Cape Henlopen Observation Tower
Climb a historic WWII observation tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Cape Henlopen Observation Tower
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Climb a historic WWII observation tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean.
"Absolutely beautiful! Awesome, more quiet beach than the rest on the strip with this surreal historic backdrop."
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The sunset views from the tower and beach are absolutely stunning and a must-see!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on trails and the beach, so comfy footwear is key.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
WWII Observation Tower
Cape Henlopen State Park
Climb this historic WWII tower for breathtaking 360-degree views of the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean.
Gordon's Pond Trail
Cape Henlopen State Park
A scenic walk offering glimpses of the towers and a peaceful escape with opportunities for photography.
North Shore Beach
Cape Henlopen State Park
Discover a quieter beach experience with a surreal historic backdrop and abundant seashells.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Exploring the Historic Landscape
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The sunset views from the tower and beach are absolutely stunning and a must-see!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on trails and the beach, so comfy footwear is key.
🐚 Beachcombing Treasures
The North Shore beach is great for finding seashells, especially during low tide.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The historic towers and scenic coastline offer fantastic photo ops.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The sunset views from the tower and beach are absolutely stunning and a must-see!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on trails and the beach, so comfy footwear is key.
🐚 Beachcombing Treasures
The North Shore beach is great for finding seashells, especially during low tide.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The historic towers and scenic coastline offer fantastic photo ops.
🚲 Bike Rentals Available
Seaside Nature Center offers free bike rentals (first-come, first-served) for exploring the park.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning panoramic views from the historic WWII observation tower and the peaceful, less crowded atmosphere of the North Shore beach. Many appreciate the blend of natural beauty and military history, finding it a serene spot for relaxation and photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
"I took the trail far thought to see the 2 towers in a distance. If my girls weren't so tired from the hike along Gordons Pond, I would have walked up to the towers. The looked massive even in a distance. I saw 2 of the on the watch area on the Gordon's Pond trail but not share which of the 3 towers I saw."
Tilly Lo
"Scenic. Definitely a trec to walk to but peacful and a calming sunset. Good amount of seashells also."
Aladdin I
"Absolutely beautiful! Awesome, more quiet beach than the rest on the strip with this surreal historic backdrop"
Madalyn Evans
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The tower is located within Cape Henlopen State Park in Lewes, Delaware. You can drive directly to the park and follow signs for the observation tower and beach areas. Parking is available within the park.
Public transportation options to the immediate vicinity of Cape Henlopen State Park can be limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car. Check local transit schedules for any available bus routes that may get you close to the park entrance.
Yes, Cape Henlopen State Park has extensive trails. You can walk or bike to the tower from various points within the park, including from the Seaside Nature Center where bike rentals are available.
From the north, take DE-1 South to the Lewes exit. From the south, take DE-1 North. The park entrance will be clearly marked.
Yes, there are parking areas within Cape Henlopen State Park that provide access to the observation tower and surrounding beaches. Parking can fill up during peak times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Cape Henlopen State Park, which typically covers access to the park's amenities, including the observation tower and beaches. Fees can vary by season and vehicle type.
The observation tower is generally accessible during park hours. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Cape Henlopen State Park website for the most up-to-date hours of operation, as they can change seasonally.
Discounts may be available for Delaware residents, seniors, or through annual passes. Check the Delaware State Parks website for current pricing and discount information.
Park entry is typically paid upon arrival. Advance booking is usually not required for general park access, but it's wise to confirm if any special events or specific timed entries are in place.
Climbing the observation tower is usually included with the park entrance fee. There are no separate tickets required for the tower itself.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Beyond the observation tower, you can enjoy the beaches, hike or bike the trails (like Gordon's Pond Trail), visit the Seaside Nature Center, and explore historic military structures.
From the tower, you'll get panoramic views of the Delaware Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, the coastline, and the surrounding park landscape. It's particularly stunning at sunrise and sunset.
The tower involves climbing stairs. While the climb is manageable for most, individuals with significant mobility issues may find it challenging. Check with park staff for specific accessibility details.
Restrooms and other amenities are available within Cape Henlopen State Park, typically located near beach access points and the nature center.
The tower is a former WWII artillery fire observation post, part of a coastal defense system. It offers a tangible connection to the area's military history.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. The golden hour light beautifully illuminates the tower and the surrounding landscape.
You can capture sweeping panoramic shots of the ocean, bay, coastline, and the park's natural beauty. Wide-angle lenses are great for the expansive views.
Yes, the trails, especially along Gordon's Pond and the North Shore, offer opportunities for scenic shots with the towers in the background and interesting coastal flora.
A camera with a good zoom lens is useful for capturing details from the tower. A wide-angle lens is great for the panoramic views. Don't forget your phone for quick snaps!
Drone usage is typically regulated within state parks. It's essential to check the specific drone policies for Cape Henlopen State Park before flying to ensure compliance with all rules and regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider renting bikes from the Seaside Nature Center for a fun family activity exploring the park's trails. The Gordon's Pond Trail is relatively flat and scenic, suitable for most ages. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be sure to check the park's schedule for any family-friendly programs or events. The historical aspect of the WWII tower can also spark curiosity and learning for older children.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
The North Shore Beach area is also ideal for walking, especially during low tide. You can enjoy the solitude, search for seashells, and appreciate the natural coastal environment. Combining a walk along the beach with a climb up the Observation Tower provides a comprehensive experience of the park's natural and historical offerings. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and bring water, especially during warmer months.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into WWII History
Exploring the surrounding Cape Henlopen State Park further reveals its military past. Remnants of batteries and other structures can be found, offering a layered experience for history enthusiasts. The park's Gordon's Pond Trail and North Shore Beach provide opportunities to walk among these historical echoes while enjoying the natural beauty. It's a unique blend of past and present, where the strategic importance of the landscape is evident amidst its serene present-day appeal.
Many visitors are struck by the imposing presence of these towers against the natural backdrop. The WWII Artillery Fire Observation Tower #6 is a prime example, standing as a silent sentinel. The sheer scale of these structures, even in their current state, hints at the significant military operations they once supported. It’s a powerful reminder of the area's role in national security during a critical period.
Capturing the Perfect Shot: Photography Tips
From the top of the tower, a wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the sweeping 360-degree panoramas of the Delaware Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and the sprawling park. Don't forget to also use a zoom lens to focus on specific details of the coastline, distant lighthouses, or passing ships. The trails leading to the tower, such as the Gordon's Pond Trail, also offer excellent photographic opportunities, with the towers often visible in the background, framed by natural scenery.
Beyond the tower itself, the North Shore Beach provides a more intimate setting for photography. The abundance of seashells and the unique, sometimes surreal, historic backdrop make for compelling compositions. Whether you're capturing grand landscapes or intricate details, Cape Henlopen offers diverse visual narratives for every photographer.
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