What rank is Rehoboth Beach?

Rehoboth has it all: the beach, gourmet food, diversity, a laid-back vibe and a small-town feel. Perhaps that is why Rehoboth was ranked the No. 2 “Happiest Seaside Towns in America,” by “Coastal Living” magazine and Rehoboth is in the running for USA TODAY's “Best Coastal Small Town” contest.



As of early 2026, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, consistently ranks as one of the "Best Family-Friendly Beaches" and "Best Mid-Atlantic Vacation Spots" in the United States. In recent travel indices for 2026, it was specifically highlighted by Downbeach.com and XTU as a top-ranked destination for "Affordable Family Beach Getaways," praised for its safety, lively boardwalk, and "free" beach access. Historically, Rehoboth and its neighboring Delaware beaches have also ranked #1 in water quality in the U.S. due to rigorous testing and environmental standards. Often referred to as the "Nation's Summer Capital" because of its popularity with Washington D.C. residents, it holds a high-tier ranking for its mix of quaint Victorian charm and modern resort amenities. While it may not hit the "top 5" of global tropical beach lists, it remains a gold-standard regional destination for its cleanliness and accessibility.

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In tests taken Wednesday, the average level of bacteria for Rehoboth Beach over the past 30 days was about 27 colonies per 100ml. That level was 1,313 per 100ml. In Bethany, the bacteria level was much higher at 3,873 colonies per 100ml. Bacteria was far less elevated in Dewey, with 160 per 100ml.

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Lewes is one of the best cities in Delaware to retire in. It is where the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay meet and is the northernmost beach town on the 26 mile Atlantic coastline. Lewes offers fantastic views of sunrises and sunsets, which is part of the reason many seniors enjoy retiring here.

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Known as the “Nation's Summer Capital,” our city was historically branded as the getaway of choice for beach-goers from the Washington, D.C. area. Today, our beach town hosts visitors from all over the country - indeed, from around the globe - and Rehoboth Beach has become a year-round vacation destination.

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The 5 largest ethnic groups in Rehoboth Beach, DE are White (Non-Hispanic) (92.9%), White (Hispanic) (1.87%), Two+ (Hispanic) (1.8%), Other (Non-Hispanic) (1.51%), and Asian (Non-Hispanic) (1.29%).

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The case for: Rehoboth is the region's most classic beach town, with lovely shingled cottages amid shady pines plus a mile-long boardwalk lined with treats and amusements. Adjacent Lewes is a quieter enclave of historic clapboard houses and upscale dining.

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Delaware law requires that individuals be at least 21 to enter a bar. No drinking or open containers of alcoholic beverages on the beach, boardwalk, or public streets within the city limits. It is illegal for dogs to run at large at any time. The city has both a leash and pooper scooper law, which are enforced.

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No sleeping on the beach between the hours of 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. No sleeping in cars, on any street within the City, on or under the boardwalk, or on benches. No drinking or open containers of alcoholic beverages on beach, boardwalk, or public streets within the city limits. No open fires on the beach.

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As Delaware's most popular beach town, Rehoboth Beach draws large crowds during the summer months and is a top choice for vacationers seeking old-fashioned fun in an oceanfront setting, Daned Kirkham, senior director of real estate at Vacasa, told Travel + Leisure.

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The 10 Best Beaches in Delaware
  1. Rehoboth Beach. Ideal for: Families, couples, LGBTQ+ travelers. ...
  2. Dewey Beach. Ideal for: 20- and 30-somethings, couples. ...
  3. Bethany Beach. Ideal for: Families, couples, solo travelers. ...
  4. Delaware Seashore State Park. ...
  5. Lewes. ...
  6. Cape Henlopen State Park. ...
  7. Fenwick Island State Park. ...
  8. Slaughter Beach.


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