What to Do in Fenwick Island: A Day Trip Guide to the Resort Town

Travel to Fenwick Island this summer to dine, shop and enjoy the sun and sand in Delaware's southernmost coastal town.

Fenwick Island, known for beach wildlife and coastal charm, is the southernmost seaside town in the First State. For a break from the bustling Rehoboth and Dewey beaches, Fenwick Island is the perfect destination.

With picturesque ocean views, top-notch eateries and plenty of history to discover, Fenwick Island is an often underrated Delaware hotspot. Here’s how to spend a day in this charming Delaware town.

9 a.m. — Fuel up with a coffee and açai bowl at Hightide Coffee & Bowls

A great day starts with a great breakfast! At hightide, you can enjoy breakfast sandwiches, açai and smoothie bowls, baked goods and more. Grab a latte, build your own smoothie bowl and have a seat in the charming outdoor seating area to soak up the sun and prepare for a fun-filled day at the beach.

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1204 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island

 

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11 a.m. — Visit the iconic Seaside Country Store

This gift shop, gourmet bake shop and home goods store is a must-visit in southern Delaware. The big red barn in Fenwick Island is a landmark for fudge enthusiasts—the shop offers more than 30 flavors made daily for the last 50 years. Stock up on some sweets and check out all the charming coastal/farmhouse décor, fun beach souvenirs and more.

1208 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island

 

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12 p.m. — Immerse yourself in maritime history at the DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum

How much history is stored in a shipwreck? Find out for yourself at the DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum. This collection of shipwreck and recovered artifacts is one of the largest in the Mid-Atlantic and contains both regional and worldwide artifacts. Delaware’s maritime heritage is full of interesting facts, and director Dale W. Clifton Jr. is passionate about bringing that history to life at the museum.

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708 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island

1:30 p.m. — Break for lunch at Twilley’s Willys

Serving up creative hot dogs, tacos, sides, fresh-squeezed lemon crushes, craft beers and more, this is a great stop for a quick lunch in Fenwick Island. Grab a hot dog (piled high with toppings like chopped steak, sauerkraut, lump crab and even mac & cheese) and score a seat at a picnic table to enjoy.

300 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island

 

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Related: Where to Find Delicious Italian Water Ice in Delaware

3 p.m. — Spend the afternoon at the Fenwick Island beach

Fenwick Island State Park is a quiet three-mile stretch of beach between the more crowded beach towns like Dewey Beach and Ocean City, MD. A serene escape from the summer crowds, Fenwick’s beaches offer beautiful playgrounds of sand, surf and sun.

 

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6:30 p.m. — Enjoy dinner at Fenwick Island’s  One Coastal

One Coastal is a celebration of delicious food and Delaware agriculture and watermen. Executive chef and owner Matt Kern along with his wife Karen are dedicated to offering a high-quality dining experience consisting of responsibly and locally-sourced ingredients. The upscale menu currently features New Jersey scallops, Chesapeake blue catfish, Ocean City tuna and much more. To ensure you get a table, make a reservation online.

101 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island

 8 p.m. — End the night with a sweet treat from Fenwick Ice Co.

Enjoy an evening treat of Hawaiian shave ice or soft serve from Fenwick Ice Co. Made daily with 100% pure cane sugar, this frozen dessert is both light and indulgent. It’s sure to keep you coming back for more.

 36773 Lighthouse Road, Selbyville

 

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Turn in for the Night at the Fenwick Islander Motel

This locally-operated seaside hotel is an easy walk to the beaches, dining and shopping of Fenwick Island. Fenwick is home to some of the most affordable lodging at the Delaware beaches and the Fenwick Islander is no exception. This is a great stay for family vacationers with rooms overlooking the canal, a private outdoor pool and comfortable rooms.

1 DE-1, Fenwick Island

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