Caladesi Island – a Little Bit of Paradise

Whoever said there was no unspoiled beauty left in Florida has never been to Caladesi Island State Park. This diamond in the rough is one of the few remaining examples of a secluded island paradise. Four miles of undeveloped white sand beach and dunes line this island on the Gulf of Mexico, providing an ideal escape for sun worshippers and nature lovers.

In fact, Caladesi Island was voted number one in the Annual Top 10 Beaches ranking by coastal expert Dr. Stephen Leatherman, Director of Coastal Research at Florida International University.

In addition to its beautiful beaches, the island boasts acres of lush mangrove forests; one of the few tree species that survives in salt water. The mangrove are also increasing the size of the island as their immense root system traps soil and continue to spread. Explore this area on foot via the three miles of trails or by kayak trails that intertwine through the forest. The vegetation on Caladesi Island provides an ideal nesting place for the gopher tortoise, loggerhead and green sea turtles, and the occasional Eastern diamondback rattlesnake.

The beach at Caladesi is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail. Popular sightings include American oystercatchers, black skimmers, royal and least terns and snowy, Wilson’s and piping plovers. On the bayside of the island watch for great blue herons, snowy egrets and roseate spoonbills. See if you can spot the osprey nests located atop barren pine snags.

Hours of Operation: Open from 8 a.m. until sundown all year round. Call (727) 469-5918 or visit http://www.floridastateparks.org/caladesiisland/ for more information.

Directions: Caladesi Island State Park is accessible only by boat from Honeymoon Island State Park, Dunedin Florida

By Ferry: The ferry service to Caladesi leaves from Honeymoon Island State Park hourly beginning at 10 AM. Folks can call the ferry service directly 727-734-1501.

By Boat: From channel marker #14, just west of the Dunedin Causeway Bridge, take an approximate 212?degree heading on your compass for approximately 1 mile. Follow the channel markers into the Caladesi Island State Park Marina.

Pets: Ok to bring Fido as long as he remains on a leash, but no pets are allowed on the beach.

Fishing: Fishing is allowed in designated areas.

Facilities: Picnic pavilions, snack bar, gift shop and kayak rentals. Boaters have access to a 108 slip marina that offers overnight docking with electric and water hook-ups. Off shore anchoring is also available. Beaches are not ADA accessible (Beach Wheelchair is available and can be used on beach).