Reduced Lifeguarding as Students Return to School
South Inlet Day Area will remain a guarded beach until Monday, September 5. Towers Ocean will be unguarded August 29 through September 2, and will be guarded Labor day weekend September 3 through September 5. We encourage you to use guarded beaches.
For more information, please read the press release.
Find Your Adventure at Delaware Seashore
See the Views from the Bridge
Walk to the top of the Indian River Inlet bridge for an unforgettable view of where Delaware Seashore all comes together – the Atlantic ocean, Delaware’s inland bays, and miles of undeveloped coastline.
Tour the Life-Saving Station
Take a step back in time to tour the Indian River Life-Saving Station and catch a glimpse into the daily lives of the surfmen that patrolled out coasts and performed high seas rescues over 100 years ago.
Paddle the Bay
Paddle a kayak from Savages Ditch to explore the vast salt marsh islands of Rehoboth Bay and see diamondback terrapins, horseshoe crabs, and a wide variety of nesting birds such as laughing gulls, osprey, snowy egrets, tricolored herons, and glossy ibis.
Go Fish
Partake in a pastime that has become part of Delaware Seashore’s legacy – fishing! Cast your line from one of the marina’s charter boats, from the rock jetties of the inlet, or from the beach itself.
Discover Burtons Island
Hike through Burton Island Nature Preserve, and experience the changing scenery as you meander from salt marsh to maritime forest habitats.
Superintendent’s Pick: Catch a Wave
Delaware Seashore State Park is a great place for surfing! Grab your board and catch a wave after sunrise at the North Inlet Day Area beach.
About the Park
Delaware Seashore State Park, boasting six miles of ocean and 20 miles of bay shoreline, serves as an important part of the southern Delaware coastline. The dynamic Indian River Inlet connects the Indian River and Rehoboth Bays with the Atlantic Ocean and is the epicenter of the park’s many activities. A beach lies on either side of the inlet, welcoming anglers and beachgoers who stay for the day or overnight at the park’s waterfront campground and cottages. The Indian River Life-Saving Station, built in 1876 for use by the United States Lifesaving Service to respond to shipwrecks, now pays homage to its maritime heritage while doubling as a coastal event space and educational center. The barrier beach and inland bays provide the perfect salt marsh habitat and nesting grounds for birds and terrapins. More than seven miles of trails welcome hikers, bikers and birders.
Park History
Transportation along this barrier island, bounded on the east by the Atlantic Ocean and on the west by Rehoboth Bay and Indian River Bay, was difficult until the Federal government completed construction of two large steel and stone jetties in 1939, stabilizing the Indian River Inlet. The State Park Commission (now the Division of Parks and Recreation) began managing the land as Indian River State Park in 1965, but it didn't become Delaware Seashore State Park until 1967.
Swimming, Surfing Sunbathing
Two ocean swimming areas, patrolled by lifeguards from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily during the summer season, feature modern bathhouses with showers, changing rooms and concession stands. The beach just north of the Inlet is one of the few surfing areas within the park. Mobi-Mat equipment, consisting of three 30-foot mats allowing those in wheelchairs and power chairs to access the beach from the boardwalk, is also available at the Towers Ocean and South Inlet locations.
Camping at the Beach
Two campgrounds, one on each side of the Indian River Inlet, accommodate a variety of camping units, from tents to large recreational vehicles. North Inlet campsites feature three-point hookups (electricity, water, and sewer service), with three-point hookups (electric, water and sewer) and Standard (no hookups) sites, and tent sites available at the South Inlet campground.
Two campgrounds, one on each side of the Indian River Inlet, accommodate a variety of camping units, from tents to large recreational vehicles. North Inlet campsites feature three-point hookups (electricity, water, and sewer service), with three-point hookups (electric, water and sewer) and Standard (no hookups) sites, and tent sites available at the South Inlet campground. Get info about camping at Delaware Seashore.
