Delaware Craft Breweries

Craft Breweries in Sussex County


Are you into craft beer? If you take the Cape May-Lewes Ferry to Lewes, there are a few excellent breweries to visit only a short distance from the terminal!

Big Oyster Brewery

Image
Big Oyster Brewery

Big Oyster Brewery is owned by Fins Hospitality Group. Their mission is to treat all employees and guests like family! You can find their beers being sold all the way from southern Maryland to Eastern Pennsylvania. Come be a part of the family and enjoy one of their most popular beers the “Dang!” IPA, which is brewed with flaked wheat and dry hopped for three times for a pronounced citrus, fruity aroma.

  • 1007 Kings Highway, Lewes, DE 19958

Crooked Hammock Brewery

Image
Outdoor dining at Crooked Hammock Brewery

Looking for a place to relax and enjoy a delicious meal and craft beer? If so, the Crooked Hammock Brewery is the place to check out. A perfect place to bring the whole family with its backyard containing all types of games to play such as corn hole, ping-pong, ring toss and much more. There is something here for the whole family to enjoy.

  • 36707 Crooked Hammock Way, Lewes DE 19958

Dogfish Head Craft Brewery

Image
Steampunk Treehouse at the Dogfish Head Craft Brewery

The off-centered originators of the Delaware craft beer scene, Dogfish Head has been serving up industry-leading and genre-defining craft beers since 1995. Their Milton brewery is a must-stop for craft beer fans, where they offer tours, a huge selection of beers, craft cocktails and off-centered eats. You’re also going to want to check out Brewings & Eats and Chesapeake & Maine in downtown Rehoboth, and if you’re looking for a place to stay, they’ve got you covered there too with the Dogfish Inn in Lewes.

  • Brewery: 6 Cannery Village Center, Milton, DE 19968
  • Brewings & Eats: 320 Rehoboth Avenue. Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
  • Chesapeake & Maine: 316 Rehoboth Avenue, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971

Revelation Craft Brewing Company

Image
Snifter of Revelation Craft Brewing beer on a sandy beach

Revelation sits right along the Junction Breakwater Trail and is a perfect place to stop in for a beer, especially for cyclists out on their rides. They’re serving up an extensive list of high-quality beers and a one-of-a-kind experience, along with food from DaNizza Wood Fired Pizza, making this an inviting place for all!

  • 19841 Central St. Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
 

Pints & Pedals: Bicyclist Beer Tours in Sussex County

Reach the Beach: A Two-Wheeled Brewery Tour

Looking for a way to sample some of Sussex County’s best beers, and get some exercise at the same time? Then grab a friend, your bikes and helmets and check out our recommendations below for short, medium and long-length bike tours centered around a few of the area’s best breweries. And if you happen to be heading the other way- across the Bay, we’ve got a suggested tour of Cape May County as well!


Image
Map of the cyclist short tour of Lewes from the Cape May - Lewes Ferry

Cyclist short tour

Distance: Up to 6.8 miles round-trip
View Route on Google Maps

Breweries: 

  • Big Oyster Brewery: 1007 Kings Highway, Lewes, DE 19958
  • Crooked Hammock Brewery: 36707 Crooked Hammock way, Lewes, DE 19958

Details: Easy on the legs, big on the beers! From the Lewes terminal, make your way out to the Lewes bike path and pedal over to Big Oyster Brewery. You’ll find a wide variety of beers to choose from, as well as lunch and dinner menus featuring seafood and barbeque options that will be sure to have your mouth watering.  If you need to cut your tour really short, go ahead and turn around here and head back to the terminal. If you’ve got the time to pedal on, jump back on the bikes and continue along the bike path to Crooked Hammock Brewery, where you’ll find a great selection of beers, a huge menu of lunch and dinner options, as well as a backyard area complete with cornhole, ping pong, kids play area, and of course, hammocks!


