By Brian Gilliland

REHOBOTH BEACH — While there may be different thoughts about when summer starts — those closer to the coast may consider Memorial Day to be the kickoff — the astronomical beginning is when one of the Earth’s poles is the closest it gets to the sun all year.

This year, that date is June 20, so Thursday will witness both the longest day and the shortest night of the year, an event named “summer solstice,” which been observed for thousands of years across the globe.

To mark the new season, one tradition is to watch the sun rise that morning. And, if you plan to do so, you’re in luck: Coastal Delaware has taken three spots among the 150 best places to view the sun come up the morning of the summer solstice, as compiled by online printer Mixbook.

The listing was topped by Lake Tahoe, Nevada, but Delaware Seashore State Park, 25039 Coastal Highway, placed highest among the First State’s sites, at No. 29.

“Situated between Dewey Beach and Bethany Beach, this park provides stunning sunrise vistas over the ocean, especially from the Indian River Inlet Bridge,” the article reads.

At No. 72 is Fenwick Island State Park, 39415 Inlet Road.

The website describes it as such: “On the southern edge of the state, this park features quiet beaches and picturesque sunrise views over the ocean, perfect for a peaceful morning experience.”

Finally, Cape Henlopen State Park, 15099 Cape Henlopen Drive, makes the cut at No. 109.

“Located near Lewes, this park offers beautiful sunrise views over the Atlantic Ocean from the beaches and the historic WWII observation towers,” the article notes.

Shauna McVey, communications manager for the Delaware Division of Parks and Recreation, said she is not surprised by the state’s high placement in the survey, which had over 3,000 respondents.

“Delaware Seashore State Park’s location between the Atlantic Ocean, inland bays and marshlands makes it the perfect destination to watch the summer solstice sunrise,” she said. “If weather permits, visitors to the park will be treated to both a stunning sunrise and sunset, viewable from multiple locations throughout the park.”

She also had some tips about viewing locations.

“The walkable Indian River Inlet Bridge and the top of the newly renovated Tower 3 are perfect to view nature’s colorful canvas. Photographers can create captivating images with the sun’s reflection on the water,” she said.

And the solstice isn’t the only thing to do at the park Thursday.

“Interested visitors can stick around after the sunrise to join the Introduction to Kayaking at Delaware Seashore program at 9 a.m. This program provides an ecotour among wildlife, as novice kayakers get comfortable paddling in the waters that surround the park,” Ms. McVey said.

For information and to register for the kayaking event, visit destateparks.com/programs.