Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park

Ranked 10th on Dr. Beach's 2014 Best Beach in the U.S. list, the pristine mile-long beach at Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is a tropical paradise that’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, shelling and snorkeling. It’s located on a narrow 166-acre barrier island separated from the mainland by tidal creeks and mangrove wetlands. The park’s nature trail is a favorite of bird lovers and its observation tower offers peaceful views of Wiggins Pass and the Gulf of Mexico. Picnic areas have grills, restrooms and showers, as well as paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, umbrellas and beach chairs for rent.