When those temps climb into the 90s you may find yourself looking for places to swim in Delaware. Fortunately, The First State has some pretty good options for jumping in and cooling down. From natural swimming holes in Delaware to beaches, ponds, lakes and water parks, Delaware seems to have a little of everything in the way of swimming spots. Take a look at eight of the best swimming spots in Delaware that should help you to cool off on record-setting hot days – and help you have an epic summer.
1. Phillips Landing - Laurel, DE
Breathtaking. Serene. You'll find this swimming spot located in the Phillips Landing Recreation area in Laurel, which is often revered as one of the most beautiful towns in Delaware. Not typically included among the best natural swimming holes in Delaware, this spot is used mostly for picnics and as a boat launch; however, people do swim here.
2. Cape Henlopen State Park - Lewes, DE
Cape Henlopen State Park is touted as one of the best winter destinations in Delaware; however, it's a great summertime visit too. The beaches at Cape Henlopen are a perfect spot to swim and soak up some nice Delaware sun while cooling off in the surf. Lifeguards are on duty here from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
3. Jungle Jim's Waterpark - Rehoboth Beach, DE
If you're looking for one of the best swimming holes in Delaware, where you can see the bottom and have a lifeguard for the kiddies, you can't go wrong at Jungle Jim's Waterpark, the best water park in Delaware. Fun, fun, fun!
4. Slaughter Beach - Milford, DE
This interesting swimming hole is best avoided, at least for swimming, in the spring and early summer months. It's a popular hangout for horseshoe crabs during those times. In fact, that's how it may have gotten its name. As the tide washes the crabs into shore they often get flipped over and stranded on their backs and... die. Hence the name, Slaughter Beach. But don't let the crabs deter you. It's still an option outside of spring and early summer months. Plus, it's been named one of the best beaches in America.
5. Lake Como - Smyrna, DE
Head over to Smyrna and Lake Como for a quick (or not) dip in this cool lake. Tip: it's swim-at-your-own-risk here so bring a life preserver when visiting this secluded lake in Delaware.
6. Lewes Beach - Lewes, DE
At low tide parts of Lewes can recede enough to create nice little sitting and wading pools. This great beach also has very small waves along the shore...a plus if you have little ones. Swimming is just one of the summertime activities you can enjoy in Lewes, though. It's one of the best towns in Delaware to visit when the weather is warm.
7. Alapocas Run State Park - Wilmington, DE
There's a lot to do at this Delaware State Park. At Alapocas, the Brandywine offers a few nice spots to dip your toes in the water. And although swimming isn't one of the official activities listed on the the park's website, people still swim here. Take a look at this video...
8. Fenwick Island State Park - Fenwick, DE
Hop over to Fenwick Island State Park and cool off in the big blue Atlantic or the waters of Assawoman Bay. Fenwick Island State Park is a favorite among visitors to Delaware's State Parks and one of the most peaceful places to swim in Delaware .
It’s nice when the weather warms up for the season, especially since there are so many places to swim in Delaware. And when it does, step outside of your normal routine and seek out some of the natural swimming holes in Delaware to cool off. So, have you visited any of these popular places to swim in Delaware? We’d love to know!
If you want to get outside but aren’t interested in visiting the best swimming holes in Delaware, try these short hikes in Delaware.
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