When you visit the Aquatic Resources Education Center (AREC) you’ll find a focus on the wetlands, fishing and other aquatic education themes important to the Woodland Beach area of the Delaware Bayshore Byway.

The Saltmarsh Boardwalk and Trail of the Center in the Woodland Beach Wildlife Area is a half-mile long all-accessible nature trail. It features a 940-foot elevated boardwalk loop offering views of the coastal salt marsh and its residents like muskrats, herons, waterfowl and fiddler crabs.

This is a popular field trip destination for Delaware schools and you’ll really enjoy visiting with kids. AREC provides the opportunity to:

• Listen to the wind ruffle the salt grass as you stroll along the boardwalk.
• Catch a glimpse of ships sailing out on the Bay as egrets and herons stalk the stream in search of tasty fish.
• Watch fiddler crabs in their world of mud.
• Test your angling skills at one of the fishing ponds.
• Hike out to Taylors Gut or drive to the observation tower for more beautiful vistas.
• Walk the interpretive trail to learn more about the rich history of this exquisite corner of Delaware and the fish and critters that live here.

Nestled within the Woodland Beach Wildlife Area, the center features several ponds, a 940-foot tidal marsh boardwalk and various other natural areas.

It offers a prime venue for exploring the Delaware Bay coastal ecosystem and the abundant wildlife it supports. Catch and release fishing is permitted at two designated ponds.

The new education building has several large aquariums and other educational displays.

Logistics:
You’ll find the AREC along the byway (aka Route 9), about 5 miles north of the Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge.

Hours: Call (302) 735-8689 for available hours.

Admission:
Admission is free.

Getting Here:
Address: 2520 Lighthouse Rd, Smyrna, DE 19977
Find on Google Maps