James Farm Ecological Preserve: A Coastal Oasis
Explore diverse habitats, hike scenic trails, and discover the beauty of Delaware's Inland Bays at this 150-acre ecological preserve.
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, offering hiking trails, bird watching, and a peaceful connection with nature.
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 bird watching, especially during migration seasons.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as trails can be muddy, especially near wetlands.
- Carry out all trash, as this is a carry-in/carry-out preserve.
- Visit early in the morning for the best chance to see wildlife.
- Check the Delaware Center for the Inland Bays website or Facebook page for updates on trail closures or construction.
Getting There
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Driving
From Bethany Beach, head west on Fred Hudson Road. Turn right onto Cedar Neck Road, and the James Farm Ecological Preserve parking lot will be on your left. Parking is free. Limited parking is available, especially during peak season.
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Walking
From the intersection of Route 1 and Fred Hudson Road in Bethany Beach, it is approximately a 4-mile walk to the preserve. Head west on Fred Hudson Road until it intersects with Cedar Neck Road. Turn right and continue to the preserve entrance on the left. Be mindful of traffic as you walk along Cedar Neck Road.
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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Explore the Evans-West House, a captivating historical landmark in Ocean View, Delaware, that reveals the region's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Samuel Beach
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Discover the serene beauty of Samuel Beach in Bethany Beach, Delaware – a perfect coastal retreat for relaxation, family fun, and breathtaking sunsets.
Delaware Seashore State Park South Campground
3.6 km
Explore the serene beauty of Delaware Seashore State Park South Campground, where adventure and relaxation meet along the stunning coastline.
Grotto Pizza
3.8 km
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Off the Hook
3.9 km
Discover Off the Hook, a premier seafood restaurant in Bethany Beach, offering fresh, innovative dishes in a delightful coastal setting.
Addy Sea Historic Oceanfront Inn
4.0 km
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Delaware Seashore State Park North Campground
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Monument Sotheby's International Realty - Coastal Division
4.3 km
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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
4.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
South Inlet, Delaware Seashore State Park
3.8 km
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Bethany Beach Nature Center
3.8 km
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North Inlet Day Area
4.0 km
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Coin Beach
4.1 km
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Delaware Seashore State Park
4.3 km
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Bethany Beach History Museum
4.4 km
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Bethany Beach Dinker-Irvin Museum
4.4 km
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Chief Little Owl
4.5 km
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Holts Landing State Park
4.5 km
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The Millville Boardwalk
4.5 km
Delmarva's premier family-friendly entertainment destination with mini-golf, homemade ice cream, arcade games, go-karts, and live entertainment.
Arnie's Playland
4.6 km
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Shore Fun Family Fun Center
4.6 km
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Bethany Beach Boardwalk
4.6 km
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Bethany Beach Bandstand
4.6 km
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Indian River Life-Saving Station Museum
6.6 km
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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
3.6 km
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Delaware Seashore - South Inlet Big Chill Beach Club
3.8 km
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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
4.0 km
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The Salted Rim Margarita Bar & Grille
4.1 km
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Sedona
4.3 km
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Patsy's Restaurant
4.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
She-Sells Consignment & Resale Boutique
3.5 km
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CraZy LadyZ!
3.5 km
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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
4.3 km
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Freaky Tiki Teez
4.5 km
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Gypsy Teal
4.5 km
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Palms At Bethany
4.5 km
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Blue Room Gallery and Gift Shop
4.5 km
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Atlantic Shoals Surf Shop
4.5 km
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Delmarva Dry Goods
4.5 km
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Sun and Sea
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Tangerine Goods
4.5 km
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Sea Shirts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ocean View Brewing Company
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Hooked Up Ale House & Raw Bar
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Dockside Marina Bar + Grill
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Seaside Bar & Grill
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Paradise Pub
7.1 km
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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
13.6 km
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