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Tigertail Beach Park on Marco Island

One of Florida’s least-known beaches is the exotically named Tigertail Beach. Located on the northwest side of Marco Island at the end of Hernando Drive, it is a surprisingly undeveloped natural park. It contrasts sharply with the neat suburban streets, high-rise condos and developed resorts that typify this beautiful vacation island.

Photo credit Debi Pittman Wilkey

Hurricane Wilma Created Tigertail Beach

One reason why Tigertail Beach remains off-radar, even to long-time residents, is that until 10 years ago it did not exist. This beautiful wild beach was an off-shore sandbar until Hurricane Wilma swept across the island in 2005 with wind speeds of over 156 mph.

The stormy seas piled up sand, creating Sand Dollar Island which connected the original sandbar to the mainland. The beach now extends on a curving spit, like a giant tiger tail, into the Gulf of Mexico. It contains a sheltered saltwater lagoon on the leeward side of the sand spit.

Photo credit Jennifer Brinkman

Tigertail Beach Park Amenities

Although Tigertail Beach remains a hidden gem, it has a surprisingly well-developed infrastructure. Owned and operated by Collier County, there is parking with daily charges of $8 per vehicle or $1.50 per hour for those without a Collier County beach parking permit (2015 prices). The well-kept park has modern changing rooms, restrooms, a beach café serving food and drinks, picnic tables, and a playground for children.

Photo credit Jennifer Brinkman

There is also a concession stand where you can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and other beach equipment. The saltwater lagoon is perfect for such watersports activities and kayaking is a great way to see the wildlife, birds, and fish that are hiding in the mangroves.

Photo credit Jennifer Brinkman

Wade Through the Lagoon to Reach Tigertail Beach

The only way to reach the quiet sands of Tigertail Beach is to wade through the shallow lagoon waters to your own private sandy spot on the 3-mile long spit. You need to do this at low tide, as it can be 2-3 feet deep at high tide. It’s still wadeable, but less practical if you are carrying beach chairs, coolers etc.

Photo credit Jennifer Brinkman