If you’re searching for a vacation rental near the beach or just want to enjoy some time under the sun and sea breeze, Bethany Beach has plenty of activities to enjoy.
If the weather isn’t ideal for going to the beach, don’t worry – Bethany Beach still offers plenty of indoor activities to keep you occupied. From mini golf to tax free shopping, here are some top picks of what to do on a rainy day in Bethany Beach!
Beach
Bethany Beach is a tranquil coastal town situated along seven miles of beach in southern Delaware. It’s part of the “Quiet Resorts,” which also include Fenwick Island and South Bethany, that appeal to families with school-age children as well as retirees alike.
Bethany Beach is a popular summer destination for vacationers during the month of May. The beaches remain open from May until early October and the water remains warm enough to swim most days of the year. Visitors can enjoy various activities on both shorelines – swimming, surfing, bodyboarding, water skiing and kayaking being some of the popular ones – while enjoying all that Bethany Beach has to offer!
If you’re in need of transportation while visiting Delaware, bike renting or purchasing is a great idea. Bethany Beach Bike Shop is one such establishment; they carry various models and provide maintenance services as well.
Another enjoyable activity to do while you are there is visiting Bethany Beach Nature Center. This center strives to preserve and protect the inland bay environment, offering programs and seminars for kids, teens and adults alike.
For an even more family-friendly option, Thunder Lagoon Waterpark on Fenwick Island is a great option. This water park boasts 400 feet of Lazy River, several slides, Viking mini golf and go-karts for added fun.
Bethany Beach and Fenwick Island offer a few bars where you can enjoy your favorite beer, wine or frozen cocktail. Situated on large outdoor patios with stunning views and live music during the summer months.
Boardwalk
Bethany Beach Boardwalk is just under half a mile long and packed with classic beach shops, eateries and the iconic bandstand. Each summer during Bethany Beach’s Summer Concert Series, enjoy live entertainment on the bandstand as well as numerous other events taking place along its picturesque boardwalk.
In addition to offering stunning views, this boardwalk also serves as a prime shopping destination. There are plenty of boutiques along the way, including Blue Room Gallery and Gift Shop which specializes in beach-themed gifts.
Captain Jack’s Pirate Golf miniature golf course is another great destination, boasting numerous challenges and popular with tourists and locals alike. It’s ideal for kids to have a day of mini-golfing at one of Bethany Beach and Rehoboth’s only miniature golf courses.
For some rest and relaxation, Bethany Off the Boardwalk offers private Pilates mat sessions with personal instructors. This is an ideal way to spend a few hours and it will help you develop long, lean muscles, improve your balance and coordination while strengthening your core.
In the summer months, foot-washing stations operate along the boardwalk to keep your feet clean and sand free after a day on the beach. Additionally, there are other family-friendly attractions like mini golf, Bethany Bandstand and Seaside Craft Show.
Bethany Beach and Fenwick Island, commonly referred to as “The Quiet Resorts area,” offer idyllic beaches, delicious restaurants, and an abundance of water sports options for travelers to make their vacation truly memorable. With everything travelers need for a perfect getaway, Bethany Beach and Fenwick Island offer it all – making it the perfect family vacation spot.
Assawoman Canal Trail
The Assawoman Canal Trail is an excellent opportunity for a short stroll outside of town. It follows along the historic Assawoman Canal, once part of the Intercoastal Waterway system. From here you’ll have stunning views of inland waterways and an up-close look at wildlife that lives there.
DNREC manages the 98-acre property, situated along a state right of way between Ocean View, Bethany Beach and South Bethany. It is part of Delaware Seashore State Park.
It is a mile-long trail connecting Town Road in Ocean View with Route 26 and continuing northwest through the Assawoman Canal towards White Creek. Funded by Federal Recreational Trail Program funds and State Trail and Pathway Bond Bill allocation, it was constructed.
Enjoy the trail in many ways, whether by bike or foot. Start at Town Road access point which has a small parking lot and restrooms; alternatively, park on Osprey Lane or Central Avenue and walk to the trailhead.
Another option is to kayak the canal. There are plenty of places where you can rent kayaks near the trailhead, but be mindful that this is a one-way canal so someone needs to pick you up when you finish paddling.
While in Bethany Beach, don’t miss the Bethany Beach Nature Center. Open year-round, this serene spot offers trails through forests, wetlands and gardens for relaxing walks. Additionally, they have programming for kids as well as opportunities for birding and fishing. For a more seclusion experience, Trap Pond State Park is only 45 minutes inland from the beach with trails surrounding a tranquil pond.
Golf
If you’re a golf enthusiast, Bethany Beach offers plenty of excellent courses to play. Choose from highly regarded options that provide challenging layouts, stunning scenery and fun on the course.
For golfers seeking an exhilarating challenge, Bear Trap Dunes is an ideal destination with its 27 holes of championship golf and breathtaking views. As a private country club, members have exclusive access to its saltwater pool, casual dining establishments, and social events.
Cripple Creek Golf Course is another fantastic venue for playing a round of golf, boasting stunning views and an exciting course in a family-friendly environment. Plus, they provide excellent dining and an outstanding bar to complete the experience.
While you’re there, don’t miss the Candy Kitchen for some of the finest fudge and taffy around. This is a must-see for kids; bring some home to share with friends and family!
Bethany Beach’s Nature Center is an excellent destination for visitors of all ages, offering engaging activities and taking a scenic nature walk. Additionally, visitors can gain insight into the inland bay ecosystem and its importance to marine life here.
Finally, Captain Jack’s Pirate Golf in Bethany Beach offers 18 holes of miniature golf fun with water hazards, talking pirates and an interactive fifty-foot ship. You might even win a prize for your efforts!
Bethany Beach offers a wealth of other activities to make your vacation an unforgettable one. Don’t miss the Christmas Happenings that take place over the first three weekends in December – they promise to be unforgettable!
Indoor Activities
No matter if it’s raining on your trip to Bethany Beach or just want to take it easy, there are plenty of activities indoors for everyone to enjoy. From shopping to enjoying some sun, there’s something for everyone here!
Indoor attractions abound in the area, from arcade games to bowling lanes. For an exciting day with family members, head over to Mid County Lanes in Lewes or Family Fun Galaxy entertainment arcade in Bethany Beach for some entertainment.
For an exciting adventure, why not book a pirate ship ride on the Lewes Canal? Lewes Canal Pirate Ship Cruises provide children with fun activities like sword fights, face painting and limbo!
Bonkey’s offers fresh ice cream made within three days of being milked by cows from a nearby farm. Customers can choose from more than 30 flavors in addition to traditional sundaes, shakes and snoballs.
It’s no surprise that Delaware’s coastal towns are known for their ice cream. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t other delicious options! Ba Roos in Bethany Beach offers enormous scoops at great prices.
Kohrs Brothers Frozen Custard in Rehoboth Beach is an excellent summer treat. There are also plenty of other local ice cream spots to choose from such as Candy Kitchen with seven locations around town that make delicious treats like fudge, candies and ice cream.
Arnie’s Playland is the perfect destination for a fun-filled family outing, featuring arcade games, skee ball and more. This vintage-style arcade offers something special for everyone to do while offering some fantastic prizes too!
