Long Neck, Delaware, is a small coastal community in Sussex County with a population of roughly 2,300 residents. This shoreline area has grown from a seasonal getaway into a relaxed year-round place to live, shaped by its narrow stretch of land between the bay and the inland marshes. Its history reaches back to the Nanticoke people who originally inhabited the region, followed later by colonial land grants that described large tracts of fields, creeks, and waterfront. For decades, families treated the area as a summer retreat, and only in the 1990s did new neighborhoods begin to pop up, many of them built around the now well-known Baywood Greens golf course. That blend of natural setting and steady community growth still defines life in this corner of coastal Delaware.

Water is a huge part of the local culture here. Fishing, crabbing, paddling, and boating are woven into the daily pace, especially during warm months. The nearby marshes and tidal flats attract plenty of birdwatchers and nature-lovers. Close to the peninsula, visitors find peaceful preserves like the Marian R. Okie Memorial Wildlife Preserve at Poplar Thicket, where quiet trails wind through woods and wetlands. Another favorite destination is Holts Landing State Park, which offers a boat ramp, a fishing pier that stays open around the clock, and open views across the Indian River Bay that make for calming early mornings or slow evening strolls.

Mealtime often brings people together at several long-running local spots. Paradise Grill is one of the most recognized restaurants in the area. It is known for seafood baskets, hearty burgers, and simple coastal plates along with an easy-going outdoor setting that feels perfect after a day on the water. Baywood Greens Clubhouse Restaurant offers a different atmosphere with its view of rolling fairways and ponds. Diners visit for dependable American dishes, seasonal ingredients, and a comfortable place to enjoy a longer meal with friends or family. A short drive away, diners often choose the popular local eatery known as the Long Neck Diner when they are looking for classic breakfasts, sandwiches, or comfort meals that feel familiar in the best way. Each of these businesses remains open and well known to residents who appreciate having reliable, welcoming places to gather.

Local businesses also help define the character of the region. Bayside Jet Drive is a go-to shop for boating services, watercraft needs, and marine equipment, all of which support the strong boating culture in the community. Harris Teeter stands out as a frequently visited grocery store with a broad selection that makes life easier for both full-time residents and vacation homeowners. These businesses succeed because they serve everyday needs in a community where convenience and personal familiarity matter. They become part of the routine, not just occasional stops.

There is also a sense of tradition in the way the community enjoys its surroundings. Residents talk about old stories of early fishermen who claimed to hear strange sounds across the bay on foggy nights. Some described it as distant drumming, others thought it was the echo of oystermen striking their tools against wooden skiffs. While no one knows if any of it was true, the tale has been passed down long enough that it has become part of the local folklore. Seasonal gatherings often reflect these coastal roots. Summer tends to bring casual neighborhood cookouts, informal fishing meet ups, small craft fairs, and community events connected with nearby towns that share the same shoreline culture. Even without large city festivals, there is a strong appreciation for traditions built around water, food, and time spent outdoors.

Recreation continues to play a significant role in in many residents’ daily lives. Baywood Greens Golf Course remains one of the most visited destinations in the area. Known for its well-maintained fairways and colorful landscaping, it draws both skilled golfers and casual weekend players. Trails, marsh walks, and quiet shoreline paths create plenty of opportunities for low effort outdoor time. Surf fishing is common when tides are right. Many residents say that some of their favorite moments come from simple routines like sharing a meal at a local restaurant after a long day outside or watching the last light fade over the bay while sitting on a deck.

For those who appreciate outdoor living, the landscape here makes it natural to imagine a home with more usable outdoor space. We at Delwood Construction take pride in helping homeowners transform their properties with well-crafted decks, porches, screened rooms, and similar outdoor additions. If you’re ready to enhance your home in Long Neck with a space that makes the most of coastal living, contact us today and let us guide you through the process.