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 the historic Chief Little Owl 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 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.
Thinking of hitting the road and escaping for a weekend retreat in 2025? Whether you like long walks on the beach or through former colonial villages, Delaware is full of surprises! Nothing will melt away your weekday stress like strolling through the botanical gardens in Millsboro, curling up with a book on the shores of Bethany Beach, or touring the historical landmarks in New Castle. Each of these towns delivers its unique personality, from the nightlife vibes of Dewey Beach to the old-world charm of New Castle. So, pack a bag and let&rsq...
Thinking of hitting the road and escaping for a weekend retreat in 2025? Whether you like long walks on the beach or through former colonial villages, Delaware is full of surprises! Nothing will melt away your weekday stress like strolling through the botanical gardens in Millsboro, curling up with a book on the shores of Bethany Beach, or touring the historical landmarks in New Castle. Each of these towns delivers its unique personality, from the nightlife vibes of Dewey Beach to the old-world charm of New Castle. So, pack a bag and let’s dive into these amazing Delaware destinations!
A weekend in New Castle feels like stepping into a quaint colonial village similar to Williamsburg, but without the crowds and the traffic! Located in northern Delaware along the Delaware River, it seamlessly blends natural attractions and historical sites. The most notable of the historical attractions in New Castle is the Amstel House and Dutch House museums, both located within a city block of each other. Built in the late 1600s and early 1700s, these two houses showcase the colonial architecture predominant during New Castle’s founding. With original woodwork, period-accurate furnishings, and manicured gardens, they feel like stepping back in time.
Closer to the Delaware River, there’s also the Read House and Gardens, the former home to one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, George Read. Situated in central New Castle, the mansion sits on over 2 acres with stunning gardens and a perfectly preserved interior. From the Read House, you can walk over to Battery Park for a lovely walk along the Delaware River. While there are plenty of affordable hotels in the area, The Terry House Bed and Breakfast is one of the best places to stay, and is within walking distance to many of the historical sites in New Castle.
Maybe you prefer a beach retreat for your long weekend? Bethany Beach is one of the quieter beach retreats in Delaware, with plenty of family-friendly activities. The ideal day consists of soaking up the sun at Bethany Beach Public Access and taking a leisurely stroll down theBethany Beach Boardwalk. The boardwalk has a bandstand where live music plays in the summer, and next to the bandstand is Mango’s, where you can dine on fresh seafood with an Atlantic Ocean view.
The great thing about Bethany Beach is that there’s so much more to see than miles of shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean! Traveling inland, the Bethany Beach Nature Center is a great place to explore wetlands and gardens, and it’s a great place for the family. After a day of exploring the sights in the area, one of the best places to stay is the seaside Bethany Beach Ocean Suites Residence Inn. Located on the ocean, it’s the perfect location to the beach, boardwalk, and all the best shops in town!
Traveling inland from the Atlantic shores is the natural paradise of Laurel. Situated in central Delaware, it’s an often overlooked community with classic small-town charm and amazing parks. If you’re in the mood for a long weekend hiking in the woods, Trap Pond State Park is Laurel's crown jewel. The air is a little fresher, and the trails are shaded by fragrant loblolly pines and bald cypress trees in the swampy areas of Trap Pond.
After exploring the natural wonders of Trap Pond State Park, downtown Laurel has plenty to discover. There are unique antique stores like Out of the Attic Antique Mall and the Delaware Avenue Antique Emporium, where you’re sure to find treasures to remind you of your amazing weekend in Laurel. Many of the hotels in Laurel are quite rustic, so the best place to stay when visiting the area is the Travelodge by Wyndham, a short 15-minute drive north to Seaford.
The underrated town of Milton offers the best of both worlds: historical attractions and natural beauty. It’s easy to get lost in the 19th-century charm of downtown Milton. You can catch a live show at the historic Milton Theatre, and then head to Milton Home Coffee Roastery for a cup of coffee and a sweet treat. Or you can simply walk the well-maintained brick pathways at Mill Park with a stunning view of Wagamons Pond. If you really want to take in the vibes of Milton, the best place to stay is the Governor’s Bed and Breakfast. It’s like a rustic English garden in the heart of Delaware, with comfy beds and a fantastic breakfast.
