Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
Naples, FL
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park runs a mile of white sugar sand at the north end of Naples, split by the tidal pass where boats work the inlet just offshore. A wooden observation tower gives a view over the pass and the barrier islands beyond, and the beach itself is consistently ranked among the best in the country.
A mile of nationally ranked sand and a real inlet view from the tower make it one of the best all-around beaches in Southwest Florida, though its reputation means arriving early is close to mandatory.
How we score beachesArrive before 10am if a spot in the lot matters, this beach's reputation means it fills fast in season. Take the Paradise Beach Trolley from the Conner Park lot on Bluebill Avenue if driving in feels risky on a busy day.
The entrance fee is 6 dollars per vehicle for up to eight people, 4 dollars for a single occupant, 2 dollars for pedestrians or cyclists. The lot fills by mid morning most days in season.
Paved paths lead from the lot to the beach and up to the observation tower, mostly flat with stairs at the tower itself. The beach beyond the paved area is soft, natural sand.
Dogs are allowed only on the paved areas of the park, not on the beach itself; an off-leash dog beach exists a few miles north in Bonita Springs for anyone traveling with one.
Winter and spring bring Naples' driest, most crowded season, drawn by the same good weather that makes this beach's reputation. Summer's heat and hurricane season, June through November, thin the crowds some despite warmer water.
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