Delaware may be one of the smallest states in the US, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have some great summer resorts. As the first US state, it’s steeped in a rich history that can’t be found anywhere else in the US. With sandy beaches, lush forests, and plenty to do and see, it’s the perfect place to relax this summer. Big cities like Dover and Wilmington are great too, but the crowds and traffic jams are not exactly relaxing. Outside of the big cities, you’ll find cool, adorable towns with beaches, hiking trails, and historic sites worth visiting in 2024.
Dewey Beach
Dewey Beach is one of those bustling beachside towns with endless things to do, day or night. Water sports are great; you can recharge on the clean sand or get adventurous with a variety of water sports activities. Other recommended spots are Delmarva Board Sports, where you can rent boards and kayaks, and Good Vibes Tiki Cruises, for an energetic day on the water. When the sun goes down, you can stroll the Dewey Beach Baywalk and take in the serene views of Rehoboth Bay (especially stunning at sunset). If you’re lucky, you might even spot a dolphin or two.
Besides the outdoor scene, another great thing about Dewey Beach is its vibrant nightlife. In fact, Dewey Beach is known as one of Delaware’s most popular nightlife spots. Enjoy family-friendly movie nights on Mondays at Dougsworthy Avenue and fun public bonfires on Wednesdays. Local pubs and restaurants offer live music, cold drinks, and fresh seafood. Before you leave, be sure to stop by Woody’s Dewey Beach for some Delaware crab cakes.
Bowers
![Quaint homes along Main Street in Bowers, Delaware.](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/upload/04/13/20/2022-07-17-12-55-25-view-southwest-along-main-street-at-clifton-cubbage-drive-in-bowers-beach-kent-county-delaware.jpg)
If you’re looking for beachside lounging in one of the state’s most historic towns, Bowers is the perfect beach getaway. Bowers is one of the oldest settlements on the Delaware Bay and was called Whitwell’s Delight in the 1600s. Today, it’s a cool, kitschy beach town with fun for the whole family. Spend the day soaking up the sun on sandy Bowers Beach, book a boat charter with Captain’s Lady Charters, or learn more about the town at the Bowers Beach Maritime Museum.
If you want to indulge in fresh seafood, Bowers Beach is the place to be. JP’s Wharf serves fresh seafood in its waterfront dining room. Seafood is delivered fresh every morning and is a must try for anyone in the area.
Rehoboth Beach
![Waterfront homes along the coast of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/upload/b4/aa/42/shutterstock-2192885825.jpg)
There’s no shortage of things to do in Rehoboth Beach. While the sun and sand are enough to help you de-stress, there’s plenty to see and do. The Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk is one of the most popular attractions in this small seaside town. It’s packed with quirky local shops, delicious seafood, and family-friendly attractions. Kids will love the nearby Funland amusement area and arcade, and over a mile of waterfront shops will keep kids and adults entertained all day. If you’re visiting in August, check out the 51st Annual Fine Arts & Fine Crafts Show at Henlopen Acres. This lively event features live music, a beer garden, and live art demonstrations, making it a must-see in Rehoboth Beach this summer.
Nature lovers should visit the Great Marsh Preserve, a popular nature spot in Rehoboth Beach. It features over 17,000 acres of beautiful Delaware wetlands. Walk the many trails or rent a canoe to explore the depths of this lush wetland. It’s a great place for bird watching and nature photography.
Harrington
![People line up at a hot dog stand at the Delaware State Fair in Harrington, Delaware.](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/upload/84/19/8f/shutterstock-2027209718.jpg)
Harrington’s biggest attraction is the Harrington Raceway & Casino. It’s a great place to gamble but also has great food, buffets, live entertainment and concerts. Think of it as a mini Atlantic City without the crowds. It also hosts the Delaware State Fair in July, with concerts, holiday shopping and plenty of year-round attractions.
Harrington is also a great place to relax and take in the beautiful scenery of Browns Branch County Park, which features a children’s playground, picnic tables, family-friendly hiking trails, and a wetland boardwalk with forested views. After enjoying the outdoors, head to downtown Harrington, where you’ll find plenty of local restaurants, cafes, and shopping.