Indian River Marina
Anglers may try their luck along the banks of the Indian River Inlet or on the ocean beaches, and head boats and charter boats launch out of the full-service Indian River Marina, offering wet slips, fuel docks, boat storage, supplies and more. Visit our Indian River Marina page for hours and information.
Indian River Life-Saving Station Museum
Built in 1876 for use by the United States Lifesaving Service, the full-restored station today features maritime exhibits and historic reenactors who periodically demonstrate turn-of-the-century techniques to rescue sailing ships in distress. Includes a gift shop offering unique coastal and maritime merchandise. Visit our Indian River Life-Saving Station page for hours and information.
Fishing, Clamming and Crabbing
A special access pier at the Indian Inlet allows the elderly and people with disabilities to get close to the fishing action. Clamming and crabbing are permitted in some sections of the bays; please check with the Park Office for open areas. Marked dune crossings allow surf-fishing access for four-wheel drive vehicles on the beach (permits required). Permits are also required for fishing, clamming and crabbing. Click for information about surf fishing permits and fishing licenses. WARNING: The State online automated fishing license system is NOT compatible with mobile devices or iPads and may encounter printing issues with touch screen computers and apple products.
Dining
Located at the South Inlet Day Use Area at Delaware Seashore State Park, Big Chill Beach Club is an oceanfront restaurant and event tent featuring an umbrella deck with breath-taking 360° views of the Atlantic Ocean, Indian River Inlet, and Indian River Bay. The Big Chill Beach Club features casual beach fare from breakfast to dinner, full-service cocktails, wine and beer, an oyster bar and Umbrella Bar, fire pit and hang-out game area, beach amenities for the beach-goers, and catered events for up to 200 people. Open daily April to October, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. A park entry fee is charged March through November.
Outdoor Recreation
The shallow bays are perfect for windsurfing and sailing. A non- motorized boat launch provides access for sail boards, kayaks, and boats in the New Road area.
Six different family-friendly trails showcase a variety of habitats for hikers, bikers, or horseback riders, and entertaining and informative programs, such as bay seining and marsh hikes, are held throughout the summer. The park hosts a popular Sandcastle Contest each July, where amateur participants create unique sculptures and castles to compete for prizes.
Independent and Self-Guided Educational Opportunities
Self-Guided Hikes
Our guided hikes have gone digital! Hike the following trails at your leisure. At each of the trailheads, scan the posted QR code with your smart phone, and use your phone’s GPS to track your location along the trail. Educational “pin-drops” will help you discover the area’s natural and cultural resources. Digital trail guides can be found at:
- Thompson Island Nature Preserve
- Burton Island Nature Preserve
- Prickly Pear Trail at Fresh Pond
- Holts Landing State Park
Museum Audio Tours
Enjoy a self-guided, cell phone audio tour of the historic Indian River Life-Saving Station Museum located at our visitor’s center. Our tour gives detailed stories and history into the daily lives of our surfmen; it’s like having your own tour guide! Learn the history of the U. S. Life-Saving Service, the precursor to the current day U.S. Coast Guard, by visiting this original 1876 shipwreck victims along the coasts of the United States.
- Wednesday – Friday 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
- Saturdays 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Self-guided tours of the station are $4/adult, $3/senior citizens (62 or older), and $2/child ages six to 12 years old. Children 5 and under are admitted free.
Private Programs
Looking to find out more about park programs for private groups? We provide a variety of programs for ALL ages. We can cater to your staff, scout troop, class, or community group. Call the Indian River-Life Saving Station at (302)-227-6991 and ask for our Programs Coordinator. Private program bookings can be scheduled on the following days:
- Wednesday – Friday 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
- Saturdays 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
- Pre-registration required and minimum participation will be required.
- Prices on programs vary.
