Coastal parking guide for the 2025 season

DELMARVA - As the summer tourism season nears, beachgoers heading to Delaware and Maryland’s coastal towns should be prepared for higher parking rates and updated schedules. Several popular destinations have increased their hourly fees for 2025, with some implementing new technology and expanded enforcement periods.

Dewey Beach:

• Dewey Beach has once again raised parking fees—now set at $4 per hour. The town previously increased rates from $3 to $3.50 in 2023. The paid parking season runs from May 15 through Sept. 15.

Rehoboth Beach:

• In Rehoboth Beach, the hourly rate remains at $4, following an increase in 2024 from $3. Officials considered extending the season to run from May 1 through Oct. 31, but ultimately decided to keep it at May 15 to Sept. 15 for now.

Bethany Beach:

• Bethany Beach also raised parking fees to $4 per hour, up from $3. Town leaders said the additional revenue will help cover salaries for seasonal employees. The parking season is May 15 through Sept. 15.

Ocean City:

• Ocean City has launched its most expensive parking season yet. This is the first increase since 2020, and it comes with a major transition—most traditional meters and kiosks have been replaced by a mobile app. The town has tutorials on its website to help visitors adjust.

  The parking schedule is divided into three segments:

• April 1 – May 22

  • Monday–Thursday: Free

  • Friday–Sunday: $2.50/hour ($3.50 at the Inlet Lot and ocean blocks)

• May 23 – Sept. 30

  • Daily: $3.50/hour ($4.50 at the Inlet Lot and ocean blocks)

• Oct. 1 – Oct. 31

  • Monday–Thursday: Free

  • Friday–Sunday: $2.50/hour ($3.50 at the Inlet Lot and ocean blocks)

All kiosks except for those at the Inlet Lot will be phased out entirely by 2026.

Lewes:

• Lewes offers more modest rates, with $1.50 per hour for downtown meters and $2.50 per hour at the beach. Parking is enforced May 1 through Sept. 30, daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m..

Fenwick Island:

• Fenwick Island remains on the lower end with rates at $3 per hour. The parking season here also runs May 15 through Sept. 15.

With higher costs and longer parking seasons in some areas, travelers are encouraged to plan ahead, download required parking apps, and budget accordingly for summer beach visits.