The University of Delaware’s Coast Day, held at the Hugh R. Sharp Campus in Lewes, introduces thousands of people each year to the wonders of the sea and the importance of Delaware’s marine and coastal resources.

Hosted by the UD College of Marine and Earth Studies and the Delaware Sea Grant College Program, Coast Day began 31 years ago as a small open house designed to introduce visitors to our research. Public interest was so great that Coast Day rapidly evolved into a major event. Now, Coast Day is a highly anticipated Delaware tradition.

Coast Day offers something for everyone. Visitors enjoy hands-on exhibits, lectures on popular science topics, ship and laboratory tours, crab races, a crab cake cook-off, seafood cooking demonstrations, a boat show, and much more.

Kids have special opportunities to speak with marine scientists and learn firsthand about their discoveries. They can also explore the many fascinating careers available in environmental science fields.

Over the years, more than 200,000 visitors—from nearly all 50 states and several foreign countries—have flocked to Coast Day to learn about cutting-edge coastal and marine research, explore the aquatic world, sample delicious coastal fare, and have a great time.

Admission is free!

For more information about this event, call the University of Delaware Marine Public Education Office at 302-831-8083, the Delaware Sea Grant Program at 302-645-4346 or e-mail us at MarineCom@udel.edu.

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Plan your visit to Coast Day!

Printed programs will be available at Coast Day, but if you want a head start, view the full program or just the map online now! Or view the day's highlights here >

Find your way to the Hugh R. Sharp Campus for Coast Day!
View a map here >