There is a picnic area, playground, restrooms, concession (Caladesi Cafe), and showers available on the island. The journey time is 20 minutes. The options are a ferry ride, kayaking, walking or boating. Here are some further articles you may enjoy: If you found this guide useful, follow me on Instagram to stay up to date with my travels & Subscribe to my YouTube Channel to keep you with my workout videos. If youre looking at visiting some of the other beautiful beaches on this side of Florida, we recommend looking into nearby Marco Island and Lovers Key State Park. When it comes to beaches in Florida, the St. Pete / Clearwater region really is spoiled for choice. And have fun with it, the walk is long but youre heading somewhere beautiful. Depending on how long you want to spend on the island, you can pick a two-hour or four-hour rental. Caladesi Island State Park | Visit St Petersburg Clearwater Florida A Short Guide to Visiting Caladesi Island | One of Florida's Last Untouched Islands, The Best Travel Water Filter Bottles For Your Next Trip, A Short Guide To Cala Galdana | An Excellent Base in the South of Menorca, 10 Wonderful Things to do in St Pete, Florida, A Complete Guide to the Best Things to Do in Clearwater, Florida, 22 Wonderful Airbnbs in St Pete, Florida | For City and Beach Lovers, The St Pete Revival Story | A New Side to Florida, Our Favourite Hipster Foodie Hangouts in Downtown St Pete. Enjoy your day trip to Caladesi Island. No dogs are allowed on the Caladesi Island ferry nor are they allowed on the beaches. If you are boating over to the island on your own boat, you can dock overnight at the marina. The ferrys start running at 10 am and run every 30 minutes although times are sometimes seasonally adjusted. My husband and I kicked off the summer by visiting the Island and we had a wonderful time! "Caladesi is reached by pedestrian ferry boat, private boats or a long walk north from Clearwater Beach-the inlet is closed so Caladesi is no longer a true island, but still a great getaway . One of the few remaining uninhabited islands on Floridas Gulf Coast, Caladesi Island offers visitors that chance to explore a tropical nature path, a mangrove-shaded kayak trail, and a glorious four-mile, wild and white sandy beach filled unique shells, birds, photogenic deckchairs, and a very remote vibe. The island is only accessible by boat, making it the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. The location is fantastic and it is a great option if you are also looking to explore Clearwater Beach. So to avoid a wasted trip I recommend always checking the weather before leaving home. 2538 Eagles Crest Ct, Holiday, FL 34691 | MLS #U8192292 | Zillow Thanks! 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 is a small souvenir shop there as well. Because this island is mostly only accessible by boat, it is not as busy as some of the other nearby Florida beaches like nearby Siesta Key Beach and Clearwater Beach. I've lived in Florida for 30 years and I just recently got to visit Caladesi Island State Park for the first time. Keep your eyes peeled in the water for stingrays, crabs and an abundance of tropical fish, but dont forget to look up to spot great blue herons, snowy egrets, sandpipers, pelicans, osprey and cormorants. 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! The best beach access is at Somerset Road. Travel smarter and safer You can do your quick quote below and find out how little you can pay for the essential benefit of Travel Insurance for your next trip! From there follow the signs to the ferry (the turn will be on your left). From the boardwalk, there is a T intersection that will have signs for the Island Trail. 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. Our guides got you covered with everything you need to know to enjoy the perfect getaway! Top Things to do in Caladesi Island State Park, Best Accommodations Options Nearby Caladesi Island State Park, FL, Where to Eat near Caladesi Island, Florida, Caladesi Island State Park Nearby Things to do, Caladesi Island State Park, FL Conclusion, best State Parks in Florida to go kayaking, 22 Best Things to do in Anna Maria Island, Florida, Discover the ecological paradise of Ten Thousand Islands in Florida, All you need to know about renting an RV for the First Time. Ferry Coming from Honeymoon Island, you'll need to take a 20-minute ferry ride. Hidden Gems in Florida, you Wont Believe it! 11 Baymont St APT 1505, Clearwater, FL 33767 - Zillow 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. Disembarking the ferryboat to Caladesi Island In addition to the state park fee quoted above, it costs $14 per adult, $7 per child for the ferryboat from Honeymoon Island State Park. Its so lovely in fact, that if you did nothing else on the