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Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park: The Best Sand in Naples

A state park at the north edge of Naples with the cleanest, quietest beach on this coast.

By the Best of Naples editors5 min readUpdated
Sea oats and dunes at Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park with the Gulf beyond

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park occupies the barrier spit at the very north end of Naples, where Wiggins Pass connects the Cocohatchee River backwater to the Gulf. It is the most protected and, by most local accounts, the nicest beach in the immediate area: a mile of dune-backed sand with no buildings on it.

Practical details

  • Entrance fee per vehicle — a few dollars, cash or card at the gate; Florida State Parks annual passes are accepted
  • Open 8am to sunset, year-round
  • Five numbered parking lots running the length of the park; Lot 1 is nearest the pass at the north end
  • Restrooms, showers and picnic pavilions at several lots
  • Kayak launch on the bay side

The park has a hard capacity. When the lots fill, the gate closes and a queue forms on Gulfshore Drive. In February and March that happens by mid-morning on weekends. Weekdays are far easier.

Which lot to choose

Lot 1, at the northern tip, is the interesting end. The pass itself runs alongside, the sand spit shifts every season, and the tidal flow attracts fish and therefore birds, dolphins and anglers. It is also the least suitable for small children swimming, because the current through Wiggins Pass is strong on a running tide and there are posted warnings for good reason.

Lots 3 and 4 are the family choice — wide beach, calm water, closest to the pavilions. Lot 5 at the south end is quietest.

Wildlife

This is the best beach in Naples for wildlife. Gopher tortoises live in the dunes. Sea turtles nest from May to October and nests are staked. Ospreys and bald eagles work the pass. Dolphins are frequently visible from Lot 1, hunting the tide line — you do not need a boat to see them here, though you will be watching from 150 yards away.

Shelling

Better than most Naples beaches because the pass sorts and deposits material. Low tide near the northern tip is the spot. Remember that collecting live shells is prohibited in Collier County, and state park rules add further protections.

What to bring

Everything. There are picnic pavilions and restrooms but no restaurant, no chair rental and no bar. Shade is dune scrub only, so bring an umbrella. A cooler is permitted; alcohol is not allowed in Florida state parks.

Common questions

How much does Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park cost?
A modest per-vehicle entrance fee, payable at the gate. Florida State Parks annual passes are accepted.
Can you swim at Delnor-Wiggins?
Yes, on the Gulf beach, which is generally calm. Do not swim in Wiggins Pass itself — the tidal current is strong and hazardous.
Does Delnor-Wiggins have chair rentals?
No. There are no rentals or concessions. Bring your own chairs, umbrella, food and water.

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