Cape Henlopen State Park – The Locals Favorite!

By Josh Hoinowski, in LIVE LIKE A LOCAL

Nestled where The Delaware Bay meets The Atlantic Ocean lies Cape Henlopen State Park, a 5,000-acre jewel of Sussex County Delaware! Cape Henlopen is an outdoor enthusiast dream with world class beaches, biking and hiking trails, nature preserves and a healthy amount of Delaware history, there is something for everyone!

Coastal Delaware has always been known for world renowned beaches, and Cape Henlopen State Park has some of the best.  What is unique about Cape is that with a surf tag and the required fishing equipment, you can drive on to the beach! Gone are the days of multiple trips back and forth to the car, hauling all your beach gear over the dunes. Local tip, get to the park early if you plan to drive on, the beach can fill up quickly, and you’ll want to plant your flag!

“Going to the drive on beach is my favorite, we will hang out all day and fish and grill until the sun sets!” – RANDY HUSBANDS

Have you ever been driving down the coast or through the park and wondered, “what are those towers?” Quick history lesson, they are observation towers from World War II built between 1939 – 1942. The towers were erected to protect the Delaware Bay from German ships and U-Boats and acted as eyes for the 16-inch guns located at Fort Miles, which also sits in the park. They now stand as a reminder of our local history and the Delaware war effort. Good news, there is still one open in the park for you to climb to the top of!

“The history of Cape Henlopen State Park is amazing, and I love the views form the observation tower!  The trail around the Salt Pond is a  must as well!” – GRACE HOINOWSKI

Trails, trails and more trails!!! Whether you like to run, ride your bike, or go on a nice stroll with your dog, Cape Henlopen has the trial for you!  If you like to be close to the water the Gordons Pond Trail with an elevated boardwalk and beautiful views of the Salt Marsh are a must. For a more rustic feel, The Pinelands Trail is a great way to go, offering 2 miles of wooded pine trail for you to explore.  If you are searching for toes in the sand and crashing waves, the Beach Trail, which you can access from all the major parking lots, must be on your list. With so many options, which knows which one you will pick.

If you are a fan of critters and local wildlife, The Seaside Nature Center is the spot for you! With multiple exhibits that go over the park wildlife, five 1,000-gallon tanks filled with local fish, and a 300-gallon two level touch tank, you’ll be a certified expert by the time you leave!

If you are looking for a new sport to try, and like to be outside, give Disc Golf a try. The object of the game is simple, get the disc into the chain basket in as few throws as possible. Believe me, it sounds a lot easier than it is. Disc golf is a great game for an individual or group of friends, all ages and skill levels will enjoy the sport.

Cape Henlopen State Park is truly beloved in Sussex County Delaware. When you live in Cardinal Grove, you be a short 6.5 miles away from this natural wonder, what are you waiting for?!


Cardinal Grove is a thoughtfully planned 98-homesite community offering private, peaceful, nature-connected living. Just five miles from downtown Lewes, residents enjoy easy access to dining, Lewes Beach, Cape Henlopen State Park and the Georgetown-Lewes Trail—putting the best of Coastal Delaware within reach.

Live Like a Local: Cardinal Grove

By Josh Hoinowski, in COMMUNITY MINDED

Part of moving to a new area is asking the age-old question, “What’s there to do around here?”  Don’t worry, you are not the first person to ask, I remember when I moved to Coastal Delaware full time, I had the same thought myself.  When you move into your new Schell Brothers Home in Cardinal Grove, take some time and check out some of my favorite local haunts!

COASTAL TAPROOM
If you are searching for your new happy hour destination, or a good watering hole to watch your favorite football team, look no further than Coastal Taproom. The drinks are cold, the staff is friendly, and with more TV’s than you can count you’ll be able to keep track of your fantasy team no matter the sport! If you are searching for a great place to catch some live music, they have you covered as well, with bands most weekends.

CAPE HENLOPEN STATE PARK
Our beloved Cape Henlopen State Park, what can’t you do here?  Surf fishing, walking trails, bike trails, disc golf, basketball courts, playgrounds, observation towers, beautiful beaches, fishing piers, the state park has it all.  If you are an outdoor lover (like me!) you won’t be able to stay away!

RISE FITNESS & ADVENTURE
Are you a fitness lover?  If you are, Rise Fitness & Adventure is a must!  Whether you prefer a traditional gym vibe, are focused on functional fitness, interested in trying rock climbing, need a good sweat in a sauna, or want to sign up for an early morning spin class, Rise is the place to be.  They offer day and weekly passes, monthly and yearly memberships, so no matter how short or long your stay is, you’ll be able to catch a sick pump!

HOPKINS FARM CREAMERY
If you have a sweet tooth, Hopkins Farm Creamery is going to be a must!  Local, homemade ice cream with flavors ranging from Vanilla to Peanut Butter Ripple, milkshakes, and a playground for the kids you’ll find any excuse to make a stop.


Cardinal Grove is a thoughtfully planned 98-homesite community offering private, peaceful, nature-connected living. Just five miles from downtown Lewes, residents enjoy easy access to dining, Lewes Beach, Cape Henlopen State Park and the Georgetown-Lewes Trail—putting the best of Coastal Delaware within reach.