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Getting Around Rehoboth Beach Area

Getting Around Rehoboth Beach Area

Rehoboth Beach Area Delaware, USA Travel Guide

Public Transportation: DART Beach Bus

The DART First State Beach Bus system has the main public transportation service in the Rehoboth Beach area. No metro or tram systems operate here. The bus service operates seasonally, typically from Memorial Day weekend (late May) through mid-September. It joins The Nation's summer capital with neighboring Dewey Beach and Lewes, and extends access to the Tanger Outlets on Route 1. This service reduces reliance on private vehicles, easing parking and traffic issues in the busy downtown areas.

The DART Beach Bus service is seasonal. During the peak summer season (roughly Memorial Day to May Day (in many countries)), buses generally operate from 7 AM to 2 AM. Frequency is high on main routes, with buses arriving every 15-30 minutes. In the shoulder season, hours may be reduced, and frequency might decrease. Always check the current schedule on the DART First State website or the mobile app.

Routes & Fares

  • Routes: #201 (Rehoboth, Dewey, Lewes), #203 (Rehoboth to Tanger Outlets).
  • Hubs: Rehoboth Park & Ride (complimentary parking), Downtown Rehoboth (Rehoboth Ave.), Dewey Beach (Dagsworthy St.).
  • Fares: Standard fare is $2.25 for each ride.
  • Passes: Daily Pass $8, 7-Day Pass $30. Pay with cash (exact change) or DART Pass mobile app.

Accessibility

All DART First State buses are wheelchair accessible, featuring ramps plus area for mobility devices. Buses also have bike racks on the front.

Mobile App

The DART Pass mobile app provides real-time bus tracking, seeing exactly where your bus is and when it will arrive. It additionally handles mobile ticketing.

Park & Ride

During high season, parking at the Rehoboth Preserve AND Ride lot on DE-1 is recommended. It offers free parking and direct bus service downtown.

Efficient Navigation Tips

Using the Bus System
  • Use the DART Pass Mobile App for real-time tracking and ticketing.
  • Utilize the Park & Ride Lot on DE-1 to avoid downtown parking fees and congestion.
  • Plan your routes in advance, especially for connections or travel to numerous towns.
Maximizing Your Ride
  • Check current schedules for peak and shoulder season hours.
  • Use bike racks on buses to combine cycling with bus travel.
  • Purchase daily or 7-day passes for frequent use to save on fares.

Cost Breakdown: Mid-range Traveler

Accommodation

$150-$300/night

Food

$60-$100/day

Transportation

$15-$40/day

Activities

$30-$70/day

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services offer flexible, on-demand transportation in Rehoboth Beach, specifically useful for evenings out or when public transport schedules are limited. Availability and pricing vary by season and demand.

Taxi Services

  • Several local taxi companies operate in the Rehoboth Beach area.
  • More common to call a taxi company directly for pick-up.
  • Fares are either metered or a level rate agreed upon before the ride.
  • Most cabs take both cash and major credit cards.

Ride-Sharing Apps

  • Uber and Lyft operate in Rehoboth Beach, popular during summer.
  • Availability and queue times vary, notably in the late evening or off-peak.
  • Prices can surge during high demand, like events or peak evenings.
  • Use apps to check estimated fares before requesting a lift.

Safety Considerations

  • Taxis: Confirm the cab is licensed. If a meter is available, confirm its use.
  • Agree on a flat fare beforehand for non-metered trips.
  • Rideshare: Verify driver and car details (make, model, license plate) match the app.
  • Share trip details with a friend or family member using the app's safety features.
  • Airport Transfers: Taxis/rideshares from PHL/BWI/DCA are expensive ($200-300+ one-way).
  • Consider pre-booked shuttle services for airport transfers as a cost-effective alternative.

Cost Breakdown: Luxury Traveler

Accommodation

$350-$800+/night

Food

$120-$250+/day

Transportation

$50-$100+/day

Rental Options

Different rental types cater to various travel needs. Vehicle hire services are largely available at regional airports and in larger nearby towns. Restricted selections exist directly in Rehoboth Beach.

