Fishing access
Fishing Access on Fenwick Island
Fenwick Island State Park: A Coastal Escape
Escape to Delaware's tranquil coast: pristine beaches, calm bay waters, and natural beauty await at Fenwick Island State Park.
Fenwick Island State Park, Delaware's southernmost beach, offers a tranquil escape with three miles of pristine shoreline, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the Little Assawoman Bay. Once a coastal defense site, it's now a haven for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Fenwick Island State Park
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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
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Getting There
Driving
From DE-1 (Coastal Highway), the park entrance is clearly marked. Follow the signs to the parking areas. During peak season, arrive early as parking can fill up quickly. Parking fees are applicable from May to September: $5 for DE registered vehicles and $10 for non-DE registered vehicles per day. An annual Delaware State Park Pass can also be purchased. Limited parking is available in the town of Fenwick Island, with parking permits required from May 15 to September 15.
Public Transport
DART First State Bus Route 208 stops at Fenwick Island State Park. From Wilmington or Dover, take DART First State bus routes 201 and 204 to Rehoboth Beach, then transfer to Route 208. Check the DART First State website for current timetables and fare information, typically ranging from $2 to $4 per trip. The bus stop is a 5-minute walk to the park entrance.
Local tips
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Visit during the off-season (October - April) for free parking and fewer crowds.
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Bring your kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters of Little Assawoman Bay.
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Check out the WWII fire control tower for a glimpse into the park's history.
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Obtain a surf fishing license to drive onto designated beach areas for fishing.
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Take advantage of the beach wheelchairs and access mats for easy access to the beach.
Discover more about Fenwick Island State Park
Fenwick Island State Park, a serene three-mile stretch of barrier island, provides a relaxing retreat from the crowded resort towns. Situated between Ocean City, Maryland, and South Bethany, Delaware, the park boasts both ocean and bay shorelines.
Originally part of Delaware Seashore State Park, Fenwick Island became its own state park in 1981. The park's history includes serving as a coastal defense during World War II, with a fire control tower still standing as a reminder. The area is named after Thomas Fenwick, who was granted the land in 1682.
Today, visitors can enjoy swimming and sunbathing on the Atlantic side, where lifeguards patrol the beaches from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The calm waters of Little Assawoman Bay are ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. The park also offers surf fishing, hiking trails, and opportunities to observe local wildlife, including ghost crabs.
The park provides amenities such as a bathhouse with showers and changing rooms, a snack bar, and beach equipment rentals. Beach wheelchairs and access mats ensure everyone can enjoy a day at the park.
A brief summary to Fenwick Island State Park
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