Image
medium distance bicycle tour of sussex county breweries

Cyclist medium tour

Distance: 15.4 miles round-trip
View Route on Google Maps

Breweries: 

  • Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant: 19815 Coastal Hwy., Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
  • Revelation Craft Brewing Co.: 19841 Central St. Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
  • Big Oyster Brewery: 1007 Kings Highway, Lewes, DE 19958

Details: Looking to get a decent ride in first before whetting your whistle? Check out our medium tour, which takes you out to Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Rehoboth Beach. With locations throughout eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware, Iron Hill has a reputation for great food and great beer. Pedal on over and check out what they’ve got on offer, or just grab a beer and check out the numerous other eateries in the area. After that, make sure to head over to Revelation Craft Brewing, which sits right along the Junction/Breakwater Trail. With food available from DaNizza Wood Fired Pizza along with an extensive beer list, it’s an inviting place for all and a perfect place to stop on your ride. Then when you’re done, pedal on back to the terminal, making sure to stop by Big Oyster Brewery on your way back if you’re looking for some additional refreshment!

Extra Credit: Though it can be a bit tricky to get to on a bicycle – especially if you have to cross the highway, Thompson Island Brewing Company is well worth the trip if you can fit it in. Opened in 2019, they’ve got a full menu of mouth-watering options and a line-up of beers that will make you want to plan another trip asap!


Cyclist long tour of Sussex County from the Cape May - Lewes Ferry

Cyclists Long Tour

Distance: 16.6 miles round-trip
View Route on Google Maps

Breweries:

  • Dogfish Head Brewing & Eats: 320 Rehoboth Ave., Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971

Details: From the terminal, head out through Cape Henlopen State Park and make your way down the beach along the path, until you reach Rehoboth Beach roughly 8 miles down the road. This is a longer ride, but when the destination is Dogfish Head Brewing & Eats, you know it’s going to be worth it. Beers? You know Dogfish Head has them. From signature IPA’s to mouthwatering sours to creative concoctions, Dogfish Head has beers covered. And with food available at Brewing & Eats as well as their seafood restaurant Chesapeake & Maine (located right next door), there are plenty of options to refuel for your ride back to the terminal!

Back to School Shopping with the Ferry

Get the most out of Back-to-School Shopping

It’s almost that time of year again. Teachers are finalizing lesson plans and schools, if not already in session, are clearing the cobwebs out of the hallways in preparation. And for many parents, going back to school, also means back to school shopping.

We know. Back to school shopping invokes memories of fighting crowds, tons of traffic, and generally, lots of frustration. Howver, if you’re looking for a way to change things up this year and make back to school shopping a fun and relaxing experience, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry can help!

Tanger Outlets Atlantic City

Cape May to Lewes

When you board the Ferry in Cape May, there are plenty of options for back to school shopping in Lewes. For those who prefer the flexibility of driving their own car, vehicle passengers are just a quick fifteen minute drive to Tanger Outlets in Rehoboth Beach. There, you’ll find all the stores you could possibly need, from Nike to Banana Republic to Tommy Hilfiger to Under Armour. Or, for those who prefer to save the mileage on the car, there are several transportation options available from the Lewes terminal. You can rent an ebike from Pedego Electric Bikes. You can take the DART Route 204 bus, which picks up in front of the terminal every 1/2 hour, or – as of Monday, 8/30/21 – you can rent a car from Avis right at the terminal! And remember, aside from the great deals available at the Outlets, Delaware has no sales tax so you’ll get more bang for your buck!

Image
Busy summer scene of Washington Street Mall Cape May

Lewes to Cape May

Looking for something unique to head back to school with this year? The Washington Street Mall, only a 12 minute drive from the Cape May Ferry Terminal, is the place to shop for handcrafted and specialty goods. The Washington Street Mall is located in downtown Cape May and offers more than 80 stores and shops. You’ll find clothes for all ages, as well as local products ranging from peanut butter to jewelry, honey, and home décor. And if you happen to work up an appetite while shopping, the mall has over 25 restaurants and sweet shops to satisfy your cravings. Pro-tip: if you’re traveling on a weekend through October 10th, the Ferry shuttle runs from the terminal to the Cape May Welcome Center at 609 Lafayette Street, which is a short 1/4 mile walk from the Washington Street Mall, so you can walk aboard as a foot passenger and take the shuttle over to Cape May.

