Discover the Wildlife and Waterways of the Assawoman Canal and Assawoman Wildlife Area
If you’re visiting Bethany Beach and craving a break from the boardwalk, look no further than the Assawoman Canaland the Assawoman Wildlife Area—two hidden gems just minutes from town. These scenic natural spaces are perfect for a peaceful paddle, nature photography, or wildlife spotting, and they offer a side of coastal Delaware that many visitors never see.
🛶 Paddling the Assawoman Canal
Running approximately four miles, the Assawoman Canal connects the Indian River Bay to the Little Assawoman Bay. Originally hand-dug in the late 1800s, the canal has been restored and is now a tranquil waterway ideal for kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes.
What You’ll See on the Water:
- Great blue herons and ospreys nesting along the banks
- Muskrats, river otters, and other small mammals
- Basking turtles and frogs on warm summer days
- Lush banks lined with cattails, pickerelweed, and marsh grasses
Whether you’re paddling for an hour or making it part of a full-day nature experience, the Assawoman Canal is a perfect mix of accessibility and immersion.
🌿 Exploring the Assawoman Wildlife Area
Just a few minutes inland from the canal, the Assawoman Wildlife Area spans over 3,100 acres of protected land. It’s made up of forest, salt marsh, freshwater ponds, and reforested farmland—making it a hotspot for biodiversity.
Wildlife Highlights:
- Over 250 bird species, including bald eagles and wood ducks
- Delmarva fox squirrels, white-tailed deer, and red foxes
- Reptiles like the eastern box turtle and a chorus of native frogs
The Assawoman Tower, a 40-foot observation platform, offers panoramic views and is a must-visit for photographers and birdwatchers.
🌊 Want to Explore It All by Kayak?
The best way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of these areas is from the water—and Bay Venture Outfittersmakes it easy.
📍 Located right in Bethany Beach, Bay Venture Outfitters offers premium kayak and paddleboard rentals just minutes from both the canal and the wildlife area. We provide everything you need—gear, local route suggestions, and even a wildlife spotting guide.
Plan Your Paddle Adventure
✅ High-quality kayaks and paddleboards
✅ Life jackets, dry bags, and maps included
✅ Family-friendly and beginner-safe
✅ A quiet, scenic escape just minutes from town
Know Before You Go
📅 Best times to paddle: Spring through early fall
🦢 Peak bird activity: Mornings and early evenings
📷 Bring a camera: You never know when a bald eagle or heron might swoop by
🐢 Leave no trace: Help protect this delicate habitat by packing out what you bring in
If you’re looking for a peaceful way to explore the natural side of coastal Delaware, the Assawoman Canal and Wildlife Area are can’t-miss destinations—and Bay Venture Outfitters is here to help you discover them from the water.