Fenwick Island vacation rentals

Thanks to its windswept dunes, abundant marshland, and historic lighthouses, this tiny barrier island is a favored Atlantic coast retreat. Unlike Ocean City, its bustling neighbor across the New Jersey border, life on Fenwick Island moves at a slower pace. The Fenwick Island Boardwalk preserves the town's old-school charm with mom-and-pop souvenir stores, classic sweet shops, and locally produced foods. Meanwhile, a mini-golf course and a water park pack in family-friendly fun.

For wilder adventures and more leisurely pursuits, Fenwick Island State Park offers surfing, water sports, and spectacular sunsets. On its western side you’ll find kayaks and paddleboards to rent. In the evenings, the quiet streets fill with the scent of freshly caught seafood, and the DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum and Fenwick Island’s 87-foot tall lighthouse tell the story of Delaware’s maritime history. Bethany Beach, a stretch of golden sand six miles north of the town center, offers swimming and sunbathing, open-air concerts, and movies on the beach.

While the town attracts visitors year-round, schedule your trip during summertime to experience peak Fenwick Island experiences. The warmest month of the year is July, with consistent sunshine ideal for cooling off in the Atlantic. This makes it the most popular time for swimming, sailing, windsurfing, and crabbing. Umbrellas and loungers are available for rent during this season. September is a great time to visit, as the weather is still reliably pleasant, the waters are warmer, and the summer crowds have thinned out. The crisp fall air settles in around late September before slowly giving way to icy winter. Winter is not a popular time to visit Fenwick, as the beaches are the main draw and winters bring snow and below-freezing temperatures.

Fenwick Island State Park

The 344-acre Fenwick Island State Park stretches along the Atlantic Ocean between Maryland and Delaware. During World War II, it served as a military defense barrier. Today, this classic beachfront strip of undulating dunes, powdery white sand, and panoramic views is a popular spot for sunbathing, beachcombing, and surf fishing in the tidal waters.

Fenwick Island Lighthouse

The Fenwick Island Lighthouse is a historical must-see. Built in 1858, it’s the oldest lighthouse in the state and was used to help ships navigate the dangerous Fenwick Shoals, where many vessels have sunk. Since then, the 87-foot-tall brick tower has transitioned from a functional site to a symbol of Delaware’s maritime past, attracting visitors for photos and a closer look at Fenwick’s history.

Hit the water

Rich in marine life and scenic views, Fenwick Island’s waters are popular for kayaking, sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Nearby salt marshes are perfect for kayaking and wildlife watching for the likes of crabs, ospreys, and egrets. Sunset is the ideal time to charter a sailboat or catamaran tour on the open water with a local outfitter.