From a spiritual camp assembly website within the 1870s to “The Summer season Capital of LGBTQ+ Delaware” within the modern-day, Rehoboth Seaside has had fairly the trajectory. The newer epithet goes again to the Thirties when well-known lesbian socialite Louisa Carpenter would throw queer events in her seashore home. Now the seaside city continues to wield the LGBTQ+ trip torch alongside Key West and Provincetown in terms of inclusive cities with queer personalities larger than their measurement.
Rehoboth truly means “room for all,” and there’s definitely that on its mile-long wood walkway and scorching sandy seashores. The town refuses to promote out to the person (or relatively, massive chain shops), and its boardwalk stays lined with colourful boutiques, native craft shops, buzzing beachfront bars, farm-to-table eating places, and even a family-owned attraction park. The homosexual scene is kicking and versatile, with enjoyable homosexual bars which home each busy dancefloors and enormous terraces to absorb the ocean air, in addition to extra intimate, local-feeling taverns internet hosting drag brunches, karaoke, and piano exhibits.
Rehoboth Seaside is a temper, and that temper is classic seashore trip meets fashionable summer time pleasure. So guide your self into one among its cozy guesthouses or beachside motels and use this information to benefit from your Rehoboth Seaside gaycation.
Desk of Contents
1. Normal Suggestions
2. Airport Switch and Transportation
3. Homosexual Resorts in Rehoboth Seaside
4. Sightseeing & Actions in Rehoboth Seaside
5. Eating places and Cafes
6. Rehoboth Seaside Homosexual Bars and Golf equipment
7. Rehoboth Seaside Homosexual Saunas & Cruising Bars
8. Homosexual Seashores in Rehoboth Seaside
9. Homosexual Occasions in Rehoboth Seaside
10. Day Journeys from Rehoboth Seaside
Normal Suggestions
Rehoboth Seaside predictably fills in the course of the summer time months between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Visiting throughout that interval has its execs and cons: on the one hand, Rehoboth Seaside has a palpable, thrilling ambiance in the summertime, and you’ll dive into its pool events and slide in among the many many horny males on the homosexual bars’ packed dance flooring. However, you’ll be battling for towel area on the homosexual seashore, queuing longer on your cocktails, and paying significantly extra on your guesthouse room—particularly throughout massive summer time events like Delight or Labor Day itself.
Shoulder seasons (Might and September) provide sunny days, shorter traces, and candy low season offers. Not like related locations (cough Provincetown), Rehoboth Seaside doesn’t gradual to a crawl off season both, so you possibly can nonetheless anticipate it to be buzzing, even when not fairly to the extent of summer time.
One factor to learn about Rehoboth Seaside is that it’s extraordinarily pet-friendly—from the motels and guesthouses to the eating places and even bars. Nevertheless, in the summertime months canine are forbidden on the seashore itself, so for those who’re searching for some seashore time along with your furry good friend (of the particular animal selection, that’s), positively go to in the course of the low season.
Airport Switch and Transportation
Philadelphia Worldwide Airport (PHL) or Salisbury–Ocean Metropolis (SBY) are the 2 nearest airports for these flying into Rehoboth Seaside. PHL is a few 2-hour drive down I-95 S → DE-1 S; hire a automotive curbside or guide the Delaware Categorical Shuttle direct to Rehoboth (reserve early). SBY is nearer—just below an hour by way of US-13 N; taxis and on-site automotive leases make for a fast hop south. From Washington, D.C., your decisions are both a three-hour drive or a bus—the route could be very scenic, fortunately!
As soon as on the town, hop on the seasonal DART Seaside Bus (Route 305) from Lewes to the boardwalk or catch the silly-named Jolly Trolley, which runs a set route between Rehoboth and Dewey Seaside to the south for a $3 one-way flat fare or $5 spherical journey. The trolley runs all week from 8:45 a.m. to 2 a.m. Driving in Rehoboth is totally pointless since the whole lot is walkable (or cyclable for those who hire a motorbike), so ditch your automotive at your resort or guesthouse’s automotive park and get your self some recent seaside air.
Homosexual Resorts in Rehoboth Seaside
Luxurious
Ocean Membership Resort – A contemporary boutique retreat positioned on the oceanfront boardwalk with direct seashore entry and panoramic Atlantic views. This three-story property options 36 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites with coastal-inspired décor, plush bedding, balconies or patios, spa-style loos, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Company can calm down by the heated outside saltwater pool, unwind within the sundeck lounge, or savor recent seafood and cocktails on the on-site café. The resort additionally offers a health middle, fire-pit seating, and bike leases.
