Naming a town can be daunting – how’re you to know what the town could possibly transform into? In the case of the charming seaside Rehoboth Beach, the founders were spot-on. The word “Rehoboth” has biblical origins and is a “place for everyone” – and it’s true. Within the small confines of this quaint seaside community in Delaware, the LGBTQ public can feel absolutely at home. For a beach town founded in the 1870s, Rehoboth developed a gay friendly vibe very early on. Today, gay hotels in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware are more a way of life than anything else. What’s more, you’ll find a great variety of accommodations options here. These include resorts, hotels, inns, and many LGBT-owned bed and breakfasts and guest houses as well.
With more than 200 LGBT-owned and operated businesses, it’s no surprise that this sandy hamlet is one of the most bustling gay beach communities in the United States. Both of Rehoboth’s beach hamlets attracts a different kind of LGBT crowd. Poodle Beach, for instance, is more popular with young gay men, while North Shore is a reputed lesbian hangout. Rehoboth also boasts a buzzing gay nightlife that isn’t limited to any neighborhood, per se. In addition to that, the gay day life is equally as enticing as nightlife; think volleyball, hiking, kayaking, shopping, and more. Moreover, this gay friendly East Coast slice sees far fewer tourists than Fort Lauderdale, Ogunquit, and Atlantic City.
It’s no wonder that USA Today called Rehoboth one of the best gay beaches in the US. To that end, here are the best gay friendly hotels in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.
Avenue Inn and Spa
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The Avenue Inn and Spa is one of the most romantic gay hotels in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. If you and your partner are looking for the perfect romantic hideaway, then this place is the perfect place to hole up for the weekend. What’s more, it’s a particularly luxurious hole right on the beach, a mere block away from the boardwalk. Moreover, the inn is also within a stone’s throw of all of Rehoboth Beach’s main entertainment, dining, and shopping.
The Avenue Inn and Spa boasts a glamorous and yet cozy atmosphere. Also, this place has a whole lot of amenities for you guys to enjoy each other’s company. For one, there’s a lovely indoor heated pool, which is perfect for a swim. The outdoor hot tub and sauna will surely relax you and heat things up at the same time. Besides, this inn is home to one of the most well-known and best local day spas in town, the Avenue Apothecary and Spa. You could either choose the hour-long couples massage. Or, if you want to splash, go for the Complete Couples Package which includes wine/champagne and time in the pool and jacuzzi prior to your spa session. Moreover, the spa session itself comprises pedicures, manicures, and herbal massages! Rounding up the amenities is a fabulous full breakfast, which is a great way to begin the day.
Rooms at the Avenue Inn & Spa lie in two separate buildings, in which the Avenue II rooms can only be accessed by stairs. Rooms here are done up in a sleek manner and come with all kinds of standard mod-cons, and some even have sofa beds and private balconies.
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Hotel Rehoboth, Rehoboth Beach
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The zenith of boutique accommodation in Rehoboth Beach is the Hotel Rehoboth. It’s widely regarded as the best boutique hotel in the area and is also the first of its kind. The gay friendly hotel lies in the absolute heart of Rehoboth, within two blocks of the beach. What’s more, it’s also within walking distance of all of Rehoboth beach’s local attractions, boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. All-in-all, it offers both amazing beach access as well as panoramic views of the town from the confines of your abode.
The gorgeous hotel within its flower-covered facade boasts a laundry list of amenities. To begin with, there’s a lovely heated outdoor pool, complete with loungers and towels. If you have your own transport, then you’ll find free parking too. Kick-off your day every morning with a complimentary à la carte or American breakfast before grabbing the free bicycles and going off to explore. The hotel even has a wonderful Italian restaurant, which serves both lunch and dinner. Come evening, and there’s a happy hour with crackers, cheese, seasonal beverages, and wine. Finally, the hotel even offers a turndown service. The highlight, however, is the hotel’s open-air beach shuttle takes you down to the beach, complete with towels and chairs!
When it comes to accommodation, the Hotel Rehoboth doesn’t disappoint either. Rooms come with plush beds, soft bathrobes, all standard amenities, and even a separate desk and coffee area. Bathrooms are modern and stocked with bespoke AVEDA products. The best part is the stellar views of Lake Avenue from all rooms out of the pretty windows. Moreover, some rooms even have terraces/balconies and electric fireplaces.
