It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting Chief Little Owl in Bethany Beach, DE gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Bethany Beach, DE is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
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“Here's what I posted on Google and Facebook: Life would have been a lot harder without Always Best Care in my life, I have COPD and I am on oxygen full time at level 4 so doing daily chores are out question without my caregiver Ricci Anthony who has been taking tremendous care of me for 3 years this August 2022 and I thank God everyday for him. Every time he arrives he immediately says Hi checks in with me to see how I am doing. As well as, every time he departs I thank him for all that he does for me and I tell him I love him Ricci replies in same likeness. Ricci and I are incredible friends, it’s closer to a dad and son relationship. We’re both strong Christian me. As for Chelsea who does Intake and is the Schedules for Always Best Care equally an amazing individual. Don’t let her young age fool you on the contrary she is a powerhouse. She’s highly a professional, she’s industrious, highly intelligent, she’s a great friend and you can always depend on her to be in support for you. Always Best Care is always best care.”
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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Bethany Beach Central Park in Bethany Beach, DE with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Bluecoast Seafood Grill Raw Bar Bethany or visit Bethany Beach DinkerIrvin Museum, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Bethany Beach, DE, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Bethany Beach, DE understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Bethany Beach, DE 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
BETHANY BEACH, DE — The Nor’easter that hit Delmarva’s coast earlier this week damaged shorelines in multiple coastal Delaware towns, including Bethany Beach.Erosion at Bethany Beach caused a steep shelf along the town’s boardwalk, ranging from six to eight feet in depth. The damage prompted many of the central beach access points to be shut down for safety reasons, according to town leaders.Bethany Beach’s Mayor Ron Calef told WBOC that there are still access points open at the northern and southe...
BETHANY BEACH, DE — The Nor’easter that hit Delmarva’s coast earlier this week damaged shorelines in multiple coastal Delaware towns, including Bethany Beach.
Erosion at Bethany Beach caused a steep shelf along the town’s boardwalk, ranging from six to eight feet in depth. The damage prompted many of the central beach access points to be shut down for safety reasons, according to town leaders.
Bethany Beach’s Mayor Ron Calef told WBOC that there are still access points open at the northern and southern ends of the town’s beach. Calef said he was not sure when the central access points would be able to reopen.
Beachgoers crowded around the closed-off access points on Thursday to look at the damage on the beach. Michael Palko, who is visiting from Pennsylvania, was one of those onlookers.
“We were looking forward to taking some beach chairs down and sitting in the sand,” Palko said. “But to see that the beach is gone and that it’s just a complete drop off was surprising.”
Palko said, while walking along the boardwalk, he read one of the informational plaques that referenced the $24 million coastal beach replenishment project from 2023.
“$24 million for the whole coast, and it just shocks me that, just like that, in one event, so much of that restoration work was gone,” Palko said. “But if you don’t keep up with it, what kind of deterioration would happen in the future? This dune right here, if it were to disappear, what would happen to Bethany?”
Palko said he was impressed with how well the dune held up through the storm, as were other beachgoers, including Donna Kemp.
However, Kemp said she hopes state officials can find more permanent solutions to the erosion affecting Bethany Beach.
“We’re dealing with this every year. At least one, if not multiple, nor’easters come through here,” Kemp said. “I’m just wondering if there’s another solution, rather than so many dollars being spent rebuilding this beach every year. This is a wonderful place for families to enjoy.”
Calef said they are coordinating with DNREC to repair and replenish the beach. Calef noted that, due to the fall and winter storm season just beginning, he is not sure how much work will be completed now. The mayor said they are looking into getting emergency funding for beach replenishment, but said there is no guarantee due to a lack in federal funding.
A statement from DNREC regarding repairs along the coast stated that:
“Bethany Beach sustained some of the more visible erosion and dune crossover damage from the storm. Repairs to affected public access points and dune walkovers will take time and will be coordinated as part of upcoming beach maintenance efforts.”
The statement continued on to say:
“DNREC field crews are concluding post-storm assessments and will continue to document dune and beach conditions throughout the week. Immediate priorities include addressing debris hazards and public safety concerns along access points before larger-scale dune recovery and beach fill operations can proceed. DNREC will coordinate closely with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and affected municipalities to determine appropriate actions for both federal and state-managed beaches.”
