Where is Cape Henlopen State Park,Lewes, Delaware?

Written by | Updated On: December 03, 2025, 14:30 ET

Cape Henlopen State Park is located in Delaware, USA. It lies between Lewes and Rehoboth Beach and is situated at the point where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. The park is famous for its sandy beaches, dunes, fishing, and historic World War II forts.

Cape Henlopen State Park Location Map,Lewes, Delaware

Top Attractions Inside Cape Henlopen State Park

  • Seaside Beach – Sandy beach along the Atlantic Ocean perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
  • Point Comfort Trail – Scenic trail through dunes, marshes, and forests offering wildlife viewing.
  • World War II Observation Towers – Historic towers providing views of the coastline and history of coastal defense.
  • Bike Trails – Extensive paved and unpaved paths for biking through natural landscapes and along the coast.
  • Fishing Piers & Jetty – Popular spots for surf fishing and scenic river and ocean views.
  • Campgrounds – Facilities for tents and RVs with beach access and recreational amenities.
  • Nature Center & Educational Programs – Exhibits and programs about local wildlife, marine life, and conservation.

Cape Henlopen State Park Facts

Official NameCape Henlopen State Park
LocationLewes, Sussex County, Delaware, USA — along the Atlantic coast at the entrance to Delaware Bay
Latitude & Longitude38.7740° N, 75.0860° W
Total Area~5,193 acres (≈21 km²)
Opened1964
Managed ByDelaware Division of Parks and Recreation
RegionDelaware Beaches / Atlantic Coast
Address15099 Cape Henlopen Drive, Lewes, DE 19958, USA
Zip Code19958
Area Code302
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD, $)
Time ZoneEastern Time (ET) – UTC−5 Standard / UTC−4 Daylight Saving
Theme / ConceptBeaches, dunes, coastal recreation, historic military sites, wildlife conservation, hiking, biking
Main Sections / AreasBeaches, Seaside trails, Campgrounds, Historic Fort Miles, Nature Center, Fishing and Boating Areas
Famous AttractionsSeaside Beach, Gordon’s Pond, Fort Miles Military Museum, Nature Center, Cape Henlopen Lighthouse, Biking and Hiking Trails
Annual VisitorsApprox. 2 million visitors
Entry Fee TypeParking / Beach Access Fee Required
Ticket Price Range~$10–$20 per vehicle (daily parking / access)
Ticket OptionsDay passes, seasonal parking passes, guided tours at Fort Miles (fees may apply)
Best Time to VisitLate spring to early fall (May–September) for beaches; fall for wildlife and fewer crowds
Nearby AirportWilmington Airport (ILG) – 60 miles (97 km)
TransportationCar / Parking, Biking trails, Hiking trails, Kayaking / Boating access, Seasonal shuttles
Official Websitehttps://destateparks.com/CapeHenlopen

Distances from Cape Henlopen State Park to Nearby Landmarks

  • Lewes, DE – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Rehoboth Beach, DE – 12 km (7.5 mi)
  • Cape Henlopen Lighthouse – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Fort Miles Historical Area – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Delaware Seashore State Park – 18 km (11 mi)
  • Broadkill Beach – 8 km (5 mi)
  • Indian River Inlet – 20 km (12.4 mi)
  • Fenwick Island, DE – 35 km (21.7 mi)
  • Assawoman Wildlife Area – 25 km (15.5 mi)
  • Historic Lewes Beach – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Cape May Ferry Terminal – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Delaware Bay – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Johnson’s Pond Nature Preserve – 4 km (2.5 mi)
  • Herring Point – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Hollymount Beach – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Zwaanendael Museum – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Gordons Pond Trail – 3 km (1.9 mi)
  • Canalfront Park – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Cape Henlopen Visitor Center – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Atlantic Ocean Beach Access – 0 km (0 mi)