Broadkill Beach in the 1970s

Broadkill Beach is an unincorporated beach community north of Lewes and east of Milton. For many, it’s a hidden gem along the Delaware Bay that’s just outside the hustle and bustle of Delaware’s resort area.

This aerial image shows Broadkill Beach in 1970. Looking south, the photograph shows the lone entrance into the community, including the Broadkill Store. During this time, there wasn’t much development in the southern part of the community.

Today, Broadkill Beach stretches south to Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve. To the north, Broadkill Beach is bordered by Primehook Beach, while Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge surrounds much of the community.

Driving through Broadkill Beach today, one will find a lot of contractor signs, as many of the old cottages are being converted into large beach homes. However, due to its limited access, the community remains quaint and quiet. 

In 2000, Broadkill Beach became the first Horseshoe Crab Sanctuary in Delaware. Greenheads are also frequent visitors if the wind is coming from the west.