Delaware Seashore State Park, The Coastal Plain Travel Guide

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Discover Delaware Seashore State Park: Miles of pristine beaches, rich history, and endless outdoor adventures await on the beautiful Delaware coast.

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Delaware Seashore State Park

Delaware Seashore State Park offers a stunning 6-mile stretch of beach and 20 miles of bay shoreline, perfect for swimming, surfing, camping, and exploring the Indian River Inlet's rich history. With diverse recreational activities and beautiful scenery, it's a must-visit destination on the Delaware coast.

A brief summary to Delaware Seashore State Park

39415 Inlet Rd, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, 19971, US
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Monday 8 am-8 pm
Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
Thursday 8 am-8 pm
Friday 8 am-8 pm
Saturday 8 am-8 pm
Sunday 8 am-8 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Delaware Seashore State Park.

Visit the Indian River Life-Saving Station Museum to learn about the area's maritime history and the U.S. Life-Saving Service.
Enjoy swimming and surfing at the guarded beaches, but be aware of designated surfing areas.
Explore the park's trails by foot or bike to discover diverse landscapes and wildlife.
Consider camping at the North or South Inlet campgrounds for a longer stay and easy access to park amenities.
Check the park's event calendar for summer concerts, seafood festivals, and educational programs.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Explore Delaware Seashore State Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Delaware Seashore State Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Delaware Seashore State Park is located on Route 1 between Dewey Beach and Bethany Beach. From Rehoboth Beach, head south on Route 1. The park entrance is well-marked. Parking is available throughout the park, but can be limited during peak season. From May to September, a daily entrance fee is charged. For Delaware residents, the daily fee is $5; for non-residents, it's $10. An annual pass can be purchased for $25 for residents and non-residents. Be aware that traffic can be heavy during the summer months.
Public Transport

DART First State's Route 208 bus provides access to Delaware Seashore State Park from Rehoboth Beach and other nearby towns. Check the DART First State website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and bus stop locations. From the bus stop at Del Rt 1 @ Indian River Campground, it is a short walk to the park's main attractions. A single bus fare costs $2, and a daily pass is $4.
Walking

If you are staying in Dewey Beach, you can walk to Delaware Seashore State Park. Head south on Route 1. Be aware that there is a pedestrian/bike path that traverses the Indian River Inlet Bridge. Be cautious of traffic. The walk from the center of Dewey Beach to the northern edge of the park is approximately 5 miles.

Discover more about Delaware Seashore State Park

Delaware Seashore State Park, established in 1965 and named in 1967, is a coastal paradise located between Dewey Beach and Bethany Beach. This 2,722-acre park is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and Rehoboth and Indian River Bays to the west. The park's diverse landscape includes beaches, marshes, and sand dunes, offering a variety of activities and stunning views.The park's history is closely tied to the Indian River Inlet, a dynamic waterway that has shaped the region. In 1939, jetties were constructed to stabilize the inlet, which had previously shifted due to natural forces. The Indian River Life-Saving Station, built in 1876, stands as a testament to the area's maritime history and the heroic efforts to rescue shipwrecked sailors. Today, the restored station serves as a museum and visitor center, offering insights into the lives of the U.S. Life-Saving Service surfmen.Visitors can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities, including swimming, sunbathing, fishing, boating, kayaking, and hiking. The park features two guarded ocean swimming areas, a marina with excellent fishing opportunities, and several trails for hiking and biking. Surfing is popular north of the Indian River Inlet. The Big Chill Beach Club and Dockside Marina Bar & Grill offer dining options with beautiful views.Delaware Seashore State Park also provides camping facilities at the North and South Inlet campgrounds. These campgrounds offer full hook-up RV sites, campsites without hook-ups, and tent-only sites. The park's convenient location and diverse amenities make it a popular destination for millions of visitors each year.