The best family beaches in Bethany Beach are the Main Beach in town and Sea Colony Beach, and for most visitors the Main Beach is the one, because it is the beach anyone can use. It sits right off the boardwalk with public restrooms and outdoor showers, and the Bethany Beach Patrol guards it all summer. Sea Colony is a private resort beach, wider and less crowded, but only for residents and guests. For a quieter day, South Bethany is a few minutes south. We judge a beach by how short the walk is from the car to the sand.
Family Beaches in Bethany Beach Comparison
| Beach Name | Key Amenity | Booking Options |
|---|---|---|
| Bethany Beach Main | Boardwalk Access | View Details → |
| Sea Colony | Private Access | View Details → |
| South Bethany | Restrooms | Booking.com Expedia VRBO |
| Delaware Seashore | Picnic Areas | Booking.com Expedia VRBO |
Bethany Beach Main Beach
The Main Beach is the center of town and the easiest beach day if you are staying nearby, with the boardwalk right behind you.
- The Beach: Soft sand, and the Bethany Beach Patrol is on duty from Memorial Day Saturday to Labor Day Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on weekends, plus September weekends (Bethany Beach Patrol).
- Key Amenities: Includes easy boardwalk access, public restrooms, and convenient outdoor showers for rinsing off sandy toes.
- Tip: Get a coffee from a boardwalk shop and sit in the shade near the boardwalk while the kids dig.
Good to know: Public parking fills up early on summer weekends. Arrive before 9:00 AM.
Top-rated family hotels in Bethany Beach
Sea Colony Beach
Sea Colony is a private resort beach, so it is the pick if you are staying there and want more room.
- The Beach: Offers a wide, private area that feels much less crowded than the public town beaches.
- Key Amenities: Provides private beach access, clean restrooms, and showers exclusively for the resort community.
- Tip: Because it is private, you can usually find space for the umbrella even if you arrive later in the day.
Good to know: Access is for residents and guests only. Have your parking pass with you before you leave.
Top-rated family hotels in Bethany Beach
FAQs About Family Beaches in Bethany Beach
Are there lifeguards at all these beaches?
Bethany Beach and South Bethany both run beach patrols in summer (Bethany Beach Patrol, South Bethany Beach Patrol), and Delaware State Parks guards set swimming areas at Delaware Seashore State Park (Delaware State Parks). Sea Colony’s beach is private, so check its own postings.
Which beach is best for a quiet, low-key day?
South Bethany Beach is widely known as the ‘Best Little Beach in Delaware’ and offers a much quieter, residential atmosphere perfect for escaping the crowds.
Is parking difficult at these locations?
Parking can be tight at popular spots like the Main Beach, so we always recommend walking, biking, or arriving very early to secure a spot.
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