If you want to rent a kayak to explore the mangrove trails, it's more convenient to rent directly from the State Park so you don't have to paddle across Hurricane Pass first. Great info. They also offer two person kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and fishing kayaks. window.mc4wp.listeners.push( Thanks. Click here to view the Caladesi Island State Park Florida map. If you are planning a helicopter tour for a special occasion then a sunset tour would be especially special. Welcome to CS Ginger! Honeymoon is pretty rocky. The four miles of flat beach with the nearby shallow waters make Caladesi State Park a great place to go snorkeling, especially for families. There are about 45 shells shown on the board. Here are ADDITIONAL AWESOME THINGS TO DO AROUND Caladesi Island State Park: HONEYMOON ISLAND: It is a must-do if you are visiting Caladesi island, is to spend some time at the next-door Honeymoon Island State Park, just kayak there or take the ferry. Cost for the ferry is $16.00 for adults and $8.00 for children. If you choose to purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Get ready for a relaxing day on the water with Captain Nick around Clearwater. Snead Island Boat Works. Sightsee the stunning coastline of the Gulf of Mexico. The Barrier Islands are only accessible by boats and your private trip is no exception. window.mc4wp = window.mc4wp || { Caladesi is much better than Honeymoon I think. With 3 Miles of pristine beaches accessible only by boat, Caladesi Island is an unspoiled paradise,and a magical place for swimming, sun-bathing, picnics, snorkeling, or shelling! There is a three-mile loop that runs around the island if you want to do some hiking and explore the nature trail on Caladesi Island. There is usually a lifeguard on duty between Memorial Day and Labor Day. It has deep and fine-grained white sand. The beach is pristine, with crystal water, and white sands, surrounded by nature, and framed with the blue sky almost all year long. This hotel is cool because it has a rooftop bar and an on-site restaurant and it is a perfect location for a happy hour with a million dollars views of the bay. You can catch the 20-minute ferry ride from Honeymoon Island State Park (starting at 10 AM) for $14 roundtrip per adult ($7 per child aged 6-12, kids 5 and under are free). amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "stacehomem-20";
Reviews: 88% of readers found this page helpful, Address: Suite 751 871 Lissette Throughway, West Kittie, NH 41603, Hobby: Creative writing, Motor sports, Do it yourself, Skateboarding, Coffee roasting, Calligraphy, Stand-up comedy. As ever, please be a responsible and respectful visitor, and give all wildlife the necessary space and distance when observing. To ride the ferry, take Curlew Road (Hwy 586) out of Dunedin and drive west. You can find the complete trail route here. There is no hotel or restaurant here, but you can find restrooms and even a little place to get snacks. However, the most surprising beach experience we had during our west coast road trip was undoubtedly at Caladesi Island State Park. (727) 469-5918. You can take a ferry from Honeymoon Island should kayaking not be your thing, and the ferry fare includes the state park entry fee. The sea water is rather cold in winter, while the period from June to September is a rainy season. You can walk to Caladesi Island from Clearwater beach, especially when the conditions are right like at low tide. There is a small cafe, which serves fish and chips, hamburgers and sandwiches, along with cold drinks and snacks. How to Get to Caladesi Island There are actually a few different ways to get to the island. Be sure to pack your own water and a snack because that's a long way in the sun! Ferry Coming from Honeymoon Island, you'll need to take a 20-minute ferry ride. The location is fantastic and it is a great option if you are also looking to explore Clearwater Beach. You will have to pay a $6 entry fee at the marina, and additional charges if you decide to stay overnight. A Florida fishing license may be required. If you rent a boat for a day in Tampa then Caladesi Island would be a great stop to make! You'll love the wood burning fireplace for cooler evenings. The journey time is 20 minutes. The ferry has plenty of room to store all the beach gear you will inevitably need to bring along including coolers, chairs and umbrellas. The white sugar sand beaches and swaying palm trees are dreamy! The unique continental shelf off the coast of Florida is very flat making it a lot easier for shells to remain intact when coming to shore. Caladesi Island is a short boat ride away from Clearwater Beach. There is a small picnic area and pavilion with a grill for public use. $9 for children ages 6 to 12. With this unique blog, my goal is to inspire you to find a life balance betweenActive Travel & a HealthyLifestyle! btw, another more mild option is to paddle from Two Harbors to Avalon on rental kayaks. All Rights Reserved. It's just south of Honeymoon Island State Park. . This trip departs from the Ft Desoto Boat Ramp (click here for directions) Ages 12+ $45 Ages 3-11 $25 Ages 2 & Under No Charge Parking $5 Quick Details: Duration: 5 hours total | 3 hours island time | 60 mins to and from dock Departure times: 11am Daily! To make it easier, Caladesi Island State Park driving