Looking for the perfect East-Coast summer escape? Look no further than Dewey Beach, DE, famous for its mix of laid-back beach life and vibrant nightlife. We’ll show you all the best things to do, from family-friendly skimboarding and bayfront parks to legendary live music and incredible dining. Plus, we’ll share our top tips on the most scenic way to get there: the Cape May–Lewes Ferry. Get ready to discover your new favorite beach getaway!
Dewey Beach is less than 10 minutes from the Lewes Ferry Terminal, making it the perfect coastal getaway for passengers arriving from Cape May. Simply sail across the Delaware Bay, disembark in Lewes, and head south through beautiful coastal communities along DE-1. Parking is widely available with seasonal permits, and most restaurants and shops are walkable once you arrive.
The 85-minute trip across the Delaware Bay is an attraction in itself, a floating memory-maker, if you will. The on-board amenities, including open-air decks, an outdoor bar, and a food court, make the journey a great way to start your vacation! Once you dock in Lewes, Delaware, Dewey Beach is just an easy 10-minute drive south along Coastal Highway (DE-1). It’s an efficient way to travel and a fantastic way to begin your beach getaway.
Dewey Beach may be small, but it packs a full-sized punch of sun-soaked fun, coastal charm, and Delaware beach culture. Famous for its wide sandy shoreline, vibrant live-music scene, and relaxed “come as you are” atmosphere, Dewey draws families, foodies, and water-sports lovers alike. Whether you’re here to kayak at sunset, stroll to dinner barefoot, or dance to local bands by the bay, this little beach town is the perfect mix of adventure and ease.
From waterfront restaurants to boutique accommodations, morning coffee spots, and unforgettable nights at local venues, Dewey Beach is designed for anyone who wants to enjoy the coast without the crowds. And with the Cape May–Lewes Ferry just minutes away, it’s one of the easiest beach towns to add to your getaway itinerary — whether you’re staying for the week or day-tripping from New Jersey.
No, Dewey Beach does not have a boardwalk. However, it is located right next to Rehoboth Beach, which has a famous one-mile-long boardwalk with plenty of attractions, shops, and food. The short walk, drive, or bike ride between the two towns makes it easy to experience both.
The choice between Dewey Beach and Rehoboth Beach depends on what you’re looking for. Dewey Beach is often considered better for those seeking an active nightlife, a younger crowd, and a wide variety of water sports. Rehoboth Beach is generally seen as a more family-friendly destination with a famous boardwalk, more shopping, and a wider variety of dining options. Many people choose to stay in one town and visit the other for a day to get the best of both.
– The ferry ride from Cape May, NJ to Lewes, DE is approximately 85 minutes- around an hour and a half. It is a scenic, relaxing way to cross the Delaware Bay, and a convenient option for traveling to the Delaware beaches. Explore more of the Ferry website to find unique events like “Rock the Boat” cruises with live music, and brewery excursion tours!
– Yes, Dewey Beach is famous for its nightlife. The town is well known for its beach bars and live music venues, which draw a lively crowd, especially during the summer and spring break. You will find plenty of great restaurants and places to watch the sunset with a refreshing drink in hand.
Yes, Dewey Beach is a great destination for families. The Rehoboth Bay side offers calm, shallow waters ideal for young children to splash and play, and it is a popular spot for beginner skimboarding lessons. The town also has family-friendly amenities like Sunset Park, public playgrounds, and events such as Monday night beach movies and Wednesday bonfires during the summer.
Dewey Beach is a short and scenic drive from the ferry terminal in Lewes, Delaware. It is an easy 8-mile, approximately 20-minute drive south along Coastal Highway (DE-1). This makes the Cape May–Lewes Ferry a very convenient and stress-free way to start your beach vacation.
