Fenwick Island State Park: A Coastal Escape

4.7 (2079)

Escape to Delaware's tranquil coast at Fenwick Island State Park: pristine beaches, diverse activities, and a peaceful natural retreat.

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Fenwick Island State Park

Fenwick Island State Park, Delaware's southernmost beach, offers a tranquil escape with three miles of pristine ocean beaches and access to the serene Little Assawoman Bay. Established in 1981, this park provides a natural retreat from the bustling resort towns nearby, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the coastal environment.

A brief summary to Fenwick Island State Park

DE-1, Fenwick Island, Delaware, 19944, US
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Monday 8 am-7 pm
Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
Wednesday 8 am-7 pm
Thursday 8 am-7 pm
Friday 8 am-7 pm
Saturday 8 am-7 pm
Sunday 8 am-7 pm

Local tips

Visit between Memorial Day and Labor Day for lifeguard-patrolled swimming and beach equipment rentals.
Explore Little Assawoman Bay by kayak or paddleboard for a unique perspective of the park's natural beauty.
Consider purchasing a Delaware State Park Pass for year-round access to Fenwick Island and other state parks.
Check out the WWII observation tower for a glimpse into the park's history.

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Getting There

Driving

From DE-1 South, continue until you see signs for Fenwick Island State Park. The park entrance will be on your right. Parking is available within the park, but it can fill up quickly during peak season. Parking fees are in effect from May through September. Out-of-state residents can expect to pay around $10. Parking is free from October to April.
Public Transport

DART First State Bus Route 208 stops at Fenwick Island State Park. Check the DART First State website for the most up-to-date schedules and fare information. From Wilmington or Dover, take bus routes 201 and 204 to Rehoboth Beach, then transfer to Route 201 south. Ask the driver to let you know when you reach the nearest stop for Fenwick Island State Park. Bus fare will likely range from $2 to $4.

Discover more about Fenwick Island State Park

Fenwick Island State Park, a 344-acre coastal haven, invites visitors to experience the unspoiled beauty of Delaware's shoreline. Originally part of Delaware Seashore State Park, Fenwick Island became its own state park in 1981. The park is located on a narrow strip of land between the Atlantic Ocean and Little Assawoman Bay. Today, Fenwick Island State Park provides a peaceful retreat with its quiet beaches and wooded trails. The park offers three miles of ocean beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Lifeguards patrol the beaches from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The park also features a bathhouse with showers and changing rooms, and a snack food concession. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including surf fishing, kayaking, and hiking. Three dune crossings provide access to multi-use beaches where vehicles with a surf fishing license plate can drive onto the beach to fish. The calm waters of Assawoman Bay are ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. Nature enthusiasts can explore the park's diverse ecosystem, home to various wildlife species, including ghost crabs, herons, and osprey. Fenwick Island State Park also has a rich history. During World War II, the area was part of Delaware's coastal defense system, and a concrete observation tower from that era still stands near the northern boundary of the park.