Snouts Sniffing Out Southern Delaware
- Luie Boone
- Aug 7
- 6 min read
This vacation destination is a part of our third series of blog posts titled Rover Ready.
You know what Luie Boone knows about Southern Delaware? Absolutely nothing! So when his hoomans said it was the perfect destination for a fun getaway with your furry friend, he wanted to know why! They said that there are welcoming beach towns, scenic trails, and dog-friendly accommodations just waiting for hoomans and their pups to explore together! Each town has its own charm and opportunities for tail-wagging adventures.
You can start your journey over at Rehoboth Beach. This is a vibrant seaside town, which balances classic boardwalk charm with modern amenities. While dogs aren’t allowed on the main beach or boardwalk during peak summer hours (that is, between May 1 and September 30 from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.), early morning strolls are fair game. Luie Boone doesn't mind, because the golden light over the ocean makes it more-than-worth the early wake-up! Outside of peak season, dogs are welcome almost everywhere. Places, such as Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats, welcome pups at their outdoor tables.
Just up the road is the historic town of Lewes, which is where cobblestone streets and maritime charm meet modern dog-friendly sensibilities. Cape Henlopen State Park is a must-visit there, as it offers dog-designated areas and beautiful trails to saunter through dunes, woods, and wetlands. Back in town, you can stroll through pet-friendly shops. The Notting Hill Coffee Roastery is a great place to stop at to get a warm brew and relax with your pup outside. Lewes is calm and peaceful, with less bustle than Rehoboth, making it ideal for dogs who prefer quieter surroundings.
Dewey Beach takes dog-friendliness to the next level. Dogs are allowed on the beach year-round, with time restrictions during the summer season (that is, before 9:30 a.m. and after 5:30 p.m.). Again, who cares? Those hours are perfect for a sunrise or sunset romp. If you’re visiting in the fall, be sure to check out Dewey’s annual Woofstock festival! It's a celebration of dogs, and it's complete with music, activities, and plenty of treats. Dewey truly feels like a town where dogs are more than just allowed; they're embraced there.
Bethany Beach rounds out the Southern Delaware coastal tour with a family-friendly, relaxed vibe. While there are more seasonal restrictions here—dogs are not permitted at all on the beach or boardwalk between May 15 and September 30—visiting in the shoulder season or winter opens up plenty of opportunities to enjoy its quieter beaches! Just outside of town, there is also the James Farm Ecological Preserve, which offers peaceful hiking trails through open fields, woods, and waterfront views. When you're ready to eat, outdoor dining spots, such as the 99 Sea Level, offer a welcoming space for you and your pup to dine al fresco.
As you plan your trip, remember to pack the essentials: leash, water bowl, waste bags, and a few comforts from home. Each town has slightly different pet rules, especially when it comes to beach access, so it’s worth double-checking checking local websites or signage when you arrive. Traveling with a dog in Southern Delaware is easiest in the off-season, which is from fall through spring, when the beaches are more accessible and the crowds thinner. It's the perfect time for long walks, peaceful views, and lots of uninterrupted playtime.
Southern Delaware offers more than just sandy paws and salty noses. It’s a true vacation for both you and your pup. From beach romps at sunrise, to trail zooms through coastal parks, and dinners under the stars, the region offers a warm welcome to travelers on two and four legs.
Paws Rest Here
Luie Boone paw-selected this perfect vacation rental for your stay in Southern Delaware. Check it out below!
Rental Name: Pelican Paradise Unit 7
This rental has 4 bedrooms with 5 beds and 2 baths.
