Bethany

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Bethany's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, enjoying the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. After fueling up, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Bethany, where you can admire the historic architecture and quaint shops. Stop by the town square to appreciate the beautiful gardens and perhaps catch a glimpse of a local farmer's market setting up.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the Bethany Historical Society Museum, where you can delve into the rich history of the area and learn about its founding. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro, sampling regional specialties while enjoying the ambiance of the town. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring local boutiques and artisan shops for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant known for its seafood, where you can indulge in freshly caught dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, enjoying the picturesque views and the sound of the waves. End your evening with a visit to a nearby pub for some live music, soaking in the local nightlife.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Kick off your day with an early breakfast, then head to the Bethany Beach for a morning of sun and surf. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters, enjoying the scenic views of the coastline. As you paddle, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including dolphins and various seabirds.

afternoon
:

After a thrilling morning, return to the beach for lunch at a beachfront café, where you can savor fresh seafood while listening to the sound of the ocean. Once recharged, spend your afternoon relaxing on the sandy shores or trying your hand at beach volleyball with other visitors. If you're feeling adventurous, sign up for a surfing lesson to catch some waves.

evening
:

As the day winds down, take a sunset beach walk, marveling at the stunning colors painting the sky. Afterward, enjoy a casual dinner at a local pizzeria, where the atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming. Conclude your evening with a bonfire on the beach, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars.

day 3
Nature Trails and Wildlife Watching
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at your accommodation before heading out to explore the nearby nature trails. The morning is perfect for a hike through the scenic trails of the Bethany Beach Nature Center, where you can experience the beauty of local flora and fauna. Keep your camera ready for stunning views and potential wildlife sightings.

afternoon
:

After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch in a designated area within the nature center, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Spend the afternoon participating in a guided nature walk, where a knowledgeable guide will point out interesting plants and animals native to the area. This immersive experience will deepen your appreciation for the natural beauty of Bethany.

evening
:

Return to town and enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant featuring locally sourced ingredients. Post-dinner, visit a local ice cream shop for a sweet treat, perfect for cooling off after a day outdoors. As night falls, take a stroll through the town to enjoy the peaceful ambiance and perhaps even spot some fireflies.

day 4
Cultural Exploration and Art
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, famous for its homemade pastries. Afterward, visit the Bethany Beach Arts Festival, if your trip coincides with it, to appreciate local artists' works and possibly purchase a piece to take home. Engage with the artists and learn about their creative processes while enjoying live performances.

afternoon
:

After soaking in the art scene, have lunch at a café known for its artistic atmosphere and eclectic menu. Spend your afternoon at the local gallery, where rotating exhibitions feature both local and national artists. Take your time to admire the artwork and even join a workshop if available, allowing your creativity to flourish.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that celebrates local cuisine and features artwork from the community. After your meal, attend a live theater performance at a nearby venue, showcasing regional talent and stories. This cultural immersion will leave you with a deeper understanding of the local artistic spirit.

day 5
Fishing and Crabbing Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with a light breakfast before heading out to the docks for a fishing charter. Experience the thrill of reeling in fish while enjoying the fresh sea breeze and the company of fellow anglers. The morning is perfect for catching a variety of local fish, making for an exciting start to your adventure.

afternoon
:

After your fishing excursion, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a waterfront restaurant, savoring the catch of the day. Spend the afternoon crabbing off the docks, using baited traps to see what you can catch. This hands-on experience is not only fun but also a great way to learn about local marine life.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, return to your accommodations to clean and prepare your catch for dinner. Enjoy a seafood feast, either at a restaurant that specializes in fresh catches or by cooking your own catch if facilities allow. Conclude your day with a relaxing evening by the water, reflecting on your adventures.

day 6
Historical Landmarks and Local Cuisine
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a charming café, then set out to explore the historical landmarks around Bethany. Visit the local lighthouse, where you can climb to the top for breathtaking views of the coast. Take your time to learn about its history and significance to the area.

afternoon
:

For lunch, head to a classic diner that serves delicious comfort food, fueling up for an afternoon of exploration. Continue your historical journey by visiting nearby heritage sites and learning about the local stories that shaped the community. Engage with historical markers and displays to enrich your understanding of Bethany's past.

evening
:

As the day winds down, enjoy a dinner at a restaurant renowned for its farm-to-table approach, showcasing local ingredients. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the town center, appreciating the quaint charm of the area as the sun sets. End your evening with dessert at a local bakery, indulging in a sweet treat before resting for the night.

day 7
Family Fun at the Boardwalk
morning
:

Kick off your day with breakfast at a family-friendly restaurant, enjoying pancakes and eggs before heading to the boardwalk. Spend the morning enjoying the various attractions, from amusement rides to games, ensuring fun for the whole family. Don’t forget to snap family photos at the iconic spots along the boardwalk.

afternoon
:

After a morning of excitement, grab lunch at a casual eatery along the boardwalk, featuring kid-friendly options and ice cream. Spend the afternoon playing mini-golf or trying your hand at fishing from the pier, enjoying the lively atmosphere. Take breaks to relax on the beach, building sandcastles or simply soaking up the sun.

evening
:

As evening approaches, enjoy a beachfront dinner, where you can indulge in crab cakes and other local specialties. After dinner, explore the boardwalk's shops for unique souvenirs and treats. Conclude your night with a family movie on the beach, complete with popcorn and cozy blankets.

day 8
Relaxation and Spa Day
morning
:

Enjoy a calm morning with a leisurely breakfast at your favorite café, savoring a cup of herbal tea or coffee. Afterward, pamper yourself with a visit to a local spa, where you can indulge in a rejuvenating massage or facial treatment. This serene start will set the tone for a day of relaxation and self-care.

afternoon
:

After your spa treatment, enjoy a healthy lunch at a nearby juice bar, where you can recharge with fresh smoothies and salads. Spend the afternoon at the beach, lounging under an umbrella or reading a book, allowing the soothing sounds of the ocean to wash over you. Take a refreshing dip in the water to cool off and invigorate your senses.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a beachfront restaurant, relishing the view as you dine. After your meal, take a serene walk along the shore, reflecting on your relaxing day. Wind down your evening with a soothing herbal tea at your accommodation, preparing for a restful night.

day 9
Adventure in the Great Outdoors
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before gearing up for an adventurous day outdoors. Head to a local outfitter to rent bikes and explore the nearby trails that wind through the scenic landscapes. Biking through the fresh air will invigorate your spirit and provide an exciting start to the day.

afternoon
:

After a thrilling morning of biking, stop for a picnic lunch at a scenic overlook, surrounded by nature. In the afternoon, try out some hiking trails, where you can experience the incredible views and diverse ecosystems of the area. Capture photos of the stunning vistas and enjoy the tranquility of the great outdoors.

evening
:

As evening falls, return to town for dinner at a rustic tavern that offers hearty meals perfect for hungry adventurers. After dinner, relax at your accommodation or visit a local brewery to sample craft beers and unwind. End your trip with a cozy night in, reminiscing about the day’s outdoor escapades.

Discover Bethany

Read more in our Bethany 2025 Travel Guide.

Bethany Travel Guide