Beyond the Boardwalk: Hidden Gems of Bethany Beach

Bethany Beach is a beautiful coastal town in Delaware. While many people know about the famous boardwalk, other hidden treasures are waiting to be discovered. In this guide, we’ll explore these lesser-known gems beyond the boardwalk.

Get ready for adventure and relaxation as we step off the beaten path!

Carmel Beach: A Coastal Gem Of California

How to Reach there from Delaware City?

Certainly! To reach Bethany Beach from Delaware City, you have a few options:

Train and Bus (Recommended):

• Take the train from Washington Union Station to BWI Thurgood Marshall Northeast Regional.
• Then, take the bus from BWI Amtrak Station to Ocean Pines, MD.
• Total duration: approximately 5 hours and 21 minutes.

Bus (Alternative):

• Take the bus from Union Station, Washington, DC, to Baltimore Downtown Bus Terminal, Baltimore, MD.
• Next, take the bus from Baltimore, MD – Greyhound Bus Terminal Downtown to Ocean City, MD.
• Total duration: approximately 7 hours and 56 minutes.

Drive:

• If you prefer driving, the distance from Bethesda to Bethany Beach is approximately 132.3 miles.
• Estimated driving time: around 2 hours and 53 minutes.

Remember to check the most up-to-date schedules and availability for your chosen mode of transportation. Safe travels!

What’s the best way to get around Bethany Beach?

When exploring Bethany Beach, here are some convenient ways to get around:

1. Bethany Beach Trolley: The Bethany Beach Trolley is a great way to navigate the town. Sit back, relax, and let the trolley take you to various attractions.
2. Rent a Bike: Consider renting a bike from Bethany Bike Shop. Biking is an enjoyable way to explore the area and take in the coastal views.
3. Walking: Bethany Beach is pedestrian-friendly, especially around the boardwalk and downtown area. Stroll along the streets and enjoy the charming atmosphere.

Remember to take your time and savor the hidden gems of this delightful coastal town!

Fenwick Island State Park

When you’ve had your fill of bustling boardwalks and sun-kissed sands, it’s time to seek solace at Fenwick Island State Park. Tucked away just a few miles south of Bethany Beach, this pristine stretch of coastline offers a different kind of beach experience, one that’s unspoiled, serene, and utterly captivating.

What Makes Fenwick Island State Park Special?

Untouched Beauty:

Unlike its more crowded counterparts, Fenwick Island State Park remains largely untouched. Here, you won’t find rows of beachfront condos or noisy amusement rides. Instead, expect rolling dunes, swaying sea grass, and the rhythmic lull of the Atlantic.

Secluded Shores:

The park’s beaches are less frequented, making them perfect for quiet walks, shell collecting, and contemplative moments. Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking solitude or a family looking to build sandcastles without the crowds, this is your haven.

Nature Trails:

Explore the network of nature trails that wind through the park. Keep an eye out for shorebirds, deer, and the occasional fox. The salt marshes and tidal pools are teeming with life, ideal for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Beachcombing:

Fenwick Island State Park is a treasure trove for beachcombers. Hunt for seashells, sea glass, and other oceanic gems washed ashore. It’s a peaceful activity that connects you to the rhythm of the tides.

Tips for Your Visit

• Pack Light: Bring essentials like sunscreen, water, and a picnic. There are no concessions within the park, so plan accordingly.
• Early Mornings: Arrive early to witness the sunrise over the Atlantic. The soft hues and gentle waves create a magical start to the day.
• Respect Nature: Leave no trace; take your memories and photos, but leave the beach as pristine as you found it.

Whether you’re a beachcomber, a nature lover, or simply seeking tranquility, Fenwick Island State Park invites you to step off the beaten path and embrace Delaware’s coast’s raw beauty.

Coastal Kayak Tour

When you’re ready to explore Bethany Beach’s natural wonders, hop into a kayak and embark on a Coastal Kayak Tour. These guided eco-tours offer an up-close encounter with the local flora and fauna and reveal the hidden stories of Delmarva’s waterways.

Why Choose a Coastal Kayak Tour?

Guided Exploration:

Led by experienced guides, these tours take you beyond the shoreline. You’ll paddle through serene back bays, marshes, and winding channels, immersing yourself in the coastal ecosystem.

Bald Cypress and Horseshoe Crabs:

Keep your eyes peeled for ancient bald cypress trees rising from the water. These majestic sentinels have witnessed centuries of change. And don’t be surprised if you spot horseshoe crabs, fascinating creatures that have roamed the seas for millions of years.

Assateague Island:

Some tours venture to Assateague Island, where wild ponies roam freely. Paddle alongside these gentle creatures as they graze near the water’s edge.

Sunset and Full Moon Tours:

For a magical experience, consider a sunset tour or a full moon paddle. The water reflects the changing sky, creating a canvas of colors and tranquility.