distance from the major cities: There are different ways to get to Caladesi Island, but my favorite, and what I recommend is by bringing your own or renting a kayak at the Dunedin Causeway and paddling to Caladesi island, park your kayak at the shore and explore the island on foot. Another alternative to the ferry or kayak is exploring Caladesi Island by walking north on Clearwater Beach. Preference is given to people in their correct time slot. When it comes to beaches in Florida, the St. Pete / Clearwater region really is spoiled for choice. The ferry and the kayak rentals close in the event of bad weather. Thanks! You do not need to pre-book your the return ferry trip time, but its a good idea in high season to take a note of the timetable and get in the queue before the ferry arrives (it can get quite busy). The water is very shallow and clear, making it an easy and rewarding trip in your kayak. Generally, an alligator is deemed a nuisance if it is at least 4 feet in length and the caller believes it poses a threat to people, pets or property. You will want to look for shells starting an hour before low tide. For a relatively small island, theres actually quite a large number of activities to keep you occupied on Caladesi Island! You will only share the miles of pristine beach with a limited number of people so you will get your own space. Fishing, boating, swimming and fires are allowed in designate areas only. The trail will take you through salt marshes, mangrove swamps, down to the beach, and through the coastal scrub on the island. 1 Cswy. There is only one real building on the island, the ranger station which also houses the cafe and gift shop. The Caladesi Island State Park ferry runs daily except for Christmas and Thanksgiving. There are two ways to get to Caladesi: Private boat or take the Caladesi Connection Ferry service that operates out of Honeymoon Island State Park. We look forward to welcoming you aboard and providing you with an unforgettable experience. Fireworks and hunting are prohibited. Things to Do at Caladesi Island. It is a three-mile trail, but you can turn around if you dont want to paddle that far. If you have any other questions let me know and I will do my best to answer them. Which one you choose will be determined by how long you have, your physical abilities and your budget. The ferrys start running at 10 am and run every 30 minutes although times are sometimes seasonally adjusted. Yes, you can walk from Clearwater Beach to Caladesi Island. Caladesi Island Ferry The Caladesi Island Ferry leaves from Honeymoon Island just to the north. Cross the causeway from Dunedin and pay the entry fee of $8 per car. It was in the mid-1500s when the Spanish explorers first surveyed this coast. Caladesi State Park Guidelines Hours are 8 AM until sunset, 365 days a year. Each ferry ticket is a round trip ticket and gives you a four hour time slot on Caladesi Island. Copyright 2023 Paula Pins The Planet - All Rights Reserved, or call 800-326-3521 or TDD at 888-433-0287, A Complete Guide to how to Visit Anna Maria Island, FL. The island is only accessible by boat, making it the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. If you do go over on the Caladesi ferry, there is a 4-hour time limit on the island. Half the fun of any day trip to Caladesi is the journey. listeners: [], You can get to the island by private boat, kayak, ferry, or by walking from Clearwater Beach. Caladesi Island State Park. I wish I had found it sooner! There is no alcohol allowed on the beaches of Caladesi Island but you can stop in for a drink at the island cafe. You can expect to find lots of open space on the beach with plenty of room to relax and enjoy the beautiful island. They are open 7 days a week unless there is bad weather. The paddle takes about 20 minutes and you are still required to pay the $2 entry fee to the park. 38K views 2. We have to emphasize the around Caladesi Island because our favorite activity has been paddling along the east side of the island facing St. Joseph sound and the mainland. The passes just off the shore make great waters for catching tarpon, snook, redfish, seatrout, flounder, grouper, sharks, and more. To ride the ferry . The options are a ferry ride, kayaking, walking or boating. Your email address will not be published. Many animals reside here, such as gopher tortoises, raccoons and eastern diamondback rattlesnakes. Hop aboard a private cruise with Captain Nick on this Clearwater Afternoon Pontoon Cruise. If you arent bringing your own food onto the island, there is a caf where you can order lunch and drinks. (And yes, I know this has been said before, and better.) If you want to explore more of the mangroves, you can paddle through the island on the Mangrove Kayak Trail. Required fields are marked *. Make sure to bring along a shell bag to make bringing your shells back home easier. Prior to this, we had an assumption that most Florida beaches would be a little like the ones we'd seen on TV - bodybuilders, cocktail bars, spring break (whooo!) From the boardwalk, there is a T intersection that will have signs for the Island Trail. The most exclusive way to get to Easter Island by boat is on one of the cruises that include the island as a stopover in their itineraries through the South Pacific and those called Around the World. If youre up for a workout