Dewey Beach Travel Guide

Read this in-depth travel guide to Dewey Beach, Delaware where we share the list of places to visit, best things to do, hiking/biking routes, food and drinks scene, where to stay, and much more.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Dewey Beach, Delaware

Introduction to Dewey Beach

Dewey Beach is a town on the Atlantic Ocean coast in Delaware, USA. This small town is known for its pristine beaches, clear water, and friendly locals, making it a popular vacation destination for people from all over the country. Dewey Beach is located in a prime location, sandwiched between the Rehoboth Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, giving it a unique natural beauty.

List of Places to Visit in Dewey Beach

Dewey Beach is a small town, but it offers a diverse range of attractions for all ages and interests. Here are some of the must-visit places in Dewey Beach.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Anna Hazzard Museum: This museum is dedicated to preserving the cultural history of Dewey Beach and surrounding areas. It features historic artifacts, photographs, and exhibits showcasing the town’s history.
  • Rehoboth Beach Museum: This museum is located just a few miles away from Dewey Beach and showcases the history of the broader region, including the area’s early settlers.
  • Indian River Life-Saving Station Museum: Located only six miles south of Dewey Beach, this museum provides a glimpse into the heroic world of the U.S. Life-Saving of Service.

Natural Attractions of Dewey Beach: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Dewey Beach: Dewey Beach is one of the primary attractions of the town. It is an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and other water sports.
  • Delaware Seashore State Park: This state park offers a variety of recreational activities such as camping, fishing, and nature trails that run across five miles of shoreline.
  • Gordon’s Pond: Located on the outskirts of Dewey Beach, Gordon’s Pond provides beautiful scenic views and is ideal for hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dewey Beach

Dewey Beach offers an exceptional opportunity for hikers and bikers to explore the town’s beauty. Here are some of the biking and hiking trails in Dewey Beach:

  • Gordons Pond Trail: This trail is approximately 4.6 miles and provides a picturesque view of the Gordon Pond wildlife sanctuary.
  • Junction and Breakwater Trail: The trail connects Lewes and Rehoboth Beach and offers a beautiful view of the dunes and the ocean.
  • Silver Lake Trail: This trail is one mile long, and it offers a scenic view of Silver Lake.

Best Things to Do in Dewey Beach: Activities and Tours

Besides visiting the attractions and the natural beauty around Dewey Beach, there are several other activities and tours that you can indulge in. Here are some of them:

  • Sunset Cruises: During the summer season, sunset cruises are a popular way to watch the beautiful sunset while enjoying drinks and food.
  • Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Dewey Beach is blessed with calm waters, making it an ideal place for kayaking, paddleboarding, and other similar activities.
  • Parasailing: Parasailing is a thrilling activity that allows you to experience the beautiful and sweeping views of the sea from above.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dewey Beach

A week-long itinerary for Dewey Beach could include the following:

  • Day 1: Relax on the beach and explore the town.
  • Day 2: Visit the Indian River Life-Saving Station Museum and the Dewey Beach Museum.
  • Day 3: Take a hike on one of the outdoor trails and visit Silver Lake.
  • Day 4: Go kayaking or paddleboarding.
  • Day 5: Take a tour of Rehoboth Beach.
  • Day 6: Go on a fishing trip.
  • Day 7: Enjoy a sunset cruise.

Food and Drink Scene of Dewey Beach

Dewey Beach offers a diverse range of cuisine, from seafood to Mexican and traditional American food. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Dewey Beach:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Crab Cakes: Maryland-style crab cakes are a must-try dish in Dewey Beach.
  • Boardwalk Fries: These fries are thick-cut and crispy, making them a perfect snack to grab while wandering the seaside.
  • Barbecued Ribs: Ribs are a mouth-watering delicacy that one must try while in Dewey Beach.

Local Beverages

  • Dogfish Head Craft Brewery: The brewery is located in nearby Milton and is known for its variety of craft beers, including 120-minute IPA.
  • Nassau Valley Vineyards: Located in Lewes, Nassau Valley Vineyards offers a range of fine wines, including Chardonnay and Cape May Lemonade.

