Long Neck: A getaway among bays, nature and history

Long Neck is an unincorporated area on a peninsula that separates Rehoboth Bay and Indian River Bay. The two bays shape the local waterfront experiences: boat trips are offered on the bays, and Paradise Grill is located right on Indian River Bay in Pot-Nets Bayside. When choosing a vacation rental, it may help to consider whether you plan to spend most of your time on the water, in nature or on a variety of excursions. Long Neck offers several distinct options, from boating to a nature preserve and local history.

Bays, boat trips and picnics

Boat trips are offered on the bays of Long Neck as a recreational activity. Massey's Landing is a public boat ramp in Long Neck, with parking for vehicles and two boat launches. For visitors planning a boating activity, information about the ramp and parking is a practical point of reference. The sandbar at Massey's Ditch offers a different perspective on the water: it is recommended for family picnics with a view of the water. Paradise Grill offers weekly entertainment in Long Neck. As schedules can change, check the latest dates before your visit. Together, these options offer different ways to enjoy the water: boat trips on the bays, boat launches at Massey's Landing and a picnic at the sandbar.

Nature: hiking, birds and protected areas

Burton Island is a nature preserve connected to the mainland by a hiking trail. Ticks can be especially prevalent on the trail in summer; if you plan to hike there, take this seasonal consideration into account. Nearby Delaware Seashore State Park offers opportunities for hiking and birdwatching. Okie Preserve is part of the Assawoman Wildlife Area. These nature options differ: the nearby state park offers hiking and birdwatching, while Burton Island has a different focus, with its nature preserve and trail to the mainland.

History, golf and seafood

Culture, golf and food each add a different dimension. The history of Rosedale Beach Resort is connected to the local Nanticoke community and the African American community from the early to the mid-20th century. These connections bring the area's history into focus through two communities and a clearly defined period. Baywood Greens has an 18-hole golf course. The Woodside Nine is surrounded by tall hardwood trees, colorful wildflowers, protected natural habitats and a scenic waterway leading to Delaware Bay. Restaurants in Long Neck serve seafood such as steamed crabs and oysters. You can choose a historical focus, a golf course landscape or restaurant visits featuring seafood as themes for your vacation.

Considering Long Neck as a vacation destination

Rehoboth Beach is about a 15- to 20-minute drive from Long Neck; traffic and route can affect the travel time. This gives you a practical consideration when choosing a vacation destination: Would you like to center your stay on Long Neck's bays, nature and history, or should the drive to Rehoboth Beach also be a factor? If you're looking for vacation rentals, it's best to compare Long Neck based on your personal priorities and the activities you actually want to include in your trip.

Discover more destinations: Dagsboro, Millsboro, Rehoboth Beach, Seaford, Fenwick Island, Greenwood, Milford, Bethany Beach.

For the broader travel overview: Sussex County.