Backing a wide strip of sand on the Atlantic Coast, Rehoboth Beach is a popular seaside town with a rich maritime history. The rides and arcade games of Funland front the beach, while the historic military base and sand dunes of Cape Henlopen State Park sprawl to the north.

Things to do

Spend an afternoon strolling along the beachfront boardwalk, which is lined with seafood restaurants, boutiques and amusement rides. Concerts take place at the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand during the warmer months.

If you’re interested in the region’s history, stop in at the Lewes Historical Society, which occupies a number of restored buildings to the north of Rehoboth Beach. It showcases the lifestyle and industries of the community, dating back to the 17th century, and hosts the Historic Lewes Farmers' Market.

The Indigenous history of Delaware is showcased at the Nanticoke Indian Museum, which exhibits artefacts, such as pottery, arrowheads, traditional clothing and a wooden canoe, handed down from elders. Wander around the replica village to see how the community once lived and admire the artwork created by local tribe members.

Step aboard the Overfalls museum ship that was launched in 1938 as the last light vessel constructed for the United States Lighthouse Service. It offers fascinating insight into the role lightships played in aiding navigation along the coast, including the sound of dual diaphone fog horns during foggy weather.

Getting around

Rehoboth Beach is around 3.5 hours’ drive from Washington D.C. and Dulles International Airport. The town is easy to explore on foot or by bicycle and there is a regular trolley service that makes the 10-minute journey south to Dewey Beach.