Right between where the Murderkill River and the St. Jones River meet the Delaware Bay, a small town has established itself as one of the premier fishing towns in the state of Delaware. Despite its commercial successes, this town remains one of the quaintest communities in the state, where the motto of “The Way Life Used To Be” could not be more appropriate. Welcome to Bowers, one of the gorgeous, quiet towns in Delaware.

This tiny town is well-known in the state for at least one reason...
Flickr / Jeffrey
Many people in Delaware know about Bowers Beach for one reason only - their fireworks. They host perhaps the best Independence Day Fireworks in the state. Visitors flock to the town, park out on the beach, and keep their eyes on the skies. While Bowers does have a great firework display, these "4th of July only" tourists are really missing out on one of the most interesting towns in Delaware.
Bowers Beach was one of the earliest settlements along Delaware Bay, and it was founded by Francis Whitwell in the late 1600s.
Flickr / Mike Mahaffie
At that time, Bowers consisted of 800+ acres of woodland and almost 600 acres of meadow. The town was built up some, and in 1685, William Frampton acquired the property and renamed it "Dover Peers."  The land changed hands a few more times, and in 1734, John Bowers purchased what remained - 420 acres.  Since August 16, 1734, the area "between the mouths of the St. Jones and Murderkill Rivers" has been known as Bowers Beach. The land changed hands several more times, but the name remained. Bowers was first incorporated on March 9, 1907, and was reincorporated as the Town of Bowers in 1962. It is one of the best small towns in Delaware.
Bowers, located in Kent County, is currently a small town of about 300 people.
Flickr / Mike Mahaffie
Many Bowers residents are mariners, either fishing from their boats, docks, or the beach. Bowers fishermen are responsible for much of the fresh, Delaware Bay seafood that makes it to the best restaurants in the State. In the past, Bowers Beach was such a popular fishing spot that over three hundred boats would be docked or moored in town. Those who remain take this history to heart, and saltwater runs in the veins of every Bowers native.
Of course, Bowers doesn't send all of its seafood to other parts of the state! The famous JP's Wharf restaurant in Bowers uses local watermen to fill its kitchen.
Facebook / JP's Wharf
Whatever they find in the water is what makes it to the menu - here, you see a cooler full of Sea Trout. When JP's tells you about their "catch of the day," they really could not be more accurate.
Facebook / JPs Wharf
There are always Delaware Bay oysters to be had. Bowers watermen bring in heaps of these every day, and once they're cleaned and prepared, they're among the best in the world! Whether they're sent to Wilmington, Philadelphia, Dover - or served right in Bowers at JP's - these oysters are sure to be enjoyed by whoever is lucky enough to order them.

Related Stories

With An Arcade And A Bowling Alley, This Incredible Restaurant In Delaware Is Perfect For Families

With An Arcade And A Bowling Alley, This Incredible Restaurant In Delaware Is Perfect For Families

 Escape To The Countryside When You Stay At This Rural Airbnb In Delaware

Escape To The Countryside When You Stay At This Rural Airbnb In Delaware

 You'll Never Look At Doughnuts The Same Way After Trying Sleeping Bird Doughnuts In Delaware