and an adventure you can rent a kayak from Sail Honeymoon on the Dunedin causeway and kayak across St Josephs Sound to Caladesi Island. Pets are permitted in designated areas only and they must be kept on a leash that's no longer than 6 feet. The island has about four miles of beach. Alcoholic beverage consumptionis allowed in designated areas only. You can make your reservation online or first-come, first-served in the marina. Hidden Gems in Florida, you Wont Believe it! Tampa Beaches: The Ultimate Guide to Beaches in and Around Tampa Bay, Cypress Point Beach Park: What You Need to Know, Beach Vacation Packing List for Peace of Mind. Fun Activities To Do At Caladesi Island State Park. Private Boat | If you have your own boat, you can access Caladesi Island independently. Adults: $16 Children (6 12): $85 and Under: Free. Starting from Clearwater North Beach, the walk is about 3 miles. Although Caladesi Island can be reached by foot, riding a boat to get there adds some thrill to an otherwise mundane trek. But the adage holds particularly true for Caladesi: it is accessible only by boat, a ferry that runs hourly from Honeymoon Island. Caladesi Island kayaks are available to rent at the marina for $25. You can also take your kayak from Honeymoon Island and paddle about 15 minutes to Caladesi Island. The entrance fee is $6 per boat for up to 8 people. Plus, if you want to just sit on the Caladesi Island beach and relax, it is a beautiful place to do that! If you take the ferry, there is a 4-hour time limit on the island. The best time for shelling is at low tide. If you are going to be in the area with your own boat or a rented boat, you can drive your own boat to Caladesi Island. How to Walk to Caladesi Island From Clearwater Beach! Tickets for adults cost $16 per person, kids age 6-12 cost $8 and kids 5 and under are free. A nice boat ride to Caladesi Island (about 20 minutes). There are two ways to get to Caladesi: Private boat or take the Caladesi Connection Ferry service that operates out of Honeymoon Island State Park. For questions, clients are advised to contact the business at (727) 734-5263. Clearwater Beach to Caladesi Island Walk Easy 4.6 (47) Caladesi Island State Park Photos (200) Directions Print/PDF map Length 8.5 miElevation gain 9 ftRoute type Out & back Get to know this 8.5-mile out-and-back trail near Clearwater Beach, Florida. Boat camping . Bottom line is to get into all this IF you may like kayaking (i.e. Large osprey nests located in the top of barren pine snags may be seen. There's more than just the four miles of pristine beach at Caladesi Island to enjoy. By far the most popular way of reaching Caladesi Island is with the regular ferry that leaves from Honeymoon Island State Park ( maps) Starting at 10 am each day, there are departures every 30 minutes every day (except Christmas Day and Thanksgiving). We wouldnt recommend this option! There is no camping at Caladesi Island, but the 108-slip marina is equipped with water and electricity for overnight boat stays. The ferry runs every hour from 10 am to 3 pm. The ferries begin running at 10:00 a.m. every day, with numerous returns and departures, and you can stay on the island for 4 hours. It is easier to find shells out on the sandbar during low tide than high tide. TOTAL FUEL USED 55 gal. The best time to walk is 2 hours before low tide. The state park is a hidden gem, with stunning beaches that have not yet become overpopulated. There is a small souvenir shop there as well. Free admission for children under 5. You may not be on the beach itself but the views are spectacular. Tickets cost $16 round trip per person ($8 for children 6-12 years old, free under 6 years) and this also entitles you to spend up to 4 hours on the island. Ferries departing Honeymoon Island starts at 10:00 am and leave every half an hour. How to get there There are three popular ways to get to Caladesi Island State Park. This is not the official way to enter the island, and I havent personally done it. Located in Clearwater Beach, Florida, this hotel is opposite the beach and features an outdoor pool. Caladesi Island Ferry The Caladesi Island Ferry leaves from Honeymoon Island just to the north. HOA is only $120 a month which covers gates, all clubhouse amenities, basic cable and internet. amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon";
If you need help accessing the beach, you can contact the ranger station and they will assist you. Visiting the beach is one of the top things to do on Caladesi Island. Located off the Gulf of Mexico west of Clearwater, the island can be reached by a private (or rented) vessel. Make sure you bring plenty of water and snacks. Kayak Getting on a kayak is an excellent option if you are looking for a little more adventure. https://www.paulapinstheplanet.com/florida-honeymoon-island-caladesi-island/. HOW TO GET THERE 1. This was our first time watching armadillos in the wild! It is so cool to see all of the shells that can be found on the island, even if you dont find them yourself. Visitors may spot dolphins leaping alongside the ferry, but they won't see any alligators. This isolated island features 4 miles of pristine white sandy beaches, a 3-mile mangrove-shaded kayak trail, and a peaceful nature path. The Caladesi Island website can tell you more. The low tide exposes a whopping 30 yards of beach so make