7 Secluded Towns in Delaware

While Delaware might be small in size, it’s large in its rich history and beautiful landscape. Delaware became the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, giving them the nickname “The First State.” The entire is comprised of three counties, with most of the population settled in the Northern region. Even though Delaware ranks 49th in total area size, it’s one of the most densely populated states. While metropolitan cities like Dover and Wilmington enjoy numerous city amenities, there are plenty of smaller towns in the state that give residents a larger sense of community. These close-knit towns are often removed from higher populations, incentivizing residents to bond with their neighbors. Filled with plenty of landmarks and attractions, these secluded Delawarean towns exude all of the benefits of small-town living.

Bethany Beach

A small coastal community, Bethany Beach might be popular for its picturesque views, but its small population enjoys plenty more of the town’s amenities. Visitors can take in the views of the Atlantic via the famed Bethany Beach wooden boardwalk that is about half a mile long and 12 feet wide. While Bethany Beach is one of the most celebrated destinations, the town also offers secluded beach areas for visitors seeking tranquility. Those looking to take in all of the nature views can take a trip to the Bethany Beach Nature Center, where visitors can watch bird watching or a gorgeous sunset. Eateries like The Park Restaurant and Bluecoast Seafood Grill & Raw Bar Bethany deliver some of the town's best seafood cuisine that highlights the town's rich coastal history.

Lewes

With a stunning view over Delaware Bay, Lewes is considered one of the area's most majestic and gorgeous small towns. Lewes is a balanced town with something for everyone. One of the town’s most popular attractions, Cape Henlopen State Park, offers guests soft sand, dense forests, and plenty of hiking and biking trails spanning 5,193 acres. Those looking to explore more of the community’s history will enjoy the many preserved buildings that exude Colonial and Victorian charm. More attractions like the Historic Lewes Town Campus and Cannonball House Maritime Museum offer visitors even more insight into the town’s rich past. With numerous small businesses spanning multiple industries, residents can live far from the city with all the necessities they need.

Delaware City

One of the largest historic districts in the state, Delaware City is a notable community whose past goes back to the mid-1800s. Local businesses such as The Canal House and Kathy’s Crab House line the streets of this community, giving residents an ideal small-town feel. Those looking for an even more authentic Americana feel will find plenty to do at the Fort Delaware State Park, whose 288 acres take residents and guests through a tour of Colonial America. With just under 2,000 residents living in Delaware City, the town enjoys a quaint and quiet lifestyle without sacrificing activities and amenities needed to make one feel at home. Year-round craft shows and concerts in the park bring the community to life, making it easy to feel surrounded despite the small population.

Odessa

Located along the Appoquinimink River, Odessa is a small town of just under 400 residents that houses a National Historic Landmark and two National Parks Service Network to Freedom sites. With plenty of history and significant landscapes, Odessa prides itself on its effort toward preservation, which allows residents and guests alike to enjoy the best of its Colonial history. Guests can enjoy notable landmarks like the Wilson Warner House and the Collins Sharp House, thanks to the community’s preservation efforts. Other spots like the Old Academy Park allow guests to enjoy the scenic landscape surrounding the town. While it might seem small and removed from the major cities nearby, Odessa’s glamour and significant landmarks make it the perfect place to settle in peace.

New Castle

Only ten minutes from downtown Wilmington, New Castle is a quaint community that enjoys small-town living. Overlooking the Delaware River, New Castle is perfectly positioned around some of the most gorgeous landscapes in the region. Visitors can enjoy learning more about the town’s past with landmarks like the New Castle Court House Museum, which is one of the oldest surviving courthouses in the nation. Also located in the community is the Dutch House, which is considered the oldest house in Delaware. With over 40 vendors, the New Castle Farmers Market feels anything but small. Similar to the rest of the region, New Castle’s preservation efforts have helped cultivate the town’s appeal and keep it alive to its almost 5,549 residents. Situated near Delaware's more populous regions, New Castle retains a serene and quaint atmosphere through its historic preservation and small-town charm.

Millsboro

Located in Sussex County, Millsboro houses slightly over 7,700 residents and balances its historic streets with modern amenities. With the Indian River Bay nearby, Millsboro is an ideal place for all aquatic activities. Locations like Cupolo Park allow residents and guests to partake in picnics and waterfront views, along with enjoying fishing, boating, and kayaking. Like other small towns in Delaware, Millsboro’s cuisine includes cozy locales like Grotto Pizza and Kisa Cafe. Those wanting to enjoy the waterfront upfront can rent or charter a boat for a fishing trip or a nice day out on the water. For visitors and residents looking for a slow-paced lifestyle near the water, Millsboro has everything you need to feel right at home.

Rehoboth Beach

Despite being one of Delaware's most visited towns, Rehoboth Beach's small population of just over 1,000 residents preserves its intimate, small-town character. Just two hours away from major metropolitan cities like Washington D.C, Baltimore, and Philadelphia, Rehoboth Beach is a quaint community with big city living. Housing a one-mile boardwalk, Rehoboth Beach has activities year-round for everyone to enjoy. Whether it's brewery tours, art galleries, or tax-free shopping, this town has everything you need in one spot. After a long day of exploring, restaurants like Victoria’s Restaurant are the perfect place to unwind and take in the waterfront views. While the summer seasons tend to see the most tourist activity, the small-town allure is inevitable.

Small-Town Treasures of Delaware

Whether it's a slow-paced life or community feel that you are looking for, these towns all have common characteristics that make them the ideal place to visit or live. Although surrounded by bigger cities and towns, these locations all maintain a quaint lifestyle that will charm just about anyone. Full of historic colonial landmarks, these towns are a trove of notable and important locations that are enough to fill your days with explorations. While towns are small in size, these communities have everything you need to spend a quiet and relaxing day.