Mid-Vary
Rehoboth Visitor Home – Probably the most iconic place to remain for LGBTQ+ guests to Rehoboth Seaside sits only a block from the boardwalk and 5 minutes from the homosexual bars. Rehoboth Visitor Home is a gay-owned, adult-only B&B famend for heat hospitality and Victorian beach-house allure. Its brilliant, pastel-shaded façade and wraparound porches with rocking chairs evoke classic coastal type, whereas inside it has all the fashionable comforts one may need. Every of the 9 suites includes a non-public bathtub, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV, cozy, plush bedding, and a fridge; some overlook the ocean or a verdant courtyard. Breakfast can also be beneficiant and could be loved within the cozy eating room earlier than heading out to discover town.
The Bellmoor Inn and Spa – Mix an opulent dwelling inside a Nineteenth-Century Victorian constructing with a luxurious spa and you’ve got this boutique resort positioned simply steps from Rehoboth Seaside’s boardwalk. The inn options 26 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, every providing plush furnishings, spa-inspired loos, and coastal-chic décor. Company can unwind at The Spa at The Bellmoor, which offers massages, facials, and physique remedies in a serene setting. The property additionally affords complimentary continental breakfast, an outside pool, and concierge companies for native eating, buying, and exercise suggestions.
Coast Rehoboth Seaside, Tapestry Assortment By Hilton – You may by no means actually go flawed with the Hilton. Its Rehoboth Seaside institution is a trendy, LGBTQ+-friendly, 3.5-star boutique resort a brief stroll to the boardwalk (thoughts you most issues are in Rehoboth Seaside). Its 146 modern rooms characteristic coastal-inspired décor, plush bedding, spa-style loos and personal balconies in choose models. The indoor salt-water pool, health middle, rooftop terrace with ocean views, an on-site restaurant and bar, and handy self-parking make for the complete Hilton bundle.
Finances
Canalside Inn – Finances-friendly, LGBTQ+-friendly, pet-friendly, and simply pleasant on the whole, Canalside Inn is a well-liked selection for guests. The quaint, award-winning boutique resort sits on the Lewes-Rehoboth Canal, simply 0.7 miles from the Rehoboth Seaside boardwalk and a brief stroll from eating places and bars, together with the homosexual favourite Diego’s. Services embody a seasonal outside pool (June–September), scorching tub, outside bathe, communal kitchen and social space, complimentary Wi-Fi, free parking, bike leases, seashore chairs and umbrellas, and opulent spa companies by reservation. Inviting visitor rooms vary from Single King suites with French doorways that open to shared balconies with water views to Single and Double Queen rooms overlooking the canal or pool.
Sightseeing & Actions in Rehoboth Seaside
Rehoboth Seaside Boardwalk — The primary attraction (properly, apart from the titular seashore) in Rehoboth Seaside is that this mile-long wood boardwalk. With a refusal to promote out to “the person,” it retains a lovingly classic really feel — you’ll discover no big-name chain shops right here, however as an alternative regionally owned companies, together with boutique outlets, distinctive eating places and even a family-run fairground (see under). It’s fairly within the daytime sunshine, but in addition at night time when it’s lit up by neon lights. Rehoboth Bandstand appears to at all times have a live performance going in the summertime, with the complete gamut of native artists entertaining the plenty. and for those who’re fortunate in the summertime you may discover occasions on the seashore like open-air film showings, bonfires and regionally funded firework shows. The quintessential Rehoboth Seaside Boardwalk expertise, although, is munching into some Thrasher’s Fries whereas sitting on the seafront. Don’t anticipate to drown them in ketchup, although, as they insist on solely salt and apple vinegar as the proper condiments.
Funland – this family-owned amusement park on the Rehoboth Seaside boardwalk has been delighting inside (and precise) youngsters since 1962. With free admission and pay-as-you-ride wristbands, it affords 16 traditional points of interest—from classic classics just like the carousel, bumper automobiles, and Ferris wheel to extra intense curler coasters just like the Spider. Then there’s the arcade, seasonal occasions, and snack stands serving boardwalk favorites like funnel desserts and soft-serve ice cream. Open spring by fall.
