This Florida Beach Was Just Named the Best in the State-and It Has White Sand, Clear Water, and Nesting Sea Turtles

"With 663 miles of beaches, Florida is rich in coastal escapes with white sand, clear blue water, and some of the best sunsets in the country. But, according to Dr. Beach (whose real name is Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman), one beach stands out above the rest. In this annual America's Best Beaches list, the scientist, author, professor, and director of the Laboratory for Coastal Research at Florida International University deemed Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park the top beach 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 from 1 to 5 across 50 different categories.)"

"Unfortunately, Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park did experience damage from Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024, but it reopened to the public in early 2025 following reconstruction efforts. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park opens at 8 a.m. and closes at sundown all year round, and entry costs $6.00 per vehicle or $4.00 per single-occupant vehicle."

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, on a barrier island near Naples, features a mile-long stretch of white quartz sand across 166 acres and meets rigorous ranking criteria. Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman rated the park highest in Florida using 50 categories scored 1–5. The park offers swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, shelling, fishing, and shaded areas under pine trees, and supports wildlife such as bald eagles, ospreys, and manatees. The park sustained hurricane damage in 2024 and reopened in early 2025 after reconstruction. Park hours run 8 a.m. to sundown year-round, with vehicle entry fees and onsite concessions.

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