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Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve, Lewes Travel Guide

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Discover Delaware's coastal beauty at Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve: a haven for wildlife, birdwatching, and serene natural landscapes.

Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve, near Lewes, Delaware, is a 127-acre coastal haven protecting a dynamic barrier spit ecosystem. Established in 1990, it safeguards the area's unique plant and animal life, offering visitors a chance to explore its beaches, dunes, and tidal marshes.

A brief summary to Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve

  • Monday 7:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Tuesday 7:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Wednesday 7:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Thursday 7:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Friday 7:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Saturday 7:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-8 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve.

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best opportunities to view wildlife.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking to fully enjoy the trails.
  • Check the tide schedule if you plan to explore the beach areas.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots within the preserve.

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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Lewes, DE, head south on Coastal Highway (US-1) towards Cape Henlopen State Park. After approximately 3 miles, take the exit toward Cape Henlopen State Park. Continue onto Cape Henlopen Drive, which will lead you directly to the park entrance. Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve is located within the park area. Entry fees to the park apply. Parking is available. Note that Beach Plum Island is typically closed to vehicles and parking lot access by a gate at the entrance road during the winter. The park is open from March 1 - December 31.

  • Public Transport

    From the Lewes Transit Center, Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve is accessible by DART Beach Bus. Several routes connect the Transit Center with Cape Henlopen State Park, where the preserve is located. A one-way fare is $2. A daily pass costs $4. From the park entrance, follow the signs to Beach Plum Island.

  • Walking

    If you're already in the vicinity of Cape Henlopen State Park, you can walk to the park entrance from nearby residential areas or hotels. Follow any marked pedestrian paths to the park entrance, then walk towards Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve, which is accessible from within the park.

Discover more about Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve

Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve, a serene 127-acre sanctuary near Lewes, Delaware, is dedicated to preserving a pristine barrier spit ecosystem. Established in 1990, the preserve protects the natural heritage of Delaware, ensuring its existence for future generations.The preserve's diverse habitats encompass beach, dune, tidal marsh, and riverine environments, creating a dynamic and ever-changing landscape. These habitats support a rich variety of plant and animal life, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Keep an eye out for terrapin nesting activity along the beach.Visitors can explore designated areas of the preserve, observing the delicate balance of this coastal ecosystem. The preserve offers opportunities for wildlife watching and surf fishing in specific zones. A pedestrian trail from the southwest corner of the parking lot provides access for bank fishing and crabbing along the Broadkill River. Note that access to the southern portion of the beach is restricted to protect nesting birds and migratory shorebirds.Remember that dunes and vegetation are susceptible to damage from trampling, so visitors should use only designated areas. The preserve is typically open from March 1 to December 31, with vehicle access and parking lot access restricted during the winter months.

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