Delaware is the second-smallest state in America, but it has a beach getaway history that stretches far beyond its size. And with the state marine animal being the horseshoe crab, there's no surprise that the state is well-known for its many beaches. Beachgoers from all over the world populate Delaware’s beaches for their beautiful scenery and laid-back atmosphere.

Delaware beach getaways can be a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil beach experience, fun beach activities, or a beach with an exciting nightlife atmosphere, there are plenty of beach destinations to choose from, sure to make the experience of a lifetime full of beautiful memories.

10 Lewes Beach

Lewes Beach is the perfect beach for beachgoers who want to enjoy the tranquility of Delaware's coastline. The beach overlooks Cape Henlopen State Park and offers amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can take part in activities such as beachcombing, birdwatching, and beach volleyball. For those looking to enjoy some beachside nightlife, there are plenty of beach bars and restaurants nearby.

9 Rehoboth Beach

Rehoboth Beach is another popular beach choice in Delaware. This beach town offers a wide range of activities for visitors, including shopping on the boardwalk, relaxing on the beach, and taking in the nightlife. The beach also has a number of beach-side restaurants that offer delicious seafood dishes perfect for a solo trip or one with family ad friends. Rehoboth Beach is located on the Delaware coast, just south of Lewes beach, and it is known for its beach boardwalk and historic houses.

8 Fenwick Island

Fenwick Island is a great beach destination for those looking to enjoy some beachside relaxation. Take a dip into the Atlantic Ocean and enjoy beach sports such as beach volleyball and Frisbee golf. Visitors can also take leisurely strolls on the beach, explore nearby shops and restaurants, or relax in beach chairs and enjoy the view.

7 Delaware Seashore State Park

Delaware Seashore State Park is ideal for beachgoers looking to for an all-in-one experience of Delaware beaches. Take part in water sports or play around on the beach with family. Delaware Seashore State Park has miles of beach along Delaware Bay, perfect for swimming and beachcombing. The beach is located in Delaware's Sussex County, near the towns of Rehoboth Beach and Lewes. Residents of nearby cities or states can easily access the beach by car.

6 Bethany Beach

Bask in tranquility and divine relaxation with a visit to Bethany Beach. The relaxing atmosphere of offers a chance for beachgoers to enjoy the sun and water in a calm atmosphere that is both quiet and beautiful. Bethany Beach is located just outside of Ocean City and, much like the atmosphere of the nearby city, has a laid-back beach vibe that beachgoers are sure to love.

5 Dewey Beach

No beach trip to Delaware is complete without a visit to Dewey Beach, which dons a lively atmosphere with beachside bars and beachfront entertainment perfect for the young and old. Visitors can take part in beach volleyball tournaments and beach cruises or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.

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4 Indian River Inlet Beach

Discover beachfront camping at Indian River Inlet Beach. There are beachside campgrounds located near the beach that offers beachfront camping, perfect for beachgoers who want to immerse themselves in the culture of the area. Indian River Inlet Beach is known for its hidden gems, with beachgoers able to explore the beach's shoreline and find unique shells or experience the thrill of riding the waves.

3 Cape Henlopen State Park

Those interested in an unlimited variety of options at the beach should consider visiting the Cape Henlopen State Park. Restaurants and bars line the beach forming a boardwalk that will keep visitors busy for the majority of their day. Located on 5,193 acres of breathtaking beachfront, the beach at this park is perfect for cycling, jet skiing, trail walking, and more. An all-inclusive beach experience, this park is perfect for exercise and relaxation.

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2 Broadkill Beach

Delaware beachgoers can also experience the beach culture of Broadkill Beach. This beach offers beachside activities such as beachcombing, beach volleyball, and beachfront camping. This beach town also has beach bars and beachfront restaurants that offer delicious seafood dishes.

1 South Bethany Beach

South Bethany Beach is the beach destination to discover if you want a beach experience with some beachside nightlife. South Bethany Beach is located just outside of Ocean City and offers beachgoers beachside bars, beachfront restaurants, beach cruises, beach volleyball tournaments, and beachfront camping. Just a 5-hour drive from New York, beachgoers from the northeast can easily make a beachfront getaway.