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The Bellmoor Inn and Spa
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The award-winning Bellmoor Inn and Spa is one of the most romantic and overall best gay hotels in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. The luxurious hotel is sprawled on a lush patch of land just two blocks away from the Boardwalk and Rehoboth beach. The minute you enter the sun-kissed property, you know you’ve arrived somewhere special. There are trees and lush foliage everywhere, complete with shrubs, manicured gardens, and even ponds. Amidst this magical setting, you’ll find seating where you can spend some romantic moments with your partner. The hotel itself boasts period touches like ornate lighting fixtures, fireplaces, and more.
There’s something for everyone at this elegant property. Firstly, there are two outdoor pools, of which one is adults only and perfect for lounging with your significant other by your side. After a swim and a lounge, head to the enclosed hot tub for a languorous lie-in that’ll soak all stresses away. If you two are fitness fanatics, then the state-of-the-art fitness center will appeal immensely to you. Do go for the spa treatments, which are some of the most luxurious in town. Begin your day with a hearty complimentary gourmet breakfast. During the day, kick back and play board games or read in the library or relax in the courtyard. Come afternoon, there’s lovely tea with ice-cold lemonade and homemade cookies waiting for you. In the evening, board the special shuttle to the boardwalk and beach to enjoy Rehoboth’s nightlife.
Rooms and suites here are equally luxe, complete with soft beds, complimentary bathrobes, and all standard mod-cons including coffee makers. However, that’s not all. They even have breezy patios and marble-tiled bathrooms with hydrotherapy tubs that’ll truly add romance to your vacation.
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The Oceanus Hotel, Rehoboth Beach
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Are you a gay single traveler looking to mingle? Then the centrally-located Oceanus Hotel might just be what you’re looking for. The motel lies just two blocks from all the action at Boardwalk and beach. Plus, it’s well located for you to explore the events, restaurants, shops, bars, and breweries of Rehoboth Beach. What’s more, the hotel gives off warm and welcoming coastal vibes with amenities aplenty, making it the perfect base for solo travelers to town.
So, what makes the Oceanus such a great place to stay in town? For one, it has a good-sized turquoise outdoor pool sitting in a massive pool area. The place is peppered with cerulean loungers and umbrellas and is a great place to lounge and meet fellow travelers. On balmy days, relaxing here is the best activity you can indulge in. The on-site laundry facilities are a blessing if you’ve come off a long holiday. Plus, free private parking is perfect if you have your own transport. Besides free Wi-Fi, the hotel also has a vending machine for snacks and drinks as well as a small but well-stocked library.
You have choices when it comes to rooms too, right from the entry-level ones to deluxe ones. Nevertheless, they all feature plush beds, basic self-catering facilities, modern bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and even HBO movie channels.
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Boardwalk Plaza Hotel, Rehoboth Beach
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The Boardwalk Plaza Hotel is one of the best old-world luxury gay hotels in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. The hotel bills itself as a “Beach House with 84 Bedrooms,” and it’s easy to see why. The charming hotel features Victorian-inspired design and luxury, complete with elegant and authentic antiques. This gorgeous, three-storied, Victorian-decked property overlooks the deep blue Atlantic and makes for a very homey and yet luxurious property.
Unsurprisingly, the hotel boasts an array of excellent amenities. The standout is the heated soaking pool in a very pretty, glass-and-stone-walled room directly overlooking the ocean. It even features potted plants, a small but ornate fountain, and comfy chairs to lounge in later. After a swim, enjoy a soak in the outdoor hot tub that sits on the outdoor deck, complete with loungers and pretty parasols. The on-site bar and restaurant serve not amazing delectable meals, but even afternoon tea, with gorgeous views to boot. What’s more, it serves a delicious breakfast in bed, which means that you can dig into buttery croissants and sip on coffee in the comfort of your room. Finally, the hotel even offers free beach yoga classes, live music, and a slew of other summer activities.
