Discover the Quiet Charm of Fenwick Island, Delaware

Looking for a beach town with fewer crowds and more character? Welcome to Fenwick Island—the sweet spot between sleepy and spectacular. Tucked just south of bustling Bethany and bordering Ocean City, this coastal gem is perfect if you’re chasing laid-back vibes, family-friendly fun, and gorgeous natural scenery. I’ve explored every nook, from boardwalks to bays, and I’m spilling all the secrets so you can plan the perfect low-key adventure. Let’s Dig In.

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Fenwick Fast Facts: Why This Quiet Town Should Be On Your List

If Rehoboth is the extrovert of Delaware’s coast, Fenwick Island is the introvert with a killer book collection and the best porch view. Here’s why it’s worth the drive:

• Crowd-free beaches where you can actually hear the ocean
• Family-friendly attractions like mini-golf and kayaking
• Charming small businesses with zero chain store vibes
• Unreal sunrises and sunsets over the ocean and bay
• Easy access to Ocean City without the chaos

Morning Magic: Coffee & Coastal Walks

Kick off your day at Dirty Harry’s Restaurant and Bakery, a classic local gem known for hearty breakfasts and fresh-baked treats. Grab a cup of coffee and a cinnamon roll or egg sandwich, then head out for a peaceful morning stroll. Sip as you walk or relax on a bench nearby, soaking up the salty air and planning your beachside adventures.

Head to Fenwick Island State Park, a pristine stretch of sand that feels like your own private paradise, especially in the early hours. The waves are gentle, the sand soft, and the crowd? Minimal. Exactly how you want your morning to start.

Midday Moves: Paddle, Pedal, or Pirate

You’ve got options here. Rent a kayak or paddleboard at Coastal Kayak and explore the Little Assawoman Bay. The salt marshes are teeming with birds and fish—nature lovers, get your binoculars ready.

More of a land lover? Rent bikes and cruise the coastal trail or stroll the Fenwick boardwalk (yep, it’s tiny but charming!).

Traveling with kids (or just a kid at heart)? Stop at DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum, a quirky, treasure-filled spot where you can explore centuries of maritime history—and it’s free!

Lunch Like a Local: Seafood and Chill

You didn’t come all the way to the coast to skip the seafood. Stop at Matt’s Fish Camp Fenwick, a laid-back spot with killer fish camp fries and Maine Style” loster roll. Or try Catch 54, a waterfront favorite known for its signature crab cakes, buttermilk fried jumbo shrimp, and a stellar raw bar featuring a large selection of oysters and clams. Enjoy your meal with a craft cocktail or a glass from their award-winning wine list while watching the boats drift by on the bay.

Prefer something sweet and fast? Hit up Fenwick Ice Cream Co. for handmade scoops you can enjoy while window shopping along Coastal Highway.

Pro Tip: Try the Fish Camp Fries at Matt’s—they’ll change your life.

Afternoon Chill: Park, Shells & Shopping

The afternoon is the perfect time to slow it down. Wander back to Fenwick Island State Park with a bucket for shell collecting or catch up on your reading under an umbrella.

If you’re craving some air-conditioned exploring, pop into local shops like The Seaside Country Store, a delightfully random blend of beachy gifts, homemade fudge, and quirky knick-knacks.

Golden Hour + Dinner With a View

For the best sunset views, drive to The Point at Bayside just over the state line. The bay glows, the birds swoop low, and it’s pure peace..

Dinner? Go with One Coastal Farm & Kitchen, a cozy spot with ethically sourced food like corn fried, Chesapeake blue catfish.  Sip your coffee on the front porch while soaking up the salty air and planning your beach walk.

Sleepytime: Where to Stay in Fenwick Island

While Fenwick is quieter than nearby towns, it has its share of charming rentals and beachy hotels. Try:

• Fenwick Shores by Hilton: Boutique hotel with rooftop pool and beach access
• Holiday Homes beach cottages: Many are dog-friendly and steps from the sand
• Seaside Inn: Budget-friendly, clean, and right on the strip

Pro Tip: Book early for summer weekends—Fenwick may be low-key, but the good spots go fast.

Why Fenwick Feels Like Home

In a world of busy boardwalks and buzzing beach bars, Fenwick Island is your chance to press pause. It’s where you go to hear the ocean, not a playlist. To savor slow dinners, not fast food. And to reconnect with you or your people—furry or otherwise—under an open sky.

Ready to plan your peaceful beach escape? Toss your flip-flops in the trunk and let Fenwick do the rest.

Have a secret Fenwick spot you love? Share it in the comments or tag me in your serene seaside shots!

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!

