Take a relaxing stroll or spend a nice day surf fishing on the undeveloped bayshore of this two-mile barrier island.

Beach Plum Nature Preserve is protected by the state to preserve 129 acres of habitat for plants and animals. You can access the northern half for surf fishing, beachcombing, wildlife viewing and more from March to December. The southern half is closed to all access year-round.

If you are a surf angler, this is a prime place to try your luck. Minimum size, creel limits and consumption advisories for local fish can be found on DNREC’s website .

Note: Insect repellant is recommended while visiting this sensitive site.

Logistics:

Daily Entrance Fee: A park entrance fee is charged daily from March 1 to November 30.  In-State Cars = $5, Out of State = $10.

A vehicle surf fishing permit is required to access the beach with a 4WD vehicle. Permits that would allow drive-on access during summer weekends and all holidays have sold out for 2022.

Beach Plum Island Preserve is considered a part of Cape Henlopen State Park but is physically separated and accessible only by driving north on Route 1 (Coastal Highway) to Broadkill Road (Route 16). From Route 1 make a right onto Broadkill Road and follow to the end where it intersects with Bayshore Drive. Make a right at the stop sign onto South Bayshore Drive and follow directly into Beach Plum Island State Park.

Hours:
The park is open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset. Please see the Cape Henlopen park website for detailed hours for attractions within the park.

Getting Here:
Address: Lewes, DE
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