Looking for a coastal escape packed with sunshine, seafood, boardwalk charm, and memory-making? Our family just spent 8 amazing days in Rehoboth and Bethany Beach, Delaware — and we’re already dreaming about going back! From jet skiing and bumper boats to mouthwatering meals and nightly ice cream runs, this trip had a little something for everyone. Here’s how our beach week unfolded:

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Day 1: Arrival & Beachy Bliss

We checked into our cozy condo, unpacked just enough to find our swimsuits, and made a quick grocery run to The Fresh Market for beach snacks and breakfast staples. Then it was straight to the sand for some serious relaxation.

As the sun started to dip, we strolled the Rehoboth Boardwalk — a sensory delight of sea breezes, sights, and sweets. We stocked up on saltwater taffy at Dolle’s, sampled the outrageous flavors at The Ice Cream Store (don’t miss “Crack” — it’s as addicting as the name suggests), and kicked off happy hour with $8 margaritas and a $10 dip trio at Baja Bob’s.

Dinner was a seafood feast at The Crab House — fried oysters, a steaming mussel pot, and buttery crab legs. Pure vacation mode activated.

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Day 2: Rainy Day? No Problem

We started with lunch at Crooked Hammock Brewery where the nachos were an absolute hit. When the skies turned gray, we pivoted to retail therapy — the Rehoboth Outlets are perfect for drizzly afternoons.

Later, we hit Zelky’s arcade on the boardwalk for some family fun and friendly competition. Skeeball, claw machines, and lots of laughter.

Dinner was a flavor explosion at Mariachi (which had the coolest stairs), and we capped the night with a sweet detour to Vanderwende’s in Dewey Beach for their famous farm-fresh ice cream.

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Day 3: Classic Beach Day

Sunshine meant a full morning on the beach, followed by a lunch trio of boardwalk classics: pizza from Louie’s, fries from Thrasher’s, and yes — another stop at The Ice Cream Store. (It’s tradition at this point.)

After an afternoon poolside, we cleaned up for dinner at Bluecoast Seafood Grill & Raw Bar — the oysters and calamari were top-notch, and the grilled swordfish was melt-in-your-mouth good.

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Day 4: Bethany Beach & a Bit of Adventure

We ventured to Bethany Beach, a quieter, charming stretch of sand with a classic boardwalk feel. After wandering and shopping, we enjoyed a late lunch at Big Chill Beach Club with beach views and breezy vibes.

In the evening, we explored Cape Henlopen State Park and walked out to the lighthouse, catching golden-hour views that were postcard perfect.

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Day 5: Poke, Pizza & Playtime

Back to our beloved Rehoboth beach in the morning, then a colorful, coastal lunch at Nula — poke bowls, sushi tacos, and a sky-high slice of hula pie.

Later, we slurped oysters at Henlopen City Oyster House, then headed to Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats for dinner and sat in One of the rounded window booths— the “dog pile” nachos and creative pizzas were a family favorite.

We finished the night at Midway Speedway Park with go-karts, bumper boats, and mini golf. Pure joy!

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Day 6: Jet Skis & Baja Bliss

We took it up a notch with jet skiing at Route 54 Watersports in Fenwick Island — definitely a highlight of the trip! Speed, splash, and so much laughter.

Afterward, we popped into Bethany Beach’s boardwalk for Baja’s legendary guacamole and their walk-up Crush bar — 4 for $20 and tons of fruity flavors? Yes, please.

Dinner at Crabby Dick’s delivered on the name — the crab balls, crab cakes, and monster oyster sandwich were next-level delicious.

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Day 7: Last Day Traditions

We kept it chill with a pool morning, followed by a cozy matinee at Movies at Midway (because sometimes, you just need popcorn and air conditioning).

For our final night, we returned to the boardwalk for the ultimate trifecta: Thrasher’s Fries, Grotto Pizza, and The Ice Cream Store one last time. Yes, we got more Crack ice cream — don’t judge us.

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Day 8: Homeward Bound

After a whirlwind of waves, waffle cones, seafood, and sunsets, we packed up, checked out, and hit the road — tired, sandy, and full of memories.

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Final Thoughts

Rehoboth and Bethany Beach gave us the perfect mix of laid-back beach days and lively boardwalk nights. The food was phenomenal, the kids were constantly entertained, and the grown-ups got their fill of sunsets and seafood. Whether you’re chasing arcade tickets or the perfect oyster, Delaware’s coast delivers.

We’ll be back — with bigger appetites and an even longer ice cream list.