Caladesi Island

We have visited many beaches over the past few years, but our favorite by far is Caladesi Island. It can only be reached by private boat or by taking a ferry service. We always take the ferry from Honeymoon Island State Park, which is $10 for adults and $6 for children (There is also an $8 fee per vehicle to enter Honeymoon Island, unless you have an annual pass to the state parks). This allows you a 4 hour visit on Caladesi. There is also a newer ferry service that now operates out of Clearwater Beach. In addition, we understand that you can reach the island on foot from Clearwater Beach (about an hour's walk from Pier 60), but we haven't tried that yet. We hear that it is easier to reach the island from Clearwater Beach at low tide, as you have to cross a cut to reach the island.

The ferry ride is only about 15 minutes, and it is very likely that you will see dolphin along the way. We snapped this picture from our ferry ride on 8/30. There were 3 or 4 close to our boat for several minutes as we made our way to the island. You enter the island through a mangrove forest, and into the island's marina. At the marina is a snack bar and gift shop. The snack bar makes a decent hamburger, and you can also get hot dogs, fries, chips, etc., as well as fountain drinks. They also carry a small inventory of essentials such as sun-tan lotion, beach toys, hats, etc. From the marina and gift shop, there are 2 trails that lead to the beach that are about a 5 minute walk. The trails are flat with a ramp to the beach, so you can safely take a wheeled cart if you so choose. About half way down each trail you will also find rest rooms complete with showers and changing areas. At the beach, you can rent chairs, umbrellas, and kayaks if you wish.

Even with these conveniences, you will find that the island is one of the few completely natural islands on the Gulf Coast of Florida. The sand is white, the waters are shallow, and the water is clear and usually fairly calm. You can walk about a mile north before reaching the tip of the island, and several miles south. For beach combing fans, there are always shells galore. If you prefer other activities, there is a nature trail running through the island, or you can rent a kayak at the marina and paddle the 3 miles of trail through mangrove tunnels. There are also ample picnic tables and shelters.

Because Caladesi was named America's Number 1 beach in 2008, it was very difficult to get to the island for a while without enduring large crowds and long waits at the ferry service. If last weekend was any indication, it is still a popular destination, but the crowds seem to be somewhat back to normal. We look forward to many more visits in the future.