Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Naples has 9 miles of idyllic white-sand beaches. At the end of 12th Ave S, the historic
pier is a locus of activity.
Naples Municipal Beach
BEACH
(12th Ave S & Gulf Shore Blvd)
Naples city beach is a long, dreamy white strand that succeeds in feeling lively but rarely
overcrowded. At the end of 12th Ave S, the 1000ft
pier
is a symbol of civic pride, having
been destroyed by fire and hurricane and reconstructed each time. Parking is spread out in
small lots between 7th Ave N and 17th Ave S, each with 10 to 15 spots of mixed resident
and metered parking ($1.50 per hour); be sure to park at meters only or you'll be ticketed.
You'll find restrooms and a larger parking lot at the pier.
Lowdermilk Park
BEACH, PARK
(cnr Banyan Blvd & Gulf Shore Blvd)
North of Old Naples, this is a family-friendly beach park with picnic tables, vending ma-
chines, restrooms, and volleyball courts showcasing some of the best players around. If
you're a world-class player visiting from, say, Hawaii, you might be able to join them.
Otherwise, just watch the buff bods. Bring quarters for the parking meters.
Clam Pass County Park
BEACH, PARK
( 8am-sunset)
This county park covers 35 acres of coastal habitat, including a 0.75-mile boardwalk
through a mangrove forest that leads out to a powdery white-sand beach. It's next to
Naples Grand Beach Resort, which runs both the water-sports rentals and the free tram that
travels between the large parking lot ($8 per day) and the well-groomed beach. It's a favor-
ite with families and young adults. The snack bar serves beer and cocktails.
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
BEACH, PARK
( 239-597-6196;
www.floridastateparks.org/Delnorwiggins
;
11135 Gulf Shore Dr; car/bike $6/2;
8am-sunset)
This lovely state park and beach extends for a mile from the mouth of the Cocohatchee
River. It boasts gorgeous white sands, which are protected during turtle-nesting season
(from May to October). There's an
observation tower
at the north end, but swimming is