island, wed completely understand! This shell bag is so handy to have because you wont have to carry your shells and the holes in the bag let out the access water and sand. Wild camping is illegal, and there is no accommodation, however you are able to spend the night in your boat, in the dock. If you are visiting during the winter months you might get lucky and see a manatee in the mangrove trees. When you first get off of the ferry, look for the Shells of Caladesi Island display. Without advertising income, we can't keep making this site awesome for you. Fishing | Boat to Caladesi Island | Gheenoe Adventure - YouTube 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! Cost for the ferry is $16.00 for adults and $8.00 for children. The marina has electrical and water hookups for you to use. Many animals reside here, such as gopher tortoises, raccoons and eastern diamondback rattlesnakes. There is also a small playground near the beach. Caladesis protected status means that there is plenty of potential wildlife spotting to be done along her shores (as well as inland). This post may contain some affiliate links. Click here to view the Caladesi Island State Park Florida map. Once you arrive on Honeymoon Island (past the entrance gates), there's a parking area where you'll go to catch the ferry. The beautiful sand is covered in hundreds and thousands of seashells and many of them are in perfect unbroken condition. There is no public parking at the north end of Clearwater beach, youll need to either arrive by bicycle and lock up at a northern beach-access point or walk several miles on the beach. Please note that some links on our blog are affiliate links. You can buy onlinethe single-use day pass admission ahead of your visit. From the boat dock, take the boardwalk. There are about 45 shells shown on the board. You can take a 20-minute ferry ride from Honeymoon Island or you can walk to Caladesi Island from Clearwater Beach, Florida! I like the tips, it makes it easier to visit the island. The ferry ride takes 20 minutes and takes you across hurricane pass, the water way between Honeymoon and Caladesi. It is so cool to see all of the shells that can be found on the island, even if you dont find them yourself. Hello Kathleen, I am glad you found my article helpful. , Can you take alcohol to Caladesi Island? It simply would not be safe. Caladesi Island Kayak rentals are available for $25 per person on the island. Thanks. But before we jump into the amazing things to do in Caladesi Island State Park, lets review some practical information: Located in the Gulf of Mexico, Caladesi Island State Park is west of Dunedin, Florida, and just north of the very popular Clearwater Beach. You can make your reservation online or first-come, first-served in the marina. Here are the top things you can do during your visit: If you are planning to visit Caladesi Island State Park and to stay overnight or during the weekend the closest area to stay is in Dunedin, followed by Clearwater I have listed the best accommodations options: COOLEST PLACE: Fenway Hotel, Autograph Collection. 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). Caladesi is much better than Honeymoon I think. You can bring almost any item you would need for a comfortable day trip to Caladesi Island and beach day onto the ferry. To ride the ferry . If you want to explore more of the mangroves, you can paddle through the island on the Mangrove Kayak Trail. Caladesi Island Ferry The ferry is the most popular and easiest way to get to the island. You can access a voucher for $1 off per person here. 13 Delicious Quick Service Meals at Disney World That Vegans Will Love! Blvd. - Clearwater Beach (From 705.90) TOTAL DISTANCE 141nm. The beach is pristine, with crystal water, and white sands, surrounded by nature, and framed with the blue sky almost all year long. Caladesi Island, A Local Weekend Getaway - Riviera Dunes Marina If you want the best helicopter tour of Caladesi Island and the surrounding Clearwater Beaches, I suggest booking a guided tour with Tampa Bay Aviation. You can also take your kayak from Honeymoon Island and paddle about 15 minutes to Caladesi Island. When is an island not an island? When it's Caladesi - Tampa Bay Times Details - Clearwater Beach .com LUXURY OPTION: Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach. You can even find whole sand dollars among the beautiful collection of shells. Private Boat | If you have your own boat, you can access Caladesi Island independently. How To Visit Caladesi Island State Park in Florida, according to a Trips run every half hour February to September and hourly the rest of the year. 2 beach in the nation by Dr. Beach in 2022, Caladesi Island State Park is a rare combination - a Florida Gulf Coast barrier island that is both remote and natural, and yet well stocked with amenities. Honeymoon and Caladesi were once part of a single island. 