The Daytripper: Our own turf

By Paul W. Ross
Special to the Coastal Point

	Coastal Point • PAUL W. ROSS A lifegaurd patrols the action.

We packed the car — beach chairs, umbrella, cooler, sunscreen, picnic lunch (though, there in an excellent concession stand) and sunglasses. Off we go — this is only about a 10-minute drive south of Bethany Beach. If you get to the town of Fenwick Island, you’ve gone too far!

Fenwick Island State Park is a delightful stretch of barrier island beach along the Atlantic Ocean. Interestingly enough, it was used as part of the defense system during World War II. There is still an observation tower at the north end of the park. This formed part of the series of watchtowers based at Fort Miles, which is now Cape Henlopen State Park. It consists of 344 acres, both on the Atlantic shore and on the Assawoman Bay.

In 1966, the property was assigned to the State Park Commission as a southern section of Delaware Seashore State Park. The area was renamed Fenwick Island State Park in 1981, and is now managed in conjunction with Holts Landing State Park. There is a “day use” fee of $8 per car, for out-of-state, and $4 for in-state cars.

	Coastal Point • PAUL W. ROSS Bodyboarders get their share of the fun on the Fenwick Island beaches.

The beach has a lifeguard patrol, beginning at Memorial Day weekend, and running through Labor Day. The lifeguards are on duty from 9 a.m. through 5 p.m. Fenwick Island State Park has an excellent bathhouse with changing rooms and showers, as well as ample parking. There is also a food concession for snacks, if you didn’t bring your lunch. In addition, umbrellas and chairs can be rented on the beach, if you desire. There is a nice picnicking area with tables.

Surfing is a possibility at Fenwick Island State Park, as it is one of the few beaches in Delaware with a designated surfing area.

The beach also provides for surf fishing. You can bring your dog to the fishing beach! However, do make sure to pick up after them, and have water along for them. Dogs must be on a leash, and are prohibited from the bathing areas, dunes and any designated wildlife nesting areas.

The bay side of the beach is another possibility. The bay side offers opportunities for sailing, windsurfing, jet skis, crabbing, and clamming. Make it a point to bring your binoculars along, as the area is full of interesting bird life. You can get an excellent checklist of local bird species at the Prime Hook Wildlife Preserve.