Bethany Beach, DE 7-Day Trip Itinerary

Drive to Charleston, SC

Embark on your road trip from Ormond Beach, Florida, heading north along the scenic coastal routes to Charleston, South Carolina. Enjoy the journey through diverse landscapes.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your accommodation in Charleston's historic district, allowing for easy access to nearby attractions.

Explore Historic District

Take a leisurely walk through the charming historic district of Charleston, admiring the antebellum architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant gardens.

Visit Rainbow Row.

Dinner in Charleston

Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring Lowcountry cuisine at a local restaurant.

Recommendations include Husk or FIG for a fine dining experience, or Poogan's Porch for Southern comfort food.

Historic Walking Tour

Join a guided walking tour to delve deeper into Charleston's rich history, covering everything from its colonial past to the Civil War era.

Many tours depart from the Visitor Center; book in advance.

Lunch in French Quarter

Enjoy lunch in the French Quarter, a charming area with art galleries and diverse eateries.

Boone Hall Plantation

Visit one of America's oldest working plantations, Boone Hall, famous for its Avenue of Oaks, historic buildings, and Gullah culture presentations.

(Alternatively, visit Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum).

Stroll The Battery

Walk along The Battery, a picturesque promenade and park at the tip of the Charleston peninsula, offering views of Fort Sumter and the harbor.

Evening & Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed evening, perhaps with another excellent dinner or exploring King Street for some evening shopping and drinks.

Drive to Richmond, VA

Today involves a longer drive from Charleston, SC, to Richmond, Virginia.

Take breaks as needed and enjoy the change of scenery.

Hotel Check-in Richmond

Check into your hotel in Richmond upon arrival.

Explore Carytown

Discover Carytown, Richmond's Mile of Style, featuring unique boutiques, art galleries, and cafes.

It's a great place for an evening stroll.

Dinner in Carytown

Dine at one of Carytown's many excellent restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines from casual to upscale.

Virginia State Capitol

Visit the Virginia State Capitol, designed by Thomas Jefferson.

Take a guided tour to learn about its history and significance.

Check for tour times and availability in advance.

American Civil War Museum

Explore the American Civil War Museum, which tells the story of the war from multiple perspectives, housed in the historic Tredegar Iron Works site.

Purchase tickets upon arrival or online.

Riverside Lunch

Have lunch near the riverfront or downtown Richmond.

Maymont Estate Visit

Spend the afternoon at Maymont, a 100-acre Victorian estate with gardens, a historic mansion, and an arboretum.

Enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Admission to the grounds and gardens is free, mansion tours may have a fee.

Leisure & Dinner

Enjoy a final evening in Richmond with dinner at a restaurant of your choice, perhaps exploring the vibrant Fan District.

Drive to Bethany Beach, DE

Depart from Richmond and drive east towards the Delaware coast, arriving in Bethany Beach.

This leg of the journey will bring you to your final destination.

Hotel Check-in Bethany Beach

Check into your accommodation in Bethany Beach, getting settled for your coastal relaxation.

Bethany Beach Boardwalk

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Bethany Beach Boardwalk, taking in the ocean views and fresh sea air.

It's a perfect way to unwind after your drive.

Seafood Dinner

Indulge in a fresh seafood dinner at one of Bethany Beach's popular restaurants, celebrating your arrival at the coast.

Drive to Bethany Beach

Embark on a scenic drive from Richmond, Virginia, heading east towards the Delaware coast.

Enjoy the changing landscapes as you make your way to Bethany Beach.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your historic oceanfront inn, the Addy Sea, and get settled.

Take some time to freshen up and admire the coastal views.

Beachfront Relaxation

Spend a couple of hours unwinding on the beautiful sandy shores of Bethany Beach.

Enjoy the calming sound of the waves and the refreshing ocean breeze.

Even in December, a walk on the beach can be invigorating. Dress in layers to enjoy the crisp sea air.

Boardwalk Stroll & Dinner

Take a leisurely walk along the Bethany Beach Boardwalk, enjoying the festive lights and ocean views.

Afterwards, find a local restaurant for a delicious dinner.

Many restaurants along the boardwalk or nearby will be open. Consider seafood for a true coastal dining experience.

Electric Bike Adventure

Rent electric bikes from Pedego Electric Bikes and explore the scenic trails and charming streets of Bethany Beach. It's a fun and memorable way to see the area.

The nearby bike trails are safe and beautiful. Remember to book in advance if possible.

Bethany Beach Nature Center

Discover the local ecosystem and wildlife at the Bethany Beach Nature Center.

Learn about the coastal environment and enjoy a peaceful walk.

A great spot for nature lovers and families. Check for any specific programs or exhibits available.

Lunch & Souvenir Shopping

Enjoy a final lunch in Bethany Beach.

Afterwards, browse local shops for souvenirs, perhaps stopping at Bethany Beach Books for a last minute read.

Farewell Beach Time & Departure Prep

Enjoy one last moment on Bethany Beach, collecting seashells or simply taking in the view.

Head back to your accommodation to check out and prepare for your drive home, concluding your 7-day adventure.