Cape Henlopen State Park

It’s one of the iconic images of Delaware, a scene that has captivated countless photographers and come to define the state’s coastal beauty: A grand old lighthouse that rises just off the beach, lashed by frothy waves as it stands sentry next to “The Point” at Cape Henlopen State Park.

The vantage point to this lighthouse view also happens to be one of the best places for enjoying the spectacular natural beauty of the ocean and coast of Delaware. A land of gentle dunes and singing shorebirds, Cape Henlopen State Park is revered for its rich assortment of activities: sunbathing on the park’s six miles of shoreline; fishing from the jetty or beach; walking or cycling down the miles of wildflower-adorned trails that weave through dunes and wetlands. Families adore Cape Henlopen’s convenient camping sites, as well as its constant options for fun, ranging from Nature Center programs, to disc golf, to annual events such as the Delaware Kite Festival.

But this is also a place to find solitude, and get in touch with that quiet beauty that only nature can reveal. Take a trip to see hawks soar in breezy blue skies, or watch shorebirds feed their young in the nests they have nestled in the dunes. Hike out to the end of the “cape” itself and feel gloriously alone, accompanied only by the sea breeze, the surf and the sand. Climb to the top of the World War II observation tower and take in the panoramic view that validates the prevailing wisdom that Cape Henlopen is truly one of Delaware’s most scenic and beautiful places.

Travel Advisory: As Delaware reopens, it is important to plan ahead and adhere to safety precautions. By planning ahead, it is suggested to travel in non-peak times to help ensure social distancing. Weekdays or the fall season are ideal times to visit the beaches.

Face coverings are required in public places including outdoors, boardwalk areas and highly suggested on the beach. Strict social distancing of 6ft between anyone outside a family unit must be maintained. Please remember to stay home if you are sick. Delaware will always be here to discover later.

Make sure to review guidelines before arriving at your destination. Some locations may be operating under different capacity or require reservations. If you're staying overnight, locations are following enhanced safety and disinfecting protocol. Common areas such as; lobby, dining, etc. will be at 60% capacity. It is important to remember that gatherings should be limited even in vacation rentals. Strict social distancing of 6ft between anyone outside a family unit must be maintained. 

If you have questions, please complete this form and the Delaware Discovery Advisors can help you plan a getaway with suggestions on what’s open and details on how to Summer Safely. View the go-to guide for more information on travel planning during COVID-19.

If you’re traveling it is highly suggested by the CDC that individuals should be tested for COVID-19 upon returning home and quarantine pending the results of the test. If you are aware of coming into contact with COVID-19 here is information testing in Delaware https://coronavirus.delaware.gov/testing.

For the latest on Delaware’s response, go to de.gov/coronavirus.