It’s no secret the Delaware beaches slow down in the fall. Yet that doesn’t mean the fun has to end! For Delaware locals, the off-season has a certain charm that can only be achieved when the traffic speeds up and the streets slow down.
Take a day, a weekend or the entire fall season to enjoy these fall beach activities that prove beaches aren’t only for the summer sunshine.
1. Walk the beaches and the boardwalks
Along with the renowned Dewey and Rehoboth Beach boardwalks, Delaware’s Bethany Beach has a great little boardwalk for autumn walks. Bethany has received numerous accolades over the years, including recognition from National Geographic Traveler, which named Bethany Beach one of seven beaches in the country where “the essential beach experience endures.” The boardwalk, which is over a quarter-mile long and 12 feet wide, is lined with shops and eateries.
2. Sip beer, wine and more
The Delaware beaches are home to plenty of top-notch craft breweries from big names like Dogfish Head to Big Oyster, Revelation Craft Brewing and many more. Make a weekend of it and follow a DIY beach brewery trail. We recommend starting at Dogfish Head in Milton before heading into Lewes for stops at Big Oyster and Crooked Hammock. Then, if you want more, drive down Route 1. You’ll pass by Iron Hill, Thompson Island, Revelation, Dewey Beer Co. and more.
Sussex County is also home to three incredible wineries, one meadery, and a couple of great distilleries. No matter your taste, there are plenty of local libations to sip this fall at the Delaware beaches.
3. Get artsy
Celebrate local art at the Delaware beaches by visiting a gallery or studio and getting your DIY on. You’ll often find local artists’ work on display at Bethany Sea Crest, along with clothing, home décor and gifts. You’re sure to see plenty of pieces from area artists at Gallery One, which is owned by 15 mostly local artists who work in a variety of mediums. The October exhibition theme is “Black, White & In Between,” opening on October 2. No doubt the beach will figure into a few works.
At the Ellen Rice Gallery, artist Ellen Rice offers paintings that are often inspired by the sea. She’s lived the majority of her life near the Atlantic Ocean. The Café on 26, a 2017 Best of Delaware winner, is a gallery of sorts with a menu. The walls showcase local artists.
Along with stunning galleries, there are also plenty of art workshops at the Delaware beaches. From ceramics and pottery classes to kid-friendly DIY projects, there are plenty of ways to unleash your inner artist this fall.
4. Tour the beaches in a kayak
Coastal Kayak is headquartered in Fenwick Island but takes a have-kayak-will-travel approach to tours. One features the Assawoman Wildlife Area, where you may spot bald eagles. Guides also offer a paddleboard tour in the refuge. Enjoy other options like a Bald Cypress Tour or a Sunset Kayak Tour.
5. Take a hike
You don’t need to be on the water to appreciate the Assawoman Wildlife Area, which is just south of Bethany Beach. Brimming with loblolly pine, sweet gum trees and sweet-bay magnolia, the area was created from nine farms, ranging in size from 30 to 325 acres. The Hickman Tract is reportedly home to the endangered Delmarva fox squirrel.
Delaware Seashore State Park boasts great hiking trails like Burton’s Island Loop. For hiking trails at the beaches that suit any experience level, try a quick search on AllTrails.
6. Eat!
Like any town along the Delaware coast, Bethany has its fair share of celebrated restaurants. Try the original Bethany Blues for barbecue, bourbon and beer (there are NFL specials during football season at the bar).
For great sushi, head to Rehoboth’s Stingray Sushi Bar & Asian Grill or The Cultured Pearl. Both Best of Delaware winners, these restaurants are must-tries for chef-inspired Asian dishes.
Bethany Boathouse is a place where children can play (there’s a playground out front), while parents can enjoy a pineapple crush—or the adult beverage of their choice. There’s something for all ages.
For a date night, Best of Delaware winner Salt Air is an ideal atmosphere with farm and ocean to table local cuisine. Along with the hand-crafted, thoughtful menu options, Salt Air offers top-notch craft cocktails, fine wine and more.
For more dining options at the beaches, check out our 2024 Food & Drink Best of Delaware winners.
Related: Here’s What to Do at the Delaware Beaches This Weekend