Upcoming Events
Lantern Tour
Friday, March 24, 2023
7:00 PM
Learn what the surfmen went through to save shipwreck victims off the Delaware coast over 100 years ago. Venture out to the beach with a lantern and hear tales of tragedy and mystery from the station's logs. Pre-registration required. Ages 8 and up. Call 302-227-6991 to register. $10 per person. Online program registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call the park to reserve, at 302-227-6991.
Add to Calendar
3/24/2023 7:00:00 PM
3/24/2023 8:30:00 PM
America/New_York
Lantern Tour
Learn what the surfmen went through to save shipwreck victims off the Delaware coast over 100 years ago. Venture out to the beach with a lantern and hear tales of tragedy and mystery from the station's logs. Pre-registration required. Ages 8 and up. Call 302-227-6991 to register. $10 per person. Online program registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call the park to reserve, at 302-227-6991.
Delaware Seashore
Introduction to Surf Fishing
Saturday, March 25, 2023
1:00 PM
Have you always wanted to try surf fishing but weren’t sure how to get started? If so, this program is for you! Everything from fish identification to proper casting techniques will be covered in this three-hour program. Rods, reels, and bait are provided. Ages 12 and up. Those under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $25 per person
Add to Calendar
3/25/2023 1:00:00 PM
3/25/2023 4:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Introduction to Surf Fishing
Have you always wanted to try surf fishing but weren’t sure how to get started? If so, this program is for you! Everything from fish identification to proper casting techniques will be covered in this three-hour program. Rods, reels, and bait are provided. Ages 12 and up. Those under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $25 per person
Delaware Seashore
Introduction to Surf Fishing
Thursday, April 6, 2023
1:00 PM
Have you always wanted to try surf fishing but weren’t sure how to get started? If so, this program is for you! Everything from fish identification to proper casting techniques will be covered in this three-hour program. Rods, reels, and bait are provided. Ages 12 and up. Those under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $25 per person
Add to Calendar
4/6/2023 1:00:00 PM
4/6/2023 4:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Introduction to Surf Fishing
Have you always wanted to try surf fishing but weren’t sure how to get started? If so, this program is for you! Everything from fish identification to proper casting techniques will be covered in this three-hour program. Rods, reels, and bait are provided. Ages 12 and up. Those under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $25 per person
Delaware Seashore
Sea Glass at the Seashore
Saturday, April 8, 2023
10:00 AM
From sand to bottles to sea glass, dive into the history behind these beach treasures and make a magnet to take home! Learn about the origins of sea glass, scour the coastline for a piece of history, then create a unique keepsake. Recommended ages 12 and up. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program, after that, please call 302-227-6991. $8 per person
Add to Calendar
4/8/2023 10:00:00 AM
4/8/2023 11:00:00 AM
America/New_York
Sea Glass at the Seashore
From sand to bottles to sea glass, dive into the history behind these beach treasures and make a magnet to take home! Learn about the origins of sea glass, scour the coastline for a piece of history, then create a unique keepsake. Recommended ages 12 and up. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program, after that, please call 302-227-6991. $8 per person
Delaware Seashore
Owl Pellet Dissection
Tuesday, April 11, 2023
10:00 AM
Learn about common owl species found in Delaware. A park naturalist will explain their adaptations and guide participants through a dissection of an owl pellet to determine its latest meal! Online program registration ends 24 hours before the program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. Ages 5 and up. All chaperones and observers must purchase a ticket. $6 per person
Add to Calendar
4/11/2023 10:00:00 AM
4/11/2023 11:00:00 AM
America/New_York
Owl Pellet Dissection
Learn about common owl species found in Delaware. A park naturalist will explain their adaptations and guide participants through a dissection of an owl pellet to determine its latest meal! Online program registration ends 24 hours before the program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. Ages 5 and up. All chaperones and observers must purchase a ticket. $6 per person
Delaware Seashore
Squid Dissection: From Pen to Ink!
