It's been a while since I've been to Lewes, but my memory of the Inn at Canal Square is that it's on the canal (duh), which means some of the rooms have a view of the water and the boats that go in an out.

The Inn is in the heart of the town of Lewes, which means you can walk to most of the shops and restaurants, but it's a long walk (or short bike ride) to the beach.

I think the Blue Water House is closer to the beach but farther from the town, so you'll have to decide which locale is your priority. I don't think it has a water view.

I know Rehobeth but have not stayed there. I can tell you that Rehobeth and Lewes are quite different. Rehobeth's busy, with a boardwalk, etc., while Lewes is kind of a little town.

Of course, if you're going this time of year, either place is likely to be quieter than in-season, but Lewes is really the quiet little place.

Without kids? No question: Inn at Canal Sq and be sure you get the room on the top floor at the very end of the hallway with the view of the water area. It's a killer hotel. The only thing like it is The Boardwalk victorian hotel in Rehobeth. If you prefer tee shirt shops and neat little shops as well, stick with Rehobeth, but we LOVE Lewes. Don't miss the Second Street restaurant (or something like that, on the main stree) and the Buttery. Too die for food. Split meals, it's cheaper, or go early for some early bird menus if they're still doing them.

Steve
Maryland

Lewes. It's a no-brainer.

We loved Rehoboth. We were on the way to Maryland and despite warnings of the -cheesey shore- wandered off to Rehoboth. We loved it so much that when we got to our quaint destination in Maryland we turned around and went right back to the Boardwalk Hotel in Rehoboth. The staff could not have been nicer and the room was right on the beach. We took the ferry back through Lewes and it looked cute but Rehoboth with the boardwalk and laid back feel was the winner for us. We plan to go back every year.

Everyone, Thanks so much for the advice! I'll check these out and report back.

Lewes, much less touristy and beautiful. Try the ice cream parlour and the rocky mountain chocolate even though it is part of the chain they make all their own types of chocolate and they are super nice.

I think the best choice would depend on what you want. Rehoboth is on the ocean. More of a typical beach town. Lewes is on the Delaware Bay with quieter water. The town of Lewes is darling and has great restaurants. You can get to the ocean in minutes by biking or driving down to the state park.