Please note: The shuttle runs weekends only (Sat, Sun) through 10/10/21, and reservations are required, so make sure to call (800.643.3779) in advance to save your spot if you plan to do this.

Seafood Fresh off the Boat

A Celebration of Seafood: Where to Find Tasty Eats in Cape May and Sussex Counties

The sights, sounds and smells of the Bay are bound to stir up a craving for seafood. Here’s where to find some of the best at the Jersey Shore and Delaware beaches.


Cape May County

Louisa’s

Image
Exterior of Louisa's Cafe in Cape May, NJ

Fish caught from the Delaware Bay and the Atlantic is thoughtfully spiced and sauced at this tiny Cape May gem that’s been a dining destination for 37 years.
$24-$28. 104 Jackson St., Cape May, (609) 884-5882, www.louisascapemay.com.

Fins Bar and Grille

Image
Fins Bar and Grill in Cape May, NJ

One look at the fish tank and other maritime décor, and you know you’re in the right place for fresh seafood. Favorites include the fish tacos, seafood chowder, and lobster cobb salad with avocado, apple smoked bacon, and charred corn. 
$25-$32. 142 Decatur St., Cape May, (609) 884-3449, www.finscapemay.com

The Lobster House

Image
Outdoor seating on the waterfront at The Lobster House, located in Cape May

Much of the seafood on the menu is delivered right to the restaurant’s dock by a commercial fishing fleet, and you can watch the fishermen work as you dine. If you’re a locavore, order the Cape May Salts, the scallops, and the New Jersey clams prepared in a variety of ways. For drinks, apps, and lunch outdoors, ask for a seat on the permanently docked Schooner American.
$19.25-$48.50. 906 Schellengers Landing Road, Fisherman’s Wharf, Cape May, (609) 884-8296, www.thelobsterhouse.com

The Merion Inn

Image
Romantic dinner for two with seafood and wine

The Merion Inn has been in operation since 1885, and its well-prepared seafood classics never go out of style. Highlights include the Maryland crab cakes, the crab or lobster imperial, and the stuffed flounder.
$36-$49. 106 Decatur St., Cape May, (609) 884-8363, www.merioninn.com

One Fish, Two Fish

Upscale accents define menu standouts like the Atlantic salmon with coriander-citrus-ginger beurre blanc, and local scallops with lemon vinaigrette and sweet-corn risotto.
$25-$36. 5209 Pacific Ave., Wildwood, (609) 522-5223, onefishtwofishrestaurant.net

Oyster Bay Restaurant & Bar

Image
Oyster Bay Bar and Restaurant in Cape May, NJ

If you like your seafood spicy, don’t miss the Bang Bang Shrimp. Other specialties include a well-executed old-school Coquilles St. Jaques and a hearty seafood potpie
$24-$45. 615 Lafayette St., Cape May, (609) 884, 2111, www.oysterbayrestaurant.com

SeaSalt

Image
Inside SeaSalt Restaurant in Cape May, New Jersey

Whether you prefer your seafood raw, prepared simply, or creatively embellished (think ahi tuna steak in spicy Penang curry), this restaurant in the Cape May Ocean Club Hotel has what you’re craving. For a true taste of the Shore, try the four-course ($55) or the five-course ($70) chef’s tasting menus. Go all out and opt for the wine paring too.
($70/$95). $26-$32. 1035 Beach Ave., Cape May (609) 884-7000, www.capemayoceanclubhotel.com