When you’re ready to lace up your hiking boots and take in the natural scenery of Milton, the Edward H. McCabe Preserve is a wonderful retreat. It hosts wonderful hiking trails, bike trails, and opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and paddleboarding on the Broadkill River. Whether you just want to birdwatch or take photos, or you’re looking for a challenging hike, it’s a great place to take the whole family.
Lewes is one of Delaware’s most exciting coastal towns, blending historical attractions with the beauty of the coastline. Known as the “First Town in the First State”, you can visit historical landmarks like Fort Miles Historical Area (and an old World War II fort), or a former military base of Cape Henlopen State Park. Or, if you just want to soak in the sunshine, Lewes Public Beach is the perfect place to relax. With white sandy shores, calm waters, and attentive lifeguards, it’s a great place for the family.
Downtown Lewes also has amazing sites worth checking out, like the Ryves Holt House. As the oldest house in the state of Delaware, it’s a charming slice of American history. And when you’re ready to hang up your hat at the end of a long day, the Inn at Canal Square is one of the most popular destinations in Lewes. It’s centrally located, within walking distance to beaches and restaurants, and offers breathtaking views of the water right from your room.
In northern Delaware, not too far from the New Jersey border, is the idyllic retreat of Odessa. It’s less touristy than some of the other vacation towns in Delaware, which means less traffic and crowds. It’s where you’ll find charming historical relics like the Corbit-Sharp House, which was once a stop on the Underground Railroad. If you want to learn more about this former grain trading port, be sure to stop by the Historic Odessa Foundation, located within an old bank.
While Odessa may be famous for its historical charm, it’s also ripe for outdoor adventures.
The Augustine Wildlife Area is one of the best parks in the area, offering stunning views of the Delaware River, hiking trails, and fishing opportunities. After exploring the scenery of Odessa, one of the best spots to stay is the Miller-Dunham House Bed and Breakfast. As a restored colonial home, the accommodations are cozy, and its location puts you right in the heart of all the action in Odessa!
When you think of Millsboro, think water views, farmer’s market, and dreamy botanical gardens. Located in southern Delaware, inland from its popular beaches, Millsboro is a hidden gem. It's home to Delaware Botanic Gardens at Pepper Creek, a lovely wetland retreat settled on almost 40 acres along Pepper Creek. It’s a dreamy naturalist's paradise, and a great place to take the family. After exploring the gardens, another great place to visit in Millsboro isBrittingham Farms. You can take a walk through fragrant lavender fields, or shop at their Farm Store or distillery for freshly-made lavender oils.
If you want to spend your weekend relaxing along the water of Millsboro Pond, the Millsboro Pond Boat Launch is the perfect place to set out on the water. Take a boat or kayak out onto its calm waters and take in the views of the gently rolling hills in the distance. When you’re ready to retire after a long day of exploration, the Atlantic Inn offers comfortable and affordable accommodations in the heart of Millsboro.
If you prefer your beach retreats to be a little more exciting, Dewey Beach is your best option! It’s an ideal blend of picturesque seascapes with a thriving nightlife that makes a weekend to remember! You can spend the day sunbathing at the Dewey Beach Public Access and walk across the street for a tasty seafood meal at Starboard Raw. If you want to launch a boat out onto the water and drift far from the shore, the Rehoboth Bay Marina is a great place to launch a boat (or rent one!).
The great thing about Dewey Beach is that the fun continues even after the sun goes down. Central Dewey Beach comes alive after sunset, with popular bars and restaurants like The Rusty Rudder, where you can get to know the locals while listening to live music on the open patio nestled along the coastline. After a night on the town, the best place to call it a night is at the Surf Club Oceanfront Hotel. With high-end accommodations, oceanfront views, and a premier location in the heart of Dewey Beach, it’s sure to top off your weekend in all the best ways.
From stately colonial inns to seaside escapes, Delaware has something for everyone. Whether you long to walk the path of early settlers in New Castle, or live for the nightlife scene in Dewey Beach, Delaware proves that the best things often come in little packages! If your weary soul needs historical tours, sandy beaches, or shady trails, these hidden gems are sure to soothe what ails you. These towns allow you to set your own pace and take things slow. The hardest part? Packing it all up after the weekend is over!
