Delaware Seashore State Park

Delaware Seashore State Park protects a 2,825-acre barrier beach strip between Rehoboth Beach and Bethany Beach along Delaware's Atlantic coast, encompassing shoreline between the Atlantic Ocean and the Rehoboth Bay and Indian River Bay estuaries. Established in 1965, the park preserves one of the last undeveloped barrier beach segments on the Delmarva Peninsula and is the most heavily visited state park in Delaware, drawing more than two million visitors annually. Six miles of Atlantic ocean beach — staffed by lifeguards at designated swimming areas from late June through Labor Day — form the primary attraction.

The Indian River Inlet divides the park into northern and southern sections and is crossed by the Indian River Inlet Bridge on Route 1. The inlet is renowned for saltwater fishing and is one of the most productive spots on the Delaware coast, with concrete fishing jetties on both sides providing access for anglers targeting striped bass, bluefish, flounder, and red drum. The Indian River Inlet Marina, within the park, offers boat ramp access, charter fishing departures, kayak and paddleboard rentals, and a camp store.

The park's campground provides oceanfront and bayside sites with hookup facilities, and the most popular sections — particularly the Burton Island oceanfront sites — book out months in advance for the summer season. Ocean swimming beaches are most crowded from mid-July through mid-August, particularly on weekends. Surfing is permitted at designated sections of the beach south of the inlet. Nature programs, guided kayak excursions, and Junior Ranger activities are offered during summer by interpretive staff. September and October bring significantly calmer conditions and open parking while water temperatures remain suitable for swimming, making the fall shoulder season the most comfortable time for a visit outside the peak summer period.