Inside the New Rehoboth Beach Patrol Headquarters: Lifeguards, Comfort Stations, and Community Programs in 2025

Rehoboth Beach, DE — May 2025 marked a major milestone for beachgoers and city services with the grand opening of the newly constructed Rehoboth Beach Patrol and public comfort station facility at Baltimore Avenue. Beyond a fresh new look, the facility represents a major investment in public safety, accessibility, and beach enjoyment for all.

A State-of-the-Art Facility Opens for Summer 2025

The two-story, 5,500-square-foot building opened just in time for Memorial Day weekend. Located at the foot of Baltimore Avenue on the Rehoboth Beach boardwalk, this new headquarters serves as both the operations hub for the Rehoboth Beach Patrol and a critical public comfort facility.

Features Include:

• First Floor:

  • Public restrooms (including two family restrooms)

  • One adult-sized changing table

  • Four private changing rooms

  • Storage garages for ATVs

• Second Floor:

  • Rehoboth Beach Patrol operations center

  • Observation deck with improved beach sightlines

  • Medical room for public aid

This building, designed by Davis, Bowen & Friedel and built by Delmarva Veteran Builders, was constructed with flexibility and accessibility in mind. The $4.9 million project was managed by EDiS Company, and offers better traffic flow, enhanced safety, and modern amenities—making it easier for the city’s emergency responders and guests alike to navigate the boardwalk and beach area.

About the Rehoboth Beach Patrol

For over 100 years, the Rehoboth Beach Patrol has been a trusted presence along the shore. The team monitors the beach from Pennsylvania Avenue to Prospect Street each summer season, from Memorial Day through three weeks past Labor Day.

Services Offered by the Patrol:

• Ocean rescues and assists

• Medical aid on-site

• Beach wheelchairs for public use

• Reuniting hundreds of lost children with their families

• Beach ambassadors promoting safety and rules

📍 Lifeguards are on duty from 9 AM to 5 PM on weekdays, and from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM on weekends and holidays.

As the season winds down and some lifeguards return to school, the coverage area may shrink. In these cases, signs are posted at unguarded beaches so the public stays informed.

Recognizing Outstanding Lifeguards

Each year, the Rehoboth Beach Patrol recognizes lifeguards who go above and beyond.

• 2024 Lifeguards of the Year: Dionn Stevenson and Tori Blankenship

• 2024 Rookie of the Year: Cole Jennings, winner of the 10-event Rookie Test

These awards reflect the dedication and excellence expected from the Patrol’s staff, led by Captain Jeff Giles and a team of about 70 lifeguards, EMTs, and support crew.

Junior Lifeguard Program: Training the Next Generation

The Rehoboth Beach Junior Lifeguard Program is one of the area’s most beloved youth programs—and in 2025, it quickly reached capacity.

About the Program:

• Ages: 6–15

• Dates: June 16 – August 1, 2025

• Schedule: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 8–9 AM

• Cost: $100 for the first child, $55 for additional siblings

From sit-ups and pushups to water safety and rescue drills, junior guards engage both physically and mentally. They also learn essential beach safety rules, communication, and teamwork.

Groups are divided by age:

• Group A: 14–15 years old (swim proficiency test required)

• Group B: 12–13 years old

• Group C: 9–11 years old

• Group D: 6–8 years old

The program wraps up with a Junior Guards Olympics and end-of-summer celebration.

Mailing Info for Applicants:

If applying in future seasons, remember to mail checks and application forms to:

June – Sept:
Rehoboth Beach Patrol Headquarters
Attn. Junior Guards
1 Baltimore Ave.
Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971

Oct – May:
City of Rehoboth Beach
Attn. Junior Guards
229 Rehoboth Avenue
Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971

Why This Matters

The new Rehoboth Beach Patrol facility is more than a building. It’s a symbol of progress, safety, and a deeper investment in the local community. With better resources for the beach patrol, upgraded public restrooms, and youth engagement through the Junior Lifeguard Program, Rehoboth Beach continues to shine as a premier family-friendly destination.

Whether you’re a parent, visitor, or local, these updates make summer at the beach even better.

Want to learn more about Rehoboth Beach Patrol or apply to future Junior Lifeguard Programs?
Stay up to date by visiting the City of Rehoboth Beach website.