Welcome to one of the top LGBTQIA+ beach destinations in the United States, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Dating back to the 1940s, queer folks have been flocking to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware; for some, a relaxing gaycation and for others, a gay paradise to call home.
Rehoboth Beach (aka “Rehomo”) is most known for its gay beaches, tax-free shopping and outlet malls, delicious seafood, and thriving queer community. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a friends’ beach vacation, or a queer-friendly solo trip, Rehoboth Beach has something for everyone.
Know Before You Go
Best Time to Visit
While Rehoboth Beach is a year-round destination, the most popular time to visit is June through August. If you prefer fewer crowds (like me), I recommend visiting in May or September during the shoulder season. Plenty of shops and restaurants are still open during this time but keep in mind some attractions may be closed or have limited hours.
How to Get There
If you're flying in, the best option is to fly into Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), which is about a two-hour drive from Rehoboth Beach. Alternatively, you can fly into Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), which is also about a two-hour drive away. After landing, rent a car from the airport and enjoy a scenic drive along Route 1 to Rehoboth Beach.
For those driving, Rehoboth Beach is conveniently located off Route 1, making it an easy drive from major cities like Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia. Keep in mind that traffic tends to get heavier on the weekends, so it's best to start early and allow some extra buffer time for your journey.
How to Get Around
The best way to get around Rehoboth Beach is on foot. Once you arrive, I recommend parking at your hotel and only driving when necessary. If you do need to drive, the Parkmobile app is handy for parking at metered spaces downtown. Bike rentals are another great option, allowing you to explore both the town and the nearby nature trails. For public transportation, the Jolley Trolley offers convenient rides between Rehoboth Beach and Dewey Beach, making it easy to get around without a car.
Is Rehoboth Beach LGBTQIA+-Friendly?
Short answer: YES! Rehoboth Beach (aka “Rehomo”) has a long history of being an LGBTQIA+ beach destination. Historically, it has been a hub for gay men traveling from major cities like Washington, DC, Philadelphia, and Baltimore. The town's inclusive atmosphere and welcoming community have made it a beloved destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers for decades.
While Rehoboth Beach is queer all year, the town also hosts a variety of annual Pride events, including Rehoboth Beach Pride in June. Other popular events include Women's Fest in April, SUNFESTIVAL over Labor Day weekend, and the Block Party in October. For more information on these events and others, visit CAMP Rehoboth Beach’s website.
Where to Stay
Rehoboth Guest House, a charming, LGBTQIA+-owned bed and breakfast, has been a safe haven for the queer community for over 40 years. It was the first gay-owned and operated business in Delaware and remains the only LGBTQ+ guest house still operating in Rehoboth Beach today. Located just steps away from the Atlantic Ocean and mile-long boardwalk, Rehoboth Guest House offers 14 private rooms, complimentary breakfast, 24-hour self-service coffee, and plenty of communal spaces to relax, co-work and perhaps meet new friends. Be sure to book well in advance, as it fills up quickly. Welcome to everyone 18 and up.
Overall, I loved staying at Rehoboth Guest House. It felt like a home away from home. The staff is welcoming and hospitable. I loved sharing a communal breakfast and getting to chat with other guests. I highly recommend!
There are plenty of accommodation options along the boardwalk and a little outside of town depending on your budget.
Best Eats
For a casual breakfast, visit the queer-owned café Lori’s to enjoy coffee and a breakfast sandwich while relaxing on their patio. For lunch, head over to The Blue Hen, a stylish restaurant owned by wives Julia and Heather, and be sure to try their famous lobster toast. Blue Moon offers fine dining, delicious seafood, and award-winning wine during the day and transforms into a queer bar with live entertainment by night.
Other notable mentions include Henlopen City Oyster House, which serves champagne oyster shooters and cognac-spiked lobster mac and cheese that are to die for. For a snack along the boardwalk, grab Thrashers’ famous boardwalk fries, fresh-cut and made in peanut oil since 1929. As you're leaving town, stop by Capriotti's Sandwich Shop, a Delaware rite of passage, and order their famous Bobbie sandwich loaded with traditional Thanksgiving flavors.
