The historic town of Lewes is the "The First Town in the First State," and was originally settled by the Dutch in 1631. We local Lewes residents take great pride in our seafaring heritage and enjoy the opportunity to share this with visitors and new residents alike.
Situated where the Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean meet at Cape Henlopen, Lewes offers both bay and ocean beaches for swimming, sport fishing and boating. Lewes also boasts 4,013 acres of preserved lands in the Cape Henlopen State Park, where you’ll find unspoiled beaches, miles of nature trails, bird sanctuaries and a nature center. Departing just north of Cape Henlopen, The Cape May-Lewes Ferry offers 70 minute ferry rides throughout the day to Cape May, New Jersey, year–around.
Lewes is best savored on foot! Within a small half-mile square area, you will find the Lewes Historical Society complex, containing many preserved homes & museums. The historic district also offers over 40 unique specialty shops, ranging from antiques and modern gallery art to toy stores and fine jewelry, many fine restaurants and several lodging choices from hotels,motels to B & B’s. Lewes is a year-round community, a delightful mix of residents and visitors, all enjoying the quality of life that only Lewes can offer.
Lewes Links
Lewes Chamber of Commerce
City of Lewes, Delaware
Demographic Profiile of Lewes, Delaware
It has never been a better time to own a home in Lewes, DE! Known as the “First Town in the First State,” Lewes has a rich maritime history. Today, Lewes is one of the most popular destinations among coastal Delaware.
Housing communities are springing up all over Lewes — from luxury homes to smaller cottages and historic homes in need of some TLC, there is a range of real estate opportunities in Lewes.
Set Your Roots or Retire in Lewes
Because of its low real estate and income taxes and no sales tax, slower lifestyle and access to resort amenities, Delaware has become a hot destination for retirees, and Lews is one of the most sought after zip codes. With access to the Lewes Beach, Cape Henlopen State Park, the Junction and Breakwater Trail — a bicycle path that connects Lewes and Rehoboth Beach, there are plenty of ways to enjoy coastal living in Lewes.
Restaurants, breweries and boutiques abound in Lewes. Take a stroll up Second Street for world-class shopping and dining. The nearby Cape May-Lewes Ferry is a great way to explore the Delaware Bay.
Ready to Make Your Lewes Living Dreams Come True?
Browse our listings to find that perfect beach house, rental property, or family home in Lewes. This is the perfect time to purchase - whether for an investment or your forever home. Your new Lewes address is within reach.
Known as "the Nation's Summer Capital," Rehoboth was founded in 1873 by the Reverand Robert W. Todd as a site for Methodist summer camp meetings, Rehoboth Beach is named after "Rehovat," a city in Israel, which means "space for all." Its name is quite fitting, as Rehoboth Beach is famous for blending communities effortlessly. Often billed as “The Nation's Summer Capital" due to the fact that Rehoboth Beach is a frequent summer vacation destination for Washington, DC residents as well as visitors from Baltimore, Philadelphia and beyond. On the Atlantic Coast, Rehoboth Beach is less than two hours away from these major metropolitan areas and just 3 hours away from New York City.
Retirees, families and summer vacationers alike are drawn to Rehoboth Beach for many reasons: the natural beatuy of our ocean beaches, the inherent charm of our architecture, lifestyle and natives, and our renowned restaurants and nightlife.
Summer at Rehoboth Beach: arcades and ice cream parlors, bandstand concerts, a Farmer’s Market, miniature golf, amusement park rides for the kids, beach volleyball, cotton candy, pretzels, t-shirts and flip-flops, outdoor dining under the stars, a fantastic boardwalk and beach - and of course, July 4th Fireworks over the ocean. Fall in Rehoboth Beach is packed with special events and beautiful weather: Autumn Jazz Fest, Sea Witch Halloween Festival, Sidewalk Sales, Pet Costume Parade, Greyhound Weekend, Independent Film Festival, outdoor dining. Winter in Rehoboth Beach boasts holiday cheer: sing-a-longs, parades, tax-free shopping, Mardi Gras & Gumbo Cook-off, legendary restaurant specials, sports bars to root for your teams, luxurious spa treatments, exquisite accommodations. Spring in Rehoboth Beach bursts with life: Chocolate Festival, kite flying events, live music, boardwalk and beach strolls, Easter bonnets, candy bunnies, fashion shows, 10k walks, Restaurant Week, ArtWalk, Paint-Out Weekend.
