March Highlights: Best Things to Do in Bethany Beach

A Coastal Town Awakens: March in Bethany Beach

Bethany Beach welcomes the early spring season with a fresh coastal breeze, charming scenery, and a calendar of vibrant activities. As the town slowly stretches out of winter’s slumber, March offers the best things to do in Bethany Beach before the summer crowds arrive. Whether you’re walking the boardwalk, browsing boutique shops, or exploring nature trails, the experience is refreshingly relaxed and full of promise.

With a unique blend of quiet serenity and emerging excitement, March is the perfect time to discover this charming beach town. Let’s explore what makes Bethany Beach in March so special.

1. Stroll the Boardwalk and Breathe in Ocean Views

The mile-long boardwalk in Bethany Beach is one of its most iconic features. It’s quiet in March, making it ideal for long, uninterrupted walks. You’ll enjoy stunning ocean views, a salty breeze, and perhaps even spot a few dolphins offshore.

The boardwalk is also home to local shops and eateries beginning to open for the season. While some businesses remain closed until April, you’ll still find boutique stores and cozy coffee spots where locals gather. The lack of summer crowds allows for more personal experiences with the town and its residents.

2. Visit the Nature Center and Explore Local Trails

A must-visit for nature lovers, the Bethany Beach Nature Center offers educational exhibits and outdoor adventures. March is a wonderful time to explore its surrounding walking trail, especially as the area starts to bloom. Birdwatchers, in particular, will enjoy spotting migratory species returning home for spring.

The trail winds through coastal marshland and forest, showcasing a beautiful contrast of land and water. It’s an easy walk, suitable for all ages, and perfect for getting close to the natural side of Bethany Beach.

3. Events at the Bandstand: Music, Markets & More

Although the peak season for bandstand events is summer, March occasionally brings special performances or spring preview events. Local musicians and community markets may set up pop-up performances, offering a taste of what’s to come later in the year.

Keep an eye on the town’s calendar for live music or art shows. Even if an official event isn’t happening, the bandstand area is still a great gathering spot and often used by locals for outdoor yoga, walking, or casual meetups.

4. Discover the Downtown Charm

Downtown Bethany is brimming with small-town character. March is ideal for exploring without the rush of peak-season tourists. You’ll find quaint shops, family-owned restaurants, and friendly faces happy to share their local favorites.

Be sure to visit the town’s boutiques for handcrafted goods, coastal decor, and unique gifts. The absence of heavy foot traffic makes this an ideal time to get personalized recommendations and truly appreciate the local charm.

5. Hike a Coastal Trail at Delaware Seashore State Park

Just minutes away, Delaware Seashore State Park offers a larger-scale adventure. Its many trail systems include coastal dunes, maritime forests, and salt marshes, providing panoramic views that make every hike memorable.

In March, these trails are peaceful and teeming with early wildlife activity. You’ll see rabbits darting through brush, seabirds circling overhead, and maybe even horseshoe crabs in the tidal flats. This area is perfect for a day trip from Bethany Beach.

6. Savor Local Flavors: Where to Eat in March

Several restaurants in Bethany Beach begin opening with spring menus in March, often featuring locally sourced seafood and early produce. Try Bethany Blues for barbecue with a coastal twist or enjoy a quieter meal at a beachfront bistro with freshly caught fish.

Even if your favorite spot isn’t open just yet, you’ll still find warm hospitality and seasonal specials that highlight the town’s culinary creativity. Eating out in March often means shorter waits and more meaningful connections with staff and chefs.

7. Family-Friendly Fun and Educational Activities

Traveling with kids? The town offers several fun and educational options in March. Besides the nature center, families can visit local art studios that host seasonal workshops, many aimed at younger audiences.

The nearby DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum, just outside Bethany Beach, is a fascinating look into maritime history and a great indoor activity if the weather turns brisk. Whether you’re going for a walk, museum hopping, or flying a kite on the sand, there’s no shortage of family adventures.

8. Enjoy the Beach Without the Crowds

A beach day in March may not involve sunbathing, but it offers something arguably better—peace. The beach is almost entirely yours. You can take long walks, collect shells, or sit on the sand with a hot drink and just listen to the waves.

The colder air doesn’t take away from the magic of the beach. In fact, it might enhance it. The solitude invites you to reflect, relax, and appreciate the natural beauty that defines Bethany Beach.

9. Boutique Shopping for Unique Finds

Local shops in Bethany Beach carry everything from handmade jewelry to custom home decor. March means less competition for your favorite items and more one-on-one time with shop owners who can tell the story behind each product.

Visit Made By Hand International Co-op or Gallery One to find beautiful, ethically made art and goods. It’s a perfect way to bring a piece of the beach home with you.

10. Take a Sunset Walk Along the Shore

The end of a March day in Bethany Beach is something truly special. With the beach nearly empty, the setting sun casts golden hues over the water, making it a perfect time for a walk. Whether solo or with someone special, this simple activity caps off your day with peace and beauty.

As the sky shifts from orange to pink to deep blue, you’ll be reminded why so many consider this quiet shoulder season the best time to visit.

Conclusion: March in Bethany Beach is a Hidden Gem

Bethany Beach in March is a well-kept secret, offering serene beauty, emerging energy, and plenty of things to enjoy without the crowds. From peaceful beach strolls to invigorating trails and delightful shops, this month brings the best things to do in Bethany Beach in an atmosphere that feels personal and relaxed.

Whether you’re discovering a new favorite restaurant, visiting the nature center, or simply enjoying the views, you’ll find that Bethany Beach in March is a place where memories are quietly but deeply made.

So, if you’re looking for a tranquil escape filled with charm, activities, and a touch of adventure, make your way to Bethany this March. You’ll discover that the best moments often come when everything’s just beginning to bloom.