| Caladesi Island State Park has been rated by "Dr Beach", Dr Stephen Leatherman, as the Number Two beach in America. It is located approximately one mile off of the mainland by the city of Dunedin, Florida. It is three miles long and up to 1/2 mile wide. It is the largest of six islands in the Gulf Island Geopark.
Caladesi was once joined with what is now Honeymoon Island but was split by a large hurricane in 1921. It is pretty much undeveloped and has an abundance of natural beauty. The state park marina and beach near the center of the island are basically all that is fully developed. The main beach is on the Gulf side of the island and has three miles of white sand.
The non developed areas of the island is filled with mangroves, sea grass and plenty of wildlife including many birds. In the gulf edge are sand dunes and tough plant life including sea oats and pursland. Turtles find this area a great habitat.
Access to Caladesi Island is by paddling or by public ferry which runs on a regular schedule if the weather permit. You can check with the park system to confirm a schedule for a certain season of the year.
Kayaking is a popular means of transportation to and around the island and the boats and equipment can be rented readily. There are kayak trails for sightseeing and transportation. Your can dock at the Park Marina where there are boat slips, concession stand, bath house, picnic area, and ranger station.
From the Marina, you can follow the boardwalk to get something to drink. You can also access the swim beach by going across the island. There is also a three mile nature trail the loops through the center of the island.
Other activities include fishing, collecting shells, sunbathing, sand constructing, or metal detecting on the beautiful beach. Picnic pavilions and bath houses are also available. There are some facilities for the handicapped with limited physical capabilities.
Charles Oxford
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