Florida Guide > State Parks
DELNOR-WIGGINS PASS
Delnor Wiggins Pass State Park is situated on Gulf Shore Drive in Naples and is in South West Florida on the beautifull Gulf Coast.
This park was opened in 1971, but as early as the 17th century Calusa Indians lived here. They were no doubt drawn to the area for it's prolific opportunities to hunt, fish and live off the plant life.
During the 19th century the Eurpeans and Seminole Indians moved in and took residence and it was not til 1964 that two fellows named L. J and D. A. Norris had the fore sight to persuade the county to acquire these lands.
The park is named after a Joe Wiggins who had a trading post here and also the first home on the records.
The State Parks department have made the beacch wider to a hundred and fifty feet which has presented good shelling opportunities besides exposing more beach for us to enjoy.
Divided by creeks and swamps from the main land, it is a barrier island that has a pass at the north which outs into the Cocohatchee River.
At just one mile long, this has not stopped this beach being declared one of the best in Florida and indeed it is so popular that they sometimes have to close it to prevent over crowding. This is rather unusual as many times you can have a State Park beach to yourself. So the best advice is go early to avoid disappointment.
It is good for swimming, snorkelling, fishing and just plain old sun bathing so no wonder it has great appeal.
Fishing is permitted in most areas and Wiggins Pass is a good place to choose (you may not swim there). You will need a license.
If you are able to visit on a friday this is a good choice, since the rangers hold guided tours then. During the turtle season, these happen on wednesdays as well(phone 239 597 6196)There are helpfull info points at the bath houses and also at Wiggins Pass too.
Picnic areas are well placed in a hammock that gives welcome shade on hotter days. These are placed twixt the beach and the car park and are accessed by the board walk.
The mangrove forest is the most notable feature of this park and it covers an astonishing three quarters of the area. It gives great protection against erosion and also filters the waters.
This park costs just $5 for a car full of up to 8 people and is open from 8 am til sundown.
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
11135 Gulfshore Dr.
Naples, Florida 34108
Phone: 239-597-6196
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