Clam Pass Park | Naples City

Clam Pass Park, located in Naples, Florida, is a 35-acre coastal preserve celebrated for its unique combination of pristine beach, mangrove forest, tidal estuary, and recreational amenities. The park is managed by Collier County and is one of the most popular yet ecologically rich beach parks in Southwest Florida.

Environment and Ecosystem

Clam Pass Park’s ecosystem is shaped by its location between the Gulf of Mexico and the inland waters of Outer Clam Bay. Its key habitats include:

Mangrove Forests: A dense mix of red, black, and white mangroves lines the three-quarter-mile boardwalk leading from the parking lot to the beach. These trees help filter runoff, stabilize the shoreline, and provide a habitat for birds, fish, and crustaceans.

Tidal Estuary: Clam Pass itself is a tidal channel connecting the inland bay with the Gulf. The tidal flow creates dynamic salinity levels and supports estuarine life such as mullet, snook, crabs, and occasionally manatees.

Barrier Beach Dune System: The park’s beachfront is backed by dunes with native vegetation such as sea oats and beach morning glories, which protect against erosion and provide nesting grounds for sea turtles (mostly loggerheads, during May–October).

Wildlife

Clam Pass is a haven for wildlife:

Birds: Over 100 species have been recorded, including black skimmers, snowy egrets, tricolored herons, roseate spoonbills, and ospreys.

Marine Life: Schools of fish can often be seen in the tidal channel, while dolphins are sometimes spotted offshore. Fiddler crabs are abundant in the mudflats, and the mangrove roots host small crustaceans and mollusks.

Reptiles and Mammals: Gopher tortoises may be seen in drier upland areas. Raccoons are present but usually active in the early morning or evening.

Boardwalk and Access

A signature feature of the park is its 3/4-mile raised boardwalk, which winds through the mangrove forest to the beach.

Electric trams (operated by Naples Grande Beach Resort) run every few minutes during park hours and are free for all visitors. The ride takes about 5 minutes and offers a shaded and scenic approach to the Gulf shore.

Beach Area

The Gulf-facing beach is wide, gently sloping, and often uncrowded. It’s ideal for swimming, sunbathing, shelling, and relaxing.

The beach is known for calm surf and warm waters, particularly appealing for families and older visitors.

Clam Pass itself, at the northern end of the beach, forms a natural "lazy river" effect when the tide flows in or out. Floating through the pass is a favorite activity.

Recreational Opportunities

Kayaking and Paddleboarding:

A designated paddle trail winds through Outer Clam Bay and the surrounding mangrove estuary. The marked six-mile route is suitable for beginners and intermediate paddlers.

Rentals are available seasonally near the beach entrance.

Swimming and Floating:

Swimming is safe and enjoyable along the main beach.

During changing tides, the pass allows visitors to float with the current, though care should be taken with young children and non-swimmers due to variable currents.

Shell Collecting:

Like other Gulf beaches, Clam Pass is excellent for finding seashells, particularly after high tide or storms.

Nature Walks:

From December through April, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida offers free guided nature walks Monday through Saturday at 9:00 a.m.

These interpretive walks cover mangrove ecology, estuarine life, birding, and environmental conservation.

Birdwatching and Photography:

Early mornings and low tides offer the best birding opportunities. Binoculars and cameras are recommended.

Amenities and Facilities

Restrooms and Showers: Located near the beach at the end of the boardwalk.

Concession Stand: Seasonal food and drink service available, along with rentals for beach chairs, umbrellas, kayaks, and paddleboards.

Picnic Areas: Limited shaded picnic spots are located near the parking lot.

Accessibility: Beach wheelchairs are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. The boardwalk is fully accessible.

Tram Service: Operates daily during park hours and is free to all visitors.

Park Logistics

Address: Located at the end of Seagate Drive, Naples, FL.

Hours: Open daily from 8:00 a.m. to sunset.

Parking Fee: $10 per vehicle for non-residents. Free for holders of Collier County beach permits.

Pets: Not allowed in the park.

Environmental Restoration and Management

After Hurricane Ian in 2022, Clam Pass Park experienced damage to its infrastructure and shoreline.

As of 2025, a major $1 million restoration project is underway, including:

Repairs to the seawall and drainage system

Boardwalk improvements

Shoreline stabilization measures

The park remains open during construction, but some minor detours or parking changes may occur.

Summary

Clam Pass Park stands out among Naples-area beaches for its rare blend of natural ecosystems, accessibility, and peaceful atmosphere. Whether you're seeking a relaxing beach day, an educational nature walk, or an active paddle through a mangrove estuary, Clam Pass offers a rich and immersive outdoor experience.