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Anyone who has spent significant time in Delaware knows that it is one of the most underappreciated US states when it comes to being home to truly beautiful towns. While California and places like Maine or Vermont tend to get a lot of attention for their breathtaking scenery, the small state of Delaware packs a surprising punch of visual drama and personality. Picture pastel-hued buildings lining narrow streets, boats bobbing in quiet harbors, and sunlit dunes framing the Atlantic Ocean. From riverfront charm to beachside panoramas, these ni...
Anyone who has spent significant time in Delaware knows that it is one of the most underappreciated US states when it comes to being home to truly beautiful towns. While California and places like Maine or Vermont tend to get a lot of attention for their breathtaking scenery, the small state of Delaware packs a surprising punch of visual drama and personality. Picture pastel-hued buildings lining narrow streets, boats bobbing in quiet harbors, and sunlit dunes framing the Atlantic Ocean. From riverfront charm to beachside panoramas, these nine towns prove that Delaware is a treasure trove for anyone chasing beauty in unexpected places.
Rehoboth Beach dazzles with color, from pastel storefronts spilling onto its mile-long boardwalk to sunsets that wash the Atlantic in pink and gold. The shoreline itself is a showstopper, framed by soft dunes and rolling surf that make even a simple walk feel cinematic. Just inland, Silver Lake glimmers like a mirror, edged by willows and waterfront homes. At night, the lights of Funland and the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand turn the town into a glowing carnival by the sea. Poodle Beach, with its rows of bright umbrellas along the southern end, adds to the kaleidoscope of breathtaking colors.
Bethany Beach greets visitors with Chief Little Owl, a towering cedar carving that stands against the sky like a sentinel. It is a beautiful piece of art that makes the town feel personal and accessible. Compared to neighboring towns, Bethany Beach is almost certainly quieter. Local regulations stop chains from overwhelming the town, so along the half-mile boardwalk, you will find only mom and pop stores and one-of-a-kind spots like Boardwalk Fries and Mango's.
While you are enjoying these spots, you will be treated to striking vignettes: open views of the ocean by day and an illuminated bandstand rising over the sand at night. A short walk inland, the Bethany Beach Nature Center exudes beauty differently, with glassy wetlands reflecting willows, wildflowers, and long-legged egrets moving through the water.
The actual town of Selbyville is quite compact and landlocked, with its borders on the state of Maryland. Downtown still carries its railroad-era bones, and the Selbyville Railroad Museum preserves that history in a beautiful old station, connecting visitors to the days when trains cut through fields of strawberries. But if you venture out of the tight-knit downtown, you will see that its residential and recreational community of Bayside extends the town toward the coast. This is part of why Selbyville has earned the title of "gateway to the beaches."
The Bayside community is a 12-minute drive from town and still falls within its jurisdiction. It is home to the Freeman Arts Pavilion, which draws thousands each summer. Its open-air stage is framed by the Bayside Resort Golf Club, the area's star attraction. Creeks and waterways weave throughout the high-end course and through its residential area, allowing neighbors to boat to each other's homes rather than drive.
Cobblestones spill down to the Delaware River in New Castle, where the 17th-century and 18th-century brick and stone buildings still define the landscape. At the center is Battery Park, a riverside green unfurling into miles of open water, its walking trail running along the shoreline and filling with families for summer concerts and the Art on the Green, an annual arts and crafts show. Just a few blocks away, the New Castle Court House, one of the oldest in the nation, faces the green like a backdrop from another century, with the Amstel House and Dutch House tucked close by in the historic district. Streets around the park hold gathering spots like Jessop's Tavern, where colonial-era walls meet Belgian brews, keeping the town's beauty both atmospheric and alive.
Shaped by both the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean, Lewes is a quirky and historic Delaware town with wild coastal scenery. Cape Henlopen State Park dominates the shoreline with its shifting dunes, pine forests, and WWII lookout towers rising over the beach, a reminder that even military relics can become part of a gorgeous landscape.
Downtown, the Ryves Holt House, Delaware's oldest standing home, leans into the streetscape like an artifact from 1686, while just blocks away, the Cannonball House still bears the scar of British fire during the War of 1812. Water continues to define life here: Lewes Beach fronts the bay with calm surf and sailing traffic, while the canal slips through town beside the Lightship Overfalls ship, a floating National Historic Landmark glowing red against the harbor.
