Located in the North Naples area of Collier County, Florida, Clam Pass Recreation area, also known as Clam Pass Beach Park, is a natural area characterized by mangrove forests, coastal dunes, and a Gulf-front beach.
A popular area with both local and visiting beach lovers, Clam Pass Beach Park provides about 3,200 linear feet of sand along the calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Dubbed by several travel magazines and guides as one of the top 20 beaches in the United States, Clam Pass Recreation Area boasts cool, white sand and plenty of space for swimming. Shallow waters by the shoreline also make it a suitable place for toddlers and young children to safely enjoy splashing in the surf.
Beach amenities include a concession that offers beach rentals, including chairs and umbrellas, as well as additional concession stands selling food and beverages. Approximately 175 public parking spaces are available at the site and restrooms are provided for the convenience of beach guests. Those parking here must pay a small fee or possess a Naples/Collier County beach parking permit. Lifeguards are stationed at Clam Pass Recreation Area beach for the safety of visitors.
Aside from the beach area, the natural parts of Clam Pass are also an interesting visitor attraction. The 35 acres of mangrove that grace the area can be explored via a three-quarter mile boardwalk that was built in order to help individuals reach the beach without disturbing the natural environment. The boardwalk can be traversed on foot or via a free tram that is provided by the county parks department.
A leisurely stroll down the boardwalk provides visitors with the chance to view a typical southwest Florida eco-system. The mangrove forest found here is of the salt-tolerant white, black, and red varieties. The forest is protected by state, federal, and local laws due to its importance in stabilizing and protecting low lying coastal areas from floods and other disasters and because it also helps preserve the fishery food chain.
A stroll down the well-kept boardwalk at Clam Pass Recreational Area also provides a look at Naples area fauna, including a variety of colorful butterflies, many different species of birds - including eagles, hawks, osprey, and a variety of wading shorebirds, and other small animals that are native to the coastal southwestern Florida area. The walk is flat and easily accomplished and is accessible to those in wheelchairs. A beach wheelchair is available at the end of the boardwalk to accommodate handicapped visitors who want to enjoy the sand.
Clam Pass Recreational Area and Beach are generally open from about 8 a.m. to sundown. Parking spaces fill up quickly on pleasant beach days and on weekends throughout the year.
