
A beach with blue umbrellas next to the water.
Caladesi Island State Park
One of the few pristine barrier islands along Florida's Gulf Coast, this beach is accessible only by boat. You can kayak to the island (kayak rentals are available on the Dunedin Causeway) or take the ferry. Parking street or off-site is available along the Dunedin Causeway. While on the ferry from Honeymoon Island you can spot dolphins and osprey while learning about the history of the area. The island features abundant wildlife, a ranger station, boat docks, beach chair and umbrella rentals, kayak rentals and mangrove kayak trails. A picnic area with tables and grills is available or visit the concession offering food, drinks and gifts. Boat camping is available with a reservation. Little Known Facts: Caladesi was once part of one large island called Hog Island after the hogs that a pioneer family raised there. There is still an old pioneer homestead accessible by a hiking trail. A book about the key, "Yesteryear, I lived in Paradise," by Myrtle Scharrer Betz, daughter of the first homesteader, is available on Amazon.com. Why You Should Go: Caladesi Island was named America's #1 Beach in 2008, #2 Beach in 2022, 2006 and 2007 and #9 in 2016 by Dr. Beach.

A beach with blue umbrellas next to the water.

Caladesi Island State Park (foreground) and Honeymoon Island State Park (background) in Dunedin
accessible features
- Accessible parking
- Beach wheelchair available
- Wheelchair lift or ramp
beach within 1mi of beachfront
- Caladesi Island
discounts
- Senior Citizen Discount
general information
- Accessible by boat
- Family-friendly
- Hours Hours: 8 a.m. - sunset daily
- Street or off-site parking
location
- Beach Access
- Beachfront
marina details
- Number of Slips 108
- Overnight Docking
on site facilities services
- Boat Ramp
- Picnic Area
- Restaurant
- Restrooms
- Showers
park activities
- Boat Access
- Fishing
- Kayaking & Canoeing
- Paddleboarding
- Playground