Delaware is full of incredible beach towns, like the lively Dewey Beach and the family-friendly Bethany Beach. These are all so well-known that thousands of out-of-state visitors flock to their shores every year. While we do love sharing our great state with others, sometimes you just want to get away to a top-secret Delaware spot. The beach at Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge is just the ticket to a relaxing, serene, secluded summer day.
Editor's Note: By the state's legal definition, Prime Hook Beach is private.
Prime Hook Beach is part of the National Wildlife Refuge.
Prime Hook NWR is one of the most important wildlife refuges in the country, as it is home to hundreds of species of migratory birds and rare wildlife. You can find a detailed park map and more information on the official FWS website.
On the bay side of the refuge lies a top-secret beach.
Traffic here in the summer is non-existent, and you'll have plenty of space to lay out your towel and get some sun.
Plus, you'll be treated to stunning views of rare wildlife.
Foxes are common to see on the roads within the refuge, but the real highlight are the shore birds.
Herons, red knots, and ospreys are common here in the summer months.
The beach was damaged during Hurricane Sandy some years ago, but a few years of restoration work have got the dunes looking almost like new.
Please do respect the fences and keep off of them!
As a bonus, Prime Hook Beach is one of the only dog-friendly beaches in Delaware all year long.
Keep your pets on leash, and be sure they don't harass local wildlife.
When you're looking for a place to relax without the traffic and crowds of Rehoboth and the Atlantic Ocean beaches, head to the bay - head to to Prime Hook Beach.
Make Prime Hook one of your stops on your Delaware Hidden Beaches road trip - it's the perfect way to scout out sunbathing spots for the ultimate summer of fun!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!