Tuesday, April 11, 2023
11:00 AM
Study one of the most specialized invertebrates of the sea! A park naturalist will guide participants in a dissection, and at the end of the program we will write with the squid's pen and ink! Ages 6 and up. Chaperones and observers must purchase tickets. Online program registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call the park to reserve, at 302-227-6991. $6 per person
Add to Calendar
4/11/2023 11:00:00 AM
4/11/2023 12:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Squid Dissection: From Pen to Ink!
Study one of the most specialized invertebrates of the sea! A park naturalist will guide participants in a dissection, and at the end of the program we will write with the squid's pen and ink! Ages 6 and up. Chaperones and observers must purchase tickets. Online program registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call the park to reserve, at 302-227-6991. $6 per person
Delaware Seashore
Junior Life-Savers
Wednesday, April 12, 2023
10:00 AM
Discover how the early life-savers lived, worked, and responded to shipwrecks along Delaware’s coast. This children’s program takes an interactive look at the rescue methods, communication, and tools of the United States Life-Saving Service. For ages 6-12. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Portions of the program will take place inside and outdoors, so please dress for the weather. Pre-registration required. Online program registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call the park to reserve, at 302-227-6991. $6 per person
Add to Calendar
4/12/2023 10:00:00 AM
4/12/2023 11:00:00 AM
America/New_York
Junior Life-Savers
Discover how the early life-savers lived, worked, and responded to shipwrecks along Delaware’s coast. This children’s program takes an interactive look at the rescue methods, communication, and tools of the United States Life-Saving Service. For ages 6-12. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Portions of the program will take place inside and outdoors, so please dress for the weather. Pre-registration required. Online program registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call the park to reserve, at 302-227-6991. $6 per person
Delaware Seashore
Hike the Indian River Inlet Bridge
Wednesday, April 12, 2023
11:30 AM
Enjoy a guided hike over the Indian River Inlet bridge. Learn about the dynamic forces that have shaped the inlet over the last 200 years. Find out about the bridges that have spanned the inlet and how the current bridge design came to be. Online program registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call the park to reserve at 302-227-6991. $6 per person
Add to Calendar
4/12/2023 11:30:00 AM
4/12/2023 12:30:00 PM
America/New_York
Hike the Indian River Inlet Bridge
Enjoy a guided hike over the Indian River Inlet bridge. Learn about the dynamic forces that have shaped the inlet over the last 200 years. Find out about the bridges that have spanned the inlet and how the current bridge design came to be. Online program registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call the park to reserve at 302-227-6991. $6 per person
Delaware Seashore
Hike Burton Island Nature Preserve
Thursday, April 13, 2023
10:00 AM
Explore the varied habitats and scenery along the 1-mile loop on Burton Island Nature Preserve. Learn about the history of this island and how it came to be part of the state park. Identify trees, shrubs, grasses and birds along the way. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $5 per person
Add to Calendar
4/13/2023 10:00:00 AM
4/13/2023 11:00:00 AM
America/New_York
Hike Burton Island Nature Preserve
Explore the varied habitats and scenery along the 1-mile loop on Burton Island Nature Preserve. Learn about the history of this island and how it came to be part of the state park. Identify trees, shrubs, grasses and birds along the way. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $5 per person
Delaware Seashore
Marsh Exploration
Thursday, April 13, 2023
11:30 AM
Explore Rehoboth Bay and surrounding marshes like never before! Participants will use hand-held dip nets to collect and identify a variety of marine life. Closed-toe shoes are required to walk through shallow water. Pre-registration required. Ages 5 and up. Chaperones and observers must purchase tickets. Online program registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call the park to reserve at 302-227-6991. $5 per person
Add to Calendar
4/13/2023 11:30:00 AM
4/13/2023 12:30:00 PM
America/New_York
Marsh Exploration
