Naples, FL
One of the most popular seaside destinations in Naples, the nearly two-mile long stretch of white sand beach at Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park provides a peaceful tropical paradise just north of downtown Naples. The sunsets are spectacular and photographers appreciate the natural surroundings, providing beautiful backdrops for beach and nature photography. At the north end of the island, behind the picnic pavilion, a tower gives visitors a bird's-eye view of Wiggins Pass and the surrounding coastal habitat. Dolphin, manatee and a wide range of shore birds are seen regularly.
Anglers are drawn to the park to fish Wiggins Pass from the beach or put in by boat at the park’s ramp on Water Turkey Bay leading to the Cocohatchee River and then into the Gulf of Mexico. Paddlers explore the estuaries of the bay and the river. Paddling out the Cocohatchee River to Wiggins Pass at sunset is a beautiful experience not to be missed. Diving and snorkeling are popular due to the hard bottom patches of natural coral reef along this section of the coastline.
Sea turtle nesting season is May 1 through October 30 and Delnor-Wiggins’ beach is an active nesting area. Land loving gopher tortoises are abundant in the surrounding coastal habitat.
The park’s facilities provide perfect spots for spending a day at the beach. Six different picnic areas are equipped with over 50 grills and picnic tables. Most of the picnic areas overlook the beach but are shaded and have access to restrooms and showers. A pavilion in Area 5 is available to rent for group activities and parties.
Rangers provide interesting programs on a variety of topics from castnetting to beachcombing to programs about the park’s resident animal species. The park's concession offers kayak tours, as well as beach chair, umbrella, paddleboard, canoe and kayak rentals. For tour reservations and rentals of bicycles, canoes and kayaks call 239-431-0958.
The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. Stay in touch with the Friends of Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park on Facebook or online at www.delnorwiggins.org for information about upcoming events and festivals.
