As the season shifts, it’s that familiar time of year when friends and family begin dropping hints about planning a beach getaway—often with you as their host. While the beach and Boardwalk are perennial highlights, there are plenty of ways to keep things fresh and entertaining when guests come to town.
For those drawn to the water, marine excursions are plentiful. Cape Water Tours offers a range of experiences, from stunning sunset cruises to eco-tours along the Lewes–Rehoboth Canal, where guests can learn about the area’s diverse flora and fauna. Even the canal’s history alone makes the trip worthwhile. Tours depart from the dock near Irish Eyes in Lewes.
If you’re in the mood for something more festive, Island Time Tiki Tours delivers a lively, laid-back experience. Their U.S. Coast Guard–approved tiki boat accommodates up to 18 passengers and features a spacious bar and lounge area, a Bluetooth sound system, and onboard restroom facilities. Guests bring their own food and beverages, creating a relaxed, Caribbean-style picnic on the water.
Another excellent option is a fishing outing aboard the Miss Ocean City. While full-scale fishing charters can be costly, these family-friendly excursions are much more affordable, with tickets priced at $35 for adults and $25 for children under 12. The three-hour bay cruises—offering calmer waters—run three times daily: morning, midday, and late afternoon or evening. Rod rentals are available for $5, and bait is included.
Back on land, and a bit further inland, unique day trips await. Brittingham Farms, Four Acres Living and Story Hill Farm invite visitors to pick wildflowers and meet charming mini donkeys such as Thelma and Louise or Alvin and Simon. While Brittingham Farms has limited public hours during the summer outside of its store, its annual Delaware Lavender and Lambs Festival on June 27 is especially worth attending.
For those with an interest in history, Historic Lewes (formerly the Lewes Historical Society) is a must-visit destination. In addition to its monthly First Friday events, the organization offers a variety of engaging tours, including Haunted History walks, Revolutionary-era explorations, and programs highlighting the legacy of the African American community in the area.
The campus itself is well worth exploring. Designed like a small village, it features a collection of preserved homes and shops anchored by the Sussex Tavern, which dates back to around 1740 and was originally located farther north on Second Street in Lewes. On First Fridays, the entire village comes alive, with the tavern hosting Celtic music and storytelling centered on Lewes’s rich past.
Families traveling with children will find plenty to enjoy at Lefty’s Alley & Eats. This lively venue offers something for everyone, combining dining with bowling and arcade games that can be enjoyed together or individually. It is conveniently located near the Cinema Art Theater in Lewes, just behind the Wawa on Coastal Highway.
To round out the experience, many restaurants in Lewes and Rehoboth host evening entertainment such as Survey Says, Mingo, and trivia nights. A quick online search will reveal what’s happening during your visit. With so many options available, there’s truly no excuse for boredom along Delaware’s coastal towns.
For more ideas and up-to-date information, consult Delaware Beaches Magazine, the Chamber of Commerce’s Official Area Visitors Guide, or the website visitsoutherdelaware.com.
By Mary Jo Tarallo, Resident Journalist
Mary Jo Tarallo spent much of her career in public relations with various non-profits and spent 40 years involved with the ski industry as a journalist, public relations director for a national trade association and as executive director of the Learn to Ski and Snowboard initiative. Prior to her ski industry involvement she worked for the Maryland International Center in Baltimore and United Way of Central Maryland. She won a Gold Award for TV programming for a United Way simulcast that starred Oprah Winfrey. She has been cited for her work by numerous organizations. Mary Jo grew up in Baltimore, attended the University of Maryland and Towson University, lived in Washington, DC for 21 years and has been a full time resident of Rehoboth Beach and Milton since May 2019.
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