Dogfish Head Craft Brewery Tour – Do you want beer—both casually, or are you the sort to geek out over dry-hopped IPAs? Then take a while off the seashore to go to this iconic, impartial craft brewery in close by Milton for an immersive, behind-the-scenes expertise. Guided excursions take you thru the brewhouse and barrel-aging cellars, highlighting progressive strategies and quirky elements. You’ll pattern a rotating choice of flagship and limited-release beers straight from the supply, then discover the on-site brewpub, relatively random retro-futuristic Steampunk Treehouse and retail store. Simply be sure you tempo your self! Ebook tour →
Cape Henlopen State Park Trails & Fort Miles –Only a five-minute drive from city, this space delivers a two-for-one journey. On the one fingers, you get miles of coastal parkland with dune ridges, maritime forests, expansive ponds, soft-sand seashores, and winding mountain climbing trails. On the opposite is World Conflict II bunkers, gun batteries, and concrete statement towers—one you possibly can climb for killer views of the Atlantic and Delaware Bay. The restored Fort Miles homes the Fort Miles Historical past Museum, the place interactive reveals chronicle wartime coastal protection. Hike, fish, bike, or swim to your coronary heart’s content material, and don’t overlook to pack a picnic to take pleasure in by the shoreline. Ebook tickets →
Gordon’s Pond Kayak & Paddle Journey – To essentially join with the pure world, away from the busy boardwalk of Rehoboth Seaside, hire your self a kayak or paddleboard at Gordon’s Pond Wildlife Space and glide by tidal marsh channels lined with reeds and ospreys and filled with wildlife like blue heron and playful otters—earlier than paddling again to sandy shores. Leases and guided eco-tours run seasonally. Ebook excursions→
Rehoboth Artwork League & Gallery Stroll – Wander into the historic Rehoboth Artwork League and uncover rotating exhibitions in a sunny beachfront cottage. Then meander alongside Baltimore Avenue’s gallery row to satisfy native painters, sculptors, and photographers. Cease for a drop-in workshop so you possibly can go away with a home made memento of your Rehoboth journey.
Nassau Valley Vineyards Wine Tasting – A brief drive from Rehoboth brings you to rolling Delaware vineyards, the place you possibly can sip Chardonnay and Pinot Gris in a country tasting room or on the sunlit patio. Find out about sustainable farming on a guided winery tour, then stroll the barrel room to style blends you possibly can’t discover wherever else. Weekend reside music amps up the laid-back vibe. Ebook excursions→
Rehoboth Seaside Farmers Market – A beloved seaside custom simply off the boardwalk—affords recent produce, artisanal breads, do-it-yourself jams, and gourmand cheeses every Tuesday morning. Distributors proudly showcase fruits, greens, flowers, and handcrafted items, reflecting the world’s agricultural heritage. Count on recent oysters, freshly roasted espresso, do-it-yourself pastries, and different sensory delights. Reside music, pleasant locals, and chef demonstrations make it as a lot a communal gathering as a correct market and an authentically Rehoboth Seaside expertise.
CAMP Rehoboth Group Heart – Rehoboth Seaside has come a great distance with LGBTQ+ rights through the years, thanks largely to the arduous work of CAMP Rehoboth, an LGBTQ+ neighborhood middle decided to Create A Extra Optimistic (CAMP) setting that’s inclusive of all sexual orientations and gender identities in southern Delaware. Pop in and so they’ll provide help to benefit from your keep, study native occasions, and calm down of their cozy lounge.
Eating places and Cafes in Rehoboth Seaside
Eden – Who mentioned romance is lifeless? Actually not this romantic trying homosexual owned restaurant, which is particularly in style with {couples}. Eden is an enthralling bistro tucked simply off Rehoboth Avenue, boasting candlelit tables, greenery, and outside seating. The seasonal menu options regionally sourced elements, together with tender lamb chops, pan-seared scallops, and decadent chocolate lava cake. Their curated wine listing and handcrafted cocktails completely complement every dish. Take your associate, lover or simply deal with your self to some self-love at Eden.
Lori’s Oy Vey Café – Lori’s is a pleasant, lesbian-owned eatery positioned within the courtyard of CAMP Rehoboth, a neighborhood middle for the LGBTQ+ neighborhood, and is beloved as a hidden queer gem of a café. Vivid and cheerful, the café affords cozy indoor seating and an enthralling patio. The menu options do-it-yourself bagels, creamy omelets, and signature avocado toast, all ready with recent, regionally sourced elements. Bask in traditional Jewish deli flavors like lox and cream cheese, or discover ingenious every day specials.