sure to dock your boat far in the water. Visiting Caladesi Island and this part of Florida is one of the great things to do in Orlando with kids because it is one of the closest beaches. Not much to see there other than the nice views of the water, but you'll get that from Caladesi, and have the nicer of the two beaches. If you have any questions, feel free to send me an email. They rent single and double kayaks. Closer to Caladesi Island, ospreys dive for fish and carry them in their talons to their nests. Three Rooker Island, Dunedin, Tarpon Springs, and Caladesi Island State Park are all visible during your cruise to some secluded beaches only accessible by boat. Halfway between the beach and boat dock, there are showers, changing rooms, restrooms, and a drinking fountain. , How far is the walk from Clearwater Beach to Caladesi Island? - Clearwater Beach (From 705.90) Honeymoon Island and Caladesi Island State Park Honeymoon Island is a state park accessible by bridge from Dunedin. . This does not apply if you are coming over on the ferry. Finding SHELLS when there are no shell piles - Caladesi Island, Florida Solace in. Play games, eat snacks, take a nap, whatever is your preference. Caladesi Island State Park Information Entrance Fees by Private Boat $6 per boat (up to eight people); $2 each additional person. The cost for two hours is $35 for a single, and $45 for a double, but its possible to rent for up to a full day. There is a three-mile mangrove trail on the island so if you are wanting to explore that you will want more time, potentially even a whole day. If youre wondering if you can swim on Caladesi Island the answer is YES! If you love walking along the beach, you will enjoy this beautiful walk. Can you rent beach chairs at Caladesi Island or Honeymoon Island? Tickets must be bought in person at the ticket office in the carpark. callback: cb You can expect to see lots of birds along the shore. The summer months are especially great for trophy snook. The sun is strong though so dont forget your shade, sunhat and sunscreen. How much does it cost to go to Caladesi Island? You can also arrange rental of a picnic pavilion (contact in advance). Caladesi Island State Park A truly untouched island offering natural delights Hours The park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year Fees $6 per boat See all fees Location Offshore island Dunedin FL 34698 Get directions Contact Info 727-469-5918 Park Menu Hours & Fees Experiences & Amenities Public Notice (727) 515-9575. But keep in mind that it's a 4-mile one-way journey from North Clearwater Beach. These include the Caladesi Island Ferry, using a private boat, or renting a kayak. Pack light! Caladesi Island is physically connected to Clearwater Beach via a sandy land bridge, which is accessible at low tide and can be accessed by walking. To make sure everyone doesn't try to take the last boat back, your return ticket is for four hours after you arrive. It is one of the few undeveloped barrier islands left in the United States, the 600-acre State Park is accessible only by boat or kayak. How to Get Around: To reach Anclote Key, take a Sun Line Cruises ferry from Tarpon Springs or a Windsong Sailing Charters private sail (plus dinghy to reach the island) from New Port Richey.. There are quite a few turns and connecting trails so it is a good idea to take a picture of the trail map posted before heading out. View Website. Home Travel Ultimate Guide to Caladesi Island, By Stacey Homemaker on June 9, 2019, Updated January 31, 2023 2 Comments. There is a cafe if you need to buy anything but it is pricey so to save money I recommend bringing your own. Where Caladesi was once a separate island, a few years ago, and deposits connected it to Clearwater Beach for over 2 miles. There are two ways to get to Caladesi: Private boat or take the Caladesi Connection Ferry service that operates out of Honeymoon Island State Park. Located off Florida's Gulf Coast, west of the town of Dunedin and near the city of Clearwater, Caladesi Island State Park is famed for its unspoiled beach. This guide contains everything you need to know + answers to all of your questions about visiting Caladesi Island State Park. You cannot walk or swim to Caladesi Island from Honeymoon Island however. I recommend parking as far north in clearwater as you can to cut down on your walk as much as possible. Large backyard features plenty of space to park your boat, trailer, RV, work truck, and jet skis as deed restrictions allow. To ride the ferry, take Curlew Road (Hwy 586) out of Dunedin and drive west. Fishing is allowed in designated areas around the island so bring your fishing poles if you want to catch your own dinner. The options are a ferry ride, kayaking, walking or boating. No, you cannot rent beach chairs on Caladesi Island, but you can rent on Honeymoon Island please check this complete article for all you need to know about honeymoon island. You can access a voucher for $1 off per person here. You would have to cross Hurricane Pass which is very deep, deceptively far and frequented by boats and other motorcraft. