NaplesNaples Things to DoNature & Outdoors

Clam Pass Beach, Naples: What to Know Before You Go

Parking, Shelling & More!

If you’re looking for a beautiful, nature-filled beach experience in Naples, Clam Pass Beach Park is a must-visit. This beach offers a unique combination of pristine white sand, calm Gulf waters, and a scenic boardwalk that takes you through a stunning mangrove forest. Whether you’re in the mood for a peaceful nature walk, a fun family beach day, or a relaxing afternoon by the water, Clam Pass Beach delivers. But before you go, there are a few things you should know to make the most of your visit. Let me break it all down for you!

 


Is Clam Pass Beach Open Today? Beach Conditions & Recent Updates

Yes! As of February 2025, Clam Pass Beach is fully open and looking fantastic. While the area has seen past hurricane impacts, everything is well-maintained and back to normal.

  • Hurricane Ian (2022): The beach sustained some damage, but restoration efforts were completed, and it reopened in early 2023.
  • Hurricane Milton (2024): The park experienced minor flooding but was fully operational again by November 2024.

I was there recently, and the boardwalk, beach access, and facilities are all in great condition. The mangroves are lush, the sand is soft, and the water is as clear as ever!

For the latest beach conditions, red tide status, and weather updates, check these resources:


Location and Hours of Operation

Address: 465 Seagate Drive, Naples, FL 34103

Park Hours: 8:00 AM – Sunset

Driving Directions: Clam Pass Beach is located just off Seagate Drive, making it an easy drive from both North Naples and downtown.

  • From Downtown Naples: Take US-41 North, turn left onto Pine Ridge Rd, then right onto Seagate Drive. The park entrance will be on your left.
  • From North Naples: Take Vanderbilt Beach Rd west, turn left onto US-41 South, then right onto Seagate Drive.

Nearby Landmarks:

  • Waterside Shops – Upscale shopping & dining just a 5-minute drive away.
  • Naples Grande Resort – Located next to Clam Pass, offering spa & dining options.
  • Pelican Bay – A scenic residential community with nature preserves.
  • Venetian Bay – Another hidden gem nearby, offering waterfront dining and boutique shopping.

Best Parking Entrance: The main entrance to Clam Pass Beach Park is located inside the Naples Grande Resort area. Follow signs for public beach access to reach the parking lot near the tram station.


Parking at Clam Pass Beach

Parking here is different from most Naples beaches because it includes a scenic boardwalk or tram ride to the beach.

  • $10 per vehicle for non-residents (Collier County residents with a beach permit park for free).
  • Pay at the kiosks or via the ParkMobile app.
  • The parking lot fills up fast, especially by late morning, so arrive early!
  • Local tip: Arrive after 6 PM to catch the sunset and park for free!

Once you park, you can either walk the beautiful 3,000-foot boardwalk (about a 15-minute scenic walk) or take the free tram shuttle provided by the park.


Beach Amenities – Everything You Need for a Perfect Day

One of my favorite things about Clam Pass Beach is that it feels like a hidden gem while still offering great amenities:

  • Free Tram Service – A complimentary tram takes visitors from the parking lot to the beach.
  • Restrooms & Outdoor Showers – Clean and well-maintained.
  • Beachside Restaurant & Bar – Rhode’s End provides delicious food and drinks right on the sand.
  • Beach Rentals Available – Chairs, umbrellas, and watersport equipment.
  • Shaded Picnic Areas – A great option for families or small gatherings.
  • Lush Mangrove Trails – Great for nature lovers and bird watchers.
  • Life Jacket Loaner Program – Free life jackets are available for swimmers of all ages.
  • Beach Wheelchair Accessibility – Beach wheelchairs available upon request.
  • Guided Nature Walks – Explore the Clam Pass Boardwalk, Beach & Bay with expert guides.
  • Kayaking & Paddleboarding – Rentals are available nearby for exploring the calm waters and mangrove tunnels.
  • Bike-Friendly Boardwalk – A flat, shaded path perfect for casual biking.

Dining at Clam Pass Beach – Rhode’s End

One of the standout features of Clam Pass Beach is Rhode’s End, a Mediterranean-inspired beachfront restaurant that’s part of the Naples Grande Beach Resort.

What’s on the Menu?

  • Greek Wrap – A refreshing mix of crisp veggies, grilled protein, and tzatziki.
  • Spicy Fish Sandwich – A flavorful seafood option with a little heat.
  • Beach Burgers & Wraps – Hearty options perfect for a beachside meal.
  • Frozen Cocktails & Beer – Great for cooling off in the Florida sun.
  • Kid-Friendly Meals – Grilled cheese, chicken tenders, and fruit cups available.
  • Fresh Seafood Specials – The menu changes seasonally, so expect fresh catches of the day.

I always recommend grabbing a cocktail and some fresh seafood to enjoy while soaking in the Gulf views!

