Delaware Seashore State Park: Coastal Paradise

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Explore Delaware's stunning coastline with beaches, bays, history, and endless outdoor activities at Delaware Seashore State Park.

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Delaware Seashore State Park

Delaware Seashore State Park offers a stunning six-mile stretch of beach and 20 miles of bay shoreline, perfect for swimming, surfing, fishing, and exploring Delaware's natural beauty. Discover the Indian River Life-Saving Station and enjoy waterfront dining.

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

Local tips

Visit the Indian River Life-Saving Station to learn about the park's maritime history and the courageous surfmen who saved shipwreck victims.
Enjoy swimming at the guarded beaches during the summer season, with lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Bring your fishing gear and try surf fishing along the ocean or angling at the Indian River Inlet.
Explore the park's trails for hiking and biking, and keep an eye out for diverse wildlife and bird species.
Consider purchasing an annual Delaware State Park Pass for cost-effective access if you plan to visit frequently.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

North Inlet Day Area

North Inlet Day Area: Coastal Serenity

Coin Beach

Coin Beach: Delaware's Coastal Treasure Trove

South Inlet, Delaware Seashore State Park

South Inlet: Delaware Seashore's Coastal Gem

Getting There

Driving

From Rehoboth Beach, head south on DE-1 S/Coastal Hwy. Continue for approximately 5 miles. Delaware Seashore State Park will be on your right. Parking is available throughout the park, but can be limited during peak season. From May to September, a daily entrance fee is required: $5 for Delaware residents and $10 for non-residents. Parking is free from October to April.
Public Transport

From Rehoboth Beach, take the DART First State Route 208 bus towards the Indian River Campground. The bus departs from the stop at Del Rt 1 @ Spring Lake Dr and arrives at Del Rt 1 @ Indian River Campground. The ride takes approximately 12 minutes. From there, it's a short walk to the park entrance. A single ride fare is $2, or you can purchase a daily pass for $4.
Walking

From Dewey Beach, Delaware Seashore State Park is approximately 3 miles south along Coastal Highway (Route 1). Be cautious of traffic as you walk along the shoulder of the road. Once inside the park, there are pedestrian paths and crosswalks to use. There are no costs associated with walking into the park, but be aware that some areas may require payment during certain times of the year.

Discover more about Delaware Seashore State Park

Delaware Seashore State Park, created in 1965 and officially named in 1967, is a coastal haven located between Dewey Beach and Bethany Beach. This 2,825-acre park is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and Rehoboth Bay and Indian River Bay to the west. The park's diverse landscape offers a variety of activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming and sunbathing on the guarded beaches, surfing in designated areas, and fishing from the shore or the Indian River Inlet. The Indian River Marina provides boating access, and the bays are ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding. Several trails wind through the park, perfect for hiking and biking, with opportunities for bird watching and wildlife viewing. History buffs can explore the Indian River Life-Saving Station, built in 1876, which now serves as a museum and visitor center. The restored station showcases the heroic efforts of the U.S. Life-Saving Service in rescuing shipwreck victims. For those seeking relaxation, the park offers two restaurants with scenic views: the Big Chill Beach Club and the Dockside Marina Bar & Grill. Camping is also available at the North and South Inlet campgrounds. The park's dynamic environment has been shaped by the Indian River Inlet, which connects the inland bays with the Atlantic Ocean. Stabilized by jetties in 1939, the inlet plays a crucial role in the region's history and ecology.

Explore the best of what Delaware Seashore State Park has to offer

Explore the serene Bethany Beach Nature Center, a haven for wildlife and nature lovers, showcasing Delaware's rich ecosystems and educational experiences.

Discover coastal Delaware's natural beauty at North Inlet Day Area: hiking, birdwatching, and serene beaches await!