🌅 Best Places to Watch the Sunset (and Sunrise!) in Coastal Delaware
Coastal Delaware isn’t just a beach destination—it’s a golden-hour paradise. From sun-up to sun-down, the region offers some of the most peaceful, picture-perfect moments you’ll find on the East Coast. Whether you’re snapping sunrise selfies or enjoying a sunset dinner by the bay, these are the must-visit spots to catch the sky on fire with color.
🌄 Sunrise to Sunset at the Beaches
Grab your camera, because the Delaware beaches are known for stunning sunrises over the ocean and spectacular sunsets over the Inland Bays.
🌅 Bethany Beach
Start your day at the beach with a cozy cup of coffee from 3BB Café, or if you’re staying nearby, simply open the curtains at Bethany Beach Ocean Suites to greet the sunrise with a view. It’s calm, beautiful, and pure Delaware.
🌅 Rehoboth Beach
Early mornings here are magic. Wander the quiet boardwalk while the sky paints itself in pastels. Then, grab a post-sunrise latte at Rise Up Coffee Roasters to ease into the day.
🌅 Cape Henlopen State Park
Lighthouse views, crashing waves, and breathtaking sunrise colors make this Lewes treasure a must-see for morning people. Pro tip: head to The Point for a postcard-worthy panorama.
🌇 Top Sunset Spots in Coastal Delaware
🌇 Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge
Smyrna, DE
Nature lovers, this one’s for you. With wide salt marshes, serene water, and abundant birdlife, Bombay Hook delivers mirror-like sunset reflections that are second to none.
🌇 Sunset Park
Dewey Beach, DE
Small but mighty, Sunset Park offers a peaceful place to watch the sun drop into Rehoboth Bay. It’s less crowded than the beaches—just bring a blanket and enjoy the view.
🌇 Fenwick Island State Park
Fenwick Island, DE
Enjoy golden skies while sitting in the sand or join Coastal Kayak for a sunset paddle on Assawoman Bay. Want something simpler? Just bring a blanket and take in the calm.
🌇 Cape Henlopen State Park
Lewes, DE
Stick around after sunrise—or come back—for the sunset over the Delaware Bay. The fishing pier and The Point are perfect for wide-angle sunset views and ocean breezes.
🌆 More Local Favorites for Golden Hour
🌆 Indian River Inlet Bridge
This is the spot for a drink at sunset. Grab a cocktail on the deck at Big Chill Beach Club and let the sun melt into the horizon over the Indian River Inlet Bridge.
🌆 Dewey Beach & The Rusty Rudder
Live music and sunset vibes—does it get better? Enjoy a meal and golden skies over the bay, then take a walk out on the dock. Good for the soul, guaranteed.
🌆 Lewes Canalfront Park
Cap your day in Lewes with a cone from King’s Homemade Ice Cream and a walk along the canal. You’ll catch the sunset reflecting on the water—a quiet, charming end to your day.
🛥️ Cape Water Tours & Taxis
Lewes & Rehoboth
For a 360° view, book a sunset cruise along the Broadkill River or Delaware Bay. Watch the sky change colors from the water and toast the evening with your BYOB picnic.
🍽️ Bluecoast Seafood Grill + Raw Bar
Bethany Beach
Dinner with a view? Bluecoast sits right on the Salt Pond and serves up fresh seafood and incredible wines. A favorite for locals and visitors alike—and only 7 miles from The Knoll at Irons Lane.
❤️ Final Thoughts
Delaware’s coastline offers both sunrise serenity and unforgettable sunset memories. Whether you’re sipping coffee in Bethany or raising a glass in Dewey, there’s no wrong way to experience the natural beauty of Coastal Delaware.