View Rhode’s End Menu


Shelling at Clam Pass Beach

If you love shelling, Clam Pass Beach is a great spot! Thanks to the tidal flows through the pass, a variety of unique shells wash up along the shore.

Compared to Delnor-Wiggins Pass or Keewaydin Island, Clam Pass is less picked over, making it a great place for finding conchs, coquinas, and scallops. Low tide is the best time for shelling, so check the tide charts before heading out!


Important Information: Dogs, Rules, and Policies

  • No Dogs Allowed – Unlike some other Naples beaches, pets are not permitted at Clam Pass.
  • No Glass Bottles – To keep the beach safe, glass containers are prohibited.
  • No Overnight Camping – The park closes at sunset.
  • Beware of No-See-Ums – Bring bug spray if visiting in the evening, as these tiny biting bugs can be annoying.

Should You Add Clam Pass To Your Must-Visit Beaches in Naples?

Absolutely! If you love beautiful beaches, scenic walks, and nature experiences, Clam Pass Beach is one of the best spots in Naples. Just remember:

  • Arrive early to get parking.
  • Take the boardwalk or tram for a unique nature experience.
  • Bring a camera for wildlife sightings.
  • Stay for sunset—it’s breathtaking!

Have you been to Clam Pass Beach? Let me know your favorite part in the comments! And if you’re planning a visit, I hope this guide helps you have the best beach day ever!

Other Things To Do In Naples

There’s so much more to explore in Naples beyond its beautiful beaches and wildlife tours! If you love nature, Rookery Bay is a must-visit for kayaking, birdwatching, and learning about Southwest Florida’s unique coastal ecosystem. Looking for family-friendly activities? Check out Our Favorite Things to Do With Kids in Naples for fun outings everyone will enjoy. If you’re planning a getaway, How to Spend a Great Weekend in Naples has everything you need to know, from the best restaurants to top hotels and activities.

Naples is also a paradise for shell collectors, and our Ultimate Guide to the Best Shelling in Naples, Marco Island, and Beyond will help you find the best spots to hunt for seashell treasures. For a relaxing beach day, Loudermilk Park Beach is another one of my favorite Naples beaches with soft sand, calm waters, and great amenities. If you’re in the mood for an outdoor meal, you can’t go wrong with any of the best picnic spots in Naples. For something a little different, Funny Bunches of Goats is a unique farm experience where you can meet and feed friendly goats.

My Favorite Tours in Naples and Beyond

Manatees and Mangrove Tunnels Kayak Tour: Kayaking through the mangrove tunnels and spotting manatees up close is an unforgettable experience, and this tour gives you the best chance to see them. With a small group and expert guides, you’ll paddle through multiple ecosystems, encountering rare birds and incredible wildlife along the way. Book your adventure now and explore the most unique kayak route in Naples and Marco Island!

Private Dolphin Tour: Cruise through the pristine waters of Southwest Florida and Bonita Springs to see dolphins playing in their natural habitat. You’ll explore mangroves, estuaries, and even head into the Gulf (weather permitting) for an unforgettable wildlife experience. Book your private dolphin tour today!

Find Seashell Treasures at Keewaydin Island: Keewaydin Island is one of the best shelling spots on the Gulf Coast, and since it’s only accessible by boat, it feels like a hidden paradise. Spend the day exploring its unspoiled beaches, spotting wildlife, and collecting beautiful shells. Book your private boat tour here!

Where to Stay in Naples

  • LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort: Known for its serene setting, exceptional dining, and golf opportunities. Book your stay here
  • Bellasera Resort: This Old Naples boutique hotel offers condo-style suites with full kitchens, perfect for extended stays in the heart of Naples. Reserve your room here
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Naples: This luxury beachfront resort on Vanderbilt Beach offers world-class dining, a spa, and stunning Gulf views. Book your stay for the ultimate Naples experience.

Naples Grande Beach Resort: Located near Clam Pass Park, this resort features a private beach, multiple pools, and excellent dining. Reserve your room and enjoy a mix of relaxation and adventure. Check dates and reserve your room here.

Be sure to follow @365swfl on Instagram and give 365 Things To Do in Southwest Florida a like on Facebook to stay up to date with the latest SWFL events and the best things to do in Southwest Florida.

 

 

Paula

Paula is a writer and social media consultant. She has lived in Cape Coral for over 15 years and loves exploring Southwest Florida with her two teens and two doodles. Whether hiking at Six Mile Cypress Slough, dining in Naples, or catching a festival on Fort Myers Beach, she’s always on the lookout for fun events and unique experiences. She enjoys shelling on Sanibel, birdwatching at Corkscrew Swamp, checking out art exhibits at The Baker Museum, and paddling hidden waterways along the Calusa Blueway. As the founder of 365 Things to Do in SWFL, Paula loves to share the best events, family-friendly activities, and local hotspots, helping visitors and locals make the most of life in paradise.

Related Articles

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Back to top button

Sign In

Register

Reset Password

Please enter your username or email address, you will receive a link to create a new password via email.