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from Qualifying Purchases. Quality Inn & Suites Conference Center. Try to visit on a weekday so you can experience the beach with even fewer tourists. The Sharrer family used to live on the island and raise hogs and a few remnants of the bygone time still remain. PICNIC PAVILION RENTAL: Picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis. These include: Elevated boardwalks to the beach and free beach wheelchairs, Picnic facilities with tables and grills. If you would like to stay the night on the island your only option is boat camping at the docks. Food. To make hunting for shells easier, consider beginning no sooner than an hour before low tide. If you are visiting during the winter months you might get lucky and see a manatee in the mangrove trees. } , Are there alligators in Caladesi state park? You can buy onlinethe single-use day pass admission ahead of your visit. It's about 40 minutes (to the ferry terminal) from Clearwater Beach, 25 from Clearwater, an hour from St. Petersburg, and 50 minutes from Tampa. Caladesi Island is easily accessible by private boat. Dunedin. In fact, Caladesi Island is one of the best State Parks in Florida to go kayaking. Caladesi Island Ferry The ferry is the most popular and easiest way to get to the island. Itinerary You'll start at Seminole Boat Ramp 198 Seminole St, Clearwater, FL 33755, USA Address is 198 Seminole St Clearwater, FL.
Reviews: 88% of readers found this page helpful, Address: Suite 751 871 Lissette Throughway, West Kittie, NH 41603, Hobby: Creative writing, Motor sports, Do it yourself, Skateboarding, Coffee roasting, Calligraphy, Stand-up comedy. As ever, please be a responsible and respectful visitor, and give all wildlife the necessary space and distance when observing. To ride the ferry, take Curlew Road (Hwy 586) out of Dunedin and drive west. You can find the complete trail route here. There is no hotel or restaurant here, but you can find restrooms and even a little place to get snacks. However, the most surprising beach experience we had during our west coast road trip was undoubtedly at Caladesi Island State Park. (727) 469-5918. You can take a ferry from Honeymoon Island should kayaking not be your thing, and the ferry fare includes the state park entry fee. The sea water is rather cold in winter, while the period from June to September is a rainy season. You can walk to Caladesi Island from Clearwater beach, especially when the conditions are right like at low tide. There is a small cafe, which serves fish and chips, hamburgers and sandwiches, along with cold drinks and snacks. How to Get to Caladesi Island There are actually a few different ways to get to the island. Be sure to pack your own water and a snack because that's a long way in the sun! Ferry Coming from Honeymoon Island, you'll need to take a 20-minute ferry ride. The location is fantastic and it is a great option if you are also looking to explore Clearwater Beach. You will have to pay a $6 entry fee at the marina, and additional charges if you decide to stay overnight. A Florida fishing license may be required. If you rent a boat for a day in Tampa then Caladesi Island would be a great stop to make! You'll love the wood burning fireplace for cooler evenings. The journey time is 20 minutes. The ferry has plenty of room to store all the beach gear you will inevitably need to bring along including coolers, chairs and umbrellas. The white sugar sand beaches and swaying palm trees are dreamy! The unique continental shelf off the coast of Florida is very flat making it a lot easier for shells to remain intact when coming to shore. Caladesi Island is a short boat ride away from Clearwater Beach. There is a small picnic area and pavilion with a grill for public use. $9 for children ages 6 to 12. With this unique blog, my goal is to inspire you to find a life balance betweenActive Travel & a HealthyLifestyle! btw, another more mild option is to paddle from Two Harbors to Avalon on rental kayaks. All Rights Reserved. It's just south of Honeymoon Island State Park. . This trip departs from the Ft Desoto Boat Ramp (click here for directions) Ages 12+ $45 Ages 3-11 $25 Ages 2 & Under No Charge Parking $5 Quick Details: Duration: 5 hours total | 3 hours island time | 60 mins to and from dock Departure times: 11am Daily! To make it easier, Caladesi Island State Park driving distance from the major cities: There are different ways to get to Caladesi Island, but my favorite, and what I recommend is by bringing your own or renting a kayak at the Dunedin Causeway and paddling to Caladesi island, park your kayak at the shore and explore the island on foot. Another alternative to the ferry or kayak is exploring Caladesi Island by walking north on Clearwater Beach. Preference is given to people in their correct time slot. When it comes to beaches in Florida, the St. Pete / Clearwater region really is spoiled for choice. The ferry and the kayak rentals close in the event of bad weather. Thanks! You do not need to pre-book your the return ferry trip time, but its a good idea in high season to take a note of the timetable and get in the queue before the ferry arrives (it can get quite busy). The water is very shallow and clear, making it an easy and rewarding trip in your kayak. Generally, an alligator is deemed a nuisance if it is at least 4 feet in length and the caller believes it poses a threat to people, pets or property. You will want to look for shells starting an hour before low tide. For a relatively small island, theres actually quite a large number of activities to keep you occupied on Caladesi Island! You will only share the miles of pristine beach with a limited number of people so you will get your own space. Fishing, boating, swimming and fires are allowed in designate areas only. The trail will take you through salt marshes, mangrove swamps, down to the beach, and through the coastal scrub on the island. 