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South Inlet, Delaware Seashore State Park

Experience Delaware's coastal charm at South Inlet: beaches, fishing, camping, and stunning ocean views await at Delaware Seashore State Park.

4.7

South Inlet at Delaware Seashore State Park offers a dynamic coastal experience with beaches, fishing, camping, and stunning views of the Indian River Inlet. It's a prime spot for enjoying the Atlantic Ocean and the পয়েন্ট where the Indian River meets the sea.

A brief summary to South Inlet, Delaware Seashore State Park

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially during the summer, as the South Inlet Day Use Area can get crowded.
  • Visit the Indian River Life-Saving Station to learn about the area's maritime history.
  • Consider purchasing a Delaware State Park Pass for access to the park and other state parks.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Bethany Beach, head north on Coastal Highway (Route 1). Continue for approximately 3 miles. The entrance to Delaware Seashore State Park, South Inlet Day Use Area will be on your left. Parking is available within the park, but it can fill up quickly during peak season. Parking fees are in effect from May to September, unless you have a Delaware State Park Pass.

  • Walking

    If you are camping within Delaware Seashore State Park (Southside Campground), South Inlet is within walking distance. Follow the paved paths towards the ocean. The walk is approximately 400 yards from the edge of the campground to the beach.

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Discover more about South Inlet, Delaware Seashore State Park

South Inlet, nestled within Delaware Seashore State Park, is a vibrant hub of activity where the Indian River Inlet meets the Atlantic Ocean. This dynamic area offers a diverse range of experiences, from relaxing on the sandy beach to fishing off the pier and exploring the natural beauty of the coastline. The inlet itself is a significant feature, connecting the Rehoboth and Indian River Bays with the Atlantic. Its strategic importance was recognized in 1939 when jetties were constructed to stabilize the waterway, which had historically shifted and posed navigational challenges. This stabilization led to increased recreational opportunities and the establishment of Delaware Seashore State Park in 1967. Today, South Inlet is a popular destination for beachgoers, anglers, and campers. The Big Chill Beach Club, an oceanfront restaurant, offers dining with scenic views. The South Inlet Day Use Area provides convenient access to the beach, though it can get crowded during the summer. Lifeguards patrol the swimming areas during the summer months, ensuring a safe experience for visitors. For those interested in the area's history, the Indian River Life-Saving Station, located a short distance north of the inlet, offers a glimpse into the past. Built in 1876, the station once housed surfmen who patrolled the coast, responding to shipwrecks. Today, it serves as a museum and visitor center, showcasing the heroic efforts of the U.S. Life-Saving Service. Delaware Seashore State Park also provides camping facilities on both the north and south sides of the Inlet. These campgrounds offer a range of options, from full hook-up RV sites to tent-only camping. With its excellent fishing spots, pristine beaches, and diverse recreational activities, South Inlet and Delaware Seashore State Park provide a memorable seaside getaway.

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