Delaware’s history is full of fascinating tales from the sea. With a coast that leads up to a major harbor, we’ve seen our fair share of shipwrecks and stranded sailors. That’s why the Indian River Life Saving Station was built in the 1800s – to help protect watermen from the dangers of the Delmarva coast. Today, you can visit this incredible museum at Delaware Seashore State Park.

The Indian River Lifesaving Station in Delaware Seashore State Park is one of the most fascinating attractions around.
Google Local / Maria-Eugena Delaware
This hauntingly beautiful building was constructed in 1876 and designed so that a surfboat could be wheeled to the water to assist with water rescue operations.
Google Local / Mark Eberhardt
The United States Life Saving Service went on to form the United States Coast Guard in 1915. The Indian River Station remained in service until it was destroyed by the Ash Wednesday Storm of 1963.
Google Local / Maria-Eugena Delaware
Today, the building has been restored and hosts a museum. You can tour some of the original quarters, like this officer's room, dating back to the 1800s.
TripAdvisor / Ted S.
The men that lived here as part of the United States Life Saving Service truly gave up all their lives luxuries to help others. Countless watermen were saved by those willing to put their lives on the line.
TripAdvisor / Susan H.
The museum also boasts a large collection of nautical items, on display to show off the history of Delaware's mariners.
Google Local / Maria-Eugena Delaware
Artifacts include things that washed up on shore or treasures salvaged from shipwrecks on the Delmarva coast.
TripAdvisor / Susan H.
The building was moved back a few hundred feet in 1877, to protect it from ongoing beach erosion. Otherwise, the Indian River Life Saving Station you visit today has remained unchanged.
Google Local / Carolyn Ames

The Indian River Life Saving Station Museum is located within Delaware Seashore State Park, at 25039 Coastal Highway, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. From April until October 31, the museum is open from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., 7 days a week. It’s closed throughout November, and opens back up for the “off season” of December 1 – March 31, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., Wednesday through Friday and
9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Saturday. From December through March, the museum is closed on Sunday.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Related Articles

Explore Delaware