Bethany Beach was founded in 1901 by members of a Christian church as a peaceful seaside gathering place. The “Quiet Resort” nickname befits it still. A clean, manageable boardwalk, family-oriented lodging and activities, and low-intensity entertainment add to the serenity of this Delaware destination ideal for families. This story is part of our May Battle of the Beaches issue. Check back as we break down our favorite beaches in Delaware, Maryland, and New Jersey.
Where to Stay
Located on the boardwalk, a stay at Bethany Beach Ocean Suites Residence Inn eliminates the need to drive anywhere. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent on the pristine beach steps from the hotel. Fully renovated in 2023, the all-suite property features kitchenettes, private balconies or terraces, and a heated saltwater swimming pool. The hotel offers daily entertainment like face painting and magician shows in its lobby during peak season. Or, if you’re seeking a quieter stay, rent a home north of town with access to a private beach.
Where to Eat
Give the kiddos the crab-cracking experience at Mickey’s Family Crab House or feast on paella with ocean views at Mango’s on the boardwalk. Order a perfectly prepared steak at Harvest Tide Steakhouse (there’s even a New York strip on the kids’ menu) or house-smoked meats at Bethany Blues BBQ. Locals love Off the Hook for the fresh, local ingredients in its dishes like clam chowder linguine, house-smoked fish dip, and honey-roasted pork belly. Bluecoast is another seafood favorite for its raw bar, crabcakes, and more. And of course, there are the boardwalk bites to please your child’s palate, like slices at Pomodoro Pizzeria, frozen custard from Kohr Brothers, and crispy fries from D.B.’s Fries.
Where to Play
The half-mile-long, 12-foot-wide boardwalk offers family-friendly shops and easy strolling. No dogs are permitted in the summer, and bikes are only allowed from 6 to 9 a.m. Kill time browsing the selection of puzzles, kites, and other amusements at Tidepool Toys & Games. Head to Bethany Beach Books for a weekly children’s story time and to browse the 2,000 square feet of beach reads. A short walk from the boardwalk is Nick’s Mini Golf, which has a ropes course and 18 holes featuring nearly life-sized dinosaurs that roar. Bethany Beach Nature Center offers free, interactive activities during the summer, Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. The center also has a scavenger hunt, a pollinator garden, and nature trails.
Public Events
The community spirit is strong in Bethany, as evidenced by its numerous festivals and free public entertainment. Costumed pirates and mermaids will be in attendance at the 10th annual Poseidon Festival, May 23 to 25, which raises awareness about ocean conservation. The annual Bethany Beach Seaside Craft Show, scheduled for June 7, brings more than 100 juried artists to town. The Bethany Beach Bandstand hosts musical performances on Thursday nights in the summer and Saturday and Sunday nights in September and October. The town also hosts movie nights and bonfires on the beach. Visit townofbethanybeach.com for updates.
Feature image stock.adobe.com
This story originally ran in our May Issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
