Have you ever been to Lewes, Delaware? The First Town in the First State is one of our first thoughts when we’re planning a Delaware day trip. This underrated beach town has it all – fine dining and casual eateries, boutiques, and bookshops, nature walks, and historic parks.

If you’d like to find yourself watching the sunrise from one of the most beautiful places in the country, wake up early and head to Lewes.

Flickr / Alyson Hurt

Lewes, Delaware is one of the most charming towns on the East Coast. It’s located on the tip of Cape Henlopen, where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean.

Flickr / Duluoz Cats

The location on the cape means that there are beautiful lighthouses all around…

Flickr / Richard Ricciardi

… and even a historic Lightship that you can visit! Take a tour of the Lightship Overfalls to learn about maritime safety the old-fashioned way.

Flickr / Bob Mical

If you love the beach, you’ll want to spend time in Cape Henlopen State Park. It’s much less crowded than Rehoboth Beach, even in the middle of summer.

Flickr / Mike Mahaffie

Plus, Cape Henlopen State Park is home to Fort Miles Historic Area, where you can explore an abandoned World War II era fort.

Flickr / Mike Kalasnik

Downtown Lewes is just as exciting as the beach. Enjoy shopping and dining in an area that’s walkable and where you’ll only have trouble parking during peak season days and holidays.

Flickr / Mike Mahaffie

Despite being on the coast, the town is packed with green space. Spend some time walking through the parks and enjoying the beautiful gardens that are scattered about.

Facebook / Lewes Historical Society

If you love history, visit the Cannonball house and the Lewes History Museum! You’ll learn so much about this unique and fascinating town.

Facebook / Lewes Historical Society

Come spend some time on the coast in Lewes and you’ll fall in love with Delaware all over again.

Flickr / Geoff Livingston

Lewes is so delightful, don’t you agree? We’d love to hear about your favorite shops and restaurants in town. Let us hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Flickr / Alyson Hurt

Flickr / Duluoz Cats

Flickr / Richard Ricciardi

Flickr / Bob Mical

Flickr / Mike Mahaffie

Flickr / Mike Kalasnik

Facebook / Lewes Historical Society

Flickr / Geoff Livingston

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Address: Lewes, DE 19958, USA