Delaware's best small towns aren't about tourist fanfare or cookie-cutter charm found in many places in the United States. They're real places with streets lined with historic homes, bustling weekend markets, and unexpected character. It's where community still means something and everyday life unfolds with a blend of warmth and a little bit of grit. It's true, you may find some of these towns on a few glossy travel lists. But not the kind that the average tourist checks out. Whether you've heard of these towns or not, they all have a common...
Delaware's best small towns aren't about tourist fanfare or cookie-cutter charm found in many places in the United States. They're real places with streets lined with historic homes, bustling weekend markets, and unexpected character. It's where community still means something and everyday life unfolds with a blend of warmth and a little bit of grit. It's true, you may find some of these towns on a few glossy travel lists. But not the kind that the average tourist checks out. Whether you've heard of these towns or not, they all have a common thread... they're insanely beautiful. Not just in terms of their natural landscapes, but in the attractions they showcase and the history that built them.
Bethany Beach knows exactly what kind of town it is and doesn't overcomplicate things. You like to swim? You like the beach? It's got you covered. This southern Delaware town delivers Atlantic-front beaches without the boardwalk chaos of larger coastal spots. Bethany Beach's half-mile wooden boardwalk is modest. You won't find neon signs or absurd amounts of noise here, just local restaurants, swimmers headed for the surf, and a ton of joggers. Mere steps off the boardwalk, along North and South Atlantic Avenue, and the surrounding downtown streets, you'll find everything from saltwater taffy to arcade games at Shore Fun Family Center. On the quieter side, the Bethany Beach Nature Center borders marshland and gives tourists and residents alike ample opportunity to explore wildlife via walks on the Baldwin Trail.
The riverfront town of New Castle isn't a place where modern reinvention is a priority. It's a rare pocket of the Mid-Atlantic where centuries of history still shape the streets. In the New Castle Historic District, 18th-century rowhouses, cobblestone corners, and buildings like the 1732 Court House and the Dutch House Museum form a grid so well-resevered, it feels like stepping into another time. Locals fill the tavern booths at Jessop's, a colonial-style staple that keeps things hearty and grounded. But while history is plentiful in this Delaware town, its natural beauty demands equal attention. Battery Park, which connects to the Jack A. Markell Trail, wraps along the Delaware River with open lawns, walking paths, and the best views in town.
The town of Rehoboth Beach features a mile-long traditional wooden boardwalk with shops, arcades, ice cream shops, the Funland Amusement Park, and Grotto Pizza stalls. At its heart, the Bandstand delivers over 40 free open-air concerts every summer, Friday through Sunday. It's this attraction, as well as the beach the town shares a name with, that draws tourists each year. Though Rehoboth Beach isn't exclusively beautiful during the summer months. Though it does proclaim itself to be "the Nation's Summer Capital," year-round visitors can slip into Lake Gerar Park and enjoy the quiet waterfront trails lining the inland lake. And not far away, the Rehoboth Beach Museum preserves the town's early years and delves into its unique origin.
Lewes, "The First Town in the First State", was founded as the Dutch colony Zwaanendael in 1631. Its well-preserved historic district offers treasures like the gingerbread-style Zwaanendael Museum and the stately Ryves Holt House, Delaware's oldest building on its original foundation. The walkable downtown is filled with everything a small town should have. Yes, there are antique shops and boutiques, and even a bookstore. But it's the quality and style of these unfussy places that make them special. Just blocks away from the core of Lewes, Second Street, the town opens up to salt marshes and wide beach views. Locals bike straight from town to Cape Henlopen State Park. It's here where you'll find trails past WWII observation towers, a fishing pier, and the magnificent Cape Henlopen State Beach.
Middletown once moved peaches by railcar in pre-Civil War Delaware. Today, it moves people, by the thousands, to its annual Olde-Tyme Peach Festival every August, when Main Street shuts down for live music, pie contests, and a peach parade that runs straight through the heart of town. But this place isn't just an attraction in the summer. Though Silver Lake Park, just a few blocks off the commercial strip, is particularly nice on a warm day. With its surrounding farmland, restaurants, and shopping, and nearby Coleman's Christmas Tree Farm, Middletown is one of the most desirable year-round vacation spots in southern New Castle County. It's also home to some pretty iconic buildings, such as The Everett Theatre, which dates back to 1922 and is famous for appearing in Dead Poets Society.