Tisha’s Cape May

Image
Seafood linguine dish

The risottos are creamy and crammed with seafood. And the jambalaya is worthy of the Big Easy.
$26-$36. 322 Washington Street Mall, Cape May, (609) 884-9119, www.tishasfinedining.com


Lewes and Rehoboth Beach

Big Fish Grill

Image
Seafood platter

Be sure to order a Pot ‘O Mussels in your choice of sauce – spicy diablo, garlic wine, Dijon cream, andouille sausage, and saffron or Thai curry and coconut. The hand-cut fries are well worth the extra two bucks.
$18.95-$38.95. 20298 Coastal Hwy., Rehoboth Beach, (302) 227-FISH, www.bigfishgrill.com

Henlopen City Oyster House

Image
Fresh oysters in ice

The raw bar here is extensive, with oysters from all over the northeast and Washington State, including a delectable Kumatmotos. Order a sampler, and get one ($18) or two ($36) of each. For a heaping helping of clams, scallops, fish, mussels, and shrimp you can’t go wrong with the bouillabaisse. 
$26-$38. 50 Wilmington Ave., Rehoboth Beach, (302) 260-9193, www.hcoysterhouse.com

Matt’s Fish Camp

Image
Matt's Fish Camp in Lewes, DE

Starters include a killer New England clam chowder with bacon, corn, and sherry cream, and crab dip with pimento and sharp cheddar. Then go for the popcorn scallops (bet you can’t eat just one), the lobster roll or the Crab Louie sandwich. 
$18-$28. 34401 Tenley Court, Lewes, (302) 644-2267, www.mattsfishcamplewes.com

Salt Air Restaurant & Bar

The crab-deviled eggs make you feel like you’re at a picnic on the beach. And the crunchy, corn-flake-encrusted crustaceans – served with coleslaw, fries, and corn bread – make it easy to figure out why the menu calls its shrimp fry “famous.”
$26-$31. 50 Wilmington Ave., Rehoboth Beach, (302) 227-3744, www.saltairrestaurant.com

Striper Bites

Image
Striper Bites in Lewes, DE

You choose the cooking style and the sauce – from a simple lemon butter beurre blanc to a festive tropical fruit salsa. If you’re a sushi fan, try the North & South, made with house-cured pastrami salmon, fried Mahi and avocado. And don’t miss the lobster mac with three cheeses, bacon, and tomato jam
$12-$27. 107 Savannah Road, Lewes, (302) 645-4657,
www.striperbites.com

The Surfing Crab

Image
Steamed crabs

Go with the crabs any which way you like them – just plain steamed by the half or whole dozen, in an imperial dip, or as an Eastern Shore cake. If you can’t get enough, take the All You Can Eat option that comes with fries, coleslaw, and hush puppies. Be sure to order a side of puppies with whatever you choose.
$15.95-$38.95, 16723 Coastal Hwy., Lewes, Del., (302) 644-4448, www.thesurfingcrab.com

 

Best Ice Cream off Route 1 | Lewes & Rehoboth Beach Favorites

Where Can You Get the Best Scoop near the Lewes Ferry Terminal?

While you can never go wrong with ice cream, sometimes it may feel as though there are too many places to choose from. Walking down the streets of Rehoboth, you seem to pass at least five before you even hit the boardwalk. So where can you actually get the best scoop in and around Lewes? We have our favorite suggestions for you right here.

Image
Exterior of 2 Dips Ice Cream shop

2 Dips in Lewes

We would love to recommend where you can get a scoop of ice cream as soon as you get off of the Ferry, however, this place only serves “dips.” Named for what the owner calls his wife and daughter, his “two dips,” you order your ice cream in dips here, not scoops. For example, you may want to order 1 dip of Salted Carmel Cookies and Cream or 2 dips in a waffle cone, one of Better Brownie Batter and one of Candy Bar Overload (just a suggestion). When you come off of the Ferry, turn right until you can’t go any further, then turn left. You can’t miss the white building done up in pink and green. While you’re there, the garage is set up as a small trip-through-time museum you can stroll your way through, or the shop is within walking distance of the bay.

