Ian Lawrence, a native of Sussex County, Delaware, graduated from the University of Delaware in 2013 with a Bachelor of Arts in History and Ancient Greek & Roman Studies. He then graduated from the University of Chicago Divinity School with a Master of Arts in Religion. With a uniquely meticulous eye for technical and analytical detail, a strongly forged devotion to the betterment of everyone he meets, and a cerebral yet highly personal approach to professional life, Ian competes with himself daily to become the most productive and efficient human being he can. We recently conducted an interview with Ian to learn all about his favorite things to do in Coastal Delaware. Keep reading to hear his responses!

In your estimation, what are the best outdoor activities to enjoy in Coastal Delaware?

The coastline, unsurprisingly, is generally the most popular outdoor feature of this area. Our pristine woodlands and marshes, however, are also great places to explore. For an easier stroll, both the Junction & Breakwater Trail and the Lewes–Georgetown Trail are excellent destinations.

If you’re looking for a more rugged encounter with nature, I’d recommend checking out Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge or Cape Henlopen State Park. Both these sites have expansive trail networks which offer many opportunities for discovery — there are also fascinating historical artifacts hidden off-trail throughout the landscape.

Where is your favorite local spot to visit on a hot summer day? On a cold winter day?

On a hot summer day, I love visiting Slaughter Beach. This rustic coastline is packed with natural beauty — you’ll spot (among many other creatures) rare seafaring birds, passing dolphin pods, and the largest population of horseshoe crabs in the world. Additionally, during low tide, you can wander hundreds of yards into the water and still be submerged only ankle deep.

During the winter, Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge is my go-to haven. This comparatively remote park is populated by deer, turkeys, foxes, beavers, otters, and so much more. If you intend to visit just after a snowfall, get yourself either an animal-track-identification app or field guide and follow fresh prints through the brush — you never know what (or who!) you might discover.

What makes Coastal Delaware different from the other beach areas along the Mid-Atlantic?

Many of our more northern beaches are still very rustic and serene. Additionally, even our southern resort areas have a “quainter”, cozier atmosphere than many competing destinations along the Mid-Atlantic coast. Aside from a handful of oceanfront hotels, you won’t find many structures taller than seven stories in this area.

Given your experience in the field, what are the top factors which attract buyers to our area?

The most significant draw for buyers is undoubtedly our comparatively low taxes. Delaware has no sales tax, and Sussex County maintains a very low property tax rate in relation to neighboring areas. Another factor is the smaller-scale, more relaxing atmosphere which many of our metropolitan-area (e.g., NYC, DC, and Philly) buyers seek. I find that many folks from more bustling East Coast areas find solace and refuge in cheery Coastal Delaware.