Rehoboth Beach

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, frequently called "The Nation's Summer Capital," draws visitors with its inviting atmosphere and coastal allure. This popular destination, particularly for those from Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia, offers a blend of relaxation and activity. From its mile-long boardwalk to its clean beaches, Rehoboth provides a quintessential seaside experience.

The town's appeal extends beyond its sandy shores; it is a walkable community where shops, restaurants, and cafes are easily accessible on foot. The absence of a sales tax in Delaware also adds to its allure for shoppers. Whether seeking family fun, gourmet dining, or a peaceful retreat, Rehoboth Beach presents a diverse array of experiences for all who visit.

Rehoboth Beach consistently ranks high for water quality, having received a 5-Star rating from the NRDC in 2011, a distinction shared by only a few other locations. This commitment to environmental quality ensures a pleasant and safe environment for swimming and other warm-weather activities.

## From Spiritual Retreat to Seaside Resort Rehoboth Beach's origins trace back to 1873 when Reverend Robert W. Todd of St. Paul's Methodist Episcopal Church in Wilmington envisioned a seaside retreat for religious camp meetings. He purchased 414 acres from local farmers, establishing the Rehoboth Camp Meeting Association. The grounds were initially laid out in a fan-shaped design with wide streets, parks, and specific building lots, a layout that remains largely intact today.

The name "Rehoboth" itself is of Old Testament Hebrew origin, meaning "broad spaces," a fitting description for the expansive coastal area. The first boardwalk was constructed in 1873, running the full length of the oceanfront, though its configuration has evolved over the years due to storms.

In 1878, the arrival of the Junction and Breakwater Railroad, with tracks running directly down Rehoboth Avenue, marked a significant shift. This made the area more accessible to visitors from northern Delaware and Pennsylvania, transforming it into a burgeoning tourist destination. The Camp Meeting Association eventually disbanded in 1881, and in 1891, the territory was incorporated by Delaware's General Assembly as "Henlopen City," before being renamed Rehoboth Beach in 1893.

By 1925, a paved highway connecting Rehoboth Beach to Georgetown and subsequently to Washington, D.C., solidified its reputation as a premier vacation spot. This connection led to it being known as "the nation's summer capital," attracting legislators, diplomats, and government employees. Throughout its history, Rehoboth Beach has demonstrated resilience, rebuilding after significant events like the Great Atlantic Hurricane of 1944, which damaged parts of the boardwalk and local businesses.

## Segregation and Social Change The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the institution of Jim Crow segregation laws in Delaware, which also affected Rehoboth Beach. Generally, Black people were not permitted on Rehoboth Beach unless they were employed by white visitors. There was a specific section of the beach designated for non-white visitors, sometimes referred to as the "Crow's Nest," located north of the entrance in front of the Cape Henlopen Hotel. Despite these restrictions, Rehoboth Beach was featured in travel guides published for Black readers in the early 20th century, noting limited establishments where they could stay and patronize.

## Modern Era and Notable Connections Today, Rehoboth Beach continues to evolve as a year-round community, hosting visitors from across the country and around the globe. It has also become a favored summer retreat for high-profile individuals, including President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden, who own a beach house in the North Shores area. Other notable personalities, such as former Vice President Al Gore and actor Denzel Washington, have also been associated with the town through property ownership or regular visits.

The Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk is the heart of the town, a mile-long stretch featuring shops, restaurants, and amusements. It is ideal for a morning stroll, an afternoon of family fun, or an evening enjoying the ocean breeze. Funland, an amusement park on the boardwalk, offers rides and games for all ages and is open seasonally from mid-May. Nearby, Zelkey's Beach Arcades provide classic arcade experiences.

Beyond the boardwalk, Rehoboth Avenue offers a diverse array of independent shops and dining options. The Rehoboth Beach Bandstand, located on Rehoboth Avenue near the boardwalk, hosts free open-air concerts and entertainment throughout the summer months, with performances from over 50 bands during the season.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Rehoboth Beach is situated between Cape Henlopen State Park and Delaware Seashore State Park, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and bird-watching. The Junction and Breakwater Trail provides a scenic route for biking, connecting Rehoboth Beach to the historic town of Lewes.

Visitors can also explore the local culinary scene, which ranges from casual boardwalk fare to chef-driven restaurants, with a focus on seafood, Italian, and modern American cuisine.

Rehoboth Beach offers distinct experiences throughout the year. For warm-weather activities and a bustling atmosphere, the peak season from June to August is ideal, with temperatures typically in the mid-to-upper 80s. However, this period also brings larger crowds and higher prices.

To enjoy pleasant weather with fewer crowds, consider visiting in late spring (April to May) or early fall (September to October). After Labor Day, the crowds thin out, and temperatures remain comfortable, often in the upper 50s to upper 70s, making it an excellent time for a more relaxed visit. While winter (November to March) is colder with occasional snow, it offers a peaceful escape with local inns and cafes remaining open.

Parking in Rehoboth Beach can be challenging, especially during peak season, with meters in effect and residential areas requiring permits from May 15 to September 15. Arriving before 10 AM is recommended for better parking availability. Alternatively, the DART Park and Ride Lot on Shuttle Road offers parking with free beach bus service during the summer. The town is highly walkable, making it easy to explore shops, restaurants, and the boardwalk on foot once parked.

Dogs are prohibited from the beach and boardwalk from May 1 through September 30. However, leashed dogs are permitted from September 16 through May 14. Bicycles are allowed on the boardwalk between 5:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. from May 15th through September 15th. There is no fee to access Rehoboth Beach or Dewey Beach. Outdoor rinse-off showers are available along the boardwalk.