Image
Ice cream cone held in front of a gameshow-style flavor wheel

The Ice Cream Store in Rehoboth

Wandering through Rehoboth, you’ll see plenty of ice cream classics like Jersey’s own Kohrs Bros, or Vermont’s Finest Ben and Jerry’s, but we want something unique to this area, right? When you’ve nearly reached the boardwalk and see a crowd of people, you’ve found the spot. But this line always moved quickly because the employees are fast yet friendly, and willing to provide plenty of sample spoons. You’ll definitely want to try a few flavors. There are over a hundred to choose from, each with a crazier name than the last, like Motor Oil or Netflix and Chill. They even have a carnival wheel to spin for when you really can’t decide. If you are thinking about ordering something just for the name, you won’t regret it.

Image
Two chocolate ice-cream cones held up for the camera

Hopkins Farm Creamery in Lewes

If you are willing to travel off the beaten path for some really good ice cream, head off of Route 1, away from the beaches and past a few farms. A family-owned farm makes all of their ice cream right there on site, so you know it’s gotta be good. The scoops are portion sizes you would hope for with ice cream this good. While you enjoy it you can explore the farm, meet some cows, and there is even a small playground for the kiddies. The genuine homemade ice cream includes classic flavors, or you can try something more fun like Cow Pie. Bonus: Hopkins Farm Creamery has plenty of gluten free options!

While there are plenty of other ice cream shops on this side of the Delaware Bay, these are just a few of our favorites!

Check Out The Latest Edition of the Twin Capes Traveller!

Ideas For a Ferry Happy Valentine’s Day

Valentine's Day Around the Delaware Bay

What better way to spend Valentine’s Day than on the Delaware Bay! Plan your getaway with us and experience amazing opportunities available in both Cape May and Lewes. Escape your busy work schedule and take time to relax and enjoy some alone time with the one you love.

New Jersey Destinations

Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery

Image
Hawk Haven doors

Looking for a fun and festive way to celebrate Valentine’s Day? Bring your sweetheart to romantic Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery for an afternoon of adventure! You’ll be able to sip wines, taste organic chocolate and listen to live music all while supporting local wine growers. For more information, visit their website.

The Ebbitt Room

Image
Romantic candle-lit dinner at Ebbitt Room

Share a romantic evening with someone special at the Ebbitt Room this Valentine’s Day! Located on Jackson Street in Cape May, the Ebbitt room is rooted in a farm-to-table and farm-to-glass dining philosophy featuring fresh ingredients from their very own Beach Plum Farm. A special Valentine’s menu will be offered, visit the Cape Resorts website for more information and to make your reservation!

Cape May Brewing Co.

They say you can’t buy love, but luckily you can buy beer. And at CMBC’s Take A Bite Out of Love, Valentine’s Day Bash, you can have both! They’ll have all kinds of fun and games, sweets for your sweet, special Valentine’s-inspired pint glasses, a featured Lover’s Flight of some incredible CMBC beers, and much more.

Delaware Destinations

The Inn at Canal Square

Image
View of the beach in Delaware

The Inn at Canal Square is just a short drive from our terminal and is in the heart of historic Lewes, DE. Facing the Lewes Canal, guests have an amazing seaside view when they wake up. While in Lewes, you and your loved one can explore historic museums, enjoy unique shops downtown and dine at one-of-a-kind restaurants. No matter your interest, their 22 beautifully decorated rooms turn any weekend into a romantic retreat. For more information about the Inn at the Canal Square, give them a call at (302) 644-3377, or visit their website.

