Clam Pass Naples Florida - Things to Do
The traffic on the roads is thinning and it’s possible to actually enjoy a meal out without waiting for a table. To that end I thought it would be fun to help you plan a day-cation so you can unwind from “season” without leaving town. Jackie at Zing Patio Furniture in Naples recommended that I write about Clam Pass Park and Boardwalk. I took her up on the recommendation since I really don’t get to a lot of beaches unless there’s a paddleboard under me.
Clam Pass Park is one of the few parks in the areas with an extensive board walk from parking lot to shoreline. Not to worry, there is a complementary shuttle service if you prefer not to walk. I thought this would make a great day getaway because the boardwalk is fairly long and offers both a physical and mental disconnect from the real world as you walk through a portion of the thirty-five acre mangrove estuary.I honestly don’t recall ever visiting the park so with a fresh set of eyes I rolled out for a tour on one of the blustery days we had in April. A front was rolling through so the skies are moody but it was still a great time. This park isn’t pet friendly so Dill, the fearless Minpin stayed home.
At the trail entry there is a gazebo for guests to wait in shade for the next shuttle. My choice was to walk out the three quarter of a mile boardwalk. I decided to ride the shuttle on the return, as I have not fully developed a tolerant relationship with flip flops.
Most of the boardwalk is shaded by black, red and white mangrove trees. Along the way a bridge crosses over Clam Bay and offers views of the high rises in Pelican Bay and Gulf Shore. I was out in the morning and passed dozens of dedicated walkers in addition to beach goers and guests from the nearby Waldorf Astoria hotel.
Like I said this is a great park if you want to stay local yet feel like you’re on a vacation. The park is full service and offers optional concessions which include beach equipment chair and chaise lounger rentals, paddleboards, kayaks, sand toys for kids, plus food and drink service. There are even restroom facilities on site. You could literally show up at this beach with little more than a swim suit and enjoy a full day of relaxation at the beach.
A few tips for when you visit:
· Bring a little cash to park. The park does have an eight dollar entry fee if you don’t have a Collier County beach pass parking sticker.
· Everyone wants kids to stay safe when swimming so when you get to the gazebo pick up a complementary loaner life vest for your child.
· Pets in the park and bicycles on the boardwalk are prohibited.
· There are complementary beach wheelchairs at the concession for those who may have mobility challenges.
· No live shelling (on any of our beaches).
· The Conservancy offers guided nature tours which run December through April so put that on your list of things to do with house guests next winter.
Happy Trails!