Delaware Center for the Inland Bays

1 – Blowing Open an Inlet

What makes the Rehoboth, Indian River and Little Assawoman Bays considered Inland Bays? The long strip of barrier beach and the Indian River Inlet make all the difference. This is where the freshwater rivers and streams of Sussex County mix with the salty Atlantic.

You likely recognize the Indian River Inlet by its iconic bridge, lit up at night in brilliant blue. But the inlet itself was not always located where it is today. With the natural movement of the ocean waves over the centuries, the inlet has moved and broken through the beach dunes up and down the coast.

In 1928, though, this all changed. In order to accommodate boats heading into the bays (and eventually a road), the Delaware General Assembly and the 6th Indian River Inlet Commission decided force open an inlet and stabilize it.

How did they do it? Explosives, of course! The the sand was loaded with explosives and blown open at its current location. Later, in 1939 it was stabilized with stone jetties.

Over the years, five bridges have spanned the inlet’s waters, including today’s iconic Charles W. Cullen Bridge which was completed in 2012.

2  – First, try standing up!

The average depth throughout the Inland Bays is pretty shallow. Of course, there are channels that are somewhat deep – if you’ve ever travelled by boat across the bays, you’ve navigated their depths.

There are also sandbars scattered throughout the bays. These shallow areas where sand has collected can be seen best at low tide. It’s not uncommon to see people “walking on water” around the bays, taking a break from boating and relaxing in the cool waves.

But would you believe that the average depth of the Inland Bays is a mere 4.5 feet deep?

While it is still a good idea to wear a life jacket when out on the bays (or any body or water for that matter), if you ever do fall in – first, try standing up.

3 – Fishes, Dolphins, Seals and…Whales?

Fishes, dolphins and seals are a common sight in the Indian River Bay, depending on the time of year. But due to their shallow waters, the bays do not typically play host to other larger creatures.

Typically.

One exception to this rule occurred in January 2007 when two Right whales, mother and baby, swam into the Indian River Inlet! Perhaps realizing their mistake, they eventually turned around and headed back out to sea – but not before giving us quite the show!