The Avenue Inn and Spa

Located right in the heart of downtown Rehoboth, this inn and spa offers special couple packages including message therapy, facial treatments and more! Their staff is dedicated to educating clients on a healthier and better lifestyle by using all natural products. Their top notch amenities provide guests with complimentary breakfast as well as cheese and wine. Their luxurious rooms are perfect for you and your loved one to obtain optimal relaxation. To learn more about The Avenue Inn, you can reach them at (302) 226-2900, or check out their website.

For more Delaware and New Jersey fun check out our travel inspiration page including wineries, breweries, shopping and historic treasures.

Lewes Day Trips and Weekend Excursions

There's Always a Reason to Travel!

Whether you’re looking for a quick day-trip, a weekend-excursion or something in between, there’s always a reason to hop aboard the Cape May – Lewes Ferry and check out the beaches and towns surrounding Lewes. Take a look at a few options below, make some plans, book your Ferry travel and we’ll see you on board!


Take the DART Shuttle Into Lewes

Year-Round | Lewes, DE

Image
Lewes downtown trees

Lewes offers a wide variety of year-round activities, from shopping and dining in the quaint downtown area, to historical tours, museums and more. You can even take the Ferry over as a foot passenger, and hop aboard the DART shuttle to get into town. The Route 204 bus conveniently picks up and departs from in front of the Lewes Terminal every half hour, seven days a week in the summer. View the schedule, here.

For more information about Historic Lewes, DE: visit Lewes.com or HistoricLewes.org.


Cape Henlopen State Park

Year-Round | 15099 Cape Henlopen Dr, Lewes, DE

Image
Cape Henlopen State Park Delaware Beach

Swim in the ocean waves, bike through the sand dunes, fish from the Bayside fishing pier, camp beside historical WWII towers, and explore all 7,000 acres of Cape Henlopen State Park! Located at the point where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Henlopen offers a unique combination of natural wonders and cultural history. Discover the beauty and diversity of Cape Henlopen coastal environment encompassing ocean and bay beaches, maritime forests, and tidal salt marshes. During your stay, be sure to visit Fort Miles, a WWII military base that features the Fort Miles Museum, Artillery Park, and Battery 519 tours. With excellent wildlife-watching, stunning scenery, world-class beaches, and year-round historical and environmental programming, there are endless adventures to discover at Cape Henlopen!

Book Ferry Travel

More information about Cape Henlopen State Park.


Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk

Year-Round | Boardwalk, Rehoboth Beach, DE

Image
People walking on Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk

Visitors to Rehoboth Beach can enjoy a mile-long boardwalk lined with old-fashioned family amusements, attractions, beach stores, and good eats. The boardwalk is a year-round place for festivals, events, and daily strolls to enjoy the ocean views. The boardwalk is a combination of old-fashioned charm and modern amenities. Bike and surrey rentals are available by the hour or by the day.

For more information about the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk: click here


Check Out The Latest Edition of the Twin Capes Traveller!

Delaware Beaches – Biking Trails

Biking Options at the Delaware Beaches

If you like to cycle, the Delaware Beaches have a plethora of options for all types of riders. Whether you’re a beach cruiser or a serious pedal pusher, below are just some of the resources you can use to plan an epic biking adventure. 

Why is biking in Southern Delaware such a popular experience? Watch this video from Southern Delaware Tourism to learn why these bike trails are so well suited to any level of bicyclist.

 

 

Bike & Stay in Southern Delaware

There’s a new program to encourage biking and staying in Southern Delaware. You’ll find discounts, offers and more to make your Delaware vacation experience even more unforgettable. To learn more, just visit the Bike & Stay page.

Trail Resources

Delaware State Parks – Cape Henlopen Trails: Information about the 8 biking trails in Cape Henlopen State Park, including surface type, difficulty, and length. 

Visit Delaware – Biking Information: Searchable trail database with information on trails and maps. 

TrailLink Biking Trails: Map-based interface with detailed route information, trail information, and reviews. 

 

Search in CMLF

Cape May Lewes Ferry

Subscribe to our newsletter

Booking Form