1 Cswy. There is only one real building on the island, the ranger station which also houses the cafe and gift shop. The Caladesi Island State Park ferry runs daily except for Christmas and Thanksgiving. There are two ways to get to Caladesi: Private boat or take the Caladesi Connection Ferry service that operates out of Honeymoon Island State Park. We look forward to welcoming you aboard and providing you with an unforgettable experience. Fireworks and hunting are prohibited. Things to Do at Caladesi Island. It is a three-mile trail, but you can turn around if you dont want to paddle that far. If you have any other questions let me know and I will do my best to answer them. Which one you choose will be determined by how long you have, your physical abilities and your budget. The ferrys start running at 10 am and run every 30 minutes although times are sometimes seasonally adjusted. Yes, you can walk from Clearwater Beach to Caladesi Island. Caladesi Island Ferry The Caladesi Island Ferry leaves from Honeymoon Island just to the north. Cross the causeway from Dunedin and pay the entry fee of $8 per car. It was in the mid-1500s when the Spanish explorers first surveyed this coast. Caladesi State Park Guidelines Hours are 8 AM until sunset, 365 days a year. Each ferry ticket is a round trip ticket and gives you a four hour time slot on Caladesi Island. Copyright 2023 Paula Pins The Planet - All Rights Reserved, or call 800-326-3521 or TDD at 888-433-0287, A Complete Guide to how to Visit Anna Maria Island, FL. The island is only accessible by boat, making it the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. If you do go over on the Caladesi ferry, there is a 4-hour time limit on the island. Half the fun of any day trip to Caladesi is the journey. listeners: [], You can get to the island by private boat, kayak, ferry, or by walking from Clearwater Beach. Caladesi Island State Park. I wish I had found it sooner! There is no alcohol allowed on the beaches of Caladesi Island but you can stop in for a drink at the island cafe. You can expect to find lots of open space on the beach with plenty of room to relax and enjoy the beautiful island. They are open 7 days a week unless there is bad weather. The paddle takes about 20 minutes and you are still required to pay the $2 entry fee to the park. 38K views 2. We have to emphasize the around Caladesi Island because our favorite activity has been paddling along the east side of the island facing St. Joseph sound and the mainland. The passes just off the shore make great waters for catching tarpon, snook, redfish, seatrout, flounder, grouper, sharks, and more. To ride the ferry . The options are a ferry ride, kayaking, walking or boating. Your email address will not be published. Many animals reside here, such as gopher tortoises, raccoons and eastern diamondback rattlesnakes. Hop aboard a private cruise with Captain Nick on this Clearwater Afternoon Pontoon Cruise. If you arent bringing your own food onto the island, there is a caf where you can order lunch and drinks. (And yes, I know this has been said before, and better.) If you want to explore more of the mangroves, you can paddle through the island on the Mangrove Kayak Trail. Required fields are marked *. Make sure to bring along a shell bag to make bringing your shells back home easier. Prior to this, we had an assumption that most Florida beaches would be a little like the ones we'd seen on TV - bodybuilders, cocktail bars, spring break (whooo!) From the boardwalk, there is a T intersection that will have signs for the Island Trail. The most exclusive way to get to Easter Island by boat is on one of the cruises that include the island as a stopover in their itineraries through the South Pacific and those called Around the World. If youre up for a workout and an adventure you can rent a kayak from Sail Honeymoon on the Dunedin causeway and kayak across St Josephs Sound to Caladesi Island. Pets are permitted in designated areas only and they must be kept on a leash that's no longer than 6 feet. The island has about four miles of beach. Alcoholic beverage consumptionis allowed in designated areas only. You can make your reservation online or first-come, first-served in the marina. Hidden Gems in Florida, you Wont Believe it! Tampa Beaches: The Ultimate Guide to Beaches in and Around Tampa Bay, Cypress Point Beach Park: What You Need to Know, Beach Vacation Packing List for Peace of Mind. Fun Activities To Do At Caladesi Island State Park. Private Boat | If you have your own boat, you can access Caladesi Island independently. Adults: $16 Children (6 12): $85 and Under: Free. Starting from Clearwater North Beach, the walk is about 3 miles. Although Caladesi Island can be reached by foot, riding a boat to get there adds some thrill to an otherwise mundane trek. But the adage holds particularly true for Caladesi: it is accessible only by boat, a ferry that runs hourly from Honeymoon Island. Caladesi Island kayaks are available to rent at the marina