The stately rooms and suites at this hotel also feature the lovely Victorian design, along with modern comforts like flatscreen TVs, DVD players, microwaves, and mini-fridges. If you’re looking to splurge, then some rooms even have whirlpool bathtubs.
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Heritage Inn & Suites Rehoboth
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The Heritage Inn & Suites Rehoboth Beach is one of the best choices for gay friendly “themed” hotels in the town. It’s also the very first themed property in the region and takes pride in the heritage of America. You’ll feel that in every nook and cranny of the hotel, right from the common areas to the rooms. To begin with, every room is named for some American tradition, national park, territory, or state. All rooms are decked out in luxurious mod-cons including flatscreen TVs and coffeemakers. Moreover, they even feature ensuite bathrooms, neutral soothing hues, and comfy, plush beds. The larger suites also have seating areas with soft couches and handsome chests of drawers, as well as jacuzzis in the bathrooms.
The heritage of America is evident in the common places as you see the flags of the 50 states flying just about everywhere. The hotel also boasts a laundry list of amenities, beginning with a superb outdoor pool area. With sun loungers and umbrellas, it’s the perfect place to relax on-site. The sun-kissed breakfast area is where a hearty spread for breakfast is served every day. Besides a fitness center, the hotel even has a wet bar where a cocktail can be enjoyed in the evening, before heading into town.
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Rehoboth Guest House
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It’s hard to beat a gay-owned living establishment, and the Rehoboth Guest House is one of the best gay hotels in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Whether it’s the location one block from the beach or the value, this place makes for one great gay base in town.
A large rainbow flag flutters outside this amazing adults-only, gay-owned guesthouse, which sits in a classic, three-storied beach house. In fact, its stunning backyard directly connects to the courtyard of the terrific, LGBT-owned Lori’s Cafe. Plus, other gay friendly restaurants of Aqua Grill, Blue Moon, and others are right down the street. Even though it’s less than two blocks from Rehoboth beach, the guesthouse is serene and tranquil, is bursting with common spaces. So, if you’re a social butterfly, then this place is perfect for you. Right from the leafy, tree-shaded lawn to the huge back porch to the large front verandah, you have lots of places to mingle. The guesthouse serves a sumptuous continental breakfast in the side room with lashings of sunlight and is a great way to begin the day.
Each of the 14 rooms is immaculate and unfussy and feature plush beds and private ensuite bathrooms. Also, the two rooms are larger suites, which can accommodate four people. Also, all rooms feature standard mod-cons.
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The Homestead B&B
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If you’re looking for peaceful LGBTQ digs a little away from the beach, then the lesbian-owned The Homestead B&B is perfect. The lovely, adults-only hideaway sits in a tranquil neighborhood a 10-minute drive from the beachfront. Set on two acres of picturesque lush green land, this intimate and adorable B&B is a farmhouse done up as a cheery yellow cottage with blue trimmings.
Towering maple trees and a screened-in wraparound porch welcome you within the main historic structure. The B&B is also very pet-friendly and features not just dog-friendly rooms, but even separate cottages. In addition, the place even serves a lip-smacking complete breakfast in the common area. What’s more, there’s even an extensive DVD collection and a quaint library on-site. When you want to unwind, head down to the massage studio on the property. The highlight is the fabulous outdoor pool area overlooking the lush greenery, complete with sun loungers and umbrellas.
The main house features four bedrooms, all with ensuite bathrooms, mod-cons, and lots of sunlight. If you’re looking for privacy, then head down to the detached cottage, which has its own living areas, gas grill, kitchenette, and even a private patio.
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Hampton Inn Rehoboth Beach
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The Hampton Inn is one of the best mid-range gay hotels in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. As far as mid-priced chain hotels go, the Hampton Inn is one solid choice, and the Rehoboth Beach property is no different. It lies amidst the hotel cluster right on the busy coastal highway, around a 10-minute drive from the beachfront. If you’re looking for an economic base camp and have Hilton Honors points to spare, then this one makes for a good choice.
