Delaware is a state with such a unique ecosystem. We’re home to coastal marshes, maritime forests, hardwood forests, sprawling meadows, and more! You can catch a glimpse of all of these habitats, plus discover a hidden beach in Delaware, all in one spot at the James Farm Ecological Preserve.
The James Farm Ecological Preserve is a sprawling preserve in Ocean View, Delaware, along the Indian River Bay. It’s just a short distance from both Bethany Beach and Fenwick Island and makes for a great day trip destination.
Google Local / Ruben Stemple
You’ll find plenty of trails to explore in this tucked-away preserve. Take yourself on a journey through beaches, marsh, forest, and meadows for a complete day in Delaware nature.
Delaware Center For Inland Bays
Not many Delawareans even know about the beach and preserve here along the Indian River Bay. While it’s not the best beach for sunbathing, it’s a great spot to walk among the salt air.
Google Local / Chad Millard
The trails take you through several Delaware ecosystems, including the maritime and hardwood forests. Find shade with help from loblolly pines, holly, red cedar, southern red oak, hickory, sweetgum, and sassafras.
Google Local / James Farm Ecological Preserve
The James Farm Ecological Preserve is more than just a hidden beach. You’ll learn the difference between the various marsh environments, and how they’ve shaped our state’s natural beauty.
Delaware Center For Inland Bays
The salty, low marsh shows off cordgrass and glasswort. The high marsh offers views of bayberry and marsh alder. If you don’t know what to look for, ask at the visitor’s center and pick up a guide to the various plants you’ll see along your journey.
Facebook / Delaware Center for the Inland Bays
Bring binoculars and a field guide and you’ll be able to spot dozens of shorebirds, both close by in the water and far off in the trees.
Google Local / James Farm Ecological Preserve
You can also get to know the Indian River Bay a little better by dropping in a kayak.
Google Local / James Farm Ecological Preserve
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind hidden beach in Delaware, plan to visit the James Farm Ecological Preserve this year and see for yourself just how Delaware’s coast is truly unique.
Google Local / Zoanna Goar
The Delaware Center for the Inland Bays website, here, will tell you all you need to know about planning a trip to James Farm this year.
Google Local / Ruben Stemple
Delaware Center For Inland Bays
Google Local / Chad Millard
Google Local / James Farm Ecological Preserve
Facebook / Delaware Center for the Inland Bays
Google Local / Zoanna Goar
Love the idea of discovering a hidden beach in Delaware? Take our Secret Beach Road Trip That Will Show You Delaware Like Never Before and get to know your own backyard a little better with every discovery.
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Address: James Farm Ecological Preserve, 30048 Cedar Neck Rd, Ocean View, DE 19970, USA
