My Ultimate Family Vacation Guide to Rehoboth Beach, DE: What to Do, Eat, and Explore
If you’re planning a family trip to the Delaware beaches, Rehoboth Beach should be at the top of your list. It's walkable, fun, and packed with amazing eats, beachside favorites, and activities for all ages. We’ve been vacationing here for years, and I finally decided to pull together all of our favorite stops into one giant guide. Whether you're visiting with toddlers, teens, or planning a multi-generational trip, here's my go-to family-friendly guide to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, written by a mom who’s been there, done that, and packed the extra snacks.
Can’t-Miss Attractions in Rehoboth Beach
Funland
We go to Funland Rehoboth Beach every single night. No exceptions. This iconic amusement spot has been delighting families for decades with its affordable games, classic rides, and nostalgic charm.
Pro tip: Buy a big batch of tickets early in the week to skip nightly lines and save yourself the headache.
The Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk
Our nightly tradition always includes a walk down the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk, grabbing a few of our favorite staples along the way:
Kohr Brothers Ice Cream: Hands-down our top pick (yes, we go multiple times a day)
Fisher’s Popcorn: Get it fresh and warm if you can!
Candy Kitchen: Every kid’s dream
Thrashers French Fries: The original boardwalk fries. Salty, crispy, delicious
And don’t forget to try Zelky’s Rooftop Mini Golf for a quick round with ocean views!
Best Coffee Shops in Rehoboth Beach
Because let’s be honest, coffee keeps the family trip running smoothly. These are our favorite local spots to fuel up before the day begins:
Rise Up Coffee Roasters: Right off Coastal Highway. Organic, strong, and great for grab-and-go.
Kaisy’s Delights: A combo of Viennese café and American diner. Try the signature "Kaisy" pastry with your latte.
The Coffee Mill: A quiet gem in Rehoboth Mews with strong brews and a peaceful garden patio.
Cafe Papillon: Seasonal French Bakery, features coffee, crêpes & croissants.
Best Breakfast Spots with Kids in Rehoboth Beach
Morning people or not, these breakfast places will win everyone over:
Egg: Local favorite for elevated breakfast classics. Expect a wait, but it’s worth it.
Crystal Restaurant: Old-school diner vibes with huge portions and fast service. Kid-friendly, always.
Goolee’s Grille: Bright and casual, with tons of options for picky eaters.
Rehoboth Diner: Great for early risers. This is a classic old school diner.
Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in Rehoboth Beach
Grotto Pizza: Our Sunday night tradition. Great for families, easy for takeout.
Frank & Louie’s Italian Deli: Located off Maryland Avenue, this hidden gem is one of our top sandwich shops. They open at 10 a.m. and the line forms FAST. Call ahead, and don’t skip the butter cake.
Where to Get Crabs in Rehoboth
Claw’s Seafood House: this is our go-to crab spot. Call ahead to avoid the wait, the list can get long during peak season!
Casual Restaurants in Rehoboth Beach
Purple Parrot Grill: Rehoboth’s beloved LGBTQ+ friendly bar and grill. It’s lively, welcoming, and yes, totally kid-friendly. I’ve had full meals here with my parents and kids. It's always a blast.
Best Sit-Down Restaurants in Rehoboth (Make Reservations Early!)
These are our top go-to spots for dinner in downtown Rehoboth. Just a heads-up: reservations fill fast during summer, so plan ahead and book months in advance when possible:
Salt Air Rehoboth Beach: Fresh, coastal cuisine and one of the best date-night or family dinner spots.
Henlopen City Oyster House: Seafood lovers, this is your place.
Sazio Rehoboth: Upscale Italian, perfect for a special night out.
DeFebo’s Restaurant Rehoboth: Family-owned with incredible Italian comfort food.
Lupo Italian Kitchen: Modern Italian with excellent cocktails.
Mariachi Restaurant Rehoboth: A hidden gem for flavorful Tex-Mex with coastal charm.
Shopping in Rehoboth Beach: Outlets + Local Boutiques
If you’ve got nap time, solo mom time, or just need a shopping break, Rehoboth does not disappoint.
Rehoboth Beach Outlets
This is my go-to for:
Back-to-school sales.
End-of-summer clearance.
Stocking up on next sizes for the kids.
Favorite Boutiques & Shops:
Pink Leopard: Lilly Pulitzer Signature Store.
South Moon Under: Trendy, beachy styles.
IN2SOULS: A unique shoe store (great for ON Clouds and running gear).
Best Shops for Souvenirs & Gifts, and Kids Toys
Whether you're shopping for beachy keepsakes or a few surprises for the kids:
Sea Finds: Affordable and packed with beach-themed décor, tees, and magnets.
Browseabout Books: Not just books, this place also has puzzles, toys, and locally made gifts.
Rehoboth Toy & Kite Company: A must-stop! Tons of fun, unique toys and games for all ages.
Stitch-Stash: For crafty families. Cute cross-stitch and handmade souvenirs.
Penny Lane Mall: A quirky indoor alley with little gift shops and galleries.
Best Playgrounds in Rehoboth Beach
Perfect for early mornings, post-dinner play, or burning off some ice cream energy:
Silver Lake Tot Lot: Small, quiet, great for toddlers.
Grove Park: Near the Rehoboth Beach Museum, with shaded areas.
Lake Gerar Playground: A solid favorite, right near the lake.
Rehoboth Elementary School Playground: Massive! Worth the short drive.
Things to Do in Rehoboth on a Rainy Day
Rain happens, but it doesn’t mean your vacation is ruined. Here are our go-to indoor activities near Rehoboth Beach:
Lefty’s Alley & Eats: Bowling, arcade, bar food (wings + pizza = perfect combo).
Midway Speedway Park: When the weather clears up, this is a fun place for go-karts, mini golf, and waterpark fun all in one.
Final Travel Tips for Rehoboth Beach with Kids
Make dinner reservations early: Especially for Salt Air, Henlopen Oyster House, and Sazio.
Buy Funland tickets early in the week: To avoid the daily scramble.
Call Frank & Louie’s right when they open: (10 a.m. sharp). There’s no dine-in and lines move slowly.
The outlets are a win-win: Sales for you, new shoes for the kids.
Rehoboth Beach is one of those magical places where family traditions are made. Whether it's your first visit or your 15th, I hope this guide helps you experience all the fun, flavor, and sunshine this little town has to offer.
