Lowdermilk Beach takes its name from Fred Lowdermilk, Naples' first City Manager, for whom the park was dedicated when it opened to the public in 1967. The city of Naples acquired the land in the 1960s with a vision to create a public space celebrating the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast. The site was originally a mangrove swamp that underwent significant development to become the beachfront park enjoyed today. Benefactor Lester Norris donated the first pavilion, grills, and picnic tables, establishing the park's community-oriented character. Lowdermilk Park holds the distinction of being the only public beachfront park in Naples, located in the Coquina Sands neighborhood along Gulf Shore Boulevard. The park's development reflected Naples' commitment to providing accessible Gulf of Mexico beach recreation for residents and visitors during a period of significant growth in the 1960s. Over the decades, Lowdermilk Beach has evolved into one of Naples' most beloved beach destinations, with amenities expanded to serve families and beachgoers of all ages while maintaining the natural coastal character that Fred Lowdermilk helped preserve.
The beach offers soft white sand and tranquil Gulf of Mexico waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The park features two children's playgrounds, sand volleyball courts, a duck pond, and extensive picnic facilities with tables and grills. Beach equipment rentals including standup paddleboards and kayaks are available for water recreation. Beach wheelchairs with specialized tires can be obtained from the concession stand, with a handicapped beach wheelchair ramp ensuring accessibility for all visitors. Outdoor showers and restroom facilities provide convenience for beachgoers. The Beach Cafe operates daily from 9:00 AM to sunset, weather permitting, offering made-to-order food, homemade sorbets and yogurt, along with hamburgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, salads, and beverages. The west-facing beach location provides spectacular sunset viewing opportunities over the Gulf. Two gazebos are available for rent for special events and gatherings. The park's metered and unmetered parking spaces accommodate visitors, though the popular destination fills quickly during peak season. The Edgewater Beach Resort Hotel adjacent to the park offers additional dining options.
Dining near Lowdermilk Beach benefits from the park's location in the Coquina Sands neighborhood and proximity to downtown Naples. The Beach Cafe at Lowdermilk Park serves casual fare including burgers, sandwiches, and homemade frozen treats for beachgoers. The Edgewater Beach Resort Hotel features Tiki Hut poolside dining with lunch options and margaritas overlooking the Gulf. Sea Salt, a short distance away, offers Mediterranean-inspired seafood with octopus carpaccio and whole branzino. The Turtle Club provides elegant beachfront dining with fresh Gulf seafood and dry-aged steaks with sunset views. Fifth Avenue South, Naples' historic shopping and dining district, is easily accessible from the park, featuring restaurants including Barbatella for wood-fired pizzas, USS Nemo for pan-Asian fusion, and Campiello for Northern Italian cuisine. Café Lurcat serves French-American fare with bouillabaisse and duck confit in a sophisticated downtown setting.
