The best family beaches around Rehoboth Beach are the main town beach, Dewey Beach, Cape Henlopen State Park and North Shores, and the main beach is the easiest of the four. The Rehoboth Beach Patrol guards it from late May to late September, the boardwalk is right there with restrooms and showers, and you can walk to food. Dewey is just south, with more room and rougher surf. Cape Henlopen is the state park option with a daily vehicle fee, and North Shores is quiet and mostly for people who can walk or bike in. On a beach day with kids we care about three things, a short walk, a bathroom and a lifeguard. Below you will find how each beach does on those, when the metered spots run out, and which one to pick for toddlers.
At-A-Glance Comparison Table
| Beach Name | Key Amenity | Booking Options |
|---|---|---|
| Rehoboth Main | Boardwalk Access | Booking.com Expedia VRBO |
| Dewey Beach | Public Parking | View Details → |
| Cape Henlopen | Picnic Areas | View Details → |
| North Shores | Private Access | View Details → |
Rehoboth Beach Main Beach
The main beach sits in front of the boardwalk, so food, restrooms and the car are all a short walk away.
- The Beach: A wide town beach, and the Rehoboth Beach Patrol is on duty from late May to late September, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on weekends (Rehoboth Beach Patrol).
- Key Amenities: Includes easy boardwalk access, public restrooms, and showers.
- Tip: If you are not staying in town, the metered spots go by about 8:30 AM.
Good to know: In summer the metered street parking fills very quickly.
Dewey Beach
Just south of the main strip, this beach offers a bit more elbow room for families who like to move.
- The Beach: Wide sandy stretches with slightly more active surf for older kids.
- Key Amenities: Features public parking, lifeguards, and easy shower access.
- Tip: Buy your parking permit at a kiosk early rather than hunting for one at noon.
Good to know: The surf is rougher than in Rehoboth, so stay close to younger swimmers.
Cape Henlopen State Park Beach
Cape Henlopen is the state park north of town, and it is the quietest of the four on a busy weekend.
- The Beach: A long ocean beach backed by dunes. The FAQ below covers where the guarded swimming area is.
- Key Amenities: Offers beautiful picnic areas, restrooms, and plenty of space.
- Tip: Since you pay to get in, bring a cooler and make a full day of it.
Good to know: There is a daily entrance fee for each vehicle.
North Shores Beach
North Shores is a residential stretch with no boardwalk, which is why it stays quiet.
- The Beach: Fewer people and more space than the main beach.
- Key Amenities: Includes basic facilities like showers and restrooms.
- Tip: Walk or bike from your rental. The parking rules here are strict.
Good to know: Parking is very limited and mostly for residents.
FAQs About Family Beaches in Rehoboth Beach
What is the best beach for toddlers?
Rehoboth’s main beach or the guarded swimming beach at Cape Henlopen State Park, both lifeguarded in summer (Rehoboth Beach Patrol, Delaware State Parks). Both face the open Atlantic, and for calmer water Lewes Beach on the Delaware Bay is a few minutes north (City of Lewes).
When is the best time to arrive for parking?
Before 9:00 AM at any of the town beaches. After that you will be circling.
Are there bathrooms at all these locations?
Yes, all four have public restrooms and showers.
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