Delaware beaches, public pools to reopen on May 22nd

WILMINGTON, Del. – Governor John Carney announced on Thursday that Delaware will lift restrictions on Delaware beaches and community pools at 5 p.m. on Friday, May 22nd.

Ice cream shops and trucks will reopen with restrictions beginning at 5 p.m. this Friday, May 15th.

The announcement comes after Carney consulted with public health experts at the Delaware Division of Public Health and the mayors of Delaware’s beach towns. Delaware’s mandatory 14-day quarantine for out-of-state travelers and ban on short term rentals will remain in effect. Non-Delawareans who have been in Delaware for at least 14 days will be allowed to use the beaches.

Strict social distancing and hygiene requirements will be in effect. Beachgoers must maintain at least 6 feet of distance between themselves and anyone outside of their household, and face coverings must be worn on the boardwalk and are encouraged on the beach. Restaurants and bars are still limited to delivery and take-out only.

Community pools will be limited to 20% of regular capacity. Swim lessons or practices of swim teams are not permitted.

Beaches at Cape Henlopen, Delaware Seashore and Fenwick Island State Parks may limit capacity to vehicles to enforce social distancing. Carney says that the current surf fishing restrictions on the number of people allowed per vehicle will be lifted at 5 p.m. on the 22nd, however all individuals in the vehicle must be from the same household.