EXPERIENCE CLEARWATER 51
There are only a few ways to reach this island
for a hike, a two-mile journey from the North
Beach side of Clearwater Beach brings you to
this little piece of paradise.
A Beach Hike
Caladesi Island State Park became connected
to Clearwater Beach after Hurricane Elena in
1985 shifted the sands and sealed the pass. A
gift to those who enjoy beach hikes, the walk
reveals the quiet natural beauty of the area.
As you hike, look for the secret shell tree.
Beach hikers began hanging shells from a
tree on a deserted stretch of Caladesi Island’s
beach, visible only to those who venture
this way on foot. The spontaneous project
evolved into a unique piece of community
art. Be sure to pick up your own shell to
contribute while you are there.
Ambitious hikers can continue to the end of
the beach on the north side of the island.
place to sit in the soft sand and watch boats
travel in and out of Hurricane Pass that
separates Caladesi Island and Honeymoon
Island.
The Caladesi Island Ferry
For those not up for the walk, Caladesi Island
State Park can be reached by a 20-minute
ferry ride. The Caladesi Island Ferry departs
from Honeymoon Island beginning at 10 AM.
Crossings run every half hour from February
through September and hourly the remainder
of the year.
The park has public restrooms, picnic tables,
a playground and a small snack bar near the
middle of the island. Beach umbrellas and
chairs are available for rent as well. Bring a
picnic lunch, sunscreen and an appreciation
for the beauty of an unspoiled beach.
Paddle to Paradise
An alternative to hiking and taking the ferry,
kayaking unfolds an entirely new experience.
You can rent a kayak on Honeymoon Island.
As you paddle across Hurricane Pass between
the islands, chances are you may share the
water with dolphins, view birds overhead
and spot spoonbills in the mangroves. When
you reach the island, spend time walking
and swimming on the three miles of Caladesi
Island State Park beach with soft, white sand,
numerous shells and clear turquoise water.
As you explore the northern tip of the island,
be sure to check out the shallow tide pools
A short walk through the woods leads you
back to the beach. Bask in the sun as you
enjoy this wild natural island lined with sea
have to leave this island paradise, but when
you do, you’ll promise yourself a return visit.