Bethany Beach: Your Guide to a Relaxing Escape in Coastal Delaware

• Beach and Boardwalk

Bethany Beach offers a classic beach experience. Relax on the soft sand, swim in the Atlantic waves, or build sandcastles. The nearby boardwalk provides a delightful alternative with shops, snacks and a casual atmosphere.

• Bethany Beach Nature Center

The Bethany Beach Nature Center is housed in one of Bethany's historic homes. It offers a fun and educational escape in Bethany Beach with activities throughout the year. Explore the local ecosystems through interactive exhibits, and take a short hike along the scenic boardwalk through the wetlands.

• Shopping

You will find most of the shops in Bethany Beach along Garfield Parkway, close to the beach. There is a delightful mix of shopping experiences, from beachy souvenirs and casual apparel to locally-made crafts and art galleries.

• Seasonal Events

Check out the ongoing list of events. Most of them are during the prime season of June - October. You can find a farmer's market, movies on the beach, festivals, concerts and more.

• Sea Colony Activities

If you find yourself staying at a rental in Sea Colony, be sure to check out their amenities and special events.

Day Trips

• Lewes, DE

• Rehoboth Beach, DE

• St. Michaels, MD

This would also be a great overnight stop before or after your trip to Bethany Beach. It is a charming small town that is rich in history. You can explore quaint shops and art galleries, savor fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants and discover the town's fascinating past. Harrison's Harbour Lights Restaurant is a good stop for some seafood. I recommend the calamari and rockfish tacos.

• Honey's At Station 26

Eat brunch in a stationary train car at this unique spot for fresh food. Try a different version of an eggs benedict called the latka Benedict, which comes with red peppers, mushrooms, asparagus, spinach and feta cheese. For something sweet, try the Nutella-stuffed French toast served with banana mousse, almonds and walnuts.

• Bethany Blues BBQ

There are a few locations in the area to enjoy this hearty BBQ meal. Try the hickory-smoked beef brisket. There are a number of side options to help round out your dish, but I recommend trying the cheesy creamed corn and BBQ potato salad.

• The Penguin

If you're looking for a breakfast that will keep you satisfied throughout the day, try Andy's breakfast wrap. It's packed with home fries, eggs and cheese. For a sweeter option, try the kitchen sink pancakes. The owners have roots in Vermont, so they serve up pure Vermont Maple syrup and Vermont white cheddar cheese.

• Sunshine Crepes

A quick and light breakfast can be found here. I recommend the savory Bacon Spinach Tomato Feta or sweet Strawberry Nutella. One of each hits the spot.

• Mango's

Located right on Bethany Beach's boardwalk, Mango's is a Caribbean-themed restaurant with stunning ocean views. They offer jerk chicken, cocktails, and other delicious food in a lively atmosphere with coastal-chic decor. They even have live music on weekends.

• The Station on Kings

I fell in love with this garden cafe just 30 minutes up the coast in Lewes, DE. It is definitely worth the drive for breakfast or lunch, or try to hit it on the way into or out of town. On a nice day, enjoy the outdoor seating in their garden area. Alternatively, enjoy their glass conservatory seating. I recommend the hot honey chicken, which is a fried chicken breast, pickles, arugula, gochujang slaw, calabrian chili sauce, on a brioche bun. You won't be able to make it through the line to order without adding on something delicious from their bakery. I recommend the Roulade Cake or one of their cookies (Lemon Poppyseed, Toffee Chocolate Chip, Soft Ginger, or Kitchen Sink).