LGBTQIA+-Friendly Things to Do
Visit Poodle Beach (Gay Beach)
Poodle Beach, located at the southern end of Rehoboth Beach's mile-long boardwalk, is the official gay beach. To find it, head towards Queen Street and follow the boardwalk to its southernmost point. Poodle Beach is renowned for its fun, friendly and inclusive atmosphere, a perfect spot for socializing, sunbathing, and swimming.
Be sure to bring your own beach essentials, as amenities directly on the beach are limited. However, the nearby boardwalk provides plenty of options for food, drinks, and restrooms. Metered street parking and several paid parking lots are available nearby.
Explore the Boardwalk
Rehoboth Beach's mile-long boardwalk is a must-visit. Stroll along the boardwalk, enjoy the ocean views, grab fries at Thrashers, and explore the many local shops, eateries, and attractions. Walk through Penny Lane, a quaint, European-style open mall. Don't miss Funland, a classic amusement park with 19 rides, family-style games and an arcade, fun for all ages. Some of my favorite stops along the boardwalk include Browseabout Books and Gidget’s Gadgets (queer-owned).
Tax-free Shopping
Support over 200 local LGBTQIA+-owned businesses while you're in town, tax-free! Most shopping is downtown and along the boardwalk.
Just outside of downtown, Tanger Rehoboth is home to 115 brand-name outlets in 3 locations off Coastal Highway Route 1: Tanger Surfside, Tanger Seaside and Tanger Bayside. You’ll find designer and name-brands like Coach, Michael Kors, Crocs, Nike, Adidas and more.
Cape Henlopen State Park (Gordons Pond)
Calling all nature enthusiasts! Located two miles north of town, Cape Henlopen State Park features diverse ecosystems, maritime forests, dunes and breathtaking beaches. One of the most popular trails is Gordons Pond, a 3-mile long trail perfect for hiking, biking, or bird watching. Great for all ages and ability levels. You can rent a bike for free at the nature center (up to 2 hours). I opted for a solo morning hike–very peaceful!
Entrance fees are $5 for in-state vehicles or $10 for out-of-state vehicles. Annual passes are also available. The park is open year round from 8am until sunset.
Dogfish Head Craft Brewery
Dogfish Brewery, located in Milton, Delaware (~30 minutes drive), is the smallest commercial brewery in the U.S. and is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. Their most popular tour is their brewery tour ($20 per person) where you can learn about the brewing process, the history of Dogfish Head, and the innovative techniques they use. Throughout and after the tour, enjoy tastings of their local ales. Be sure to reserve your tour in advance, as spots fill up quickly.
Additionally, the brewery has a fantastic menu with shareables, wood-fired pizzas, fresh salads, burgers and sandwiches. I ordered a mouth-watering pulled pork sandwich off their seasonal menu and it was 10/10. Parking is available on-site.
Lavender Fields
Lavender Fields at Warrington Manor in Milton, Delaware, is a serene and picturesque destination that's perfect for a relaxing day trip. The farm features beautiful lavender fields, charming gardens, a cafe and a quaint gift shop where you can purchase a variety of lavender-based products such as essential oils, soaps, and sachets. The Wildflower Cafe serves farm-to-table grab-and-go light fare. You can eat inside or enjoy your meal on the farm. I highly recommend their lavender lemonade and lemon poppyseed cookies. The best time to visit is during the blooming season in June and July, when the fields are in full bloom. Parking is available on-site. Check out their website for special events and workshops.
Queer Bars and Nightlife in Rehoboth Beach
For a small town, Rehoboth Beach has quite the array of welcoming queer bars and clubs. While there isn’t an official lesbian bar (yet!), Freddie’s seems like the place to be. Head to Freddie’s for happy hour, drag shows, karaoke and a diverse mix of people. For drag, you have to go to Blue Moon’s Spotlight Show, named “Best Drag Show at the Beach” for 20 years. On Thursdays, attend Naughtee Bingo with Magnolia Applebottom at Diego’s, Rehoboth Beach’s only queer nightclub. Aqua Grill is another popular spot for its lively atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and drag shows. If you're in the mood for dancing, head to The Purple Parrot Grill, which features a dance floor, karaoke, themed nights and lots of outdoor seating.
Author bio: Court Vondran (they/them) is an LGBTQ+ travel writer and content creator based in Chicago, USA. You can find them on social media @courtneytheexplorer for more LGBTQIA+ travel inspiration and tips!