3.7/5 Good! HOA is only $120 a month which covers gates, all clubhouse amenities, basic cable and internet. Our family travels throughout the United States in our RV visiting beaches, national parks and everything in between. You can rent a kayak on Caladesi Island (or launch your own) and explore the mangrove tunnels. Caladesi Island. How to visit Ten Thousand Islands, Florida | A Comprehensive Guide + 8 Things to do, Honeymoon Island State Park in Florida: Complete Guide + Insider Tips, https://www.paulapinstheplanet.com/florida-honeymoon-island-caladesi-island/. You will have to pay a $6 entry fee at the marina, and additional charges if you decide to stay overnight. Caladesi Island State Park - Florida Splendors Plus, stop here on your way back to the ferry to see what kind of shells you found. The paddle to the island takes about 20 minutes. It will take you across the Dunedin Causeway to Honeymoon Island where you pay an entrance fee. For questions, clients are advised to contact the business at (727) 734-5263. $2 per kayaker. The trail is clearly sign-posted from the marina; follow the path that leads to the beach and youll quickly encounter another sign directing you left to the trail. Just dont expect to see a large number of sea life here. callback: cb Try to visit on a weekday so you can experience the beach with even fewer tourists. Honeymoon is pretty rocky. Can I share it on our website BarrierBeach ? Pets are permitted in designated areas only and they must be kept on a leash that's no longer than 6 feet. 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. , How long does it take to walk to Caladesi Island? We are here to show you that traveling as a family is not as hard as you might think. Dr. Beach again ranks Caladesi Island among country's best beaches There are picnic tables, two covered pavilions, restrooms and barbecue grills. Here the water is so shallow and clear that you get to see all kinds of wildlife, like stingrays, sharks, crabs and lots of fish. It's a mere ten-minute boat ride (depending on your speed) and approximately three miles away from its popular neighbor. According to the ferry's website, there are two ways to. While we were on the Island I made sure to find out everything that I could so I could share the most current and up-to-date information with you. Ferry fees are: $18 per adult. Given the sunny nature of Floridian days (even during the winter months), its advisable to begin your walk as early as possible and be sure to carry plenty of water. It's the most popular and easiest way to get to the island unless you have your own boat. You can reserve a spot online in advance for $24 dollars a night plus tax. The journey time is 20 minutes. 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 ferry from Honeymoon Island to Caladesi makes it really easy to visit. As ever, please be a responsible and respectful visitor, and give all wildlife the necessary space and distance when observing. This blue water beach in Florida is so pretty from above. Along Dusty Roads is a travel blog by British couple, Andrew & Emily. Preference is given to people in their correct time slot. 332 Westwinds Dr, Palm Harbor, FL 34683 | 1 photo - Movoto You cannot walk or swim to Caladesi Island from Honeymoon Island however. The entrance fee is $6 per boat for up to 8 people. Find flights to Caladesi . I am here now to share all my best inside tips about this paradise in Florida, and learn from a local how to better explore Caladesi Island State Park! It truly is an island paradise - and somewhere we highly recommend visiting if youre spending week or so in Clearwater. You can also catch a ferry from Honeymoon to Caladesi, but you would need to drive to Dunedin to get to it. Along the trail, be sure to look for the armadillos and maybe even a raccoon, although youre more likely to see their tracks. We are able to adjust location pickup, just be sure to ask. The Caladesi Connection ferry travels to Caladesi Island State Park for a four-hour stay. The white sugar sand beaches and swaying palm trees are dreamy! (And yes, I know this has been said before, and better.) Greatfallswhitesox is a website that writes about many topics of interest to you, a blog that shares knowledge and insights useful to everyone in many fields. Caladesi Island State Park Hours & Fees Hours The park is open 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. You can check the tide schedule here. Fishing, boating, swimming and fires are allowed in designate areas only. You can also get to Caladesi Island by a private boat ($6 per boat / kayak is $2 per person). Ultimate Guide to Caladesi Island - Stacey Homemaker