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. :recycle:
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. :recycle:
Check Tide Charts
Know the tides for optimal beachcombing and to avoid getting stranded. :ocean:
Small Parking Area
The parking lot is small; arrive early or consider off-road access if permitted. :car:
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. :recycle:
Check Tide Charts
Know the tides for optimal beachcombing and to avoid getting stranded. :ocean:
Small Parking Area
The parking lot is small; arrive early or consider off-road access if permitted. :car:
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be prepared for the natural elements. Bringing insect repellent is crucial to ward off biting flies, which can be a concern during warmer months. Also, be aware that there might be a significant number of dead horseshoe crabs, which can be a bit off-putting for some. The limited facilities mean packing all necessities, including snacks, drinks, and extra changes of clothes, is essential for a comfortable family outing.
🚗 Off-Road Enthusiasts
Remember that even with beach access, this is a nature preserve. Respect the environment, drive responsibly, and be mindful of any wildlife or sensitive dune areas. The ability to park on the beach can be a game-changer for accessing more secluded spots and enjoying a day of coastal exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Preserve's Ecosystem
However, visitors should be aware of potential environmental factors. Some reviews mention a significant number of dead horseshoe crabs, which can create an unpleasant odor, especially on warmer days. Additionally, biting flies can be prevalent, particularly during certain times of the year. Being prepared with insect repellent is highly recommended to ensure a more comfortable experience.
The preserve's natural state means that facilities are minimal. The small parking area with a single port-a-potty is the extent of the developed amenities. This underscores the importance of visitors practicing Leave No Trace principles, packing out everything they bring in to help maintain the pristine condition of the preserve.
Navigating Beach Access and Parking
For those with the right equipment, beach driving is an option. However, this requires an off-road capable vehicle and the necessary permit. This allows for parking directly on the beach, which can be a significant advantage for those looking to spend extended time by the water or transport gear easily. It's crucial to research and obtain the correct permits beforehand if this is your intended mode of access.
Understanding the tides is also a key aspect of navigating the beach access. Knowing when it's low tide can maximize your beachcombing opportunities and ensure you don't get cut off by rising waters. This natural rhythm of the coast is an integral part of the Beach Plum Island experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit