By Julie Matthews
Look no further than the big red barn on Coastal Highway to discover a shopping experience like no other in Delmarva. Celebrating 55 years in 2025, the Seaside Country Store is family-owned and offers “something for everybody,” according to Owner Amy Vickers. Cheeses, chocolates, antiques, décor, accessories, jewelry, clothing, lotions—find it all here.
“We’re very lucky to be at the beach,” says Vickers. “People like to take gifts home, especially Christmas presents. For those on vacation, our store offers something to do, someplace to go.”
The Seaside Country Store was built in 1969 by her grandparents, Ada and Earl Tingle, and her aunt and uncle, Bette and Dave Bates. Since opening the doors in May 1970, “The Most Unusual Store on the Shore” has remained the shop’s motto supporting the family’s goal of providing shoppers a wide selection of unique products.
In addition, the business has always embraced a “country store at the beach” niche, offering items such as fudges and cheeses, first made by her uncle who tapped into his New England roots for inspiration. Today cheese and fudge remain signature products at the Seaside Country Store, with a variety of fudge flavors and nine different cheeses, from the very popular Horseradish Cheddar Cheese to other savory blends.
With different product themes—from nautical and patriotic to pets and sports—creatively displayed at every turn, the Seaside Country Store offers products for all kinds of interests, plus holiday-related items. The shop’s inventory stays appealing year after year largely because of its special, dedicated staff, which includes our manager of nearly 30 years (Lori Bennett), Vickers own sons, several local ladies who have worked there for decades and seasonal help from students. “I feel like the store’s atmosphere is like joining a family,” says Vickers. “I couldn’t do it without my staff. If we make people feel great and this is a positive place to be, what’s better than that?”
Wanna Go?
seasidecountrystore.com
302-539-6110
1208 Coastal Hwy, Fenwick Island, DE 19944