Explore Rehoboth Bay and surrounding marshes like never before! Participants will use hand-held dip nets to collect and identify a variety of marine life. Closed-toe shoes are required to walk through shallow water. Pre-registration required. Ages 5 and up. Chaperones and observers must purchase tickets. Online program registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call the park to reserve at 302-227-6991. $5 per person
Delaware Seashore
Morning Patrol
Saturday, April 15, 2023
9:00 AM
Over 100 years ago, the surfmen of the Indian River Life-Saving Station went on regular beach patrols, scanning the waters for ships in distress. After hours of walking on the beach, often in harsh conditions, they would return to the station and end their patrol with a hot cup of coffee. Start your day like a surfman and venture out on a 1-mile beach patrol with a park interpreter. Coffee will be served in the museum at the conclusion of the walk. Online program registration ends 24 hours before the program. After that, please call 302-227-6991 to register. $5 per person
Add to Calendar
4/15/2023 9:00:00 AM
4/15/2023 10:30:00 AM
America/New_York
Morning Patrol
Over 100 years ago, the surfmen of the Indian River Life-Saving Station went on regular beach patrols, scanning the waters for ships in distress. After hours of walking on the beach, often in harsh conditions, they would return to the station and end their patrol with a hot cup of coffee. Start your day like a surfman and venture out on a 1-mile beach patrol with a park interpreter. Coffee will be served in the museum at the conclusion of the walk. Online program registration ends 24 hours before the program. After that, please call 302-227-6991 to register. $5 per person
Delaware Seashore
Introduction to Surf Fishing
Saturday, April 15, 2023
1:00 PM
Have you always wanted to try surf fishing but weren’t sure how to get started? If so, this program is for you! Everything from fish identification to proper casting techniques will be covered in this three-hour program. Rods, reels, and bait are provided. Ages 12 and up. Those under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $25 per person
Add to Calendar
4/15/2023 1:00:00 PM
4/15/2023 4:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Introduction to Surf Fishing
Have you always wanted to try surf fishing but weren’t sure how to get started? If so, this program is for you! Everything from fish identification to proper casting techniques will be covered in this three-hour program. Rods, reels, and bait are provided. Ages 12 and up. Those under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $25 per person
Delaware Seashore
Introduction to Surf Fishing
Thursday, April 20, 2023
1:00 PM
Have you always wanted to try surf fishing but weren’t sure how to get started? If so, this program is for you! Everything from fish identification to proper casting techniques will be covered in this three-hour program. Rods, reels, and bait are provided. Ages 12 and up. Those under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $25 per person
Add to Calendar
4/20/2023 1:00:00 PM
4/20/2023 4:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Introduction to Surf Fishing
Have you always wanted to try surf fishing but weren’t sure how to get started? If so, this program is for you! Everything from fish identification to proper casting techniques will be covered in this three-hour program. Rods, reels, and bait are provided. Ages 12 and up. Those under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $25 per person
Delaware Seashore
Earth Day at Holts Landing: Service Projects & Forest Bathing
Saturday, April 22, 2023
9:00 AM
Celebrate Earth Day by giving back to the park and immersing yourself in nature’s bounty! Join the Friends of Holts Landing State Park for a volunteer trail clean-up project in honor of Earth Day. After the project is complete, park staff will host a session of Shinrin-Yoku: the Art of Japanese Forest Bathing. This event is free of charge to participate, but pre-registration is required for the forest bathing portion by calling 302-227-6991.
Add to Calendar
4/22/2023 9:00:00 AM
4/22/2023 12:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Earth Day at Holts Landing: Service Projects & Forest Bathing
Celebrate Earth Day by giving back to the park and immersing yourself in nature’s bounty! Join the Friends of Holts Landing State Park for a volunteer trail clean-up project in honor of Earth Day. After the project is complete, park staff will host a session of Shinrin-Yoku: the Art of Japanese Forest Bathing. This event is free of charge to participate, but pre-registration is required for the forest bathing portion by calling 302-227-6991.
