The best walks and hikes around Ocean View
5.0
(2)
48
hikers
5
hikes
Hiking around Ocean View is characterized by its flat, coastal terrain, offering routes that traverse diverse beaches, coves, and canal-side paths. The region features minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for various activity levels. Landscapes include coastal paths, marshlands, and areas around canals and estuaries. These features provide opportunities for walks with water views and encounters with local flora and fauna.
Best hiking trails around Ocean View
- The most popular hiking route is Prickly Pear Trail loop from Tower Shores, a 5.4 miles (8.6 km) trail that takes 2 hours 10 minutes to complete. This moderate path offers views of the coastal environment.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Prickly Pear Trail loop from Sussex Shores, an easy 4.3 miles (6.9 km) path. This route winds through flat coastal areas, providing open views.
- Local hikers also love the Assawoman Canal loop from South Bethany, a 1.5 miles (2.5 km) trail leading through canal-side landscapes, often completed in about 37 minutes.
- Hiking around Ocean View is defined by flat coastal paths, canal-side routes, and marshland environments. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate loops.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 40 hikers have used komoot to explore Ocean View's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 18, 2026
5.0
(1)
16
hikers
4.89km
01:13
0m
0m
The Prickly Pear Trail offers a serene journey through the varied landscapes of Delaware Seashore State Park. You'll experience a mix of young forests, open meadows, and coastal marshland, with surfaces ranging from crushed stone to soft sand. The highlight is undoubtedly the tranquil views of Beach Cove, an inlet of Indian River Bay, where you can often spot diverse wildlife like migratory birds and Diamondback Terrapins, making it a truly immersive natural experience.
This easy 3.0-mile (4.9 km) hike, with a minimal 4 feet (1 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a relaxed outing, taking approximately 1 hour and 13 minutes. It's a great option for families or anyone seeking a peaceful stroll. Just remember that the trail is closed during hunting season, so it's wise to confirm its availability before you plan your visit.
What sets this trail apart is its quiet, multi-use nature, welcoming hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders alike. It provides a gentle introduction to the coastal ecosystems of Delaware, offering a chance to connect with nature without demanding a strenuous effort. It's a fantastic choice for those looking for a calm, accessible outdoor adventure in the region.
5.0
(1)
18
hikers
6.87km
01:44
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
18
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
2.96km
00:45
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
2.47km
00:37
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Ocean View
Tips from the Community
From this spot you have a beautiful view of Beach Cove. It can be reached via the Prickly Pear Trail.
1
0
Excellent bay view of the Indian river inlet bridge.
0
0
Sandy and fun, the singletrack and doubletrack trail is a mix of sand, grass, and lush mats of pine needles. The Prickly Pear Trail is a beautiful, scenic trail on the bayside of Coastal Highway (Rt 1). You might see wild turkeys, great blue herons, egrets, and eastern box turtles. Some of the trail might be tricky to ride with narrow tires. And bring bug spray if you plan to stop during the warm months. The biting flies can be killer.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Ocean View?
There are 5 hiking trails around Ocean View, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. This includes 4 easy routes and 1 moderate route, offering a variety of options for different skill levels.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking around Ocean View?
The Ocean View area is characterized by stunning coastal landscapes. You can expect to find dramatic coastal cliffs, diverse beaches, and sometimes even coastal mountains or rolling hills meeting the ocean. Many trails offer breathtaking, elevated perspectives of the coastline, with opportunities to see unique flora and fauna, and potentially marshes or lagoons.
What do hikers enjoy most about the trails around Ocean View?
The trails around Ocean View are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars based on 2 ratings. Hikers often praise the scenic ocean vistas and the variety of coastal environments available for exploration.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Ocean View?
Yes, there are several circular routes available. You can enjoy the Prickly Pear Trail loop from Sussex Shores, the Prickly Pear Trail loop from Tower Shores, or the Hiking loop from Holts Landing State Park. These loops offer convenient ways to experience the area's beauty.
Are the trails around Ocean View suitable for families with children?
Absolutely! Many trails in the Ocean View area are easy and suitable for families. For instance, the Prickly Pear Trail is an easy 4.9 km route, and the Assawoman Canal loop from South Bethany is an easy 2.5 km walk, perfect for a family outing.
What natural features or landmarks can I discover on these hikes?
While hiking around Ocean View, you can discover several interesting features. The area is home to the Assawoman Bay, and you might encounter the Fenwick Island State Park. The Prickly Pear Trail itself is also a notable highlight. For a historical touch, the Fenwick Island Lighthouse is a prominent landmark.
Are there any challenging hikes in Ocean View?
While most routes are easy, there is a moderate option for those looking for a bit more challenge. The Prickly Pear Trail loop from Tower Shores is an 8.6 km route with a moderate difficulty grade, offering a longer and more engaging experience.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Ocean View?
The coastal areas around Ocean View are generally pleasant for hiking year-round. However, winter and spring can be particularly rewarding for spotting wildflowers. The mild coastal climate often makes for comfortable hiking conditions outside of peak summer heat.
Can I bring my dog on the trails around Ocean View?
Many outdoor areas along the coast are dog-friendly, but specific regulations can vary by park or trail. It's always best to check the local rules for each specific trail or park you plan to visit to ensure dogs are permitted and if they need to be on a leash.
Are there options for shorter, easier walks around Ocean View?
Yes, if you're looking for shorter, easier walks, the Ocean View area has several great options. The Assawoman Canal loop from South Bethany is an easy 2.5 km route, and the Hiking loop from Holts Landing State Park is an easy 3 km walk, both perfect for a relaxed stroll.
Are there any trails that offer great viewpoints?
The very nature of "Ocean View" implies stunning vistas! Many trails in coastal regions are designed to maximize panoramic views of the sea. While specific viewpoints aren't listed for every route, you can expect elevated perspectives and breathtaking ocean panoramas along most coastal paths in the area.
Most popular routes around Ocean View
Most popular attractions around Ocean View
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
