Everglades City FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Everglades City, Florida.
1. Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge
VAST ISLAND WILDERNESS
Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge is a labyrinth of mangrove islands and tidal channels located near Everglades City. Visitors enjoy kayaking, fishing, bird-watching, and guided boat tours that reveal secluded sandbars and hidden beach islands. The unique appeal lies in its untouched beauty and abundant wildlife, offering an authentic wilderness water recreation experience.
2. Everglades National Park – Gulf Coast
WILD COASTAL ADVENTURE
The Gulf Coast section of Everglades National Park provides river and bay access to the vast mangrove estuaries and waterways of the region. Visitors can kayak, canoe, and join boat tours to explore remote beaches and observe manatees, dolphins, and diverse birdlife. Its remote, untouched setting makes it a haven for those seeking a blend of exploration and tranquility on the water.
3. Rod & Gun Club Waterfront
HISTORIC RIVERFRONT RETREAT
The Rod & Gun Club sits on the banks of the Barron River, inviting visitors to enjoy waterfront dining, fishing, and boating in a setting that recalls Old Florida. Known for its rustic charm and storied history, the club's docks and grounds offer a peaceful riverside ambiance. Guests appreciate the authentic, laid-back atmosphere with opportunities for both relaxation and light water recreation.
4. Marco Island South Beach
EXPANSIVE GULF SHORE
Marco Island South Beach is a well-known public beach featuring wide stretches of soft white sand along the Gulf of Mexico. Swimmers, sunbathers, and water sports enthusiasts flock here for its clear waters, beach access, and recreational rentals. The lively atmosphere and scenic sunsets make it a favorite coastal destination near Everglades City.
5. Tigertail Beach
LAGOON AND SANDBAR HAVEN
Tigertail Beach on Marco Island offers both sandy Gulf beaches and a unique tidal lagoon perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. Nature lovers delight in birdwatching, shelling, and exploring the sandbar that stretches out into the gulf. Its combination of calm waters and natural beauty attracts families and adventure-seekers alike.
6. Naples Municipal Beach & Pier
CLASSIC BEACH DESTINATION
Naples Municipal Beach & Pier is an iconic Gulf-front spot known for its stunning sunsets, historic fishing pier, and pristine shoreline. The spacious beach welcomes swimmers, anglers, and walkers, all enjoying the lively yet laid-back beach town vibe. Its central location and ample amenities make it a perennial favorite for beachgoers of all ages.
7. Clam Pass Park
MANGROVE-LINED BEACH ESCAPE
Clam Pass Park invites visitors to traverse a scenic boardwalk through mangroves before arriving at a broad, sandy Gulf beach. Activities include swimming, picnicking, kayaking, and paddleboarding in both the calm lagoon and open gulf waters. Its tranquil setting and amenities create a relaxed, family-friendly environment.
8. Barefoot Beach Preserve
NATURAL DUNE SANCTUARY
Barefoot Beach Preserve features unspoiled dunes, soft sand, and warm gulf waters, making it one of the region's top spots for swimming and wildlife viewing. The preserve offers walking trails, kayak launches, and picnic areas, all set in a peaceful, undeveloped coastal landscape. Its dedication to conservation and natural beauty stands out among Florida's beaches.
9. Caxambas Park & Marina
GATEWAY TO ISLAND WATERS
Caxambas Park & Marina, situated at the southern tip of Marco Island, is a popular launch point for kayakers, boaters, and anglers exploring the Ten Thousand Islands. The park offers easy bay and Gulf access, as well as amenities like picnic areas and fishing piers. Its relaxed waterfront setting makes it an ideal escape for aquatic adventures.
10. Rookery Bay Reserve
ESTUARINE NATURE RESERVE
Rookery Bay Reserve encompasses pristine estuaries, mangrove forests, and tidal creeks ideal for kayaking, wildlife viewing, and eco-tours. Visitors can explore water trails, spot dolphins and birds, and unwind on the reserve's waterfront observation points. Its blend of environmental education and natural recreation offers a unique coastal escape on the edge of the Everglades.