Canal water curls right up to Delaware City, where the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal meets the Delaware River and turns the town into a waterfront with more history than its size suggests. A short ferry carries visitors across to Pea Patch Island, where Fort Delaware stands tall in the marshes like a Civil War ghost.
Back on the mainland, Fort DuPont State Park spreads across 322 acres of open fields and tree-lined drives, its remnants of military batteries softened by meadows. Clinton Street, the town's broad central avenue, leads straight to the river, ending with pubs and patios like Dolly Spanker's that look out over the waterway that built the town.
Bowers Beach clings to Delaware Bay with a quiet confidence, where the St. Jones and Murderkill Rivers slip past its tiny waterfront. Kayakers and anglers launch from Bowers Bayside Bait and Kayak Rentals, casting for flounder, bluefish, and croaker amid rippling reflections of the sky. The Bowers Beach jetty draws surf fishers, while the public beach offers a calm spot to soak in the water's edge.
Food and riverside life converge at JP's on the Wharf, perched where the Murderkill meets the bay. The restaurant serves fresh oysters, crab cakes, and blood orange salmon, with a view that turns each bite into a miniature celebration of the bay. Bocce courts, grassy parks, and winding streets complete the scene in this breathtaking but understated coastal town.
Duck Creek threads through Smyrna, where Georgian homes line the streets and the historic downtown moves with a quiet energy. Blackbird State Forest sits just outside town and provides trails, open meadows, and spots for birding and horseback riding. At the south end of Main Street, Lake Como delivers a sandy beach, paddleboat rentals, and fishing opportunities for locals and visitors alike. This natural attraction is easily one of the most beautiful parts of this Delaware town, especially because commercial attractions are situated nearby.
This includes the Smyrna Opera House, a century-old venue where performances fill the air, tying together the town's small-city charm and its mix of outdoor, historic, and culinary treasures.
At the southern edge of Delaware sits Fenwick Island, a slender barrier island wedged between the Atlantic Ocean, Little Assawoman Bay, and the state of Maryland. Fenwick Island State Park is the crown jewel here. It occupies a three-mile stretch of coast where sun-warmed sand and gentle surf invite swimming, fishing, and beachcombing. The historic Fenwick Island Lighthouse, built in 1858, marks the town with an elegant beauty worth seeing no matter what season it is.
In the spring and summer months, kayakers and paddleboarders slip through bay inlets while the town's restaurants serve fresh seafood just steps from the shore. On the Atlantic Ocean side, each street, such as Bayard and Indian, leads down to a different section of the beach, creating neighborhood spots to swim, surf, or wander. At every turn, the interplay of ocean, bay, and greenery creates a vivid tableau, making Fenwick Island a breathtaking experience.
From the colorful streets of Rehoboth Beach to the calm ripples at Bowers Beach, Delaware packs a striking variety of beauty into its small towns. Smyrna balances Georgian architecture with lakes and forests, while Fenwick Island threads ocean, bay, and dunes into a serene escape. Each town reveals a different facet of the state's character, historic, natural, or coastal, inviting visitors to wander, paddle, or simply take in the outstanding visuals. The impact isn't always in scale; more often, it's in the vivid details that make every corner feel alive and unexpectedly breathtaking.
Small towns are not always the first place people think of when taking a vacation or going somewhere to visit. However, Delaware, despite being one of the smallest states in the US, has plenty of memorable small towns to make a trip worthwhile. Whether it's a quaint beach town on the Atlantic Ocean, such as Rehoboth Beach, or a northern Delaware town surrounded by history, these ten towns in the Blue Hen State feature something for every traveler!Bear This northern Delaware town is home to approximately 22,000 residents as of...
Small towns are not always the first place people think of when taking a vacation or going somewhere to visit. However, Delaware, despite being one of the smallest states in the US, has plenty of memorable small towns to make a trip worthwhile. Whether it's a quaint beach town on the Atlantic Ocean, such as Rehoboth Beach, or a northern Delaware town surrounded by history, these ten towns in the Blue Hen State feature something for every traveler!
This northern Delaware town is home to approximately 22,000 residents as of the 2025 Delaware demographics. Located just west of the Delaware River, many visitors will take advantage of the fantastic scenery along the water and its many water activities, like boating, fishing, and swimming. Fort Delaware State Park and Pea Patch Island can be visited just a short drive and boat ride on the Delaware River, where you can search for paranormal activity or learn about the fort's history during the Civil War.
