Dewey Beach is a quaint coastal town on the southeastern border of Delaware. This beloved seaside area is popular due to its dog-friendly beaches, tasty seafood restaurants, tax-free shopping, and a wide array of family-friendly activities. Plan your trip to this picturesque destination, and book a cozy vacation rental at Dewey Beach today. Check out these top nine activities for families with children.
1. Experience the Thrills at Funland
There’s nothing quite like eliminating stress by screaming for joy at the top of a roller coaster before it makes its downward plunge. Thrill-seekers of all ages enjoy the fun and excitement found at the Funland Amusement Park. Older kids can hop on the Freefall or ride the Gravitron as it flips, dips, and tips the rider in all different directions. There’s even a haunted mansion on-site. Young children also have plenty to do, thanks to the multitude of kiddie rides, which include a carousel and small boats. If you prefer to keep both feet on the ground, there are 17 midway games to test your skills, and you’ll find plenty of food carts selling everything from pretzels and frozen bananas to hot dogs and ice cream throughout the park.
2. Beat the High Score at Playland Arcade
If you’re looking for some rainy day fun or a place to go after you’ve been on the beach all day, the Playland Arcade is a great choice. Play a game, win tickets, and trade them in for a stuffed animal or other special prizes. Little kids will enjoy the claw machines and skeeball. At this exciting arcade, you‘ll find friendly workers, a clean environment, and prices that are extremely affordable.
3. Climb to the Top of the Dewey Beach Lighthouse
It’s hard not to be drawn to the magic and mystery of a majestic lighthouse as it towers above the rest of the landscape. The Breakwater Lighthouse sits closest to the town of Lewes. To get to the lighthouse, sign up for a ferry ride to the Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal. Climb to the top and take pictures, and listen to your guide, who will explain the history of the lighthouse and the region. From the top of the tower, you may be able to view your vacation rental. Children 6 years of age and older are permitted to make the trip, and there must be at least one adult present per child.
Find the perfect Dewey Beach vacation rental on Tripping.com. Tripping.com is the world's #1 vacation rental search engine with over 10 million properties!
4. Make a Splash at Jungle Jim’s Waterpark
Cool off during the hottest part of the day with a trip to Jungle Jim’s. This waterpark offers a variety of attractions, including towering waterslides, bumper boats, and a large swimming pool where the little ones can float and dive. If you want to practice your hitting skills, the park has state-of-the art batting cages. You’ll also find two of the nicest mini golf courses around. Before heading back to your vacation rental, stop by the River Café for a hamburger or hot dog. They also sell pretzels and ice cream.
5. Kayak the Delaware Bay
Nothing is quite as enjoyable as floating along the calm waters of the river under a canopy of trees. Regardless of your fitness level and age, kayaking is the perfect outdoor activity for relaxing and enjoying nature. Rent equipment from a local outfitter, or bring your own from home. Sign up for a tour with the Delaware Waterway Adventures, and head out into the Delaware Bay. You’ll see dolphins playing in the surf, and you get a good vantage point of the beach from the water.
6. Spend Time on the Beach
No trip to Dewey Beach is complete without a day spent near the water. Parasailing is a popular activity among locals and tourists alike. You can also rent a boat from Dewey Beach Watersports and set out for a fishing excursion. Rent jet skis and spend time jumping the waves, or try your skills at stand-up paddleboarding. If you simply want to relax, let your kids build sandcastles while you enjoy one of the beach lounge chairs.
7. Go Crabbing
The Delaware Beach State Park is the perfect place to go for crabbing. The state allows blue crabbing any time of the year without a fishing license, so both young and old can enjoy dropping lines up to 300 feet. Catch up to a bushel of crabs a day, and then take them back to your vacation rental for a crab leg feast. Children love the feeling of accomplishment they get from catching their own dinner.
8. Sample the Goodies at Lewe’s Farmers Market
Many of the beachfront restaurants do not accept reservations, so instead of standing and waiting for a seat in the hot sun, stop by the Lewe’s Farmers Market for fresh vegetables and fruits, and cook dinner on your own. This historic market is a community-based, producer’s only market. Children can assist in picking out their favorites while chatting with the friendly locals.
9. Take a Family Bike Ride
Dewey Beach offers a variety of bike trails for those who enjoy family bike rides. Bring your own equipment to your vacation rental, or stop by one of the shops along the streets of Rehoboth and Dewey Beach to rent what you need. For a back road adventure, head to the Southern Delaware Heritage Trail, which takes you through small waterways and dirt paths. Bethany Beach is just to the south and offers lighter traffic along the pathways.
Ready to go? Check out these amazing Dewey Beach vacation rentals on Tripping.com.