You'll Never Look At Doughnuts The Same Way After Trying Sleeping Bird Doughnuts In Delaware
Even if you're not an industry fisherman, Bowers Beach, Delaware is still an amazing place to throw a line.
Flickr / Mike Mahaffie
If you've got your Delaware fishing license and are familiar with local fishing laws, you'll find plenty of great places to cast a net or line in Bowers. The community is very friendly, and you can probably get great tips from the locals. If you’re looking for a fishing town near me, Bowers could be the perfect spot!
If you aren't into fishing, Bowers still has a lot to offer.
Flickr / Mike Mahaffie
People come to this small town to swim, kayak, sail, bird watch, and to look for beautiful, jewelry-quality sea glass in Delaware. It’s a great place to get away from busy city life or to find a quiet retreat among the more crowded beach towns in Sussex County. Stroll around town and enjoy the slow-paced way of living, as well as the old-fashioned buildings and artifacts that you'll spot in this quaint community. It’s one of the most quiet towns in Delaware.
Bowers is a great place to really step back in time and remember what life was like before technology took over.
Flickr / Mike Mahaffie
Sure, people still have their iPhones in the town, but the majority of what you see here is quaint and old-fashioned. Even many of the boats docked to residences are older rowboats or skiffs that have clearly served generations well. This tiny town really represents what Delaware is to so many of us - a family history, a home away from home, or a close-knit community that really feels more like family than like strangers.
If you want to get the full Bowers Beach fishing town experience, sign up for a boat charter.
Flickr / Mike Mahaffie
There are many charters that launch from Bowers - my best advice is to visit the town and pick your trip in person. If you've never fished before, the famous Captain's Lady charter company will even provide you with rods and bait and help you get started in some of the best fishing spots on Delaware Bay. If you're gonna do something, you might as well do it right, and learn from the experts of Bowers Beach.
In recent years, big storms have affected the town, roughing up boats, docks, and local residences.
Flickr / Mike Mahaffie
Winter Storm Jonas brought flooding to the area, and in 2013, Hurricane Sandy battered the area with rainfall, wind, and a near-record-breaking storm surge. However, Bowers locals understand that dealing with nature is part of being a bay town, and in times of strife, the sense of community in this tiny town stands out. Docks will get rebuilt, beaches will be replenished, and the ties that keep this small town strong will never be broken.

Bowers is my kind of town – quiet, quaint, and full of history. Luckily, there are many quiet towns in Delaware that are unique in their own way. And if you need a place to stay? We love the local spots on VRBO.

After you visit Bowers, plan your next trip to see one of the other small towns in Delaware. If you want to make a full day out of it, these ones offer some amazing restaurants.

 

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Quiet Towns In Delaware

Megan McDonald | January 12, 2024

Is Delaware a quiet state?

Yes, Delaware is a quiet state. Delaware, often characterized by its tranquil atmosphere, offers a respite from the hustle and bustle typical of the northeastern United States. It is less densely populated as the second smallest state, lending to its quieter ambiance. The state boasts a mix of small towns and rural areas, particularly in its southern region, where the pace of life tends to be more relaxed. Delaware's beaches, such as Rehoboth and Bethany, are also known for their peaceful settings, especially outside the summer season. 

While Wilmington, the largest city, and the northern part of the state have more urban activity, they still maintain a low-key vibe compared to larger metropolitan areas. This balance of serene rural landscapes and modest urban life makes Delaware a quietly charming state, ideal for those seeking a more subdued environment without straying far from the amenities and conveniences of the East Coast.

What are the best towns in Delaware to visit?

Delaware, while small in size, boasts a variety of charming towns, each offering unique attractions and experiences. Here are some of the best towns to visit in Delaware:

  • Rehoboth Beach: Known for its vibrant boardwalk, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly atmosphere, Rehoboth Beach is a popular summer destination. It also has a lively downtown area with excellent restaurants, shops, and art galleries.
  • Lewes: Often referred to as "The First Town in The First State" due to its historical significance, Lewes is known for its well-preserved architecture, museums, and beaches. It's also a gateway to the Cape Henlopen State Park.
  • Wilmington: As Delaware's largest city, Wilmington offers more urban attractions, including the Riverfront, a revitalized area with restaurants, parks, and cultural sites. The city is also known for the beautiful Nemours Mansion and Gardens and the Delaware Art Museum.
  • Newark: Home to the University of Delaware, Newark has a lively college-town atmosphere with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The university's campus adds a youthful energy to the town.
  • Dover: The state capital, Dover, is rich in history and culture. Key attractions include the Dover International Speedway, the Air Mobility Command Museum, and the historic district with 18th-century buildings.
  • Bethany Beach: A quieter alternative to some of the more bustling beach towns, Bethany Beach is ideal for families and those looking for a relaxed beach experience. The town features a lovely boardwalk and a quaint downtown area.
  • Middletown: Rapidly growing, Middletown maintains its small-town charm while offering modern amenities. The town is known for its community events and proximity to the scenic countryside.
  • Milford: Situated along the Mispillion River, Milford charms visitors with its riverwalk, historic downtown, and vibrant arts scene. It's also a base for exploring nearby nature reserves.

Each of these towns showcases a different aspect of Delaware's rich history, culture, and natural beauty, making them worth a visit whether you're interested in beaches, history, or just experiencing the local charm.

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
Bowers, DE, USA