Beaches

A pristine beach on the Gulf of Mexico, Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park has some of the best shelling opportunities on the Gulf coast. Live shelling is prohibited. Two beach wheelchairs, one in area 1 and one in area 5, are available and free for use to the public.

Boat Ramp

The boat ramp empties you into Water Turkey Bay, which runs via the South Channel into the Cocohatchee River. The docks at the boat ramp are ADA accessible.

The boat ramp fee is $5.00 + tax..  This is in addition to the Admission Fee.

Boating

From the Cocohatchee River you can go north via the back bays up into Estero Bay, east up the Cocohatchee River or, as most visitors do, head west into the Gulf of Mexico through Wiggins Pass.

Fishing

Fishing covers a wide area around the park. You can fish from a vessel in the Gulf, Water Turkey Bay and the Cocohatchee River, except within 300 feet of the park beach along the Gulf of Mexico. This area is buoyed off for swimming. No vessels are permitted to anchor within 100 feet of the designated fishing area, which encompasses the pass. You may fish from the shoreline along Wiggins Pass or wade fish in Water Turkey Bay. Fishing is prohibited in the swimming areas of the park.

Participation Requirements

Interpretive Exhibit

An interpretive exhibit is located at the picnic pavilion. There is also a kiosk on shore birds on the beach near Wiggins Pass.

Pets

Pets are allowed in this park, but not on the beaches. They must be well-behaved and kept on a six-foot, hand-held leash at all times. Pets must not be left unattended, or taken into restroom facilities or concession areas. You must "scoop" after your pet. (Don't forget your baggies!) These rules help preserve an important habitat for wildlife. Please do not leave your pets unattended in a vehicle for their safety, as temperatures inside vehicles can be dangerously high. Service animals are welcome in all areas and buildings of the park, as required by law.

Picnic Pavilion

The pavilion is located at the north end of parking area 5 in the Coastal Hammock. It is covered, (open air with ceiling fan), available for the electric fee of $7 per day or $4 for half a day. There is also a grill nearby for your convenience. The pavilion accommodates up to 100 people and has 10 picnic tables. To reserve the picnic pavilion, call the park at (239) 597-6196.

Picnicking

We have picnic areas located between each parking lot and the beach, with boardwalks leading to them. They are located in a Coastal Hammock for shade. There are grills and tables available.  Consumption of alcohol beverages is prohibited, except during park-sanctioned events where alcohol is permitted within designated areas.

Restroom Facilities

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park has six (6) restroom facilities. All are ADA accessible.

Scuba Diving

There is a hard bottom reef, which runs parallel to the beach where scuba diving is permitted. The closest area to the reef is area 2.

Showers, Day Visitors

Fresh water rinse showers are available at the park.

Snorkeling

Snorkeling is permitted along the beach. There is a hard bottom reef, which runs parallel to the beach where scuba diving and snorkeling are permitted. The closest area to the reef is area 2.

Swimming

Swimming is permitted from the southern boundary up to the middle of Parking Lot Five, a distance of almost one mile. No swimming is permitted in Wiggins Pass due to the dangerous currents there.

Tours

Guided tours are given on Wednesdays during turtle season and Fridays most of the rest of the year. Please call the Ranger Station for more information and to sign up for each program.

Wildlife Viewing

Resident eagles, ospreys, owls, and other woodland species make room every fall for the migratory shore birds. Bring your binoculars and cameras; there will be plenty of opportunities to use both. (more info will be added)