8 Reasons to Visit Bethany Beach This Summer - 2023
The days are longer, the weather is getting warmer, and summertime is just around the corner. With school vacations coming up, and some of us still trying to recover from a long winter – you’ve probably found yourself reading this article dreaming of some sun, sand, and sea.
For those of us on the East Coast who aren’t blessed to live by the seaside year-round, the ocean (and that relaxing beach vacation you’re dreaming about) can feel a lot further away than it actually is.
Here’s the great news! Delaware is an amazing destination for your 2023 summer beach trip and is just a few hours away from so many East Coast cities by car. Here are 8 reasons why you should visit Bethany Beach for your next vacation.
Where is Bethany Beach, Delaware?
Bethany Beach is a charming town on the Delaware shoreline, that offers everything from quaint coastal vibes to bustling boardwalk fun.
With no plane tickets needed, Bethany Beach is surprisingly a reasonable driving distance from many big East Coast cities.
How far away is Bethany Beach?
3 hours 45 minutes from New York City, NY
2 hours 25 minutes from Philadelphia, PA
2 hours 45 minutes from Washington D.C., Baltimore, MD, & Arlington, VA
4 hours from Richmond, VA
So - if Bethany Beach is close enough for you to visit - let’s take a look at some of the things you can look forward to if you make the drive to Delaware.
8 fun reasons to visit Bethany Beach in 2023
1. Family-friendly destination
Bethany Beach is a very family-friendly destination, making it a wonderful place for families to vacation. The town has a quiet and peaceful atmosphere which provides a perfect setting for a fun getaway.
The Bethany beaches are clean and safe, and lifeguards are always on duty to ensure the safety of swimmers. And if you get tired of the beach, take a walk down the boardwalk for arcade fun and yummy treats. There are also plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained, including miniature golf at Nick’s Mini Golf, go-karting at Thunder Lane, and beloved water parks like Killens Pond.
2. Beautiful beaches
Bethany Beach is known for its beautiful beaches, which offer a perfect setting for both relaxation and fun. The beaches are well-maintained and safe, and there are plenty of public amenities to make your visit comfortable, such as restrooms, showers, and changing rooms. It’s not hard to spend your day sunbathing, swimming, or building sandcastles with your kids in Bethany Beach. You might even spot a dolphin!
Unfortunately, it does get pretty busy in the summer season, so try to get to the beach early to grab a good spot. Not into alarms on vacation? We get it. Book a Beach Runner for your trip instead! They’ll come pick up your beach gear and set everything up for you early in the morning at the perfect spot on the beach. You just head to your pinned location when you’re ready, and enjoy your beach day!
3. Delicious dining
Bethany Beach is a food-lover’s paradise. The town has a great selection of restaurants that serve delicious seafood dishes like crab cakes, as well as a variety of other cuisines to try out on your visit.
Not only are there plenty of great restaurants to choose from – look for a restaurant with a view to enjoy alongside your delicious meal!
4. Local boutiques
Bethany Beach is home to many shops that offer unique gifts and souvenirs, handmade items, and some cool antiques. The town also has several art galleries where you can admire work by local artists and purchase beautiful artwork for your own collection.
Spend an afternoon walking around town and seeing what little store catches your eye!
5. Outdoor activities
For the nature lovers out there, Bethany Beach has plenty of outdoor activities to keep you entertained. Rent bicycles and ride around the town (maybe to find those cute shops we were talking about!), or, if you’re feeling ambitious, go fishing to catch your dinner on one of many local fishing charters.
To really get in touch with the area’s natural world – Bethany Beach Nature Center offers a beautiful walking trail with educational content, and Fenwick Island State Park is just a short drive away.
6. Arts, music, and culture
Bethany Beach is a town that celebrates arts and culture. The town has several art galleries and museums, where you can learn about the history and culture of the area.
There are also concerts and festivals throughout the area if you time your trip right. But, if you’re just looking for something to groove to for the weekend – just hop into one of the many bars and restaurants that feature live music artists and bands from the area!
7. Close to other destinations
Bethany Beach is located close to several other attractions that you might want to add to your list – making it a perfect base for exploring the surrounding area by car.
Take a day trip to nearby beaches like Rehoboth Beach or Fenwick Island, go out on the town or stop by a casino in Ocean City, and make a visit out to Assateague Island to see the beautiful wild ponies that roam the beaches there.
8. Friendly community
What’s a quaint coastal town without friendly locals? Luckily, Bethany Beach is known for its friendly people who will make you feel welcome and at home during your visit. The town has a tight-knit community, and the locals are always happy to share their knowledge and recommendations. No wonder people always come back to Bethany Beach
Plan a trip to Bethany Beach this year 🏖️
Bethany Beach is a perfect vacation destination for anyone looking for a relaxing and fun vacation – no matter what your interests are!
Spend your days lounging on beautiful beaches, enjoying delicious meals, and soaking up the family-friendly atmosphere. The town has something to offer everyone! So, start getting excited for summer, and plan a trip to Bethany Beach for your next beach vacation. You won't be disappointed!