Just shy of eight months after Hurricane Ian, another Naples beach reopens today. That beach is Delnoir-Wiggins State Park in North Naples. Like many Southwest Florida beaches, this one was devastated by Ian on September 28th, 2022 and has been closed since. However, just because the beach is open does not mean it is back to business as usual here.
Denor-Wiggins State Park Beach reopens in North Naples
Things to know about the beach reopening
Fist of all, parking is much more limited than before the storm. However, Collier County officials are offering a little help here. They have initiated a free beach shuttle service so you don’t have to worry about finding beach parking. Instead, simply pull into Conner Park and hop on the shuttle. Conner Park is at nearby Bluebill Avenue and Gulfshore Drive. If you arrive on a bicycle, you wont have any problems getting into the park and beach.
Next, don’t expect all areas of the beautiful park to be open for exploration. The damage from Ian was widespread. Clean up and repairs are ongoing. Read the signs and adhere to any and all warnings. If you see a rope fence, do not cross it. They are protecting the dunes to help vegetation grow back.
The picnic areas have not been rebuilt yet and portable grills are not allowed as of now so leave them at home. Load up those coolers. However, take extra care not to leave anything behind. If you need facilities, porta potties are available in parking lots one and two. In addition, the rest rooms and showers are open at the park’s Bluebill entrance.
Finally, the boat ramp is operational once again and fishing can resume in designated areas. It’s another great sign of recovery as yet another Naples Beach reopens today. You can get on the beach as early as 8am and stay until sundown.
Businesses That Have Reopened On Sanibel And Captiva Since Hurricane Ian
