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Fenwick Island State Park: A Tranquil Coastal Escape

Escape to Delaware's tranquil coast at Fenwick Island State Park: pristine beaches, water sports, and natural beauty await. Open 8 AM to Sunset.

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Fenwick Island State Park, Delaware's southernmost beach, offers a peaceful retreat with three miles of pristine ocean and bay shoreline. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and exploring the natural beauty of this barrier island, once a World War II coastal defense site.

A brief summary to Fenwick Island State Park

  • 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 during the off-season (October - April) for free parking and fewer crowds.
  • Bring your fishing gear and obtain a surf fishing permit to drive onto designated beach areas.
  • Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters of Little Assawoman Bay.
  • Check the park's event schedule for ranger-led programs and activities.
  • Take advantage of the beach wheelchairs available from Memorial Day to Labor Day for accessible beach access.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From DE-1 (Coastal Highway), follow signs for Fenwick Island State Park. The park entrance is located directly off DE-1. Note that parking fees are collected daily during the summer season (May-September). For non-Delaware registered vehicles, the daily fee is $10. Parking can be limited during peak season, so arriving early is recommended.

  • Public Transport

    DART First State Bus Route 208 stops at Fenwick Island State Park. From locations north or south, connect to Route 208. Check the DART First State website for schedules and fare information. A one-way fare typically ranges from $2 to $4.

  • Shuttle

    During certain times of the year, a shuttle service is available from Bayside (for members and registered guests only) to Fenwick Island State Park. The shuttle runs continuously every hour, with the last return trip departing from the State Park at 5:30 PM. A valid membership card or amenity pass is required to ride.

Unlock the Best of Fenwick Island State Park

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Discover more about Fenwick Island State Park

Fenwick Island State Park, nestled between the bustling resort towns of Ocean City, Maryland, and South Bethany, Delaware, provides a serene escape on a narrow barrier island. Established in 1966 as part of Delaware Seashore State Park and later renamed in 1981, the park boasts three miles of unspoiled beaches along the Atlantic Ocean and access to the tranquil Little Assawoman Bay. Historically, the island is named after Thomas Fenwick, who was granted the land in 1682. Although he never resided on the island, Fenwick held prominent positions in Sussex County government. During World War II, the park's strategic location led to its use as part of the coastal defense system, and a concrete observation tower from that era still stands near the northern boundary. Today, Fenwick Island State Park invites visitors to unwind on its peaceful shores. Swimming and sunbathing are popular activities on the ocean side, where lifeguards patrol the beaches from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The park also features a bathhouse with showers, changing rooms, and a snack food concession. Anglers can enjoy surf fishing, and designated dune crossings provide access for vehicles with surf fishing permits. On the bay side, the calm waters of Little Assawoman Bay are ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. The Assawoman Recreation Area offers easy access for launching kayaks, and rentals are available. Nature enthusiasts can explore the park's diverse ecosystem, home to various wildlife species, including ghost crabs, piping plovers, and ospreys. Whether you seek relaxation on the beach, thrilling water sports, or a chance to connect with nature, Fenwick Island State Park offers a memorable coastal experience.

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