Delaware Seashore
Sea Glass at the Seashore
Saturday, April 29, 2023
10:00 AM
From sand to bottles to sea glass, dive into the history behind these beach treasures and make a magnet to take home! Learn about the origins of sea glass, scour the coastline for a piece of history, then create a unique keepsake. Recommended ages 12 and up. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program, after that, please call 302-227-6991. $8 per person
Add to Calendar
4/29/2023 10:00:00 AM
4/29/2023 11:00:00 AM
America/New_York
Sea Glass at the Seashore
From sand to bottles to sea glass, dive into the history behind these beach treasures and make a magnet to take home! Learn about the origins of sea glass, scour the coastline for a piece of history, then create a unique keepsake. Recommended ages 12 and up. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program, after that, please call 302-227-6991. $8 per person
Delaware Seashore
Osprey Watch
Saturday, May 6, 2023
10:00 AM
Delawares inland bays have the largest concentration of this important raptor in the state. Nicknamed the -fish hawk-, Osprey arrive at nesting sites in March to breed, raise their young and enjoy good fishing before migrating south in late August. Learn how to identify them, how they fish, preferred nesting sites and how they care for their young. Wear sunscreen and bring binoculars if available. Binoculars will also be available to borrow. Free. No pre-registration necessary. Meet at the Savages Ditch picnic pavilion.
Add to Calendar
5/6/2023 10:00:00 AM
5/6/2023 11:30:00 AM
America/New_York
Osprey Watch
Delawares inland bays have the largest concentration of this important raptor in the state. Nicknamed the -fish hawk-, Osprey arrive at nesting sites in March to breed, raise their young and enjoy good fishing before migrating south in late August. Learn how to identify them, how they fish, preferred nesting sites and how they care for their young. Wear sunscreen and bring binoculars if available. Binoculars will also be available to borrow. Free. No pre-registration necessary. Meet at the Savages Ditch picnic pavilion.
Delaware Seashore
Introduction to Surf Fishing
Wednesday, May 10, 2023
1:00 PM
Have you always wanted to try surf fishing but weren’t sure how to get started? If so, this program is for you! Everything from fish identification to proper casting techniques will be covered in this three-hour program. Rods, reels, and bait are provided. Ages 12 and up. Those under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $25 per person
Add to Calendar
5/10/2023 1:00:00 PM
5/10/2023 4:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Introduction to Surf Fishing
Have you always wanted to try surf fishing but weren’t sure how to get started? If so, this program is for you! Everything from fish identification to proper casting techniques will be covered in this three-hour program. Rods, reels, and bait are provided. Ages 12 and up. Those under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $25 per person
Delaware Seashore
Morning Patrol
Saturday, May 13, 2023
9:00 AM
Over 100 years ago, the surfmen of the Indian River Life-Saving Station went on regular beach patrols, scanning the waters for ships in distress. After hours of walking on the beach, often in harsh conditions, they would return to the station and end their patrol with a hot cup of coffee. Start your day like a surfman and venture out on a 1-mile beach patrol with a park interpreter. Coffee will be served in the museum at the conclusion of the walk. Online program registration ends 24 hours before the program. After that, please call 302-227-6991 to register. $5 per person
Add to Calendar
5/13/2023 9:00:00 AM
5/13/2023 10:30:00 AM
America/New_York
Morning Patrol
Over 100 years ago, the surfmen of the Indian River Life-Saving Station went on regular beach patrols, scanning the waters for ships in distress. After hours of walking on the beach, often in harsh conditions, they would return to the station and end their patrol with a hot cup of coffee. Start your day like a surfman and venture out on a 1-mile beach patrol with a park interpreter. Coffee will be served in the museum at the conclusion of the walk. Online program registration ends 24 hours before the program. After that, please call 302-227-6991 to register. $5 per person
Delaware Seashore
Introduction to Surf Fishing
Wednesday, May 17, 2023
1:00 PM
Have you always wanted to try surf fishing but weren’t sure how to get started? If so, this program is for you! Everything from fish identification to proper casting techniques will be covered in this three-hour program. Rods, reels, and bait are provided. Ages 12 and up. Those under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $25 per person
Add to Calendar
5/17/2023 1:00:00 PM
5/17/2023 4:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Introduction to Surf Fishing
Have you always wanted to try surf fishing but weren’t sure how to get started? If so, this program is for you! Everything from fish identification to proper casting techniques will be covered in this three-hour program. Rods, reels, and bait are provided. Ages 12 and up. Those under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $25 per person
Delaware Seashore
Lantern Tour
Friday, May 19, 2023
8:00 PM
Learn what the surfmen went through to save shipwreck victims off the Delaware coast over 100 years ago. Venture out to the beach with a lantern and hear tales of tragedy and mystery from the station's logs. Pre-registration required. Ages 8 and up. Call 302-227-6991 to register. $10 per person. Online program registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call the park to reserve, at 302-227-6991.