for $25. You can also take your kayak from Honeymoon Island and paddle about 15 minutes to Caladesi Island. The entrance fee is $6 per boat for up to 8 people. Plus, if you want to just sit on the Caladesi Island beach and relax, it is a beautiful place to do that! If you take the ferry, there is a 4-hour time limit on the island. The best time for shelling is at low tide. If you are going to be in the area with your own boat or a rented boat, you can drive your own boat to Caladesi Island. How to Walk to Caladesi Island From Clearwater Beach! Tickets for adults cost $16 per person, kids age 6-12 cost $8 and kids 5 and under are free. A nice boat ride to Caladesi Island (about 20 minutes). There are two ways to get to Caladesi: Private boat or take the Caladesi Connection Ferry service that operates out of Honeymoon Island State Park. For questions, clients are advised to contact the business at (727) 734-5263. Clearwater Beach to Caladesi Island Walk Easy 4.6 (47) Caladesi Island State Park Photos (200) Directions Print/PDF map Length 8.5 miElevation gain 9 ftRoute type Out & back Get to know this 8.5-mile out-and-back trail near Clearwater Beach, Florida. Boat camping . Bottom line is to get into all this IF you may like kayaking (i.e. Large osprey nests located in the top of barren pine snags may be seen. There's more than just the four miles of pristine beach at Caladesi Island to enjoy. By far the most popular way of reaching Caladesi Island is with the regular ferry that leaves from Honeymoon Island State Park ( maps) Starting at 10 am each day, there are departures every 30 minutes every day (except Christmas Day and Thanksgiving). We wouldnt recommend this option! There is no camping at Caladesi Island, but the 108-slip marina is equipped with water and electricity for overnight boat stays. The ferry runs every hour from 10 am to 3 pm. The ferries begin running at 10:00 a.m. every day, with numerous returns and departures, and you can stay on the island for 4 hours. It is easier to find shells out on the sandbar during low tide than high tide. TOTAL FUEL USED 55 gal. The best time to walk is 2 hours before low tide. The state park is a hidden gem, with stunning beaches that have not yet become overpopulated. There is a small souvenir shop there as well. Free admission for children under 5. You may not be on the beach itself but the views are spectacular. Tickets cost $16 round trip per person ($8 for children 6-12 years old, free under 6 years) and this also entitles you to spend up to 4 hours on the island. Ferries departing Honeymoon Island starts at 10:00 am and leave every half an hour. How to get there There are three popular ways to get to Caladesi Island State Park. This is not the official way to enter the island, and I havent personally done it. Located in Clearwater Beach, Florida, this hotel is opposite the beach and features an outdoor pool. Caladesi Island Ferry The Caladesi Island Ferry leaves from Honeymoon Island just to the north. HOA is only $120 a month which covers gates, all clubhouse amenities, basic cable and internet. amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon";
If you need help accessing the beach, you can contact the ranger station and they will assist you. Visiting the beach is one of the top things to do on Caladesi Island. Located off the Gulf of Mexico west of Clearwater, the island can be reached by a private (or rented) vessel. Make sure you bring plenty of water and snacks. Kayak Getting on a kayak is an excellent option if you are looking for a little more adventure. https://www.paulapinstheplanet.com/florida-honeymoon-island-caladesi-island/. HOW TO GET THERE 1. This was our first time watching armadillos in the wild! It is so cool to see all of the shells that can be found on the island, even if you dont find them yourself. Visitors may spot dolphins leaping alongside the ferry, but they won't see any alligators. This isolated island features 4 miles of pristine white sandy beaches, a 3-mile mangrove-shaded kayak trail, and a peaceful nature path. The Caladesi Island website can tell you more. The low tide exposes a whopping 30 yards of beach so make sure to dock your boat far in the water. Visiting Caladesi Island and this part of Florida is one of the great things to do in Orlando with kids because it is one of the closest beaches. Not much to see there other than the nice views of the water, but you'll get that from Caladesi, and have the nicer of the two beaches. If you have any questions, feel free to send me an email. They rent single and double kayaks. Closer to Caladesi Island, ospreys dive for fish and carry them in their talons to their nests. Three Rooker Island, Dunedin, Tarpon Springs, and Caladesi Island State Park are all visible during your cruise to some secluded beaches only accessible by boat. Halfway between the beach and boat dock, there are showers, changing rooms, restrooms, and a drinking fountain. , How far is the walk from Clearwater Beach to Caladesi Island? - Clearwater Beach (From 705.90) Honeymoon Island and Caladesi Island State Park Honeymoon Island is a state park accessible by bridge from Dunedin. . This does not apply if you are coming over on the ferry. Finding SHELLS when there are no shell piles - Caladesi Island, Florida Solace in. Play games, eat snacks, take a nap, whatever is your preference. Caladesi