Just like other Hampton Inn properties, this one also offers comfy and immaculate well-sized rooms. These spacious rooms feature all standard mod-cons that include coffeemakers, fridges, and even microwaves, so you can store leftovers and enjoy a cuppa in the morning. Moreover, the rooms also feature plush beds and modern bathrooms, along with work desks. For a mid-range hotel, Hampton Inn offers a good range of amenities. For instance, it has an indoor pool area with loungers where you can enjoy a swim after a long day. Apart from a business center, there’s even a gym in case you don’t want to miss out on your workout regimen. Finally, a hot complimentary breakfast is served at the Hampton Inn, along with free parking and laundry facilities.
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Canalside Inn
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If you think inns are smaller, older properties, then you’ll change your opinion once you set your eyes on Canalside Inn. The gay friendly Rehoboth Beach hotel lies along the scenic and historic Lewes-Rehoboth Canal, a couple of blocks from the beachfront. In fact, the Boardwalk is a mere 20-minute pleasant stroll from the inn, as are the many gay friendly bars, clubs, and restaurants of Rehoboth Beach.
The inn feels more like a boutique hotel than a guesthouse. Every room at this contemporary 12-room boutique place has its own private exterior entrance. So, lower ones open directly open to the parking area, while the first-floor ones open onto a private deck. So, if you like views, then the upper units are better. Nevertheless, they all feature lots of space, a slew of mod-cons, and ensuite bathrooms as well. Most of the room features a white palette, with green and blue accents embodying the beach vibe. What’s more, some even feature large sitting areas.
Despite being a value property, the Canalside Inn offers a sumptuous and delectable breakfast to begin your day on a high note. Furthermore, there are even free bicycles that you can grab to explore the town on your own. The property even has a lush garden and a sun terrace for you to relax, complete with cushy alfresco furniture. barbeque facilities mean that you can spend the evenings grilling and making new friends. Rounding the facilities is a picnic area, where you can enjoy spending time beside the gushing canal.
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Bewitched & Bedazzled B&B
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Eco-conscious, pet-friendly, and gay friendly – the Bewitched & Bedazzled B&B ticks all the boxes for a fantastic gay stay in Rehoboth Beach. One of the most charming gay hotels in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, the whimsical yet elegant inn lives up to its name. The inn sits in two neighboring houses, named Bewitched and BeDazzled, around three blocks from the Rehoboth beachfront. So, it’s within walking distance of the town’s entertainment, dining, and drinking establishments.
Just like its name, the Bewitched house is peppered with Hollywood memorabilia of all kinds. The building is actually an ode to the eponymous ’60s sitcom, with every room paying a visual tribute to the stars of the show. Similarly, you’ll “be- dazzled” as you enter the neighboring BeDazzled house. The rooms here are themed and named after the stars of vintage movies, right from Clark Gable to Judy Garland. If you’re thinking that it’s kitschy, then you’re sorely mistaken. For, the rooms are attractive, warm, and inviting, and the homages are subtle in the form of vintage bric-a-brac or framed photos and such.
The standout here is the delicious organic breakfasts, which are a grand affair in the sunroom. Plus, the B&B even has a private patio where you can relax, as well as a hot tub. Finally, the B&B also offers drinks and tea in the garden. Coming to the rooms, all rooms here feature private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and flatscreen TVs. If that wasn’t enough, every room even offers candies and wine glasses for guest use.
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Just So You Know:
- If you’re looking for something particularly rambunctious in Rehoboth Beach, then head to The Shore Inn. The gay-only establishment is also clothing optional!
Get Some Culture in Rehoboth Beach:
- Delaware Pride: Delaware Pride is celebrated both in the capital city Dover and Rehoboth Beach. Besides a parade, it also features talks, cultural events, and lots of fun parties!
- Rehoboth Beach Bear Weekend: This fun and safe space for Rehoboth Beach bears features everything from beach events to bar events and parties and more.
Best Gay Bars / Clubs in Rehoboth Beach:
- Blue Moon: This Rehoboth Beach institution is its oldest gay bar, and has been since 1981. It’s a wonderful restaurant by day and a rip-roaring dance club by night.
- Purple Parrot Grill: This quintessential gay beach bar is perfect for day drinks and nighttime romps, complete with bartenders in swimsuits!
Best Gay Saunas in Rehoboth Beach:
Rehoboth Beach doesn’t have a gay sauna scene. However, with such fabulous sun-kissed gay beaches, who needs a sauna?