Fitness lovers or rock climbing fans should stop by the Delaware Rock Gym to try the impressive gym. Try a couple of unique culinary locations, like Bear Diner or Route 40 Diner for the feel of a small town lunch, or since you're so close to Philadelphia, how about a taste of Philly by checking out Milan's Real Philly Cheesesteaks and Hoagies.
According to Delaware demographics, Georgetown is located in central Delaware, a small town of around 7,800 residents. While visiting the area, be sure to call ahead and free up some time for the Marvel Carriage Museum, where you can visit a schoolhouse or blacksmith shop from the 19th century.
A few miles north of town is the Redden State Forest that has 44 miles of trails, along with bicycling and bird watching available. Looking to relax with a cold beverage? Try some of the favorite brews of the area by heading to Revelation Craft Brewing on South Bedford Street. Hit up dinner at a local restaurant, the Georgetown Family Restaurant for steak, seafood, or pasta.
This next town is a great option for visitors of Delaware who prefer small town living, and that still has the pulse of a college town. Newark, northwest of another town on the list, Bear, is home to around 30,000 residents as of 2025, according to the most recent census. Newark is the home of the University of Delaware, so there's never a shortage of things to see or do, and since its a college town, its an affordable destination for budget conscious travelers.
Visit the botanical garden on campus to check out local plants and flowers native to the northeast. Or if minerals are more your thing, stop by the University of Delaware Mineralogical Museum to view gemstones, meteorites, and more. Looking for local scenery while you go for a run? A great option is the Middle Run Valley Nature Area that has 10 trails winding through 16 miles of scenic nature.
Rehoboth Beach is the perfect Delaware destination if you want a small town with a big reputation. Home to only 1,100 people according to the 2020 census, this vacation hotspot balloons up to over 25,000 during the summer months. Many will point you to the Rehoboth Boardwalk for your first stop, and they wouldn't be wrong. Shops and dining options dot this sandy beach overlooking the ocean, while families play and relax under the sun.
Speaking of shopping, Rehoboth Avenue is the other go to spot for retail and fun, with its unique shops, it definitely shows off Rehoboth Beach as one of the most charming towns in Delaware. You can also bring the kids to Midway Speedway Park for go-karts, mini-golf and other games for the kids of all ages. If you want a more natural experience, visit the Delaware Seashore State Park for ocean views, soft, sandy beaches, and plenty of ways to appreciate Delaware scenery.
Situated in southwest Delaware, Seaford, with just under 9,000 residents as of the 2025 census, has the Nanticoke River flowing around the southern edge of town. If history is a passion of yours, stop at the Governor Ross Mansion, a restored 19th-century architectural marvel with an interesting story about life pre-Civil War. You can also visit the Seaford Museum, an old post office, controlled and ran only by locals, giving you a taste of the states history.
Just southwest of town, appreciate all of Delaware's nature and beauty at the Barnes Wood Nature Preserve, a 23-acre pine forest with a 4,000-foot trail to take in the unique swampy area.
New Castle is a town six miles south of Wilmington and situated on the banks of the Delaware River. Because of the proximity to Wilmington and Philadelphia, PA, New Castle seems bigger than just under 6,000 residents. Like many northeast towns, it is full of history due to its age, and one place to see is the New Castle Historic District, where you can see the Dutch House and Amstel House up close and learn about these homes that go back to the Revolutionary War.
Looking for unforgettable engineering, drive across the Delaware Memorial Bridge as one of 100,000 vehicles that cross it daily. Then, take time to appreciate the area's art and culture with Fourth Friday Art on the Town, where shops and restaurants host exhibits and receptions every month (except December).
Lying on the shores where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, this shoreline town of 3,303, according to the 2020 census, has plenty for visitors to do. With so much natural beauty surrounding Lewes, the real question is, does this town deserve more attention?
Starting in the heart of town is the Lewes Historical Society Main Campus, which houses a museum with photographs, archives, and even a research library to learn the area's history. East of the town's edge is Cape Henlopen State Park that has hiking, an observation tower, and beautiful beaches. A little bit north you'll find the Delaware Breakwater East End Lighthouse, which is a historical landmark. North of town feel free to relax at the Lewes Public Beach, which is a popular tourist attraction. Finally, head a little west to find the Great Marsh Preserve, which gives you access to canoeing, kayaking, and bird-watching.
