Cape Henlopen State Park — Swimming Hole in Delaware

🏊 Natural Swimming 🟢 Easy $5 In-State / $10 Out-of-State daily vehicle fee (March 1 - Nov 30)

🌊 About Cape Henlopen State Park

One of Delaware's flagship state parks, with a lifeguarded ocean beach alongside WWII history and birding — a well-rounded coastal day trip beyond just swimming.

📋 Visit Details

Entry Fee

$5 In-State / $10 Out-of-State daily vehicle fee (March 1 - Nov 30)

Water Temperature

💧 Warm Atlantic water in summer

Best Season

📅 Summer, lifeguarded in season

Reservation

Not Required

Water Type

Atlantic Ocean beach

Managed By

Delaware State Parks (DNREC)

County

Sussex County, Delaware

Access Difficulty

🟢 Easy

🗺️ Getting There

Address / Access Point:
15099 Cape Henlopen Dr, Lewes, DE 19958

Access Notes:
Easy, developed beach access with lifeguards in season; also home to WWII observation towers and extensive birding trails

GPS Coordinates

38.7831, -75.0970

Open in Google Maps →

✅ Before You Go — Checklist

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Check current water conditions — especially after recent rain
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Save GPS coordinates offline before leaving — cell service may be limited
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Bring cash or card for entry: $5 In-State / $10 Out-of-State daily vehicle fee (March 1 - Nov 30)
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Pack reef-safe sunscreen, dry bag, water shoes and plenty of drinking water
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Tell someone where you are going before heading to a remote location
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Pack out everything you bring in — leave no trace