Lewes Delaware Travel Guide: Beach Walks, Jetty Views, and Vintage Charm
Looking for a peaceful, charming beach destination with history and coastal beauty? This Lewes Delaware travel guide will take you through the highlights of this beloved seaside town, from its iconic jetty and lifeboat views to its vintage soul and art-worthy shoreline.
Whether you’re planning a trip or simply dreaming of the coast, Lewes offers a tremendous mix. When visiting, find:
- nostalgia,
- nature,
- and New England-style charm
right on the Delaware Bay.
1. Stroll Along the Lewes Beach and Jetty
The jetty at Lewes Beach is one of the area’s most photogenic spots. Early morning walkers and photographers are drawn to its quiet beauty—especially when the Cape May lifeboat sits framed against the morning light.
It’s the perfect spot to watch the ferries come and go, or just breathe in the fresh salt air. Many travelers walk to the end of the jetty for panoramic views of Delaware Bay and distant glimpses of Cape May, New Jersey.
2. Catch the Ferry—or Just Watch It
Lewes is the northern terminal of the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, which offers a unique 85-minute ride across the bay. Even if you don’t take the trip, watching the massive white ships arrive and depart is a daily ritual for many visitors.
Locals and tourists alike gather on the beach with coffee or cameras, enjoying the rhythm of the tides and ferries alike.
3. Explore Historic Lewes Town
Beyond the beach, Lewes is filled with cobblestone charm. From boutiques to waterfront dining, the historic district has a welcoming, walkable layout. Be sure to stop by the Zwaanendael Museum or take a walking tour to learn about the town’s Dutch colonial roots.
4. Bring the Vibe Home with Vintage Travel Art
For those who fall in love with Lewes, it’s easy to carry that feeling back with you. My 1950s-style Lewes travel poster captures the timeless spirit of this beach town in a nostalgic coastal design. It’s perfect for beach house decor or office daydreaming.
You can also browse my growing collection of USA coastal photography prints to find more serene shoreline scenes like those of Lewes and beyond.
5. Make It Part of a Coastal Gallery Wall
If you’re looking for ways to decorate with your favorite beach towns, don’t miss my blog post: Coastal Wall Art Ideas to Bring the Beach Into Your Home. It includes tips on how to mix photography and retro posters for a breezy, coastal aesthetic.
6. Discover More Forgotten Beach Towns
Lewes is just one of many under-the-radar seaside towns with big character. Explore more in my feature on Forgotten Beach Towns and the Art They Inspire, a visual journey through lesser-known gems along the shore.
Plan Your Visit—or Just Dream a Little
Whether you’re planning a weekend in Lewes or simply looking for artwork that reflects your love for the ocean, I hope this guide inspires you. And if you’d like to see more of my photography and poster collections, stop by my full site at bobpardue.com.
Until then—wishing you sea breezes and soft sand underfoot.