One of the last towns you'll run into on Highway 1 is the beautiful, coastal Bethany Beach. You might have guessed it, but beaches are what this town does best, as you'll find plenty of visitors and tourists relaxing and playing on Bethany Beach. The boardwalk behind the beach houses unique and delicious shops and restaurants.
Fenwick Island State Park has 344 acres of shoreline and is a popular spot for surfers. When you feel like getting off the sand, stop at the Freeman Arts Pavilion with showings highlighting comedy, musicals, and children's programs for the whole family. Finally, to end your day, grab some unforgettable seafood and craft cocktails at Bluecoast Bethany.
While Delaware has its share of amazing coastal towns to visit, don't sleep on the towns bordering Maryland, especially Middletown. One of the biggest towns on our list, Middletown, is a lively town of 24,164, according to the 2021 census.
Middletown and Odessa have a shared history being so close, and one of the most visited sites is the Corbit Sharp House, a historical landmark connected to Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad Byway. Also, the Middletown Historical Society is rated as a historical place to visit. Take time to stroll around one of the strengths of the area, Middletown Main Street, where you can cruise in and out of local, unique shops. Want to be part of film history? Check out The Everett, where you can catch live theater and movies in a throwback theater, highlighted in the movie Dead Poets Society.
This small Delaware town is a great place to visit if you enjoy historic buildings and neighborhoods combined with scenic lakes that capture your attention. Depending on the time of year, there are plenty of festivals to enjoy, like the Bug and Bud Festival in April, the Riverwalk Farmer's Market and Downtown Milford's First Friday summer through fall, and the Holiday Stroll and Christmas Market in December.
Don't forget to check out three historic districts, a former post office, landmark Parsone Thorne Mansion, and the Vineyard Shipyard. Also, take a stroll around scenic Silver Lake and Haven Lake on the east side of town.
As you can see, whether you're looking for a summer beach trip, a fall trip to see the colors, or even holidays in the northeast, Delaware has everything you're looking for, as well as some surprises. It may not have the large metropolitan feel that cities of other states have, but that in no way means it is not worth the trip! The only question remaining is: which town will you choose?
BETHANY BEACH, Del. — Heavy rain and strong winds caused widespread flooding and road closures across Sussex County on Saturday, leaving parts of downtown Bethany Beach and Millsboro underwater and impassable.In Bethany Beach, Pennsylvania Avenue was completely flooded, with standing water reaching up to parked cars. A "Water on Road" sign was posted to warn drivers, but that didn’t stop many from taking risks on the back roads, where the flooding was worst.Ryan Orhelein, who manages one o...
BETHANY BEACH, Del. — Heavy rain and strong winds caused widespread flooding and road closures across Sussex County on Saturday, leaving parts of downtown Bethany Beach and Millsboro underwater and impassable.
In Bethany Beach, Pennsylvania Avenue was completely flooded, with standing water reaching up to parked cars. A "Water on Road" sign was posted to warn drivers, but that didn’t stop many from taking risks on the back roads, where the flooding was worst.
Ryan Orhelein, who manages one of the only businesses still open during the storm — an arcade downtown — said people should avoid the side streets altogether.
“If you stick to the main roads, it's not too bad. The back roads you got to look out for,” Orhelein said. “Maybe there's some trees that have been uprooted. With the wind like this, they can push over the trees that [...] are a little unsteady in the ground with all the rain.”
Orhelein said he closed the arcade around 11 p.m. and planned to take a safer route home, staying off the flooded streets.
Back roads in Dewey Beach, like Read Avenue, flooded as well.
Further inland, Millsboro also saw dangerous conditions. Massey's Landing was underwater.
River Road was shut down by the Delaware Department of Transportation due to deep water, and one car was stranded in the middle of the street.
Jim Santangelo, who lives nearby, said reckless driving likely made the situation worse.
“He came flying up the road, as they normally do in this area. They think they have all-terrain vehicles or something, and they try to fly through the water,” Santangelo said. “The water's up past the doors. I'm sure it filled the car up.”
At the coast, the Indian River Inlet took a beating as waves crashed over the sidewalk and pushed dangerously close to beach equipment staged for nourishment projects. Route 1 remained mostly clear, but some side roads in the area were flooded.
