Boat rides & paddling in southern Delaware
Down south, the water is half the point. Beyond the beach, southern Delaware has a proper bay ferry and some of the best easy paddling in the state. These are the on-the-water outings worth building a day around. Confirm seasons and rentals on each one before you go.
1. Delaware Seashore State Park
Rehoboth Beach
Bay on one side, ocean on the other, with the inlet in between — boating, fishing, and a marina at the heart of the southern beaches.
2. Trap Pond State Park
Laurel
Paddle among bald cypress trees on a quiet Sussex pond — kayak and canoe rentals make it an easy first paddle for families.
3. Killens Pond State Park
Felton
Paddleboats and a calm pond (plus a summer water park) near Felton — the inland family-water option.
Good to know
- • The Cape May–Lewes Ferry makes the 85-minute trip across Delaware Bay the ride itself — kids get a playground, an arcade, and wildlife spotting, and children under 6 ride free. The boat is the day trip. source
Questions parents ask
Where can families go on a boat in southern Delaware?
The Cape May–Lewes Ferry across Delaware Bay is the marquee ride (kids under 6 free). For paddling, Trap Pond and Killens Pond both rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboats.
Is there easy paddling for little kids?
Trap Pond's calm, cypress-lined water is a gentle first paddle, and Killens Pond is calm too. Both have seasonal rentals and a per-vehicle park fee — check each park's page before you go.
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More guides
Checked against each place’s current info.
Admission and hours come straight from each place’s guide. Last reviewed June 15, 2026. Confirm anything dated on the source before you go.