Highlighting - Burtons Island Launch
Highlighting - Burtons Island Launch, DE
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware (link to map)
Now that schools are out and the Maryland summer is officially in full swing, many people will be heading off on vacations and looking for places to paddle while they travel. If you are headed to the Eastern Shore of Maryland, be sure to check out the Burton Island Launch Point located in the Delaware Seashore State Park just north of Bethany Beach, or the Sinepuxent Bay near Assateague Island.
Burtons Island is located in the Delaware Seashore State Park which is a coastal park located in Sussex County, Delaware, along the Atlantic Ocean. It stretches over 6 miles of shoreline and covers an area of approximately 2,825 acres. The park is situated between Rehoboth Bay to the north and Indian River Bay to the south, offering a diverse range of natural and recreational attractions.
The park was established in 1965 with the purpose of preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area while providing recreational opportunities for visitors. It encompasses several distinct areas, each offering its own unique features and activities, such as the Indian River Marina. A popular area for boating, crabbing, and fishing enthusiasts. Or the Inlet beach which is a destination for sunbathing, swimming, and beach combing.
The park also features several trails that allow visitors to explore the natural surroundings, including the Burton Island Nature Trail and the Gordons Pond Trail. These trails provide opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching, as the park is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species.
There are a few launch points from the Delaware Seashore State Park areas, but Burtons Island is by far the best. Another alternative is called Savage Ditch, but while parking is ample and it has a covered pavilion for lunch and snacks; Savage Ditch has a challenging overgrown walk down to the water and the mosquitos will chase you away before you even start. Burtons Island Launch is a bit hidden but worth the find. Put the location into your GPS (link here) and trust it, keep following the road around the boat dry docks and past the boat mechanic shop and you will come to a small parking lot for about 12 cars. There will be a small kayak launch area near the hiking footbridge, this will be your starting point.
As you paddle out of the launch area, staying to the right will keep you weaving around the small marshy islands, but heading to your left will take you out to Rehoboth Bay. Sometimes the tides and winds can be shifty in these parts, especially in some of the shallow sections around the marshes. The marsh areas provide plenty of wildlife to scout out including oysters that are all along the edges of the marshy islands. As you paddle around the marshy islands just make sure you have a decent sense of direction to get back to the launch point. Try to head out around high tide to make sure you can get back to the launch before low tides roll in, you don’t want to get stuck out there. If you are unfamiliar with the tide, download the Tides Near Me app for iPhone or Android, which is easy to read and understand based on your location.
Burtons Island and the whole Delaware Seashore State Park are known for their scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and preservation of the region's coastal ecosystem. It serves as a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a range of activities that highlight the coastal charm and natural splendor of the Delaware seashore.
Places to visit after Paddling:
Dewey Beer Co. - Craft beers and eclectic menu in a cozy atmosphere
King Kone - 143st Ocean Side in Ocean City - Try the homemade caramel, and if you think you can tackle the Gorilla Split (good luck).
Matt’s Fish Camp Bethany - Low-key seafood place with fresh catch classics.
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