Smyrna sits between cornfields and commuter highways, halfway between Dover and Wilmington, but it's never felt like a halfway place. Downtown is compact, a few blocks of brick-front shops and restaurants like Brick Works Brewing and Eats. Though arguably, the most famous place to grab a bite is Helen's Sausage House just off the highway, as the popular truck stop diner has become somewhat of a Delaware legend. In Summer, the man-made Lake Como, which sits right in town, is a popular swimming spot and is used just as much for fishing. And while it's outside of town, Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge is a must-see. It's a vast salt marsh where birds gather by the thousands, and the sky stretches flat and low like a lid.
Tucked at the head of the Broadkill River, about 15 miles northwest of Rehoboth Beach, Milton still carries the imprint of its shipbuilding past. That energy is best felt around the historic district's Victorian homes and the riverside footpaths of Milton Memorial Park. The town's best-known 'resident' is arguably Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, which draws steady crowds for its small-batch beers, wood-fired pizzas, and offbeat tours. A few blocks away, the restored Milton Theatre packs the calendar with everything from film nights to burlesque. Just over the river is the Edward H. McCabe Preserve, a forested stretch with trails and river access for those who need a little less beer and a little more nature.
Dewey Beach isn't exactly a big place. After all, it's only a few streets across, and a few blocks long just south of Rehoboth Beach. But in the summer, it feels as though the entire East Coast is crammed into it. The Atlantic Ocean's on one side, Rehoboth Bay's on the other, and in between are bars, restaurants, and rental houses with towels draped over the railings. You can walk from a packed beach to a crab shack to a full-blow cover band concert without crossing more than two streets. Dewey Beach is known for its nightlife, and The Starboard is the center of it all. So much so that it even has multiple sister restaurants, some within a block's distance, that offer different dining experiences. Live music spills from places like Bottle & Cork and from Rusty Rudder's bayside deck, where you can watch the sun sink into the water.
Right up against the Maryland state border, Selbyville has long been a town that straddles both Delaware's rural and coastal worlds. Its downtown still shows off bits of its 19th-century railroad past, but it's what's cooking that really gets attention. La Sierra, both a restaurant and Mexican grocery, is the kind of place people drive an hour for. Over on Main Street, On the Way Cafe dishes out massive breakfasts with zero pretense, and the Little Italy Food Truck pulls regulars from both sides of the state lines. Just outside the center of town, the Freeman Arts Pavilion packs its summer calendar with national acts. And if you need a quiet reset, there's the edge of the Great Cypress Swamp, Delaware's largest forest, so dense and flat it practically swallows sound.
Milford's heart beats along the Mispillion River, where old shipyards and art galleries now sit side by side. The town's walkable downtown, especially North Walnut Street, still leans into its past, with restored 19th-century facades and a riverside stretch that locals simply call The Riverwalk. The path winds past Goat Island Nature Area and toward the Vinyard Shipyard, a living tribute to the town's boatbuilding roots. The nearby Riverfront Theatre fills its small stage with big-hearted productions, and just outside of town, the DuPont Nature Center draws birders and naturalists from across the coast.
Fenwick Island may share a border with Ocean City, Maryland, but its pace is several gears lower. This small Delaware town, set snugly between the Atlantic and Little Assawoman Bay, keeps things local and unfussy. Fenwick Island State Park claims a long stretch of beach right at the edge of town, with space to swim, fish, or just let the breeze undo whatever stress you brought with you. A short walk inland, the historic Fenwick Island Lighthouse, which was built in 1859, still marks the coast. While much of Fenwick Island is serene and peaceful, you can get louder at Viking Golf and Thunder Lagoon, where go-karts, mini golf, and waterslides come together on one lot.
Delaware isn't a state with over-the-top attractions or touristy gimmicks. But it does have a collection of beautiful towns that blend nature, history, and a great food scene together in an unpretentious way. Some are busy party towns like Dewey Beach, others are sleepy getaways such as Milford and Middletown. None of them compete with one another as they all offer something for a different kind of person. But each is honest, grounded in that specific Delaware vibe, and ready for you to visit.
