Caladesi & Honeymoon Islands
Florida—home of sandy beaches, palm trees, bright blue water, and sunshine. All of that and more can be experienced at Caladesi Island and Honeymoon Island State Parks.
Honeymoon Island was appropriately named for the newlyweds who spent their honeymoons on the island. As winners of a contest held by Clinton Washborn and LIFE magazine in 1939, the honeymooners stayed in one of the thatched bungalows for two weeks. Today, there are plenty of condos and hotels lining State Rd. 586, but no sign
of the bungalows. Honeymoon Island State Park begins where SR 586 ends. The sights and sounds of nature await those who enjoy bird-watching, hiking, fishing or sunbathing. From the lapping of the warm gulf waters to the breeze combing through the pines to the symphony of bird song, Honeymoon Island State Park is a great place to visit…and don’t forget to stop by the nature center for information.
From Honeymoon Island State Park take the Caladesi Island Ferry to Caladesi Island State Park. The park boasts one of Florida’s best and quietest white beaches. You’ll also find nature trails, a playground and shady picnic areas. If you forget to pack a lunch, Café Caladesi offers a variety of foods and drinks. The Ferry skims over the Hurricane Pass at a leisurely pace, providing a view of a few of the barrier islands and perhaps osprey,
pelicans, cormorants, or any of the many birds spotted on the islands. (See a list on the park websites.)
On Caladesi Island you’ll find a variety of natural environments: beach dunes, coastal strand, maritime hammock, pine flatwoods, and mangrove forests. After a hike down
the nature trail, you’ll end up at the beach where foamy waves invite you to splash in the Gulf’s gentle waters.
Note: If you take the Ferry, you are limited to four hours of fun at the park. Hold on to your ticket. The prices are posted on their website.
If you visit the parks between June and October, slather on sunscreen and have plenty of water available. Hats and sunglasses are also advisable. There’s no other way
to say it—Florida summers are hot and humid.
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