Despite the hazardous conditions, some people came to witness the storm’s power firsthand.
“Nobody expects this to be happening,” said Lilly Calderon, who stood near the edge of the recently replenished beach. “You know, the waves are so high — amazing.”
The flooding is being compared by some locals to what they saw during Hurricane Sandy in 2012, though no major injuries have been reported. People who live in the affected areas are encouraged to avoid travel if possible and check road conditions before heading out.
Once September hits, seasonal restrictions on pets begin to ease across coastal towns, giving dog owners more flexibility to bring their four-legged friends along for a walk in the sand or a run through the surf.Still, a statewide leash law remains in effect: dogs must be on a leash unless on private property or in a designated off-leash area. Service dogs are generally exempt, but emotional support animals are not.Here’s a town-by-town breakdown of fall dog rules at the beach:Dogs are prohibited on Lewes beaches b...
Once September hits, seasonal restrictions on pets begin to ease across coastal towns, giving dog owners more flexibility to bring their four-legged friends along for a walk in the sand or a run through the surf.
Still, a statewide leash law remains in effect: dogs must be on a leash unless on private property or in a designated off-leash area. Service dogs are generally exempt, but emotional support animals are not.
Here’s a town-by-town breakdown of fall dog rules at the beach:
Dogs are prohibited on Lewes beaches between 8 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. from May 1 through Sept. 30. Outside of those hours — including fall mornings and evenings — dogs are allowed but must be leashed. Owners must also clean up after their pets. For off-leash play, Lewes Unleashed offers a membership-based dog park.
CAPE HENLOPEN
Cape Henlopen State Park allows dogs year-round but with seasonal restrictions. From May 1 to Sept. 30, dogs are banned from designated swimming beaches but are permitted on non-swimming pet-friendly areas like Herring Point and surf fishing zones. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet at all times and are not allowed in buildings, picnic areas, dunes, or bird nesting zones. Waste cleanup is required.
REHOBOTH BEACH
Dogs are banned from the beach and boardwalk between May 1 and Sept. 30. Starting Oct. 1 through April 30, leashed dogs are allowed. Rehoboth beach says the leash must be no longer than six feet, and owners are required to clean up after their pets.
DEWEY BEACH
In Dewey Beach, a town dog license is required year-round. During the off-season (Sept. 16–May 14), dogs are allowed on the beach at any time. In the summer months, dogs are only permitted before 9:30 a.m. and after 5:30 p.m. Dewey beach say dogs may be off-leash during approved times if under voice control, but owners must always clean up after them.
DELAWARE SEASHORE STATE PARK
From May 1 through Sept. 30, leashed dogs are prohibited on swimming and sunbathing beaches, as well as areas used for surfboarding, sailboarding, and bird nesting. However, they are allowed on non-guarded beaches during this time. From Oct. 1 through April 30, leashed dogs are welcome on all park beaches. According to the park, a six-foot leash is required at all times and owners must clean up after their pets. Dogs are not permitted at Beach Plum Island at any time. Guide dogs are allowed in all public areas.
BETHANY BEACH
Bethany Beach prohibits dogs on the beach and boardwalk from May 15 through Sept. 30. Outside of those dates, leashed and licensed dogs are welcome. Tags must be worn at all times, and pet owners must clean up waste. Dogs found running at large may be turned over to the Delaware SPCA, says Bethany beach.
FENWICK ISLAND
In the Town of Fenwick Island, dogs are prohibited on the public beach from May 1 to Sept. 30. Outside of those dates, dogs are allowed but must be leashed and supervised. Waste cleanup is required. At nearby Fenwick Island State Park, dogs are permitted year-round, but only on designated surf fishing beaches.
OCEAN CITY, MD
In Ocean City, dogs are banned from the beach and boardwalk from May 1 to Sept. 30. Starting Oct. 1, leashed dogs are allowed in both areas through April 30. The town’s only off-leash space is the Ocean City Dog Playground, which requires registration and proof of vaccinations, according to Ocean City. Outside of that space, dogs must be leashed and cleaned up after at all times.
Know Before You Go
Wherever you plan to take your dog, it’s best to check local signage or town websites for updated information. Many towns provide waste bags and disposal stations near beach access points, but not all do, so pack accordingly.
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