Photos courtesy of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty
It features the following amenities:
Private, expansive deck
Stunning panoramic views of the Rehoboth Bay
Beach chairs
Kayak
Crab traps
Gas grill
Outdoor Shower
Community beach area, which is shared by 7 units
Private boat slip
Just a short 2 block walk to the ocean and Dewey's award winning clean and pet-friendly beaches
What does Luie Boone think of this rental? He woofed:
My hoomans keep talking about a place called Pelican Paradise in Dewey Beach, Delaware. They claim it's not actually a paradise for pelicans, which is a shame, because I wanted to hang out with some pelicans. But, hey, it's still a pretty cool place. It's actually a rental in a community beach area on the bay, shared by just seven units. It sounds like doggy heaven. There’s swimming, a covered gazebo for shady naps, a crabbing dock that I can supervise, and even a private boat slip. I hear that there’s also a big second-story deck, which is perfect for lounging while watching the boats drift by. I can't forget to mention the little sandy spot by the dock, where I can dig to my heart’s content. The rental is just two blocks to the ocean and the beach there is dog-friendly—so I can run, splash, and chase my tennis ball with zero judgment. The house has lots of space, cozy nap spots, a grill, and an outdoor shower (which probably means I’ll be rinsed off whether I like it or not). There is a pet fee and a few rules, but I’ll be on my best behavior. My leash, Spike, my stuffed turtle and snacks are packed, so I’m ready to zoom, sniff, and live my best beach dog life!
Paws Venture Here
Delaware Seashore State Park
At this state park, your best friend can join you on the sand and in the surf during select times of the year. From May 1 to September 30, dogs aren't permitted on any swimming or sunbathing beach (areas with lifeguards), but are allowed on non-guarded beaches year-round. Luie Boone doesn't mind being his own lifeguard!
Anglers Fishing Center
At Anglers Fishing Center, you can bring your pooch on a private fishing charter, which is offered year round. Rods, bait, and tackle are included for full-day or half-day private charters.
Dewey Beach
During the summer (mid-May through mid-September), your pup is allowed on beach before 9:30 AM and after 5:30 PM. During the mid-September to mid-May, dogs can be on the beach whenever and are allowed to be off leash if under your full control. You must always clean up after your dog at all times!
Bethany Beach
You and your pal are welcome to enjoy the surf, sand and boardwalk on this beautiful beach from October 1st through May 14th. Luie Boone can't wait to toast his buns in the sun, all while chillaxing in the sand!
Gordons Pond State Park Area
At Gordon Ponds State Park Area, hikers and their canine companions can venture on a trail pond, through a forest and wetlands, and over dunes. It offers great views across the Atlantic Ocean!
Cape Henlopen State Park
Your pal is welcome on the trails and portions of the beach at Cape Henlopen State Park, as some areas are reserved for beach-nesting species. Turtles! Luie Boone hopes he might see one as he loves turtles Just like he loves his turtle plushie Spike.
Rehoboth Boardwalk
Two and four-legged friends are invited to visit the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk. Leashed dogs are permitted on the boardwalk from October 1 to April 30, but pets aren't welcome at all from May 1 to September 30. This is a great spot to get some exercise and take in the views of the ocean.
The Lighthouse
Dine beside your four-legged companion at The Lighthouse. Fido can join you at a dog-friendly table outside on the patio, while chowing down on a bite from the dog menu! The dinner and weekend lunch menus, for humans, feature fan favorites, including mahi-mahi tacos, crab cakes, the Lighthouse Cove burger, and ale-braised short ribs.
Luie Boone's Pet Peeve about
Southern Delaware
There's just so much to love about this vacation destination, but there's one thing that's got Luie Boone's leash in a twist. He woofed:
I’ve been dreaming of sand in my paws, barking at waves, and digging giant holes in Southern Delaware. But then I heard a few things… and not the good kind. Rehoboth and Bethany? No dogs allowed on the beach all summer. Not until October—which is basically next year in dog time. Dewey Beach gives us a little wiggle room: dogs are allowed before 9:30 AM and after 5:30 PM. Lewes? No pups on the main beach, but Cape Henlopen lets us on before 8 AM and after 6:30 PM—as long as we stay out of the swimming areas (which is a bummer, because I had cannonballs planned). Still, I’m trying to stay pawsitive. There’ll be trails to sniff, shady patios to lounge on, and hopefully a pup cup or two. I have big dreams, you know? Tennis ball in my mouth, sea breeze in my fur, sun setting behind me—full beach dog mode.
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