You can also find out more about 663 miles Florida offers a wide variety of coastal getaways. The state is home to white sand beaches, crystal clear water and some of America’s best sunsets. But, according Dr. Beach One beach is more beautiful than the others, according to Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman. The scientist, author and professor at Florida International University, who is also the director of the Laboratory for Coastal Research, has deemed this list to be the best in America. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park The best beaches in Florida
Located on a barrier island near Naples, the park has a mile-long stretch of white quartz sand and covers 166 total acres—and it satisfied several of Dr. Beach’s criteria. He rates each beach on a scale of 1 to 5, based on 50 categories.
“This barrier island beach boasts … beautiful white-sand beaches and crystal-clear Gulf waters,” he stated. Activities include shelling, fishing, paddleboarding and snorkeling. The park is home to bald eagles and ospreys. Pine trees provide welcome shade.”
Delnor Wiggins Pass State park was unfortunately damaged by hurricanes Helene and Milton, in 2024. But it has since reopened. in early 2025 After reconstruction efforts,
There are a few things you should keep in mind when planning a trip from Naples to the park. You’ll also need cash to pay for your entry. Delnor-Wiggins State Park is open from 8 am to sundown every day of the year. Entrance costs $6.00 for a vehicle, or $4.00 for a single-occupant car.
There are many things to do in the park, as Dr. Beach has mentioned. Visitors who come to the park primarily for the beach will be able to swim, collect seashells, rent beach tents and beach chairs from the Nature Recreation Management Concessionaire. Be sure to check out the beach warning signs before getting in the water. Green means that the water can be safely swum.
Delnor Wiggins Pass State park is also a popular nesting place for loggerhead sea Turtles. Park rangers will put a cage atop any nests in order to protect the eggs. The park has a boat launch where you can launch a canoe, kayak or standup paddling board into Water Turkey Bay. While you’re paddling through the mangrove swamps or into the Gulf you may spot dolphins, stingrays or manatees.
Dr. Beach’s Top 10 list didn’t include just Delnor Wiggins Pass State park. St. Andrews State Park It was ranked No. It’s also a “most relaxing” state park. according to Google Maps data.
Visit the website to see Dr. Beach’s other selections of America’s Best Beaches. drbeach.org.