Where to Stay in Dewey Beach: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Dewey Beach offers several options for accommodations, ranging from budget hotels to upscale beachfront resorts. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Dewey Beach:

  • The Bellmoor Inn & Spa: This luxurious hotel is located just two blocks from the beach and offers fantastic amenities such as a spa, restaurant, and an outdoor pool.
  • Hyatt Place Dewey Beach: The Hyatt Place is located on the beachfront and is an ideal place for travelers who wish to stay close to the beach.
  • Surf Club Oceanfront Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of Dewey Beach and offers a range of accommodation options, from guestrooms to suites.

What to Buy in Dewey Beach: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Dewey Beach is famous for its beautiful souvenirs and local products. Some of the must-buy items are:

  • T-Shirts: Dewey Beach T-shirts are a classic souvenir, representing your trip to the town.
  • Beach Accessories: Dewey Beach has several shops that sell beach accessories such as towels, hats, and bags.
  • Seafood: Several stores sell fresh seafood caught locally, which can make a fantastic gift.

Local Culture and Customs of Dewey Beach

Dewey Beach has a friendly and laid-back culture, and local people are welcoming toward tourists. Here are a few customs that you should keep in mind while visiting Dewey Beach:

  • Respect the Beaches: Visitors should keep the beaches clean and refrain from littering.
  • Tipping: It is customary to tip in restaurants, bars, and cafes.
  • Beach Etiquette: Visitors should be mindful of the beach etiquettes such as not playing loud music or bringing glass bottles on the beach.

Best Time to Visit Dewey Beach

The best time to visit Dewey Beach is during the summer season, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and all the attractions are open. However, if you are looking to avoid crowds, the fall season (September to November) is an excellent time to experience the beautiful natural beauty of Dewey Beach in silence.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dewey Beach

Do:

  • Remember to wear sunscreen while on the beach.
  • Take a hike or bike ride on the scenic trails.
  • Visit the local breweries and vineyards.

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beaches or other natural attractions.
  • Ignore the traffic and parking regulations.
  • Bring glass bottles on the beach.

Safety and Health

Visitors to Dewey Beach should observe basic safety measures while enjoying all the town has to offer.

Safety in Dewey Beach

  • Always wear a life jacket when indulging in water activities.
  • Observe beach safety flags.
  • Keep an eye out for rip currents.

Health in Dewey Beach

  • Always drink bottled water.
  • Use insect repellent to prevent tick bites.
  • Seek immediate medical attention in case of an emergency.

Getting to Dewey Beach: Transportation Options and Logistics

Dewey Beach is easily accessible by several means of transportation. Here are some of the options:

Airports Near Dewey Beach

  • Salisbury Regional Airport (52 miles)
  • Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (129 miles)
  • Philadelphia International Airport (123 miles)

Bus Stations Near Dewey Beach

  • Greyhound Bus Lines (18 miles)
  • DART First State Bus Lines (7 miles)

Other Options

  • Renting a car or taking a taxi is a popular option for people traveling to Dewey Beach.

How to Get Around in Dewey Beach

Dewey Beach is a small town, and walking is the best way to explore the town. Visitors can also drive around or rent a bike to get around.

Where to Go Next from Dewey Beach: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Dewey Beach is located in a prime location with several nearby destinations worth exploring. Here are some of the nearby destinations:

  • Rehoboth Beach: This town is located just three miles away from Dewey Beach and offers many recreational opportunities such as shopping, dining, and nightlife.
  • Cape Henlopen State Park: This state park is located around five miles north of Dewey Beach and offers various recreational activities such as fishing, surfing, and swimming.
  • Assateague Island National Seashore: This protected area is situated around 45 miles south of Dewey Beach on the Virginia/Maryland border and is famous for its wild horses.

Conclusion

Dewey Beach is a small town that packs a big punch. With its beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and cultural attractions, it is an ideal place to relax and enjoy some time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We hope this guide helps you plan your next trip to Dewey Beach in style.

Dewey Beach Dewey Beach Beach at Indian River Inlet at Delaware Seashore State Park Beach at Indian River Inlet at Delaware Seashore State Park