Blue Moon – Housed in a restored Victorian cottage, Blue Moon blends fantastic eating with theatrics. Candlelit tables showcase gourmand twists on American classics—assume bacon-wrapped scallops and delicate soufflés—with reside leisure comparable to drag exhibits and reside piano sing-alongs. Blue Moon additionally doubles as a preferred homosexual bar, that includes weekend drag performances and brunch service. Head there on Sundays for a brunch discount: filet mignon and a bottle of wine for below $30.
Salt Air – The place Southern consolation meets the ocean, Salt Air is a farm-to-table (and sea-to-table) restaurant with a homey but upscale setting on Wilmington Avenue in downtown Wilmington. The menu is inventive, showcasing seasonal seafood like crab-stuffed flounder alongside regionally sourced produce, ingenious cocktail decisions, and a choice of fantastic wines. There are a lot of considerate touches—comparable to whipped goat cheese as an alternative of butter served with the on-table crackers—and also you gained’t need to miss the award-winning pastry chef’s desserts or the informal oyster-roasting evenings on the again patio.
Mariachi Restaurant – Fairly in pink, Mariachi Restaurant is a agency favourite for everybody in Rehoboth Seaside—particularly LGBTQ+ people. Past the cool exterior, colourful papel picado banners flutter above rustic wood tables (inside and on the 2nd ground patio) because the aroma of scorching fajitas, tacky enchiladas, zesty ceviche, and freshly baked tortillas wafts by the air. Pleasant servers pour ice-cold margaritas rimmed with tangy salt, whereas reside Mariachi music—strummed guitars and spirited violins—creates the proper Latino ambiance.
Cafe Azafran – Simply off the boardwalk, this Mediterranean-inspired café includes a screened patio the place tapas nights, Paella Wednesdays, and weekend sangria periods are native legends. The menu affords delights from throughout the ocean, together with saffron-kissed seafood, Spanish tortilla, and olive oil–drizzled salads. Breakfasts are legendary, too: churro waffles, fluffy ricotta pancakes, or a savory shakshuka. And don’t miss the house-made focaccia sandwiches layered with prosciutto, roasted peppers, and gooey mozzarella.
The Cultured Pearl – Perched above Rehoboth Avenue in a rooftop koi-pond setting, this sushi bar turns dinner into theatre. You’ll pattern artfully rolled nigiri and sashimi, then unwind on gazebos overlooking the boardwalk lights. The menu blends Japanese classics and fashionable touches—like Thai-inspired tempuras. O and the sake goes down simply… somewhat too simply!
Thrasher’s Fries – “One of the best French fries on the planet,” based on them. As daring a declare as that’s, it’s unattainable to disclaim they’re scrumptious and a vital Rehoboth Seaside expertise on the boardwalk. Don’t be shy—get the big. And don’t anticipate any ketchup, as a result of apple cider vinegar and salt are the one applicable condiments to capitalize on the crunchy deliciousness that’s Thrasher’s Fries.
Rehoboth Seaside Homosexual Bars and Golf equipment
Purple Parrot Grill Seaside Haus & Biergarten – At Rehoboth’s solely homosexual biergarten, tropical murals and festoon lights rework the patio right into a homosexual oasis. The venue is regionally iconic, serving as each a pub-fare restaurant and a buzzing homosexual bar. You may pull up a picnic-table bench anytime—day or night time—and order craft cocktails or native drafts, then dive into nightly karaoke, colourful drag exhibits, and DJ units. With every day drink specials and no cowl cost, it’s the proper spot to mingle below the celebrities.
Blue Moon – Talked about above within the restaurant part, Blue Moon additionally deserves a spot right here as one of the vital in style homosexual bars within the metropolis. Housed in a restored Victorian cottage, it options weekend drag performances, piano singalongs and only a rattling good ambiance.
Diego’s Bar & Nightclub – Diego’s Bar & Nightclub is the place to get just a bit messy on weekends. It options each a sandy, palm-shaded patio and Rehoboth’s largest dance ground. Count on loads of topless eye sweet, worldwide DJs, scorching shot-boys, pleased hours, and shock performances. Attempt the “Rehoboth Rum Rush” in case your night time out wants a kick-start.
Freddie’s Seaside Bar – Neon indicators and open-air seating set the scene at Freddie’s, the place beachside trivia nights, drag bingo, and under-the-stars karaoke draw a fun-loving crowd. It’s additionally town’s solely video music bar, usually taking part in tacky classics and drag race. There’s no pretension—simply good instances, good cocktails, and good firm. The Sunday Follies drag present is particularly a great time.
