Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve
A serene natural beach preserve with shallow waters, ideal for quiet relaxation and observing coastal wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded
Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene natural beach preserve with shallow waters, ideal for quiet relaxation and observing coastal wildlife.
"Pretty and peaceful even on a grey day!"
Pack Insect Repellent
Biting flies can be a nuisance, especially in warmer months. :bug:
Leave No Trace
Pack out all trash to help keep this beautiful preserve clean. ♻️
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.5 · 33 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tranquil Beachfront
The main beach area
Enjoy peaceful shores with shallow waters and gentle waves, perfect for relaxation.
Abundant Wildlife
Tidal pools and shoreline
Discover live crabs and observe the natural marine environment up close.
Scenic Coastal Views
Throughout the preserve
Experience beautiful coastal scenery, even on overcast days.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Be Prepared for Nature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Insect Repellent
Biting flies can be a nuisance, especially in warmer months. :bug:
Leave No Trace
Pack out all trash to help keep this beautiful preserve clean. ♻️
Check Tide Charts
Know the tides for optimal beachcombing and to avoid getting stranded. 🌊
Small Parking Area
The parking lot is small; arrive early or consider off-road access if permitted. 🚗
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Insect Repellent
Biting flies can be a nuisance, especially in warmer months. :bug:
Leave No Trace
Pack out all trash to help keep this beautiful preserve clean. ♻️
Check Tide Charts
Know the tides for optimal beachcombing and to avoid getting stranded. 🌊
Small Parking Area
The parking lot is small; arrive early or consider off-road access if permitted. 🚗
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve for its quiet, natural beauty and shallow, gentle waters, making it a peaceful escape. However, some find the presence of biting flies and the smell of dead horseshoe crabs to be drawbacks. The small parking area can also be a point of contention.
"Beautiful spot, very quiet on a Friday in mid-august. Shallow water, small waves, and lots of live crabs. Small parking area, but with a permit and off-road capable vehicle, you can park right on the beach. One port-a-potty in the small parking area. Would definitely go back. I wonder what it's like on a weekend?"
Karen Fleischer
"Love the Salt Life! We have such beautiful beaches here in Delaware. Jeep Wave!"
CTB
"Prepare for alot of biting flies, and thousands of dead horse shoe crabs which smell horrible."
apple jaks
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve is located in Lewes, DE 19958. Access is via a small parking area. For those with off-road capable vehicles and a permit, beach parking is available.
Yes, there is a small parking area with a single port-a-potty. Off-road parking on the beach is possible with the correct permit and vehicle.
Beach driving is permitted with the appropriate permit and an off-road capable vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While general access to the preserve is free, a permit is required for beach driving.
The preserve is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific event times, like the 'Beach Jam' mentioned for Thursday nights, have their own schedules.
There is no stated entrance fee for general access to the nature preserve itself.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's a quiet, natural beach with shallow water and small waves, ideal for a peaceful visit. You might find live crabs and, unfortunately, sometimes many dead horseshoe crabs.
The parking area has one port-a-potty. It's a natural preserve, so amenities are minimal.
Visitors often spot live crabs. The area is a natural habitat, so keep an eye out for various coastal wildlife.
It can be, especially for those who appreciate a natural, less crowded beach experience. However, be mindful of biting flies and the presence of dead horseshoe crabs.
Bring insect repellent, water, snacks, and a bag to carry out your trash. Beach chairs and umbrellas are also recommended for comfort.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve is a natural area with no food vendors or restaurants on-site. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks.
The nearest dining options will be in the town of Lewes, DE, which offers a variety of restaurants and cafes.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the serene coastline, shallow waters, and any wildlife you encounter. The natural beauty, even on a grey day, offers great photographic potential.
The coastal location offers potential for beautiful sunrise and sunset shots over the water, depending on your vantage point.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit