Naples Gulf beaches are known worldwide for their beautiful sands and peaceful gulf views. Whether you are looking for a family destination, a spot for a romantic walk or sunset, or an invigorating run - Naples beaches offer just what you are looking for.
Best of all, Naples beaches offer easy access! How do newcomers find their way to the beach?
City of Naples Beaches
Access to City of Naples beaches is via parking permit, available at Naples City Hall. County beach permits may also be used at City beaches. Many streets ending at the beach feature parking meters for visitors. Be sure to observe “no parking” signs, and to respect residents as you walk along the residential streets adjacent to beach access points. Both Lowdermilk Park and Naples Pier offer metered parking, as well.
Lowdermilk Park - One of Naples premier beachfront parks, Loudermilk Park is located at the end of Banyan Blvd. Lowdermilk is a great family or group destination, offering a fully equipped playground, shaded picnic tables, and gazebo in addition to the beachfront.
Naples Pier - A Naples landmark, located at the end of 12th Avenue S., Naples Pier is one of the best known sites for fishing, beach volleyball, and viewing a sunset. You may catch an artist at work as you walk along the pier. If you want to try your luck with a fishing line, no license is required for fishing off the pier; the City of Naples has purchased a bulk license for those who wish to fish here.
Naples City beaches have been actively replenished this fall, to mitigate the effects of normal erosion and summer storms. The replenishment project was a massive effort by local officials to maintain beautiful, user-friendly beachfronts.
Collier County Beaches
Collier County beaches stretch from Barefoot Beach at the north to the Marco Island beaches at the south. County beach parking is available on-site for $8 (pay at the parking kiosk), or by annual beach permit. Beach permits are available for both full-time and part-time residents. Best known Collier beaches include:
Clam Pass - You’ll enjoy the unique approach to Clam Pass, located at the end of Seagate Drive just beyond the fashionable Waterside Shops. From the parking area, take the 3/4 mile boardwalk through a tranquil mangrove forest to the beach itself. Watch for butterflies!
Vanderbilt Beach - The perfect location at the end of Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Vanderbilt Beach is a popular destination for all ages. Park easily in the parking structure and walk a block to the beach. Best feature at Vanderbilt? Stroll north a block or so along the beach to the Turtle Club for a delicious lunch overlooking the Gulf.
Barefoot Beach - located just off Bonita Beach Rd., Barefoot Beach Preserve offers a great family destination with beach access, fishing, boating, a one-mile nature trail, and ranger programs highlighting the broad range of natural habitat for Florida wildlife.
Marco Island - Drive south to Marco and enjoy sunbathing at South Beach, located at the southern end of Collier Blvd., or combine your day at the beach with birdwatching at Tigertail Beach. Tigertail is listed on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s list of top birding sites in the state.
Florida State Parks
State Park admission is by daily or annual pass; both are available from park rangers at the entrance.
Delnor-Wiggins State Park, located at the end of Immokalee Rd/111th Avenue, offers a full mile of natural beach. Five parking areas offer easy access to the beach, complete with sea turtle nesting sites, natural Florida grasses, diving pelicans, and dolphins splashing in the Gulf.
Lovers Key State Park sits on the Collier/Lee county line. For years, Lovers Key was accessible only by boat and it was said that only lovers traveled to the island to enjoy its remote and solitary beach. Today, it is one of four barrier islands that make up this state park. A haven for wildlife, the islands and their waters are home to West Indian manatees, bottlenose dolphins, roseate spoonbills, marsh rabbits, and bald eagles. The two mile long beach is accessible by boardwalk or tram and is popular for shelling, swimming, picnicking, and sunbathing. Black Island has over five miles of multiuse trails for hiking and bicycling. Anglers and boaters can launch their vessels from the park's boat ramp. The park's concession offers kayak tours, as well as bicycle, canoe and kayak rentals.
Beaches are a fantastic natural resource in the Naples area. Pack the car with your favorite beach chair, towel, and umbrella and discover those that will be on your own list of favorites.