Halfway between the beach and boat dock, there are showers, changing rooms, restrooms, and a drinking fountain. forgetting about Catalina for the moment). Introduction: My name is Laurine Ryan, I am a adorable, fair, graceful, spotless, gorgeous, homely, cooperative person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you. Great info. , Are there alligators in Caladesi state park? In this video we share our experience walking to one of the best Florida beaches and share tips along the way. At least one company on the island near Avalon will transport the kayaks to Two Harbors. Sightsee the stunning coastline of the Gulf of Mexico. Half the fun of any day trip to Caladesi is the journey. Finding SHELLS when there are no shell piles - Caladesi Island, Florida Solace in. Whilst Clearwater did sometimes fulfil a few of those preconceptions, a trip to Caladesi blew them out of the water. The drive from Clearwater to where you get on the Caladesi ferry is about 25 minutes. You will want to look for shells starting an hour before low tide. A Florida fishing license may be required. The water is very shallow and clear, making it an easy and rewarding trip in your kayak. The Caladesi Island State Park ferry runs daily except for Christmas and Thanksgiving. thank you for this very interesting article. ENTRY FEE: The boat fee is $6 per boat. If you plan on taking the ferry from Honeymoon Island and you're active/retired military, bring your DD214 so you can get a discount on the ferry fare and so you can get into the state park for free. Upon arrival at Caladesi Island, you can pull into the dock area where the ferries dock. The short trip on St. Joseph Sound takes about 20 minutes. Bottom line is to get into all this IF you may like kayaking (i.e. Fishing is allowed in designated areas around the island so bring your fishing poles if you want to catch your own dinner. How much does it cost to go to Caladesi Island? There is no hotel or restaurant here, but you can find restrooms and even a little place to get snacks. Whether youre staying in the area or visiting as a day trip from Orlando, Florida, this is a great place to visit. World Nomads Travel Insurancehas been designed by travelers for travelers, to cover their trip essentials. It is not an overly difficult walk but roundtrip it is about 6 miles. Visiting the beach is one of the top things to do on Caladesi Island. Things to Do at Caladesi Island. I recommend parking as far north in clearwater as you can to cut down on your walk as much as possible. Welcome to CS Ginger! Caladesi Island State Park is a separate state park from Honeymoon Island State Park, but it's only accessible by private boat or via ferry from Honeymoon Island. The low tide exposes a whopping 30 yards of beach so make sure to dock your boat far in the water. Ferries departing Honeymoon Island starts at 10:00 am and leave every half an hour. Get ready for a great time! Caladesi Island is accessible by private boat or via the Caladesi Connection ferry service. Kayak rental costs $25 per person for four hours and can be found down at the marina. Board at Honeymoon Island State Park and enjoy a relaxing 15-20 minute ride across St. Joseph Sound, where you may spot dolphins playing in the shallows on your way. There are a few nature trails to explore like the beach loop or hammock loop. You can hike along the nature trail, rent a kayak and paddle through the three mile long mangrove trail, or even go fishing where your catch of the day may be snook, redfish, trout, or . One of the best ways to experience the island is by snorkeling. In 1921, a hurricane struck and dug the sand, forming the so-called Hurricane Pass the waterway that separates the two islands. Further down the boardwalk on your way to the beach there is a second smaller building where youll find the restrooms, showers and drinking fountain. Be aware that you may see some dolphins or even manatees along the way and enjoy nature and the views! { 5316 Us Highway 19, New Port Richey, FL, 34652. I veganize your favorite classic recipes and transform them into irresistible meals that are made entirely from plants! Outdoor showers are located at the North and South bath house. If you dont have your own, you can rent a kayak, stand-up board, or a sailboat on the Dunedin Causeway and it is a short 15 minutes to the island from here. There is no camping allowed on the actual island itself but if you have a boat or have access to a boar overnight then boat camping is allowed on the docks. A boat charter through Sandbar Rehab is a great way to explore the islands at your own pace and spend some time out on the beautiful water. However, Caladesi is just as beautiful as Clearwater Beach with the extra perks of having fewer people and the beauty of an untouched island.