Naples' best-known natural assets are its 17 miles of pearly white beaches along the Gulf of Mexico. National travel publications regularly name the pristine beaches along Collier County's coast as among the best anywhere, and in 2005, the Travel Channel named Naples as "America's Best All-Around Beach."

Many visitors first encounter Naples beaches near downtown, where the Naples Municipal Pier, just west of the Third Street South shopping area, offers easy access to a 10-mile stretch of fine white sand. From its southernmost point at Gordon Pass, this beach stretches past sprawling estates, Gulf-front cottages, historic homes, and stunning high-rises. The warm blue-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico gently lap their uncommonly white sands, which are perfect for shelling (uninhabited shells only, please!) or just soaking up the sun. Feeling adventurous? Rent a jet ski for an hour or two and feel the sea breeze on your face as you fly through the Gulf's calm waters.

Other beach locations you might want to fit in to your schedule are the City Pier and Lowdermilk Park. You can also find beach access along Gulf Shore Blvd with limited metered parking spaces. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park offers beach combing and sunbathing along with kayaking and diving activities.

Parking at county beaches is free with a City of Naples or Collier County beach parking permit. Collier County beach parking permits are available free of charge to all full-time county residents and property owners. Visitors and non-residents can purchase an annual beach parking permit for $30. Contact your nearest community park to obtain a permit sticker. Parking at all county beaches is $6 per vehicle without a permit.