Making plans to go to the Delaware beaches this weekend? Here are some tips before you go
Summer days seem to be slipping away, but there are still a few weekends left for getaways to the beach, outdoor concerts and other adventures in Delaware's beach towns.
If you're headed that way this weekend, you may want a refresher on what to know before you go. But don't worry: We've got you covered.
Delaware Online/The News Journal has been following the latest news at the Delaware beaches all summer, and we've rounded up a few things to know, ranging from the latest weather report to updated COVID-19 guidance to the latest on travel trends.
For anyone looking to visit the Delaware beaches during the weekend of Aug. 19, check out this guide for the latest information.
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What's the beach forecast like this weekend?
While a slight chance of showers is lingering for part of this weekend, the cooler temperatures that came this week will likely stick around reaching the high 70s or low 80s.
As always though, don't forget to check the weather before making your way onto the sand. The National Weather Service even has a tool that shows people what the UV index and water temperatures are expected to be at several beach locations: https://www.weather.gov/beach/phi.
Here's a breakdown so far of what the National Weather Service is predicting for the Rehoboth Beach area.
First, if you're looking to take a dip in the ocean, know that the water temperatures are getting warmer this month and rising into the mid-70s. (As many people have noted on social media lately, that also means beachgoers should be extra cautious of jellyfish, which tend to like the warmer waters.)
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On Friday, the forecast is mostly sunny with a high near 82 degrees. The clouds arrive in the evening as the temperatures dip to 71. Good news for anyone enjoying an evening out, though: There is only a slight chance of rain and it's not expected until after 2 a.m.
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Saturday and Sunday are expected to be cloudier with some potential showers. As of Wednesday, there was a 50% chance of rain on Saturday and 30% chance on Sunday.
While the clouds will likely hang around on Saturday, with a high temperature of 79, Sunday should bring some more sunshine and a high of 80 degrees, according to the weather service.
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Connect with your inner hippie in Milford
Break out your tie-dye and bell bottoms because there is lots of hippie-themed fun happening just north of the beaches in Milford this weekend.
On Saturday, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., the Milford Museum will be hosting Hippiefest 2022. The event features live music honoring the '60s and '70s, food trucks and drinks.
Everyone must be at least 18 years old, and tickets cost $25. To buy tickets or learn more, visit www.milforddemuseum.org/event/hippiefest.
Explore fine art at the Creative Market
On Friday, the Developing Artist Collaboration is hosting Fine Art Friday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Creative Market in West Rehoboth, 19826 Central Street near Revelation Craft Brewing.
Local artists showcase a themed exhibit, and people can browse the artwork while enjoying live music from Somer Jordan, as well as food from multiple food trucks.
This coming Friday will also feature a live drawing by artist Jeff Arsenault. The free event includes cocktails for purchase and a DIY craft bar.
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Staying safe at the beach during COVID-19 spike
With rising hospitalizations and positive COVID-19 cases throughout the state, all three counties in Delaware have now reached a high level of community spread, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The Delaware Division of Public Health announced this change at the end of July and encouraged people to wear masks in "indoor public settings" to help prevent further spread.
The average of tests coming back positive as of Aug. 15 was 18.8%, according to DPH data, which does not include at-home testing that is not reported to the state. The state reported that 160 people were hospitalized with COVID at that point.
Public health officials remind Delawareans that vaccines are now available for all persons starting at 6 months old, and vaccination is highly effective at preventing serious illness, hospitalizations and death.
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Beyond staying up to date on vaccines, outside activities and get-togethers are still safer than cramming into indoor spaces unmasked, according to DPH.
However, if you do have plans to be indoors or around a lot of people, DPH is suggesting people wear masks, distance as much as possible and keep up a good hand-washing regimen. And if anyone starts to feel sick or knows they were exposed to someone with COVID-19, they should get tested and stay away from others in the meantime.
Here is a roundup of advice to stay vigilant and avoid COVID this summer:
Get vaccinated and boosted when you’re eligible. And don't wait until the fall when the updated vaccines are expected to be available. You will likely still be eligible for those boosters then.
Stay home if sick and get tested if you have symptoms or were exposed to someone with COVID-19.
Wear a mask indoors in public and if you are at higher risk for illness.
Stay informed and turn to reliable sources for data, information, and treatment options.
Visit de.gov/coronavirus to schedule free vaccines and/or boosters.
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What to expect at restaurants, beach businesses
After a record-breaking summer in 2021, business owners were bracing for what this season would bring. So far, business owners and chamber of commerce leaders say this summer has been busy: People are booking hotels, buying ice cream and eating out.
Early signs show that travel trends seem to be returning to expected pre-pandemic levels, and multiple hotel managers said d more visitors are spontaneously planning trips to the beach this year, rather than planning a long way out.
With these crowds comes the same but ever-important advice: Have patience, folks.
Some restaurants, bars, and others in the service industry are still facing staffing shortages and limiting their hours to preserve the staff they do have. While some iconic businesses, like Funland in Rehoboth Beach, are getting more help from international students than in the past two years, several other factors are impacting the seasonal labor shortage this year – especially a lack of affordable housing.
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It may be wise to make early reservations, follow your favorite spots on social media or call ahead to stay updated on any changes.
As far as outdoor dining, many beach towns found ways to continue that in the 2022 season, but that popularity may mean you have to wait longer for those coveted patio seats, too.
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Emily Lytle covers Sussex County from the inland towns to the beaches. Got a story she should tell? Contact her at elytle@delmarvanow.com or 302-332-0370. Follow her on Twitter at @emily3lytle.
This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware beaches: Your guide for activities, weather, travel trends
