Bethany Beach is a small coastal town in Delaware with sandy beaches and a scenic boardwalk. The boardwalk is the center of all the action here — though it may be small at less than half a mile long, it packs an oversized punch. Classic carnival snacks like saltwater taffy, fries, and ice cream are dolled out from weatherboard shopfronts, live music from the bandstand fills the air all summer, and fireworks light up the sky in the evening.

Away from the boardwalk, you can leave your beach rental for the day to rent a kayak, sailboat, or paddle boat and head out on the water, and end the day back onshore, cracking fresh lobster with sunset views.

Venture further afield to Fenwick Island State Park, where 344 acres of wilderness provide plenty of ways to spend a day outdoors, including hiking, boating, and horseback riding.

Summer is unquestionably the most popular time to visit Bethany Beach, when the weather is warm enough to swim. This is the best time to take advantage of water activities like boating, and to absorb the best of the lively summer atmosphere due to added attractions like live music in town. From June through August, there are family-friendly movies on the beach every Monday, and in September, they move to the bandstand on Friday nights. Winter is a quiet time of year here, and you can expect some rain or snow if you visit from December through February. The weather starts to warm up in March, and by May it can often be warm enough to swim. The Poseidon Festival at the end of May is a week full of whimsical coastal activities like sand sculpting contests, luaus, and a marine science camp for kids. In autumn, expect a decent amount of rain and snow, but some rollover sunny days as well.

Bethany Beach Boardwalk

Stalls selling souvenirs, saltwater taffy, ice cream, and freshly-caught seafood line the Bethany Beach boardwalk, which seems to be plucked out of a bygone era that’s in line with the preserved houses and wooden architecture dotting the area. In summer and fall, bands play at the bandshell in the evenings, performing free jazz, country, and pop concerts. Bring your own chairs for the performances to ensure you have a seat.

Thunder Lagoon Water Park

Take a short drive over to Fenwick Island, where the Thunder Lagoon Waterpark offers a day of fun activities. Amble down the lazy river, take turns gliding down slides, and sail aboard the tipping viking. There’s also a kiddie pool, and all the fairground-style snacks you can eat.

Golf courses

Delaware’s beaches boast about two dozen golf courses between them, most of which will be easy driving or shuttle bus distance from your beach house rental. Hit the greens with dramatic seaside views and forest scenery surrounding your game.