A Local Escape - Discovering Bethany Beach, Delaware
Growing up on the East Coast, summers are synonymous with beach weekends. While not every beach is spectacular, there’s always one within reach.
Recently, I found a new favorite: Bethany Beach, Delaware—a charming coastal town that felt just right for our mid-30s crowd. Years ago, we flocked to Ocean City, Maryland for its energy, but Bethany’s slower pace reminded us of our Outer Banks trips, minus the marathon road trip.
Visiting in mid-May meant avoiding peak-season crowds, leaving us to enjoy the relaxing atmosphere. The beach, nearly empty, welcomed dogs—an off-season perk for pet lovers. Bethany seems ideal for a family vacation, and next time, I’m bringing my bike to explore the scenic trails.
Bethany’s neighborhoods have seen some stunning upgrades over the years. We found ourselves admiring the architecture - classic northeastern coastal styles with fresh, modern touches. Wandering the quiet streets was its own attraction, offering glimpses of beautiful homes along the canals.
The town’s boardwalk is smaller but filled with charm. Classic beachside staples—candy shops, fudge, popcorn stands, arcades, and the inevitable souvenir t-shirt stores—lined the walkway, bringing on familiar smells and sounds.
One hidden gem? The local bookstore, Bethany Beach Books, is a cozy spot perfect for browsing for your latest beach read.
Where to Eat
19Dough1 – Their breakfast burritos, bowls, and bagel sandwiches all hit the spot.
Big Chill Beach Club – A rare oceanfront restaurant, located in Delaware Seashore State Park at the Indian River Inlet. Off-season, it’s a treasure. The views of the waves, refreshing drinks, and flavorful dishes make it a standout. Plus, with plenty of space for restless little ones, it’s a great family-friendly spot.
Sushi Café – Not necessarily a hidden gem, judging by the steady take-out orders. Still, the Fenwick Island strip mall location offers phenomenal rolls—so good we wished we had arrived hungrier. With limited seating, I’m hesitant to call it a must-visit, mostly to keep my chances of grabbing a table next time.
Bethany Beach might not boast the high energy of its neighboring towns, but for those looking for relaxing beachy vibes, beautiful homes, and good food, it hits the sweet spot.
