Delaware has a variety of swimming areas, including beaches, ponds, lakes, and water parks in addition to natural swimming holes. Here are some of Delaware’s top swimming sites that should help you beat the heat on record-breaking hot days and help you enjoy an amazing summer.
Cape Henlopen State Park
Cape Henlopen State Park and its more than six miles of beachfront are located near the mouth of the Delaware Bay. This region’s history was shaped by the “Point” of Cape Henlopen, which is where the Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean converge. The coastal environment of Cape Henlopen State Park is composed of a varied assortment of habitats. Numerous plant and animal species can be found in maritime forests, coastal beaches, and barrier dunes. Numerous tourists come to Cape Henlopen’s beaches to engage in activities including wind-surfing, paddle-boarding, clamming, and ocean swimming as well as boating, fishing, and paddling. However, Cape Henlopen has more to provide than just the water and bays. The best routes in the park allow for discovery when riding bikes and hiking on foot. Lifeguards are on duty at a dedicated swimming beach that is reachable from the park’s entrance in Lewes from Memorial Day weekend until Labor Day. At this location, there is also Mobi-Mat equipment, which consists of three 30-foot mats that enable people to use wheelchairs and motorized chairs to reach the beach from the boardwalk.
Phillips Landing
There isn’t a lot online about this swimming hole, making it a bit more enticing for locals. There is plenty of information regarding the history of this go-to summer soak. John Smith was the first English traveler to survey the region around Chesapeake Bay and New England between 1607 and 1609. The Broad Creek and Nanticoke River meet close to the Phillips Landing Recreation Area. A memorial honoring Captain John Smith’s expedition of the Nanticoke River and his encounter with the Nanticoke Chiefs was erected at Phillips Landing Recreation Area in May 2007. Notable fishing and leisure spots include Phillips Landing Recreation Area. It’s a well-liked location for canoeing or kayaking along the Nanticoke River Water Trail. In the nearby Nanticoke Wildlife Area, sceneries that still resemble those from 400 years ago are preserved.
Slaughter Beach
Don’t let the name scare you off! Slaughter Beach is the perfect place to cool off during the humid Delaware summer! The little community with the same name is home to Slaughter Beach. Because there aren’t any lifeguards on duty, swimming is done at your own risk. Swimming in the bay is always advised against, especially after significant rain. In close proximity to the public park, there is a public beach access area with parking and additional parking. The public entrance is close to a tiny bathhouse that is open in the summer. The general guideline for the general population is to carry everything in and carry everything out. Visitors will appreciate that this beach is free to enjoy!
Lake Como
Families have enjoyed relaxing and swimming in the summer heat at Smyrna’s Lake Como for generations. For smaller kids or those who favor calmer water for swimming, the beach area provides a beautiful place to lie down on the beach and explore under lifeguard supervision. Up through Labor Day, the swimming beach at Lake Como is accessible every day. Visitors visiting lakes enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and even paddleboarding all summer long! There is no charge to enter the lake. Boating licenses must be purchased from the Smyrna Police Department on Glenwood Avenue, near School Lane and New Street. Paddlers are subject to a wake speed limiter. This is among those incredibly entertaining family outings that no one will soon forget.
Alapocas Run State Park
This Delaware State Park offers a wide range of activities. There are a couple of lovely places to soak your feet in the Brandywine at Alapocas. Swimming happens here even though it’s not one of the specified official activities on the park’s website. One of Delaware’s earliest conserved places, Alapocas Run State Park is home to the well-known Wilmington Blue Rocks. Even one of Delaware’s few waterfalls is viewable on the trail! There is also a lovely spillway, which provides a lovely vista as you stroll. This is a great place for those looking for a bit of privacy, all while being around the natural beauty Delaware provides!
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John Smith was the first English traveler to survey the region around Chesapeake Bay and New England between 1607 and 1609. The Broad Creek and Nanticoke River meet close to the Phillips Landing Recreation Area. Where is one of the earliest conserved places in Delaware? One of Delaware’s earliest conserved places, Alapocas Run State Park is home to the well-known Wilmington Blue Rocks. Even one of Delaware’s few waterfalls is viewable on the trail! There is also a lovely spillway, which provides a lovely vista as you stroll.