–Beth

Bring Your Best Friend: The Ultimate Dog-Friendly Dewey Beach Guide

If you’re the kind of traveler who wouldn’t dream of hitting the beach without your four-legged sidekick, you’re in for a tail-wagging treat. Dewey Beach isn’t just people-friendly—it’s dog heaven. With sandy paws, puppy patios, and pet-loving locals around every corner, this tiny beach town packs a whole lot of bark-friendly fun. From sunrise sprints to post-dinner strolls, I’ve sniffed out the best spots so you and your pup can soak up every salty moment. Let’s Dig In.

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Quick Start: What Makes Dewey Beach Dog-Friendly?

Let’s break it down for you:

• Dogs allowed on the beach during the summer before 9:30 AM and after 5:30 PM
• Off-leash time is a dream during these hours
• Many restaurants and cafes have pup-friendly patios
• Local events and businesses cater specifically to dog lovers
• No judgment zone: Sandy paws and wet noses are part of the culture here

Whether you’re here for a weekend or a day trip, your pup won’t just be welcome—they’ll be spoiled.

Sunrise Zoomies and Sandy Snouts

The early bird gets the best beach. At sunrise, the beach belongs to the dogs. Locals are out with coffee in one hand and leashes in the other. Off-leash time means pure joy as pups race across the sand, chase the tide, and greet their morning crew.

Pro Tip: Keep a towel in the car. Wet, sandy dogs are the price of joy.

Brunch With a Side of Belly Rubs

After a beach workout, both of you will be hungry. Nalu Surf Bar & Grill hits all the right notes. Their outdoor patio is dog-approved with water bowls and shady spots. And the breakfast burrito? Chef’s kiss. Bonus: fellow diners are likely to offer your pup a scratch or two.

If you’re feeling fancy, Woody’s also welcomes dogs outside. Grab a table, order their legendary crab cake sandwich, and let your pup chill at your feet while enjoying the seaside breeze.

Photo Tip: A wide-angle shot of your breakfast and your dog lounging beside you. Caption: Brunch goals: coffee for me, ear scratches for him ☕️ #PupPatioPerfection

Midday Adventures: Paddle, Play, or People-Watch

Looking for a post-brunch adventure? Try a kayak rental from Delmarva Board Sports. Yes, you can bring your pup! They offer life vests for dogs, and many small breeds love chilling up front while you paddle through the peaceful bay.

Not into water sports? Walk part of the  Rehoboth Bay Loop or chill in the sand dunes at the southern end of the beach. The vibe is quiet, the views are gorgeous, and you might spot dolphins while your dog digs a masterpiece.

Photo Tip: Pup in a kayak, ears up, eyes on the horizon. Caption: First mate on board and loving the view 🌊 #AdventureDogDewey

Pup Treats & Souvenirs

Yes, Dewey has spots for you to spoil your dog a little (or a lot). Check out Salty Paws in nearby Rehoboth, an ice cream bar just for dogs. Choose a base (peanut butter or vanilla), add bacon bits or biscuit crumbles, and let your pup go wild.

Need gear? Take a drive to Rehoboth Beach and stop at Concord Pet Foods and Supplies, which sells dog-friendly beach gear: collapsible bowls, leashes, toys, and even sunglasses for the gram.

Golden Hour Walks and Sunset Snacks

Before dinner, head back to the beach for the second round of dog-friendly hours. The light is golden, the breeze is cooler, and your dog probably needs a round-two zoomie session.

Grab takeout from Gary’s Dewey Beach Grill or Arena’s Deli, then find a quiet dune to sit and eat while your dog snoozes or sniffs.

Where to Stay: Dog-Friendly Lodging in Dewey

Planning to stay overnight? Hyatt Place Dewey Beach is right on the bay and loves pups. They offer pet-friendly rooms and are just steps from both beach and restaurants.

Looking for something more low-key? Try a beach house rental through Airbnb with a fenced yard and porch views.

Pro Tip: Book early—dog-friendly spots go fast, especially in peak season.

Plan the Perfect Pup-Loving Getaway

Dewey Beach proves that travel is better with your best friend by your side. From leash-free beach time to doggy ice cream bars and sunset walks, it’s the kind of trip your pup will dream about (probably while twitching in their sleep).

Ready to hit the road? Pack the treats, load the leash, and set your GPS for dog-friendly Dewey.

Have a favorite Dewey pup-spot I should add to my next post? Drop it in the comments or tag me in your beach dog selfies!

This blog is dedicated in loving memory of my sister’s dog, Oliver, who has passed. Though I currently live in an apartment where I can’t have pets, I grew up with a gentle Border Collie and deeply miss the companionship of a dog. Writing this brought back so many cherished memories and reminded me just how special our four-legged friends truly are.

If you loved this, be sure to check out the Fenwick Island Travel Guide: Peaceful Coastal Adventures Off the Beaten Path—perfect for those seeking a quieter, scenic retreat.

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!

–Beth

Welcome to Dewey Beach: Where Chill Vibes Meet Coastal Thrills

Looking for a laid-back beach escape that still delivers energy, flavor, and unforgettable moments? You’re in the right place. Whether planning a weekend getaway or squeezing in a day trip between Fenwick Island and Rehoboth, Dewey Beach is your golden slice of fun. From dog-friendly sands to legendary crab cakes and live music under the stars, this guide will help you plan an itinerary you won’t forget. Let’s Dig In.

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The Best Way to Spend a Day in Dewey Beach

Want to know how to get the most out of your time in Dewey? Easy. Here’s a quick hit-list:

• Start with sunrise at the beach: Calm, colorful, and uncrowded.
• Grab breakfast at Baked Coffee Bar: Coffee, pastries, and dog-friendly vibes.
• Midday paddleboarding on Rehoboth Bay: Rentals are right off Dagsworthy Street.
• Lunch at Woody’s: Crab cakes that deserve a standing ovation.
• Afternoon crush cocktails at The Starboard: Dewey’s signature drink.
• Dinner + Sunset at the Baywalk: Quiet, cozy, and totally romantic.
• Live music at Bottle & Cork: Local legends and national acts light up the night.

Why Dewey Beach Should Be On Your Travel Radar

There’s a reason Dewey keeps popping up on those “Best Small Beach Towns” lists. Actually, there are several. Here’s what makes this beachy spot worth the hype:

1. It’s Walkable and Worry-Free

Once you park, you can walk to everything: bars, the beach, the bay, and bites. There are no beach shuttle dramas or traffic headaches.

2. It’s Pet Friendly (Seriously!)

During the summer, dogs are welcome on the beach before 9:30 a.m. and after 5:30 p.m. Many restaurants, like Nalu Surf Bar & Grill, welcome pups with water bowls and treat jars.

3. The Food Scene is Low-Key Incredible

From freshly caught seafood to crispy hushpuppies and tropical cocktails, Dewey’s food hits that sweet spot between beach-casual and foodie-worthy.

4. There’s Always Something Going On

Live music, local events, and even dog parades( doodle or Golden lover)? Yep. Whether it’s a Saturday night show or a mellow Monday on the bay, you won’t be bored.

5. You Can Chill and Adventure

Want to kayak through salt marshes in the morning and dance in flip-flops at night? Dewey does both without missing a beat.

Morning: Sunrise + Salt Air in Dewey

Start early (yes, it’s worth it). There’s nothing quite like watching the sun peek over the Atlantic with sand between your toes and coffee in hand. The beach is quiet, dogs are welcome, and the lighting is golden perfection for Instagram.

Pro Tip: Bring a hoodie—it’s breezier than you’d think.

Mid-Morning at Dewey: Coffee, Treats & Exploring

Hit up Baked Coffee Bar for strong cold brews and sweet treats. Their sticky buns are dangerously addictive. Even better? There’s a shady patio perfect for people (and dog) watching.

From there, explore the beach town’s side streets or walk the bay loop. You’ll spot pastel cottages, blooming hydrangeas, and locals walking their dogs like it’s a community runway show.

Dewey Lunch: Crabby & Happy

Visiting Dewey and not eating at Woody’s Dewey Beach Bar & Grill would be a crime. Their famous jumbo lump crab cake sandwich is all meat, no filler, and pure magic. Pair it with Old Bay fries and a cocktail. Sit outside and soak up the salty air.

Pro Tip: Go early or late to avoid the lunch rush. Locals line up for this one.

Afternoon: Dewey Bay Vibes & Crushes

Walk to the bay side and rent a paddleboard or kayak from Delmarva Board Sports. The water’s calm, the views are stunning, and it’s a relaxing workout that doubles as a sightseeing tour.

After your water adventure, it’s time for Dewey’s signature drink: the Orange Crush. This juicy, citrusy cocktail is refreshing and dangerously easy to sip. The Starboard is the go-to spot. Lively, colorful, and always a vibe.

Evening: Music Under the Stars in Dewey

As the sun starts to dip, head toward the Baywalk for a peaceful sunset. Grab dinner at Victoria’s, a hidden gem with panoramic views. Try the pan-seared salmon or vegan calabacitas

Then follow the music to Bottle & Cork, Dewey’s iconic live music venue. From local bands to big-name acts, it’s a fun way to dance off that seafood dinner.

Plan Your Dewey Day Trip (or Weekend!)

Dewey Beach proves you don’t need a passport or a packed itinerary to have a great time. With its blend of chill beach energy, fun food finds, and postcard-worthy moments, it’s a perfect little escape on Delaware’s coast.

Ready to plan your trip? Pack your sunscreen, grab your pup, and hit the road. Dewey’s calling.

Pro Tip: Book early during summer weekends—Dewey is a favorite among locals and East Coast travelers alike. I’ve been to the beaches in the area many times. Curious about what other beaches are in the area? Read the blog Delaware Beaches: Insider Guide to Sun, Sand & Charm

Have a favorite spot in Dewey Beach that I missed? Drop it in the comments below or tag me in your photos!

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!

–Beth