Top 10 Things to Do at Dewey Beach This Summer

Posted on 21st August 2025 johnny

Even for its small size, Dewey Beach, Delaware, has a lot of character. This coastal town is a charming mix of lazy beach vibes and high-energy summer fun. There are very few exciting experiences and innumerable ones to be had here. Water sports, beach games, or live music; local food, you name it, Dewey has it, and more. However, to soak in every bit of your vacation, be sure to read about the things to do at Dewey Beach in Delaware. This guide lists the top-10 advice that will allow you to not just work in sunrise swims but have sunset cocktails with the locals.

1. Rise Early for That Perfect Beach Spot

Early mornings are the very best hours on the beaches. During peak months of summer, the sands are swiftly filled up, especially on the weekends. Get down there before 9 AM for a laid-back atmosphere, small groups of people, and front-row ocean views. Mornings are cooler and perfect for a walk or doing a bit of jogging along the shore. Remember to pack a towel, a sunhat, and a great book to relax with, along with the sound of the waves, before this place starts emptying. Early risers also tend to get good parking, which comes in handy if you want to set up an umbrella for some shade!

2. Try Skimboarding or Take Surf Lessons

Dewey got its name from the skimboarding sport activities. Never tried it? There may be instructors for a basic lesson on-site. Alley-Oop Skimboarding Camps has a good reputation and a welcoming environment for families with children. Also, it is a nice way to enjoy the beach. If you’re not into skimboarding, just book a beginner surf or paddleboard lesson instead! Dewey water is especially perfect to learn in the morning with calm surf. They are great workouts and great memories to cherish.

3. Paddleboarding and Kayaking Across Rehoboth Bay

The bay offers peace and beauty while the sea offers energy and waves. Renting a kayak or stand-up paddleboard is one of the most serene and scenic activities you can enjoy at Dewey Beach, Delaware. There are several such companies, like Delmarva Board Sport Adventures, that provide you with all the tools and gear needed for your fun day. They also offer guided eco-tours for those who prefer to learn about the local ecosystem. You will probably spot fish and birds, maybe even dolphins, during such a tour. Sunset paddles are incredible and perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking silence.

4. Have Lunch at Woody’s Bar and Grill (And Sample the Crab Cake!)

Locals and tourists alike concur that Woody’s is among Dewey’s best eateries. If you are looking for that classic Dewey touch, then this is the place. The crab cakes should be at the top of your tasting list-they are made with lump crab and local seasoning. Casual atmosphere, cold drinks, and friendly staff. Outside seats fill up fast, especially during summer, so get there right before peak hours for lunch. Try the crabby Bloody Mary or the well-known Crush cocktail; it’s practically a Dewey rite of passage.

5. Have a Laugh at Nick’s Mini Golf on Coastal Highway

Take a break from the sun or let the kids have some fun! Junior golf is the answer. Located just off Coastal Highway, it adds a little competitive spirit to your afternoon. The hideaway is beach-themed and lighthearted, with ingenious holes and colors that keep your spirits up. It stays open late so you can have some fun after dinner. Dewey grown-ups enjoy the nostalgic fun as well. And, it’s affordable for families or groups of friends.

6. Top the Sunset off at The Rusty Rudder Dock

The sunsets at Dewey are surreal, and there is no better way to enjoy one than at The Rusty Rudder. Find a table with waterside views or sit on the dock with a chilled beverage. The menu consists of seafood staples such as steamed shrimp, chowder, and rockfish bites. Throw in a little live music, and you have yourself an ideal summer evening. Get there early to secure the best seats for the photography session, as the golden hour over Rehoboth Bay is a sight to behold.

7. Get Down for Live Music or a DJ Set at Night

When the sun sets, Dewey wakes up. The nightlife here is very lively and bursting with energy. Bottle & Cork remains one of the favorite places to enjoy live music featuring local bands, big names, and themed dance nights. If a craft beer and a chill atmosphere are your thing, check out Dewey Beer Co.; their in-house brews have a creative and refreshing appeal. Surprise shows and DJ sets from local bars are not uncommon on warm summer nights, so keep tabs on event schedules to find out when your favorite act is playing.

8. Bike Through the Scenic Trails of Cape Henlopen State Park

For the outdoor-adventure type, biking the trails at Cape Henlopen is a must. Just a short drive away from Dewey, this park offers smooth, shady trails that provide spectacular ocean and bay views.

Junction and Breakwater Trail is very popular among cyclists as it runs through calm wetlands connecting Rehoboth and Lewes. Getting a bike for rent is a breeze in town, so always pick a helmet for safe use. Make sure to carry a water bottle, some snacks, and maybe even bring a camera—all the essentials for a beautiful yet fortuitous ride.

9. Spend Some Time on the Water Taxi from Lewes to Dewey

Anything to vary the scenic views? In other words, take the water taxi from Lewes to Dewey. It is a quiet and scenic way to travel, especially during sunsets or early evenings. You will glide past the marshes, waterfront homes, and maybe some wildlife sightings. The water taxi gives you a chance to skip traffic and enjoy coastal views you would otherwise miss. Plan and book your tickets, as summer peaks sell out faster than you can say wham. This is one special tip that will cement the journey in memory.

10. Spend Your Night on the Boardwalk at Rehoboth

Five minutes north of Dewey, the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk carries a classic coastal allure. Stroll the wooden planks, pick up some Thrasher’s fries, and visit Funland for a little carnival-style frivolity—little ones will love it, and adults will cherish the nostalgia. At night, the boardwalk comes alive with shops, food vendors, and entertainment.

It’s a wonderful way to cap your day—or continue the fun for the night. Schedule a quick bike or Uber ride from Dewey to make it convenient.

Conclusion

There’s never a dull moment if you’re in Dewey Beach. By combining planning and spontaneity, you can create a summer filled with amazing moments. These ten tips include the greatest things to do at Dewey Beach in Delaware—from quiet beach mornings and crazy skimboarding rides to delectable crab cakes and breathtaking sunsets. Whether you’re on a trip with the kids, your significant other, or enjoying solo waves, Dewey offers something for every type of beach enthusiast. Just bring your flip-flops, your good vibes, and prepare for one of the greatest summer vacations on the East Coast.