Historic fishing village where the St. Jones and Murderkill Rivers meet Delaware Bay. Features maritime museum, fishing charters, and small public beach area. Known more for fishing, crabbing, and boating than swimming.
DE Beaches
Cape Henlopen State Park
Historic state park with pristine beaches, hiking trails, and WWII observation towers. Features a fishing pier, bike trails, nature center, and Fort Miles Historical Area. Camping available with modern bath facilities and cabins.
Delaware Seashore State Park
Six miles of ocean and bay beaches divided by the Indian River Inlet. Features modern campground, marina facilities, and excellent surf fishing. Access to both ocean beaches and calm bay waters for various activities.
Lewes Beach
Calm bay beach in historic town known as “The First Town in the First State.” Features gentle waves ideal for families with young children, nearby Cape May-Lewes Ferry, and charming downtown with museums, shops, and restaurants.
Fenwick Island State Park
Peaceful barrier island beach between the Atlantic Ocean and Little Assawoman Bay. Features 3 miles of barrier island beaches, bath facilities, food concession, and rental stands for umbrellas and chairs. Less crowded than some beaches.
Broadkill Beach
Quiet, lesser-known beach on Delaware Bay with recently replenished wide beaches. Features excellent horseshoe crab viewing in spring, fishing opportunities, and natural setting. Limited facilities with primarily residential surroundings.
South Bethany Beach
Quiet residential beach community known as “The Best Little Beach in Delaware.” Features canal system on bay side offering additional water activities and fishing. Clean beaches with seasonal lifeguards and limited commercial development.
Slaughter Beach
Designated horseshoe crab sanctuary and wildlife area on Delaware Bay. Not ideal for swimming but excellent for nature enthusiasts, bird watching, and fishing. Important habitat for migratory shorebirds with limited development.
Herring Point Beach
Popular surfing beach within Cape Henlopen State Park with designated swimming areas. Features dog-friendly beach areas (seasonal restrictions apply), surf fishing, and access to park hiking trails. State park entrance fee required.
Towers Beach
Named for the nearby WWII observation tower in Cape Henlopen State Park. Features accessible beach access with Mobi-Mat, bathhouse facilities, and fishing areas. Less crowded than main park beach with state park entrance fee required.