A beach with blue umbrellas next to the water.
Caladesi Island State Park
Lay of the Land: One of the few pristine barrier islands along Florida's Gulf Coast, this---the #1 Beach in the U.S.---is accessible only by boat. 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 and kayak rentals, mangrove kayak trails and even a concession stand offering beer and wine. Little Known Facts: Caladesi was once part of one large island called Hog Island after the hogs that a pioneer family raised there. 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 2006 and 2007 and #9 in 2016 by Dr. Beach. Do you need any other reason?
A beach with blue umbrellas next to the water.
Caladesi Island State Park (foreground) and Honeymoon Island State Park (background) in Dunedin
Category
- Beaches
- Water Sports & Outdoor Recreation
- Nature Tours
- Tours & Sightseeing
- Parks & Trails
accessible features
- Accessible parking
- 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
location
- Beach Access
- Beachfront
marina details
- Number of Slips 108
- Overnight Docking
on site facilities services
- Boat Ramp
- Picnic Area
- Restaurant
- Showers
park activities
- Boat Access
- Fishing
- Kayaking & Canoeing