Add to Calendar
5/19/2023 8:00:00 PM
5/19/2023 9:30:00 PM
America/New_York
Lantern Tour
Learn what the surfmen went through to save shipwreck victims off the Delaware coast over 100 years ago. Venture out to the beach with a lantern and hear tales of tragedy and mystery from the station's logs. Pre-registration required. Ages 8 and up. Call 302-227-6991 to register. $10 per person. Online program registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call the park to reserve, at 302-227-6991.
Delaware Seashore
Crabbing 101
Saturday, May 20, 2023
10:00 AM
Interested in crabbing but not sure how to get started? Join a park naturalist to learn about the life cycle of the Atlantic blue crab, different crabbing techniques, and current Delaware rules and regulations. Then try your hand at catching those tasty crustaceans! Catch and release. All participants, observers, and chaperones must purchase a ticket. Online program registration ends 24 hours before the program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $6 per person
Add to Calendar
5/20/2023 10:00:00 AM
5/20/2023 11:30:00 AM
America/New_York
Crabbing 101
Interested in crabbing but not sure how to get started? Join a park naturalist to learn about the life cycle of the Atlantic blue crab, different crabbing techniques, and current Delaware rules and regulations. Then try your hand at catching those tasty crustaceans! Catch and release. All participants, observers, and chaperones must purchase a ticket. Online program registration ends 24 hours before the program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $6 per person
Delaware Seashore
Full Moon Horseshoe Crab Walk
Saturday, June 3, 2023
8:00 PM
Join a park naturalist in exploring a natural phenomenon that is famous in Delaware: spawning horseshoe crabs. These marine invertebrates come into Delaware's inland bays to spawn each year, and they are seen in large numbers right around the full moon. Participants should bring a headlamp or flashlight and wear closed-toe shoes to wade into ankle-deep water. Ages 6 and up. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $6 per person
Add to Calendar
6/3/2023 8:00:00 PM
6/3/2023 9:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Full Moon Horseshoe Crab Walk
Join a park naturalist in exploring a natural phenomenon that is famous in Delaware: spawning horseshoe crabs. These marine invertebrates come into Delaware's inland bays to spawn each year, and they are seen in large numbers right around the full moon. Participants should bring a headlamp or flashlight and wear closed-toe shoes to wade into ankle-deep water. Ages 6 and up. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $6 per person
Delaware Seashore
Full Moon Horseshoe Crab Walk
Sunday, June 4, 2023
8:00 PM
Join a park naturalist in exploring a natural phenomenon that is famous in Delaware: spawning horseshoe crabs. These marine invertebrates come into Delaware's inland bays to spawn each year, and they are seen in large numbers right around the full moon. Participants should bring a headlamp or flashlight and wear closed-toe shoes to wade into ankle-deep water. Ages 6 and up. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $6 per person
Add to Calendar
6/4/2023 8:00:00 PM
6/4/2023 9:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Full Moon Horseshoe Crab Walk
Join a park naturalist in exploring a natural phenomenon that is famous in Delaware: spawning horseshoe crabs. These marine invertebrates come into Delaware's inland bays to spawn each year, and they are seen in large numbers right around the full moon. Participants should bring a headlamp or flashlight and wear closed-toe shoes to wade into ankle-deep water. Ages 6 and up. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $6 per person
