This seaside wonderland in Delaware has inspired water lovers from near and far for centuries. In many ways, Rehoboth Beach epitomizes coastal Americana, with homegrown festivals year-round, family-friendly activities aplenty, and the distinction of having one of the country’s best boardwalks. Take in the coastal charm of the town’s mile-long promenade, where you’ll find whimsical shops, seaside restaurants, and fairground fun and games adding to the ambiance all year round. The coastal amusement park is a relic of old world kitsch, and has been a fixture here since 1962 — there’s something special about riding a retro rollercoaster with the Atlantic Ocean as your backdrop. It seems like there’s a scenic ocean view around every corner here — even the shopping centers play hide-and-seek with the beautiful marine forests and farm fields tucked right behind them. Dunes and wetlands also fill the landscape, while the salty sea air breezes in from the Atlantic and ripples through the marshes.

There are three convenient hubs to fly into. Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) is almost a three-hour drive north, including the requisite ferry ride. Other available airports include Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) around two hours away and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) a little further afield. Rental cars, buses, and trolleys are available from all three airports. If you rent a car, you can also take the ferry as you ride over to Delaware. This can be a fun, scenic route to take in the views from the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. Once in Rehoboth Beach, the best way to get around is on foot.

Between May and August are the peak months to soak in the scenery of Rehoboth Beach, as the town bustles with seasonal visitors from Memorial Day through Labor Day. There’s good reason to join in the fun — the weather’s perfect for beach days, there are plenty of outdoor activities, and summer festivals quickly fill up the calendar. There are even unforgettable full moon kayak tours around the bay. If you decide to visit Rehoboth beach rentals during the off-season, take note that some attractions may be closed or operating at limited hours. Cooler temperatures are ideal for playing a few rounds of golf, taking breezy strolls with sweeping coastal views, and adding a layer or two for alfresco waterfront dinners.

Ride retro roller coasters at Funland

Some would argue that a seaside town is only as good as its boardwalk, and a boardwalk is only as good as its rides. Luckily, Rehoboth Beach scores top points on both counts. Funland, family-run since 1962, is an amusement park situated on the boardwalk that’s just chock full of chintz and charm, and the ocean views from the ferris wheel are a sure-fire hit too.

Go antiquing for old treasures

Nothing beats the nostalgia of exploring vintage shops, hunting for treasures and trinkets. Instead of digging in the sand for that treasure, spend a rainy day scouring bric-a-brac shops and antique stores for all manner of vintage souvenirs and bring home a little slice of Rehoboth Beach’s history to commemorate your stay.

Stroll through state parks

With Cape Henlopen State Park and Delaware Seashore State Park both just a stone’s throw from Rehoboth Beach, there is plenty for nature lovers to enjoy. Wander through untouched marshes, take in views from a former military observation tower, and even play a round of golf, all amidst soul-stirring natural scenery.