Fireworks burst across the Mid-Atlantic sky Fourth of July week to “ohhs” and “ahhs,” but an abundance of jellyfish soon led to a bevy of “ahhs” and “ouches.”“We've seen a significant increase in jellyfish in the bay this year – more than I’ve ever witnessed during my time here,” said Lewes Beach Patrol Capt. Strohm Edwards. “As a result, we’ve also had a sharp rise in jellyfish stings. Our numbers have more than doubled compared to last year, with mos...
Fireworks burst across the Mid-Atlantic sky Fourth of July week to “ohhs” and “ahhs,” but an abundance of jellyfish soon led to a bevy of “ahhs” and “ouches.”
“We've seen a significant increase in jellyfish in the bay this year – more than I’ve ever witnessed during my time here,” said Lewes Beach Patrol Capt. Strohm Edwards. “As a result, we’ve also had a sharp rise in jellyfish stings. Our numbers have more than doubled compared to last year, with most of that spike occurring over just the past few weeks.”
Edwards said his lifeguards just treated 439 stings, with vinegar and water, over the course of a month. The 30 days prior only had 14 incidents.
“Since July 2, the jellyfish have arrived,” said Rehoboth Beach Patrol Capt. Jeffrey Giles. “Due to the calmer ocean conditions, they are staying around.”
The mild, warm-water conditions of the Atlantic early this summer and the mostly serene Delaware Bay might seem pristine for swimming, but they are also ripe for a jellyfish bloom.
“Normally, we start to see jellyfish in July and early August when water temperatures increase along with hot weather days,” said North Shores Capt. Kent Buckson. “The peak season for jellyfish is typically in mid to late summer, around mid-August and September.”
Marine scientist Dr. Les Watling wrote in a University of Delaware Sea Grant College publication that jellyfish are neither jelly nor fish. They are an ancient marine animal and are 94% water. At the mercy of the currents and tides, they move around like someone opening and closing an umbrella.
Sea turtles, whale sharks, baleen whales and various types of fish are among the predators of jellyfish. Watling explained that while they can be found in waters ranging from the Arctic Ocean to the tropics, they are most likely to inhabit the shallows of coastal waters.
“Jellyfish ... rate and frequency has increased over the last few weeks as per the natural reproductive and distribution cycles of the animal,” said Dewey Beach Patrol Capt. Todd Fritchman. “[They] free float ... and their destiny is controlled by currents and tides. The temperature and diurnal cycles of the sun and season dictate the budding rate.”
Fritchman has seen plenty of jellyfish over the years and has found a common hygiene product, used for the face, works for stings.
“We treat typical jellyfish stings with Barbasol as a solvent to break down the nematocyst, straight-edge scraping of the target area and irrigation with water,” Fritchman said. “Severe hypersensitivity reactions may require Benadryl and/or more advanced treatment.”
Despite the increase in numbers, not everyone who swims in the drink will be stung, but steering clear of jellyfish altogether is reportedly impossible.
“There is no avoiding them in the ocean; just stay calm and realize the sting will go away eventually,” Giles said. “You can use a mix of vinegar, alcohol and water or meat tenderizer to lessen the sting.”
“Swimmers should not touch jellyfish, because even beached or dead jellyfish can still sting,” Buckson said. “Swimmers can wear protective clothing like wetsuits, skin suits or stinger suits to offer protection. They can also use protective lotions like Safe Sea, which help prevent stings by forming a barrier.”
While North Shores, DBP and RBP help, in their own way, with stings in the Atlantic Ocean, Lewes Beach Patrol handles the Delaware Bay where calm, warm and shallow waters entice swimmers and jellyfish alike.
“I’ve also spoken with a few members of other beach patrols along the oceanfront, and they’re seeing similar increases,” Edwards said. “I'm not sure if they track sting numbers the way we do here in Lewes, but it’s clear the population is up across the board.”
Edwards, who said he’s not a marine biologist, also believes heavy rainfall to start the season may have contributed.
“The mix of fresh and saltwater alters the bay’s salinity, which, as I understand it, can create favorable conditions for jellyfish,” Edwards added.
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