Discovering Rehoboth Beach: Delaware's Enduring LGBTQ+ Heart and Top Haunts

For generations of queer vacationers, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, has been far more than just a coastal town; it has evolved into a beloved sanctuary, a vibrant community, and a place where authenticity thrives.

With its welcoming atmosphere and historic gay-friendly establishments like The Renegade, Rehoboth swiftly carved out a special place in the hearts of many, including those whose experiences collectively paint a vivid picture of its unique allure.

A Haven of Freedom and Acceptance

The journey to Rehoboth often began with a palpable sense of anticipation and relief.

As one early visitor, a former White House staffer named Steve Elkins, recalls the drive down Route 50, crossing the Bay Bridge was akin to a profound release. It was a physical manifestation of leaving behind the constraints of everyday life and stepping into a liberating space.

• The Unburdening Journey: For many, like Elkins, the commute culminated in a feeling of complete relaxation, "almost as if it was a weather phenomenon that would take over, the relief that would come over your body."
• Embracing True Self: Bob Hoffer, a retired elementary school teacher from a small town, vividly remembers the necessity of guarding his sexuality for 35 years.

  Rehoboth offered him a profound comfort, a place where he could finally "really be myself." This sense of safety was, in his words, "unheard of."

The routine on the beach was a testament to this freedom. Days were spent staking out a spot, often marked with the obligatory rainbow umbrella and towel, followed by meticulous planning for dinner reservations - a task completed by walking back up the boardwalk in the pre-cell phone era.

The rhythm of beach, nap, and evening cocktails became a cherished ritual.

The Vibrant Social Scene: From House Parties to Dance Floors

Rehoboth's LGBTQ+ social scene has always been legendary, evolving from intimate gatherings to pulsating dance clubs.

Legendary Gatherings: Christian Street & The Renegade

• Innovative House Parties: In the 1970s, private house parties were the heart of the social whirl.

  Steve Elkins recalls an era where neighbors discreetly "winked and turned their head," acknowledging the lively goings-on. His own house on Christian Street became famous for themed events, like the "madras party" where the entire house was painted to match the popular cocktail of vodka, orange, and cranberry.

  Later came the "aquamarine and tangerine party." By 1979, they were so organized they had custom business cards and t-shirts, branding themselves "the boys of 24 Christian Street" - an early marketing move that many others would later emulate.

• The Iconic Renegade: When house parties weren't enough, everyone gravitated towards The Renegade.

  This expansive dance club, complete with an outdoor area, was the place to be. Despite a cover charge, patrons would "dance the night away" amidst flashing lights and fog machines. People even climbed onto elevated boxes to show off their moves. Bob Hoffer remembers it as a primary spot to "meet other guys," a stark contrast to today's social media and dating apps like Grindr.

  

  The atmosphere was one of pure joy and fun, with a remarkable absence of conflict.

Community, Activism, and Resilience: The Birth of CAMP Rehoboth

Rehoboth's spirit extends beyond celebration to deep community and resilience, particularly evident during challenging times.

• The AIDS Crisis: The devastating impact of the AIDS epidemic deeply affected the Rehoboth community.

  A poignant annual vigil, where attendees hold battery-powered candles and raise them as names of those lost are read, became a powerful and solemn act of remembrance. Standing in a church, eulogizing friends, became a turning point, galvanizing the community to action.

• CAMP Rehoboth: Born from this resolve, CAMP Rehoboth emerged as a vital organization dedicated to education and public health.

  They hold a significant contract with the State of Delaware's Division of Public Health, actively distributing thousands of condoms annually, among other services.

The community's strength was also tested by a horrific hate crime in 1990, where gay men were brutally attacked.

Despite the absence of hate crime legislation in Delaware at the time, then-Chief of Police Craig Doyle declared it a hate crime, underscoring the town's commitment to justice. This event, however, only solidified the resolve of the community to be a place of safety and acceptance.

Today, Rehoboth continues to evolve, exemplified by places like The Purple Parrot, which proudly caters to a "completely diverse crowd," reflecting a broader embrace of inclusivity.

Beyond Rehoboth: Diversity and Identity in LGBTQ+ Spaces

While Rehoboth offers a unique blend of community, the broader landscape of LGBTQ+ venues can sometimes reflect divisions, highlighting a desire for more integrated spaces.

One individual shares their personal journey, from a small town in Delaware with a tiny Black population, to a historically Black college in Mississippi, and eventually to New York.

This journey revealed different dynamics within LGBTQ+ spaces:

• Mississippi's White vs. Black Bars: While their college experience was fantastic and diverse, venturing into predominantly white bars often meant being the sole Black person.
• Gender Segregation: In Mississippi, and later in New York, a clear separation often existed in bars: lesbian bars were primarily for lesbians, and gay men's bars were exclusively for men.
• A Call for Inclusivity: Coming from a background where communities often blended, this individual expressed a desire for more inclusive clubs where "it not just be gay men," advocating for spaces that embrace all facets of the LGBTQ+ spectrum and beyond.

Exploring Rehoboth's Current LGBTQ+ Hotspots

While the history and community spirit are paramount, Rehoboth Beach remains home to several popular spots that keep the vibrant nightlife alive and welcoming.

• The Purple Parrot: Known for its diverse and welcoming atmosphere, catering to a wide range of patrons.
• Crimson Moon Tavern: A local favorite, offering a cozy and inviting environment.
• Stir: Another popular venue often frequented by those looking for a lively experience.
• The Cub Room: Provides a distinct ambiance for its clientele.
• Woody's: A well-known spot that consistently draws a crowd.
• Mixers: Offers a different flavor of nightlife for visitors and locals alike.
• Byrd Cage: A notable establishment contributing to Rehoboth's diverse bar scene.

Rehoboth Beach truly embodies the spirit of an LGBTQ+ sanctuary.

From its liberating shores and legendary parties to its robust community activism and ever-evolving social venues, it continues to be a pivotal destination for those seeking acceptance, joy, and a sense of belonging on the Delaware coast.