Fenwick Island
![It is anchored off the coast of Fenwick Island, Delaware.](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/upload/23/a1/d4/shutterstock-2351087551.jpg)
Fenwick Island is the perfect summer getaway for those who love the beach but hate the crowds. This kitschy beachside town is packed with fun local shops, delicious restaurants, and breathtaking views. While the beach is a great place to relax, Fenwick Island State Park is the place for adventure. If you’re adventurous, you can fish, kayak, paddleboard, sail, or walk the beach boardwalk at this lovely state park. For great photo opportunities, head to Assawoman Recreation Area at sunset to enjoy the views of this pristine coastline.
After exploring the coastline, most people head into town to browse the various local shops. Shopaholics can stroll through the village of Fenwick Shops or grab a bite to eat at Matt’s Fish Camp, while marine enthusiasts opt for the DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum, a fun place to explore and discover underwater treasures.
Bethany Beach
![A beach house in the town of Bethany Beach, Delaware.](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/upload/bf/01/81/shutterstock-2351087915.jpg)
Looking for a summer getaway packed with activities for the whole family? Bethany Beach is a quaint, diverse seaside town with scenic beaches and plenty of attractions on and off the beach. Spend the afternoon shopping and dining at the Joseph Olson Boardwalk. It’s not a big boardwalk, but it has a variety of kitschy shops, food stands and waterfront views. It’s just as fun as the boardwalk without the crowds. In the evening, head to the bandstand area of the boardwalk to listen to live music along with the sounds of the waves lapping on the shore.
Away from the beach, there are family-friendly parks, mini golf, go-karting facilities and more to keep you entertained all week long. Summer 2024 is the perfect time to check out the Bethany Beach Concert Series, with live bands playing on the beach through October. Culture lovers can learn more about this sleepy little beach town before they head out with a visit to the Bethany Beach History Museum and Nature Center.
Smyrna
![A view of South Main Street in Smyrna, Delaware.](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/upload/85/2c/2b/main-street-smyrna-de-3.jpeg)
When people think of Delaware, they often think of beach towns and coastal charm, but there’s so much more to explore. Visitors interested in this side of the state can head inland to the historic town of Smyrna, just north of Dover. Located near Blackbird State Forest, the town offers beautiful forest scenery, museums, and tranquil Lake Como. Spend the afternoon touring local attractions, including the Smyrna Museum, built in the 1700s, where you can view many historical artifacts and paintings, as well as admire the architecture of the historic buildings.
After exploring the downtown area’s many shops and cafes, recharge your batteries at Lake Como, a great place to take in the scenic views, go fishing, picnic or swim, or head to Big Oak County Park for beautiful woodland hiking trails and children’s play areas.
Lewis
![A view of the waterfront in Lewes, Delaware.](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/upload/51/f2/2a/lewes-delaware-june-2-2019-1.jpg)
Heading back down the coast from Smyrna, Lewes is a fun summer vacation spot that has something for everyone. This historic town is the perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and beautiful beach views. Visitors can spend the day soaking up the sun on Lewes Beach or browsing the many shops and restaurants along the waterfront. But Lewes is much more than a fun beachside town.
As one of the first towns settled in Delaware, it’s known as “The First Town in the First State,” so while you’re in Lewes, it’s worth visiting the many historical sites and museums. Among the standouts are the Lewis Maritime Museum and the impressive Zwaanendael Museum, which display everything from local shipwrecks to the town’s founding. For a more leisurely afternoon, stroll through the historic Lewes Farmers Market and the Fort Miles Historic District, which borders the Atlantic Ocean.
Stay cool this summer
Whether you’re looking to relax by the sea, lake or pool, these cool Delaware towns have something for everyone. Explore the fun shops of Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk, soak up the sun at Bethany Beach or stroll through the historic town of Lewes. Indulge in some of the state’s freshest seafood and take an evening stroll along the coast to hear the waves crashing on the shore. These towns have all the charm of a bustling tourist destination, with quirky vibes that make each one unique and memorable.