If you are looking for a way to enjoy the beach in Naples this summer,( spring, winter, or fall; remember we can go to the beach year round!)  you might want to check out Lowdermilk Park.  With over 1000 feet of white sandy beachfront these days it's a little less crowded but still just as fun!

This Concession stand may not be visually appealing however it has all the key essentials for a good day at the beach... bathrooms, outdoor showers, food, picnic tables, and especially important in Florida, shade! 

Another plus for those who love the beach but not the sun are the beach tiki's pictured below. Be sure to hit the beach early if you expect to grab one of these, they go fast!

Lowdermilk has a large parking lot but be sure to heed this warning -If you don't have a sticker then use the METERED Spaces.  Tickets are given out and this time of year is no different.  Visitors who are staying in Naples for an extended period might want to consider picking up a Visitor/Non Resident Sticker. Otherwise bring your quarters. Of course if you buy some Real Estate here in Naples and are either a part or full time resident you qualify for your FREE beach sticker!  

Lowdermilk is definitely family friendly and offers not only covered picnic areas but a playground and volleyball court.   If you have teens and want to just hang around and keep an eye on things bring a book and enjoy the shady gazebo or sit by the pond, under an amazing Banyan Tree, watch the ducks and just RELAX...

 Did I just say Ducks? Yep!  If you look carefully up in the  Banyan tree (right) you will see something perched... Yes there are a few year round residents at Lowdermilk Park and they are Muscovie Ducks.  They should not be fed.  Remember they have to eat even when you are not there and do just fine when we observe them.

Lowdermilk is located of Rt.  41 or Tamiami Trail between Pine Ridge Rd and 5th Avenue.  Take Banyan Blvd. off Tamiami Trail and at the end of Banyan you'll see Gulf Shore Blvd. N - you cannot miss the park with the lake out front.  Lowdermilk opens at 8 a.m. closes after sunset and is wheelchair accessible. 

Lowdermilk Park is a terrific choice for adults and children alike!  For many of us it brings back memories of what going to the beach was like years ago; rinsing off the salt and sand under a cool outside shower, trudging chairs and towels down a boardwalk then kicking off your flip flops and sinking your toes in,  the smell of Coppertone and salty sea air - ahhh Summer!

Be sure at the end of the day you head on back for the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. Spectacular! 

When is the last time you had a day at the beach? Naples is calling.....