5 Best Places to Paddle Board in Delaware (DE)

Discover the hidden gems of the east coast shoreline.

Imagine gliding across tranquil waters surrounded by lush wildlife and scenic views.

Unearth the best places to paddle board in Delaware, a haven for paddle enthusiasts.

Embark on a thrilling adventure as we uncover Delaware’s breathtaking aquatic landscapes.

Ready to set sail?

Map

Planning Your Paddle in Delaware

Season figures are averages of the daily maximum temperature in the ERA5 climate archive for 2019 to 2024. Every spot below can carry its own rules on top of these.

Season: average daily highs clear 59 °F from April through October. July is the warmest month, averaging 87 °F, and outside that window a wetsuit is what separates a short session from a comfortable one.
Rules and licences: The US Coast Guard treats a paddleboard as a vessel as soon as you leave the immediate swimming or surfing area. From that point a wearable life jacket for every person on board is required, together with a sound signal, and a white light after dark. Individual states add their own rules on top, so check the state boating agency before a longer trip.

Where to Paddle Board in Delaware

Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!

#1 Rehoboth Beach

🏖️ ️Location Type: Oceanfront
📍 Access Point: Rehoboth Beach Public Access (Google Maps)
🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Moderate waves, ocean currents, can be windy
☀️ Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins, pelicans, seagulls
🏞️️️ Landmarks & Views: Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk, picturesque shoreline
⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Use caution in heavy surf, follow local beach rules

Rehoboth Beach is a popular seaside destination on the Atlantic coast. Its sandy shorelines and vibrant boardwalk provide an excellent backdrop for paddle boarding.

Enjoy close encounters with dolphins and a variety of seabirds as you embark on a thrilling coastal adventure.

#2 Cape Henlopen State Park

🏖️ Location Type: Bay
📍 Access Point: Cape Henlopen Kayak Launch (Google Maps)
🌊️ Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, protected bays, gentle winds
☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
🐟️ Wildlife Encounters: Horseshoe crabs, herons, ospreys
🏞️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Historic Fort Miles, picturesque sandy dunes
⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Adhere to park regulations, respect wildlife habitats

Cape Henlopen State Park offers a serene paddle boarding experience within the picturesque Delaware Bay. Paddlers can explore historic sites, sandy dunes, and an abundance of wildlife along the way.

The calm waters and protected bays make it a perfect spot for beginners and experienced boarders alike.

#3 Bethany Beach

🏖️ ️Location Type: Oceanfront
📍 Access Point: Bethany Beach Public Access (Google Maps)
🌊️ Water, Currents & Wind: Moderate waves, ocean currents, can be windy
☀️ Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
🐟️ Wildlife Encounters: Sea birds, occasional dolphins
🏞️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Pristine coastline, charming beach town
⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Use caution in heavy surf, follow local beach rules

Bethany Beach, situated on the Atlantic coast, is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and pristine coastline. Paddle boarders can enjoy the stunning scenery while honing their skills in gentle to moderate waves.

Be on the lookout for many seabirds and occasional dolphins as you venture along the coast.

#4 Delaware Seashore State Park

🏖️ ️Location Type: Bay
📍 Access Point: Indian River Marina (Google Maps)
🌊️ Water, Currents & Wind: Calm, shallow waters, diverse coastal environments
☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
🐟️ Wildlife Encounters: Fiddler crabs, herons, piping plovers
🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Indian River Inlet Bridge, expansive marshes
⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow local regulations, be mindful of boat traffic

Delaware Seashore State Park offers an incredible mix of coastal environments, from the ocean beach to the tranquil bay. Explore shallow, calm waters and expansive marshlands that teem with diverse wildlife.

Paddlers can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Indian River Inlet Bridge and immerse themselves in Delaware’s coastal beauty.

#5 Fenwick Island

🏖️ ️Location Type: Oceanfront
📍 Access Point: Fenwick Island Beach (Google Maps)
🌊️ Water, Currents & Wind: Moderate waves, ocean currents, can be windy
☀️ Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
🐟️ Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, occasional dolphins
🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Fenwick Island Lighthouse, Atlantic coastline
⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Use caution in heavy surf, follow local beach rules

Fenwick Island offers a classic Atlantic beach experience, with its miles-long coastline and stylish lighthouse. Paddleboarders can explore the scenic coastline, enjoying moderate waves and an array of seabirds soaring above.

Take in the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean on this idyllic island adventure.

What to Take With You

Whatever the water here looks like, the same short list comes along. Each box below shows the model that currently sits at number one in our own test of that category.

Onyx MoveVent Dynamic Paddle Vest

Life jacket

Check price

Typefoam, paddle cut
ApprovalUSCG and Transport Canada

Rules differ from state to state and from country to country, but on open water this is the piece that gets checked, and the one that counts when the wind turns while you are still a long way out.

Every model we tested: 10 Best Life Vests for Paddle Boarding

NRS Quick-Release SUP Leash

Waist leash

Check price

Cordcoiled, stretches to 9 ft
Swivelstwo in-line

A leash keeps the board within reach after a fall, and a board that drifts off is the start of most rescues. On moving water use a quick release belt rather than an ankle cuff.

Every model we tested: The 9 Best SUP Waist Leashes

Pelican Marine Waterproof Phone Pouch

Phone case