Most people visit Delaware’s beaches in the summertime. Even locals flock to the coast in September, when the weather is still warm and pleasant. Once winter hits, our beaches are all but abandoned. It’s truly a shame, because some of the most beautiful winter scenes can be found out here along the shoreline in the winter. Bundle up and head to Cape Henlopen State Park to get in touch with nature this winter.
Cape Henlopen is absolutely stunning in the winter.
Facebook / Cape Henlopen State Park You’ll want to get here early to catch a sunrise. When the winter sun peeks over the horizon, the sight of an empty beach in the early morning glow will take your breath away.
Even on a snowy day, the trails and park here are so much fun to explore.
Facebook / Cape Henlopen State Park Visit Fort Miles without having to deal with summertime crowds, and climb to the top of the World War II tower for a rare view of a quiet and sleepy Lewes.
The beaches are all but deserted when the weather turns chilly.
Flickr / Mike Mahaffie You’ll get a chance to see the beach untouched. It truly is an entirely new world when the marine ecosystems are left alone for a few months.
Shorebirds live here year round, and it’s interesting to see them adapt to the cold temperatures.
Facebook / Cape Henlopen State Park With no supply of fresh french fries, these birds have to get creative to stay warm and full throughout the winter.
On the warmer winter days, bright and colorful birds can be spotted, too!
Facebook / Cape Henlopen State Park Cardinals and Woodpeckers might make an appearance if the sun is shining and they feel like a flight is worth their trouble!
One of the coolest natural phenomena - literally - is when the bay freezes over to the lighthouse.
Facebook / Cape Henlopen State Park It has to be REALLY cold for the bay to freeze, but when it does, it acts like a land bridge out to the lighthouse! I would not recommend walking across - though last year, some Dover firefighters took the risky trip.
Right now, Cape Henlopen State Park is hosting the Winter Wonderfest, too!
Flickr / Victoria Pickering This holiday celebration continues on until the New Year, so set aside some time to enjoy a drive through light show and Christmas Village right in the park.
When you’re looking for an unforgettable winter day trip, head to Cape Henlopen.
Flickr / Mike Mahaffie The quiet, peaceful park will become your new favorite off-season destination.
Cape Henlopen State Park is located at 15099 Cape Henlopen Dr., Lewes, DE 19958. Find out about the programs and happenings at Cape Henlopen State Park right here.
Facebook / Cape Henlopen State Park
You’ll want to get here early to catch a sunrise. When the winter sun peeks over the horizon, the sight of an empty beach in the early morning glow will take your breath away.
Visit Fort Miles without having to deal with summertime crowds, and climb to the top of the World War II tower for a rare view of a quiet and sleepy Lewes.
Flickr / Mike Mahaffie
You’ll get a chance to see the beach untouched. It truly is an entirely new world when the marine ecosystems are left alone for a few months.
With no supply of fresh french fries, these birds have to get creative to stay warm and full throughout the winter.
Cardinals and Woodpeckers might make an appearance if the sun is shining and they feel like a flight is worth their trouble!
It has to be REALLY cold for the bay to freeze, but when it does, it acts like a land bridge out to the lighthouse! I would not recommend walking across - though last year, some Dover firefighters took the risky trip.
Flickr / Victoria Pickering
This holiday celebration continues on until the New Year, so set aside some time to enjoy a drive through light show and Christmas Village right in the park.
The quiet, peaceful park will become your new favorite off-season destination.
Don’t forget your camera on a trip to the park! Take your best winter photos and share them on the Delaware Nature Lovers Facebook group for a chance to be our photographer of the month.
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