James Farm Ecological Preserve: A Coastal Oasis
Explore diverse ecosystems and scenic trails at this 150-acre nature preserve on Indian River Bay, a short drive from Bethany Beach, Delaware.
Escape to the James Farm Ecological Preserve, a 150-acre haven on Indian River Bay near Bethany Beach, Delaware. Explore diverse habitats, from sandy beaches and salt marshes to hardwood forests, via scenic hiking trails. It's a perfect spot for birdwatching, nature walks, and enjoying the tranquility of the Inland Bays region.
A brief summary to James Farm Ecological Preserve
- 30048 Cedar Neck Rd, Ocean View, Delaware, 19970, US
- +1302-226-8105
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-8 pm
- Thursday 6 am-8 pm
- Friday 6 am-8 pm
- Saturday 6 am-8 pm
- Sunday 6 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching, especially during spring and fall migrations.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the trails, which can be sandy or uneven in places.
- Visit during low tide to maximize beach access and explore the intertidal flats.
- Leash your pets to protect wildlife and respect other visitors.
- Carry out all trash to help maintain the preserve's natural beauty.
Getting There
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Driving
The James Farm Ecological Preserve is located at 30048 Cedar Neck Rd, Ocean View, DE 19970. From Bethany Beach, head west on Fred Hudson Road, then turn right onto Cedar Neck Road. The preserve entrance and parking lot will be on your left. Parking is free. Limited parking is available, especially during peak season.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From the town of Ocean View or Bethany Beach, a taxi or ride-sharing service (like Uber) is a convenient option. A taxi from Ocean View to Bethany Beach typically costs $13-$16. From Bethany Beach, the ride to James Farm is approximately the same price. Confirm the fare before you start your trip. Uber is available in the area.
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Public Transport
DART First State operates bus routes in the area. Check the DART First State website for the most up-to-date schedules and route information to see if there is a bus that gets you close to Cedar Neck Road. From a bus stop on Cedar Neck Road, you may need to walk or take a short taxi ride to the preserve entrance. A one-way bus fare is around $2.
Discover more about James Farm Ecological Preserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
WW II Artillery Observation Tower #2
2.2 km
Discover the historic WW II Artillery Observation Tower #2 in South Bethany, DE, a stunning landmark offering breathtaking views and rich history.
Historic Village in Ocean View
3.1 km
Explore the Historic Village in Ocean View, where Delaware's rich agricultural history comes to life in a captivating museum setting.
Evans-West House
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Samuel Beach
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Delaware Seashore State Park South Campground
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Grotto Pizza
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Off the Hook
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Addy Sea Historic Oceanfront Inn
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Monument Sotheby's International Realty - Coastal Division
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Pie
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Japanesque
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Central Blvd Parking Lot
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14 Global
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Bethany Blues BBQ Pit
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Unmissable attractions to see
South Inlet, Delaware Seashore State Park
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Bethany Beach Nature Center
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North Inlet Day Area
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Coin Beach
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Delaware Seashore State Park
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Bethany Beach History Museum
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Bethany Beach Dinker-Irvin Museum
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Chief Little Owl
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Holts Landing State Park
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The Millville Boardwalk
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Delmarva's premier family-friendly entertainment destination with mini-golf, homemade ice cream, arcade games, go-karts, and live entertainment.
Arnie's Playland
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Shore Fun Family Fun Center
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Bethany Beach Boardwalk
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Bethany Beach Bandstand
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Indian River Life-Saving Station Museum
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Essential places to dine
Matt's Fish Camp Bethany
2.0 km
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Yellowfin's Bar & Grill Bethany Beach
2.2 km
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Birdie's
2.5 km
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Bluecoast Seafood Grill & Raw Bar Bethany
3.0 km
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The Cafe on 26
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Delaware Seashore - South Inlet Big Chill Beach Club
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DiFebo's Restaurant Bethany Beach
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Big Chill Beach Club
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Bethany Diner
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Pack da Bowl
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Number 1 Chinese Restaurant
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CoCoLo Sushi
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The Salted Rim Margarita Bar & Grille
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Sedona
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Patsy's Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
She-Sells Consignment & Resale Boutique
3.5 km
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CraZy LadyZ!
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The Coastal Cottage
3.6 km
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DOT Discount Stores
3.9 km
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Sea Needles
3.9 km
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Alice & Laila
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Freaky Tiki Teez
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Gypsy Teal
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Palms At Bethany
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Blue Room Gallery and Gift Shop
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Atlantic Shoals Surf Shop
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Delmarva Dry Goods
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Sun and Sea
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Tangerine Goods
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Sea Shirts
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Paradise Pub
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Paradise Grill
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The Tavern
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The Lighthouse Dewey Beach
12.7 km
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Nalu Dewey Beach
12.8 km
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Rusty Rudder
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Bottle & Cork
13.3 km
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Woody's Dewey Beach
13.3 km
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Dewey Beer Co.
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Yellowfin's Bar & Grill
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Coastal Cravings
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