Island State Park Information Entrance Fees by Private Boat $6 per boat (up to eight people); $2 each additional person. The cost for two hours is $35 for a single, and $45 for a double, but its possible to rent for up to a full day. There is a three-mile mangrove trail on the island so if you are wanting to explore that you will want more time, potentially even a whole day. If youre wondering if you can swim on Caladesi Island the answer is YES! If you love walking along the beach, you will enjoy this beautiful walk. Can you rent beach chairs at Caladesi Island or Honeymoon Island? Tickets must be bought in person at the ticket office in the carpark. callback: cb You can expect to see lots of birds along the shore. The summer months are especially great for trophy snook. The sun is strong though so dont forget your shade, sunhat and sunscreen. How much does it cost to go to Caladesi Island? You can also arrange rental of a picnic pavilion (contact in advance). Caladesi Island State Park A truly untouched island offering natural delights Hours The park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year Fees $6 per boat See all fees Location Offshore island Dunedin FL 34698 Get directions Contact Info 727-469-5918 Park Menu Hours & Fees Experiences & Amenities Public Notice (727) 515-9575. But keep in mind that it's a 4-mile one-way journey from North Clearwater Beach. These include the Caladesi Island Ferry, using a private boat, or renting a kayak. Pack light! Caladesi Island is physically connected to Clearwater Beach via a sandy land bridge, which is accessible at low tide and can be accessed by walking. To make sure everyone doesn't try to take the last boat back, your return ticket is for four hours after you arrive. It is one of the few undeveloped barrier islands left in the United States, the 600-acre State Park is accessible only by boat or kayak. How to Get Around: To reach Anclote Key, take a Sun Line Cruises ferry from Tarpon Springs or a Windsong Sailing Charters private sail (plus dinghy to reach the island) from New Port Richey.. There are quite a few turns and connecting trails so it is a good idea to take a picture of the trail map posted before heading out. View Website. Home Travel Ultimate Guide to Caladesi Island, By Stacey Homemaker on June 9, 2019, Updated January 31, 2023 2 Comments. There is a cafe if you need to buy anything but it is pricey so to save money I recommend bringing your own. Where Caladesi was once a separate island, a few years ago, and deposits connected it to Clearwater Beach for over 2 miles. There are two ways to get to Caladesi: Private boat or take the Caladesi Connection Ferry service that operates out of Honeymoon Island State Park. Located off Florida's Gulf Coast, west of the town of Dunedin and near the city of Clearwater, Caladesi Island State Park is famed for its unspoiled beach. This guide contains everything you need to know + answers to all of your questions about visiting Caladesi Island State Park. You cannot walk or swim to Caladesi Island from Honeymoon Island however. I recommend parking as far north in clearwater as you can to cut down on your walk as much as possible. Large backyard features plenty of space to park your boat, trailer, RV, work truck, and jet skis as deed restrictions allow. To ride the ferry, take Curlew Road (Hwy 586) out of Dunedin and drive west. Fishing is allowed in designated areas around the island so bring your fishing poles if you want to catch your own dinner. The options are a ferry ride, kayaking, walking or boating. No, you cannot rent beach chairs on Caladesi Island, but you can rent on Honeymoon Island please check this complete article for all you need to know about honeymoon island. You can access a voucher for $1 off per person here. You would have to cross Hurricane Pass which is very deep, deceptively far and frequented by boats and other motorcraft. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from Qualifying Purchases. Quality Inn & Suites Conference Center. Try to visit on a weekday so you can experience the beach with even fewer tourists. The Sharrer family used to live on the island and raise hogs and a few remnants of the bygone time still remain. PICNIC PAVILION RENTAL: Picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis. These include: Elevated boardwalks to the beach and free beach wheelchairs, Picnic facilities with tables and grills. If you would like to stay the night on the island your only option is boat camping at the docks. Food. To make hunting for shells easier, consider beginning no sooner than an hour before low tide. If you are visiting during the winter months you might get lucky and see a manatee in the mangrove trees. } , Are there alligators in Caladesi state park? You can buy onlinethe single-use day pass admission ahead of your visit. It's about 40 minutes (to the ferry terminal) from Clearwater Beach, 25 from Clearwater, an hour from St. Petersburg, and 50 minutes from Tampa. Caladesi Island is easily accessible by private boat. Dunedin. In fact, Caladesi Island is one of the best State Parks in Florida to go kayaking. Caladesi Island Ferry The ferry is the most popular and easiest way to get to the island. Itinerary You'll start at Seminole Boat Ramp 198 Seminole St, Clearwater, FL 33755, USA Address is 198 Seminole St Clearwater, FL.