beach, Fl. All You Need to Know about Daytona Attractions