Tips for Your Kayak Adventure

• Dress Comfortably: Wear lightweight, quick-drying clothes and water shoes. You might get splashed!
• Bring Binoculars: Spot birds, ospreys, and other wildlife with binoculars.
• Listen to Your Guide: They’ll share fascinating facts about the ecosystem and its inhabitants.

So grab a paddle, glide through the water, and let the whispers of the marsh guide you.

Ocean View Farmers Market

When you’re ready to explore the vibrant local scene in Bethany Beach, head over to the Ocean View Farmers Market. This delightful market brings together growers, artisans, and food enthusiasts, offering a taste of Delmarva’s finest.

What Makes the Ocean View Farmers Market Special?

Producer’s Only Principle:

In this market, vendors follow the “producer’s only” principle. That means they sell only what they produce. Everything you find here is sourced from the Delmarva region, with most produce picked fresh on the morning of the market. From juicy peaches to handcrafted goods, it’s all local.

Bennett Orchards:

Visit the Bennett Orchards booth for sixth-generation family-farmed peaches and blueberries. These fruits are grown directly on their historic farmstead, just seven miles from Bethany Beach. Look for their bright red tent, it’s a beacon of flavor!

Wimbrow Farms:

Stock up on strawberries, blueberries, onions, potatoes, sweet corn, and more from Wimbrow Farms. Their produce is as fresh as it gets, straight from the fields.

River Cottage Flowers:

Brighten your day with fresh-cut flowers and gorgeous bouquets from River Cottage. These blooms are sustainably grown just a few miles away in Ocean View, Delaware.

Reinke Farms Lavender:

Experience the soothing fragrance of Grosso lavender products from Reinke Farms. No synthetic chemicals, just pure, aromatic goodness.

Honey Bee Lake Apiary:

Sample local honey, lip balms, jams, and more from Honey Bee Lake Apiary. Their sweet offerings are a treat for the senses.

302 Aquaponics:

Explore the most significant commercial aquaponics greenhouse in Delaware. It provides fresh lettuces, greens, and fish year-round, a sustainable way to enjoy farm-to-table goodness.

Market Details

• Location: Corner of Garfield Pkwy and Pennsylvania Ave in Bethany Beach
• Hours: Sundays from 8 am to 12 pm

DB Fries: Nostalgic Bites by the Beach

When hunger strikes after a day of sun and surf in Bethany Beach, look no further than DB Fries. This beloved eatery, tucked away near the boardwalk, serves up nostalgic bites that capture the essence of beachside indulgence.

Why DB Fries?

1. Lobster Rolls: Sink your teeth into their famous lobster rolls. Picture juicy, sweet lobster meat nestled in a buttery roll, a taste of coastal bliss.
2. Crab Cakes: If you’re a seafood lover, take advantage of their crab cakes. Fresh, flavorful, and oh-so-Delaware, these cakes are a local favorite.
3. Fried Oyster Sandwich: Crispy oysters meet soft bread in their satisfying fried oyster sandwich. It’s a beach classic with a twist.
4. Chicken Tenders: For the little ones (and the young at heart), DB Fries offers crispy chicken tenders, perfect for fueling more beach adventures.

Location & Hours

• Address: 100 Garfield Pkwy, Bethany Beach, DE 19930
• Phone: (302) 537-0880

Hours:

• Mon: 11:00 AM – 7:30 PM
• Tue: 11:00 am – 7:30 pm
• Wed: 11:00 am – 7:30 pm
• Thu: 11:00 AM – 7:30 PM
• Fri: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
• Sat: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
• Sun: 11:00 AM – 7:30 PM

Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or savoring a beachside meal, DB Fries brings that nostalgic flavor to every plate.

The Boardwalk

The Bethany Beach Boardwalk is a delightful half-mile stretch of wooden planks that invites visitors to step back in time. Here’s why it’s a must-visit:

1. Nostalgic Strolls: Whether you’re out for a casual walk or a morning jog, the boardwalk’s 12-foot width accommodates all. Feel the ocean breeze as you stroll along, taking in the views of the Atlantic.
2. Foot Washing Stations: During the summer season, operational foot washing stations are available on every street. Say goodbye to sandy feet!
3. Rules: Remember, no dogs are allowed on the boardwalk from May 15 to September 30. Bikes are permitted only from 6:00 am to 9:00 am daily.
4. Charming Shops: Along the boardwalk, you’ll find quaint shops, ice cream parlors, and candy stores. It’s a slice of small-town charm by the sea.

So, lace up your sneakers, grab your shades, and explore the classic allure of the Bethany Beach Boardwalk!

Ready to Explore?

Bethany Beach awaits! Beyond the boardwalk lies a world of hidden gems, hidden shores, kayak adventures, local markets, and nostalgic bites. So pack your sunscreen, grab your curiosity, and embark on your coastal journey. Whether you’re a beachcomber, a foodie, or a nature enthusiast, there’s something magical waiting just beyond those wooden planks.

Discover Bethany Beach today and create memories that ripple like the tides. 

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