Things to Do in Naples 2 of 52

Never let it be said that there’s nothing to do in Naples. To prove just how much there is to do in our city, I’m offering up one fun, interesting or relaxing activity for each week of 2013. 

This week’s “Thing to do in Naples” features a local favorite -- Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park. Whether you come for the sunset, a picnic or just to lounge in the sand under the sun, this is the place to do it in Naples. 

Let’s start with the beach: one mile of soft, white sand that has been named among the top beaches in the U.S.

The park itself includes 166 acres and a ton of things to do. Boaters set out from Water Turkey Bay to get to either the Gulf or to the Cocohatchee. If a kayak is your preferred over-the-water vessel you’ll find like-minded folks exploring the estuaries.

If you don’t have a boat and long to go fishing, no problem. While fishing is prohibited in the swimming areas, you can shore fish along the Pass or wade-fish in the bay.

Once you exit the freeway on your way to the park (exit 111), head west and you’ll find a couple of delis on your way to the park. Grab yourself some picnic fare because the facilities at Delnor-Wiggins Pass are exceptional -- a nice shady place to spread out a blanket and a picnic basket and relax the afternoon away. 

The park also offers a series of Ranger Programs that cover a wide variety of topics from Beginning Birding to a native plant walk. If you plan on going to the park this week, Tuesday and Wednesday morning programs are dedicated to beachcombing and during Friday morning’s program you can learn all about gopher tortoises.   

Feel free to bring the pooch but pets are allowed, on-leash, only in the park, not on the beach.

The park is open all year, from 8 am until sunset. To get to Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park take exit 111 off of I-75 and head west. Download a park brochure that includes a map at the Florida State Parks website.