Delaware Seashore
Full Moon Horseshoe Crab Walk
Monday, June 5, 2023
8:00 PM
Join a park naturalist in exploring a natural phenomenon that is famous in Delaware: spawning horseshoe crabs. These marine invertebrates come into Delaware's inland bays to spawn each year, and they are seen in large numbers right around the full moon. Participants should bring a headlamp or flashlight and wear closed-toe shoes to wade into ankle-deep water. Ages 6 and up. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $6 per person
Add to Calendar
6/5/2023 8:00:00 PM
6/5/2023 9:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Full Moon Horseshoe Crab Walk
Join a park naturalist in exploring a natural phenomenon that is famous in Delaware: spawning horseshoe crabs. These marine invertebrates come into Delaware's inland bays to spawn each year, and they are seen in large numbers right around the full moon. Participants should bring a headlamp or flashlight and wear closed-toe shoes to wade into ankle-deep water. Ages 6 and up. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $6 per person
Delaware Seashore
Map and Directions
39415 Inlet Road
Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
Hours + Info
The park is open daily 8 a.m. to sunset.
*
April 1 through October 31: The park office is open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., 7 days a week
November 1 through March 31: The park office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
* Sunset time in Rehoboth Beach (EST) by Time.is
Indian River Life-Saving Station Museum Hours
April 1 - September 30:
- 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., 7 days a week
October 1 - 31:
- 8 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday
- Closed Sunday and Monday
- Museum admission ends at 3:30
November - March
- 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Wednesday through Friday
- 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Saturday
Swimming Beaches are Guarded
-
Memorial Day Saturday to Labor Day Monday
9 a.m – 5 p.m. daily
Entrance Fees
In-state: $5 Daily
Out-of-state: $10 Daily
Maps + Downloads
Maps
- Delaware Seashore State Park and Indian River Marina
- Delaware Seashore Campground
- Assawoman Canal Trail
- Cedar Island Water Trail
- Fresh Pond Area
- Indian River Marina Dock
- New Road/Savages Ditch Water Trail Map
- Thompson Island Preserve
Brochures
- Park Activity Guide
- Pets in the Park Brochure
- Surf Fishing Brochure (includes maps)
- Birding Checklist
Love This Park?
- Join the Delaware Seashore Preservation Foundation
- Make an online donation to Delaware Seashore State Park
- Become a Delaware Seashore State Park Volunteer
Activities
- Biking
- Boating
- Camping
- Clamming
- Crabbing
- Cultural/Recreation/Nature Programs
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Kayaking
- Picnicking
- School Group Programs
- Surf Fishing (Off-Road) Areas (license required)
- Trails
- Surfing
- Ocean Swimming
- Wind Surfing
Amenities
- Accessible Beach
- Bait and Tackle Shop
- Big Chill Beach Club
- Boat Launch
- Camp Store
- Campgrounds
- Day Use Areas
- Dump Stations
- Equestrian Trails
- Food Concessions*
-
Indian River Marina:
Fuel Dock, Wet Slips, Boat Storage, Supply Store, Charters/Head Boat, Sewage Pump-Out, Transient Slips - Gift Shop
- Hiking/Biking/Equestrian Trails
- Indian River Life-Saving Station Historic Site and Museum
- Meeting Space
- Pet Areas
- Picnic Pavilions
- Picnic Tables
- Playground
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Surf Fishing (Off-Road) Areas (license required)
- Umbrella Rentals*
- Waterfront Cottages
- Wedding and Reception Venues
- Wheelchair Accessibility
*Summer only