Aqua Bar & Grill – Set proper on the shore, Aqua is a seafood restaurant by day and a vigorous homosexual bar because the night hits. Its breezy deck has a self-service bar, and inside, a large dance ground creates that party-by-the-beach really feel. Seasonal occasions—from beachside DJ units to charity fundraisers—maintain the vitality excessive, whereas mixology demos showcase native flavors.
Rehoboth Seaside Homosexual Saunas & Cruising Bars
There at present are no cruising bars or saunas in Rehoboth Seaside after the closure of its leather-based bar. Watch this area although, it is positive to get replaced in some unspecified time in the future!
Rehoboth Homosexual Seashores
Poodle Seaside – For the official homosexual seashore, head to the southernmost finish of the boardwalk at Queen’s Road—you possibly can’t miss it. In the summertime, it will get busy—actually busy—so head there early for those who can to carve out some sand area. You’ll be handled to loads of muscled eye sweet on your efforts.
North Shore – The quieter lesbian seashore is positioned in Cape Henlopen State Park. Everyone seems to be welcome there, although, and also you’ll additionally discover homosexual males preferring a bit extra calm and fewer crowds.
Homosexual Occasions in Rehoboth Seaside
Rehoboth Seaside Delight – Each July, Rehoboth Delight is a five-day occasion (although the principle motion occurs in the course of the weekend). There’s barefoot boardwalk processions, dune-side dawn yoga, impromptu drag acts, comedy acts on the pavilion workshops, and plenty of events! Native galleries host queer artwork pop-ups; household canine roam in bespoke bandanas at pet-friendly meet-ups. The primary parade on Saturday marches down Baltimore Avenue with a whole bunch of fellow celebrants and—after all—concludes in a seashore social gathering. Distinctly intimate but vibrantly daring, this Rehoboth Seaside Delight honors each place and other people with heartfelt authenticity. Dates: 16-20 July, 2025.
Sunfest – Over Labor Day weekend, CAMP Rehoboth hosts a vigorous fundraiser mixing beachside lobster dinners, drag volleyball, silent auctions, open-air cinemas, seashore events, and wine-tasting periods into one fantastically chaotic celebration. The primary attraction, although, is Sundance—an enormous social gathering on Poodle Seaside, often full of all the new guys visiting from Washington, D.C. Dates: 28 August – 1 September, 2025.
Rehoboth Seaside Bear Weekend – Every September, beards and bubbly unite for 5 days of contests, pool events, and shore-side socials. Hosted by Rehoboth Seaside Bears, there’s brunch meet-ups, beer crawls, and sundown cruises. Dates: 17-21 September, 2025.
Rehoboth Seaside Leather-based Weekend – Leather-based and the seashore don’t need to be at odds with one another! Not less than not in Rehoboth Seaside, and so each October, the city embraces leather-based tradition with three days of events, leather-clad social gatherings, contests, and kink-focused workshops. Leather-based Weekend’s edgy type and open-hearted enjoyable convey a daring, welcoming spirit to autumn nights in Rehoboth. Dates: 4-6 October, 2025.
Day Journeys from Rehoboth Seaside
Philadelphia – Plenty of folks come to Rehoboth Seaside for a day journey from the cities, however there’s completely no cause you possibly can’t do the reverse! In about two hours you’ll swap sand for cobblestones in Philly, one among America’s most historic hubs. See the long-lasting Liberty Bell, wander world-class museums on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, then dive into Philly’s vibrant gayborhood. Don’t miss a traditional cheesesteak lunch earlier than cruising again to Rehoboth because the solar dips low.
Chincoteague Island & Assateague Nationwide Seashore – Head south throughout the state line for an unforgettable day amongst wild ponies and windswept dunes. You’ll meander nature trails by maritime forests, be part of a guided kayaking tour of tidal marshes, and watch shorebirds wheel overhead. Cap your go to with a leisurely drive alongside Assateague’s seashore roads—maintain your eyes peeled for foals frolicking on the water’s edge. Ebook tour →
Historic Lewes – Only a fast 15-minute drive north, Delaware’s “First City” charms you with brick-paved streets, pastel clapboard homes, and a picturesque harbor. You’ll browse artisan boutiques on Second Road, pattern fresh-off-the-boat clams at family-owned seafood shacks, and cruise the Lewes-Rehoboth Canal on a glass-bottom boat. Earlier than heading again, wander the Lewes Historic Society’s restored properties for a peek at colonial life. Ebook tour →
Featured picture by Metropolis of Rehoboth Seaside
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