Lowdermilk Park
Old Naples' friendly, full-amenity public beach, where gentle Gulf water, restrooms and a snack bar, shade gazebos and a couple of playgrounds add up to the easiest beach day in town.
Updated June 2026
If you want a beach day where everything's already taken care of, Lowdermilk is the one. Tucked at the north end of Old Naples on Gulf Shore Boulevard North, it's the city's most loved public beach park: a wide stretch of soft white sand backed by a green where you'll find restrooms and showers, a beachside snack bar, sand volleyball, picnic tables, shady gazebos and a couple of playgrounds. Spread your towel a few steps from the car and you're set for the day.
It's a natural fit for families and first-timers, but really it suits anyone who'd rather not fuss. The Gulf here is calm and shallow for a long way out, which makes for gentle swimming and easy wading with kids. Come evening, the whole crowd drifts to the waterline for the sunset, since Naples faces due west and the sun drops straight into the Gulf. Bring an empty pocket for the shells the low tide leaves behind.
What makes it work
Everything you'd want at a beach day, all in one easy spot off Gulf Shore Boulevard.
A perfect beach day
Morning swim to evening sunset, with everything you need a few steps away.
- Roll in early to claim a parking spot and a patch of sand before the lot fills, then take the first swim while the Gulf is glassy.
- Mid-morning, walk the waterline for a shelling hunt, then let the kids loose on the playground and volleyball court.
- Grab lunch at the snack bar, or spread out at a shaded picnic table with your own cooler.
- Stroll south along the beach toward the heart of Old Naples, then back for an afternoon dip and a nap under a gazebo.
- Stay for the main event, the sunset dropping straight into the Gulf, before you head to dinner on Fifth or Third.
Where to go next
More sand, more shells and the streets just behind the beach.
Beaches & Outdoors
Every Naples beach in one guide, from Lowdermilk to Vanderbilt, plus shelling and the mangroves.
Shelling in Naples
Where, when and how to fill your pocket with whelks, olives and the odd lightning whelk.
Old Naples
The palm-lined original blocks just behind the beach, from the Pier to Cambier Park.
Where to Eat
The best tables a short stroll from the sand, from beach-day casual to sunset-worthy.
Stay near Old Naples & the beach
Common questions
Where is Lowdermilk Park?
Lowdermilk Park is on the Gulf in the north part of Old Naples, at 1301 Gulf Shore Boulevard North near Banyan Boulevard. It's a short walk or drive from the heart of Old Naples and Fifth Avenue South, with its own beachfront parking lot.
Is there parking at Lowdermilk Park, and is it free?
There's a dedicated lot right at the beach, but it's paid for non-residents, with a pay station that takes cards or quarters. It fills up fast on season weekends and around sunset, so arrive early. Hours and rates change, so check the City of Naples before you go.
What amenities does Lowdermilk Park have?
It's the rare full-service Naples beach: restrooms and showers, a beachside snack bar, sand volleyball, two children's playgrounds, picnic tables, a duck pond and rentable gazebos. The concession stand also rents beach gear, kayaks and paddleboards during daytime hours.
Is Lowdermilk Park good for swimming and families?
Yes. The Gulf here is calm and shallow with a gentle slope, which makes it one of the easiest beaches in town for swimming and wading with kids. With playgrounds, a snack bar and accessible beach mats and a beach wheelchair, it's a favorite for families and multi-generation groups.
Can you watch the sunset at Lowdermilk Park?
Absolutely. Naples faces west onto the Gulf of Mexico, so the sun sets right over the water, and Lowdermilk's wide, open beach is a popular front-row spot. Come a little early to settle in, and the crowd will drift to the waterline as the sun drops.
Can you have a wedding or party at Lowdermilk Park?
Yes. The park's covered gazebos can be reserved through the City of Naples and are a popular choice for small beach weddings, birthday parties and family gatherings. Book the gazebo ahead and confirm current rules and rates, which differ for residents and non-residents.