Delaware’s Quiet Resorts are great retreats for locals and visitors alike. Bethany Beach is a particularly popular spot for beach goers who want to slow down and skip the night life. The Quiet Resorts host plenty of visitors throughout the summer—but compared to neighboring Dewey Beach to the north and Ocean City to the south, it’s easy to see how this relaxing strip of coastline earns its name. A day trip in Bethany Beach promises a chance to slow down and take in your surroundings, listen to the ocean, and enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday living.
Whether you’re indulging in a delightful meal, shopping along the boardwalk, or taking a stroll by the sea, there’s plenty to enjoy in Bethany Beach. Take a look at our guide, then plan your own ideal trip to the coastal retreat. Don’t forget to tag @DelawareTodayMagazine on Instagram if you visit any of these spots!  Â
9 a.m. — Start the day with breakfast at Sunshine Crepes
What better way is there to start your day than with a crepe? At Sunshine Crepes, choose from a wide variety of savory and sweet crepe options. On the sweet side, there’s plenty to try, from classic fillings like strawberry preserves to unique combinations like Biscoff cookie butter and banana. On the savory end, Sunshine Crepes offers fillings like cheese, egg, bacon, sausage, veggies, and much more. Along with crepes, diners can chow down on açai bowls, yogurt parfaits, and waffles.
100 Garfield Parkway, Bethany Beach
Looking for even more breakfast options? Check out our guide to breakfast in Bethany Beach.
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10:30 a.m. — Head to the Bethany Beach Nature Center
The Nature Center is a must-visit in Bethany Beach. Stroll through the native plant garden, explore the raised bed pollinator garden, or traverse the Baldwin Nature Trail through wetlands and maritime forest. The center is home to over 100 species of wild birds, reptiles, diamondback terrapins, and more. Learn about the ecosystems of Delaware’s inland bays and wetlands while taking in stunning views.
807 Garfield Parkway, Bethany Beach
11 a.m. — Treat yourself to boardwalk boutique shopping
The Bethany Beach boardwalk and surrounding area is home to plenty of unique boutiques. Chic storefronts like Tangerine Goods and Gypsy Teal offer plenty of options for coastal style. Meanwhile, the Blue Room Gallery and Gift Shop is a one-stop shop for local art, beachy souvenirs, gifts, and home goods. At Bethany Beach Books, explore Bethany’s only independent bookstore for your next beach read. Just off the boardwalk, find Japanese home goods, clothing, accessories, and gifts at Japanesque. On Sundays during the warm season, visitors can also browse the Bethany Beach Farmers’ Market on the corner of Garfield Parkway and Pennsylvania Avenue.
Tangerine Goods | 101 Garfield Parkway Store #8, Bethany Beach
Gypsy Teal | 123 Garfield Parkway, Bethany Beach
Blue Room Gallery and Gift Shop | 123 Garfield Pkwy, Bethany Beach
Bethany Beach Books | 99 Garfield Parkway #904, Bethany Beach
Japanesque | 16 North Pennsylvania Avenue, Bethany Beach
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1 p.m. — Enjoy lunch, drinks, and coastal vibes at Big Chill Beach Club
With panoramic beach views, plenty of covered outdoor seating, great drinks, and a menu full of seafood-centric pub fare, Big Chill Beach Club is a must-visit. Enjoy handhelds like lobster rolls or mahi tacos, rice bowls and salads, and shareables like crab dip, calamari, and nachos. From the bar, sip on margaritas, crushes, and craft beer from coastal Delaware breweries. Once you’re filled up on beach fare and cocktails, spend some time taking in the view.
(For a bit of weekend fun, head back to Big Chill Beach Club in the evening for live music until 9 p.m.)
27099 Coastal Highway, Bethany Beach
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3 p.m. — Spend the afternoon at the beach
Bethany Beach is an ideal relaxing escape in the First State. The beaches at the Quiet Resorts are often less crowded than other beach towns like Rehoboth and Dewey—even during peak season. Pick a spot on the sand to lay in the sun, or take a stroll along the shore line.
5:30 p.m. — Head to Bluecoast for a seafood-centric dinner
One of the hardest parts of planning a day in Bethany Beach is choosing where to eat. With so many great seafood-centric options, you can’t go wrong. Bluecoast is one great choice for seafood lovers. With raw bar options like oysters, clams, and poke along with plenty of hearty seafood entrees, there’s so much to enjoy. From clams and spaghetti with red sauce to seafood stew to seared scallops, the menu is packed full of all the best flavors of the sea. Bluecoast also boasts an impressive wine list, so you’re sure to find the perfect pairing for any entree.
30904 Coastal Highway, Bethany Beach
7 p.m. — Book a sunset paddle with Ecobay Kayak and SUP
A scenic and relaxing way to end your day is with a sunset paddle on the calm waters of the Indian River Bay. If you’re a beginner kayaker, this is an ideal opportunity to try it out! It’s a short and sweet excursion and offers an excellent sunset view. Call 302-841-2722 to book a sunset paddle, or check out other tours and excursions online.
30048 Cedar Neck Road, Ocean View
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9 p.m. — Turn in for the night at the Addy Sea Historic Oceanfront Inn
If you’re looking for a stay that captures the essence of Bethany Beach, Addy Sea is just the place. With quaint and coastal decor and exclusive beach amenities, there’s so much to love about the inn. Enjoy a restful night awash in historic charm and wake up to a sunrise view and delightful breakfast.
99 Ocean View Parkway, Bethany Beach
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Related: How to Spend a Relaxing 48 Hours Along Delaware’s Coast
