This Little-Known Waterfront Town Is One of the Most Charming in Delaware

When the busy summer season rolls around, top destinations like Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach, and Delaware City are jam-packed with tourists. If you ask me, that's all part of the fun, but if you're looking for a laid-back getaway, you won't do better than one little-known waterfront town in Delaware. Welcome to Fenwick Island, population 355. This destination has a very unique distinction — it is right on the border between Delaware and Maryland's Ocean City, even sharing one landmark. That means that while Fenwick Island itself may be a laid-back getaway, it puts you right in the middle of the action. For those who come to Fenwick Island during the summer, they're likely to find natural beauty and a quirky atmosphere that rewards adventurers looking to wander off the beaten path.

Why This Little-Known Waterfront Town in Delaware Is So Charming

Fenwick Island is found right on the Delaware border, and is located between a pair of much more crowded, tourist-oriented beaches, so it's more like an oasis in between for those who want to enjoy the ocean's natural beauty. The beach has a lot of wetlands, which offer a unique and beautiful appearance, and the nearby Fenwick Island State Park is often called the quietest beach in Delaware.

What To See and Do in Fenwick Island

It's no surprise that this is a haven for nature-lovers, and much of the activity here focuses on that during the busy season. The coast is a popular site for fishing, and the barrier islands of Delaware have some of the best views for hiking and biking in the northeast. The town is also home to some great seafood, so make sure to drop by The Lobster Shanty for the catch of the day.

The most unique site in the town is the Fenwick Island Lighthouse, which has a unique distinction — it's in both Maryland and Delaware! This view is from Ocean City, but this is a true Delaware landmark, and the lighthouse dates back to 1858 and is still open for tours, making it the oldest lighthouse in the state of Delaware. There are some amazing photos to be had here.

Best Time to Visit Fenwick Island

There's something to appreciate every season of the year, but Fenwick Island is one of those places that is definitely best appreciated during the summer months. It's full of vacation homes that are usually far more affordable than those in the neighboring towns, and all seasonal stores and restaurants will be open. The town gets busy when the weather gets warm, but never too warm.

Have you ever explored Fenwick Island before? If not, this little-known waterfront town in Delaware is getting ready to begin its peak season, so tell a travel buddy about this article and discover its unique charms for yourself! You can see more about the town's shopping and dining options on the Fenwick Island tourism website. One of the best things about staying in Delaware is that you're so close to everything else, so you can easily take a day trip less than thirty minutes away to the legendary Rehoboth Beach. And if you're looking for more unique destinations, check out Only in Your State's list of the best small towns in Delaware!