Rehoboth Beach – salty sea air, touristy souvenir shops, and grown-ups carrying drippy ice cream cones with the same delight as Coppertone slathered youngsters. Laid back, and bustling with activity, Delaware’s retro beach town has a “cool vibes only” persona that retirees find hard to resist. Home to Schell Brother’s 55+ community of Truitt Homestead, and wide-open beaches dotted with a rainbow of oversized umbrellas, this resort community reminds people of their childhood family vacations – and yes, cotton candy is for adults too.
Native Americans were the first to acknowledge Rehoboth Beach as a leisure travel destination, taking advantage of its fresh seafood, and Atlantic sea breezes. Fast forward to the present, and this sun-loving haven is still one of the most popular beach towns in the country for both seasonal beach-goers, and year-round residents. On any given day, Rehoboth’s one-mile boardwalk is teaming with tourists toting bags of Dolle’s iconic saltwater taffy or getting an aerial view from the Ferris wheel, but amidst the lazy hazy flurry of summer activity, 55+ residents will find that Rehoboth Beach is a fantastic place to live, and thrive.
Coastal life appeals to retirees and empty nesters because it’s the kind of all-season lifestyle that requires little more than a light jacket, and roomy farmers market basket. Rehoboth Beach has a great selection of shops, and restaurants from the Tanger Outlet stores, and unique shopping found along The Avenue, to newspapered fish and chip joints, and candlelit fine dining. Whether it’s taking a class at one of Rehoboth’s many boutique fitness studios, hiking or biking along scenic secluded trails, or boating at Delaware Seashore State Park, residents will find it easy to embrace active living.
Outside of its magnetic tourist scene Rehoboth Beach is a lively city rich in history, and local culture. Most would agree the highlight of any summer evening is at the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand where musical talent has taken center stage since 1963. Concerts are held between June and Labor Day as the perfect way to spend time with family, and friends. History buffs can brush up on the city’s past at the Rehoboth Historical Society & Museum, or explore the military history of Fort Miles at Cape Henlopen State Park in nearby Lewes. While retirees are drawn to the town’s practical, tax-friendly side, Rehoboth’s active adults will most likely be found hanging out at the beach, umbrella-adorned drink in hand – living their best lives.
Image CC Ted Eytan | Flickr