Car Rental

  • Valid U.S. Driver's license or International Driving Permit (IDP) plus home country license.
  • Major credit card for rental and security deposit.
  • Minimum age usually 21 (surcharges for under 25).
  • Major companies: Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National.

Bicycle Rentals

  • No widespread public bike-sharing program.
  • Numerous local businesses offer bicycle rentals (Fun For All, Bob's Bike Shop).
  • Rental prices: $15-$30 per day, $60-$100 per week.
  • Many shops offer different bike types and include helmets.

Driving & Parking

Driving Laws

Standard U.S. Driving laws. Drive on the right-hand side. Seatbelt use is mandatory for all passengers.

Observe speed limits.

Road Conditions

Roads are generally well-maintained. DE-1 (Coastal Highway) faces heavy congestion during peak summer season. Prepare for delays.

Patience is a virtue.

Parking Information

Parking downtown is challenging and expensive. Metered parking ($3-$4/hour) is seasonal. Paid lots ($15-$30+/day) are available. Utilize the free Rehoboth Park & Ride on DE-1.

Preserve AND Ride is best.

Other Rental Options

Motorcycles & Scooters
  • Less common for rental compared to other holiday spots.
  • Some local shops may offer scooter rentals seasonally.
  • Specific license requirements apply for motorcycles.
Specialty Vehicles
  • Tuk-tuks or jeepneys are not available in Rehoboth Beach.
  • Transportation methods are typical of an U.S. Resort town.
  • Focus on standard car, bike, and public transit options.

Road Safety Reminders

  • Heavy congestion on DE-1, especially on summer Fridays and Sundays.
  • Pay close attention to pedestrians and cyclists in downtown and boardwalk areas.
  • Obey all traffic signals and signs.
  • Always wear a helmet when cycling.
  • Use designated bike lanes and trails where available.
  • Bicycles are prohibited on the boardwalk during peak hours (10 AM - 5 PM) in summer.
  • Be mindful of noise levels in residential areas, especially at night.
  • Coastal weather conditions can change quickly, including strong winds.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling present enjoyable ways to explore The Nation's summer capital, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere and access areas inaccessible by car. The the town has pedestrian-friendly zones and devoted trails.

Pedestrian Areas

  • Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk: 1-mile long, flat surface for walking and jogging.
  • Downtown Rehoboth: Grid-like street layout, shops, restaurants, attractions within walking distance.
  • Gordon's Pond Wildlife Area: Scenic paved trail connecting Rehoboth to Cape Henlopen State Park.
  • Self-guided exploration of historic neighborhoods is common.

Bicycle Infrastructure

  • Dedicated bike lanes on some roads.
  • Excellent paved multi-use trails: Junction and Breakwater Trail (Rehoboth-Lewes).
  • Always wear a helmet when cycling.
  • Bicycles are prohibited on the boardwalk during peak summer hours (10 AM - 5 PM).

Walkability

High walkability the city center and on the boardwalk. Most attractions are within easy reach on foot.

Bike-Friendly

Numerous trails and bike lanes cater to cyclists. Bike rentals are widely available for convenience.

Scenic Routes

Enjoy views of the ocean, pond, and marsh on designated trails. Ideal for nature lovers.

Specialized Transportation & Accessibility

Unique Transport & Tours
  • Tour buses and hop-on-hop-off services are not common locally.
  • No formal boat taxi service in Rehoboth Bay or oceanfront.
  • No cable cars, funiculars, or other unique systems. Transportation mirrors a typical coastal resort.
Accessibility Services
  • DART First State Buses are all wheelchair accessible.
  • Rehoboth Beach offers free beach wheelchairs for loan at boardwalk locations in summer.
  • Newer accommodations and attractions meet ADA standards.

Seamless Travel

Choosing the right mode of transportation for each leg of your trip maximizes comfort and minimizes travel time.

Utilize Rehoboth's pedestrian and cycling-friendly infrastructure to experience the town at your own pace.

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