Caladesi Island Ferry The ferry is the most popular and easiest way to get to the island. { Find flights to Caladesi . If you have any questions, feel free to send me an email. If you take the ferry, there is a 4-hour time limit on the island. You would have to cross Hurricane Pass which is very deep, deceptively far and frequented by boats and other motorcraft. Outdoor showers are located at the North and South bath house. There are picnic tables with grills available to reserve. Your email address will not be published. Cruises are an excellent way to spend a few days, weeks or months of vacation visiting many . window.mc4wp = window.mc4wp || { - Clearwater Beach (From 705.90) Located off the Gulf of Mexico west of Clearwater, the island can be reached by a private (or rented) vessel. Although its certainly possible to make the journey during high tide, do note that there will be sections that you are required to wade through - nothing too deep, but something to be aware of if planning the trip with children or with spontaneity. (Florida's 'gators only live in fresh water.) Day Trip Guide to Caladesi Island, Florida - Rachel's Crafted Life (2023) Yes dogs are allowed on Caladesi Island but there are a few caveats. Pets are permitted in designated areas only and they must be kept on a leash that's no longer than 6 feet. Offering pool or garden views, each unit comes with a kitchen and it is only 3.7 miles to Honeymoon Island. The ferry leaves from Honeymoon Island State Park and the ride is about 20-minutes long. The island has about four miles of beach. Where Caladesi was once a separate island, a few years ago, and deposits connected it to Clearwater Beach for over 2 miles. The ferry ride takes 20 minutes and takes you across hurricane pass, the water way between Honeymoon and Caladesi. Hey, Roger! Mar 27 - Mar 28. thank you for this very interesting article. There are docks you can use or I even saw people bring their boats close to the shallows and then swim the rest of the way to shore. How to Get to Caladesi Island There are actually a few different ways to get to the island. Whether you want to just run up to and explore the Islands or pack a lunch . Get ready for a great time! 2018-2023 CS Ginger. We are here to show you that traveling as a family is not as hard as you might think. forms: { You can hike along the nature trail, rent a kayak and paddle through the three mile long mangrove trail, or even go fishing where your catch of the day may be snook, redfish, trout, or . You can share a link to my post but, no, you cannot share the entire article on your website. The ferry only takes about . HOA is only $120 a month which covers gates, all clubhouse amenities, basic cable and internet. It's been voted one of the top beaches in the United States because it's one of the . There are two ways to get to Caladesi: Private boat or take the Caladesi Connection Ferry service that operates out of Honeymoon Island State Park. 11 Baymont St APT 1505, Clearwater, FL 33767 - Zillow listeners: [], You can walk to Caladesi Island from Clearwater beach, especially when the conditions are right like at low tide. Where the boardwalk ends at the beach, you can rent beach umbrellas and chairs. These include the Caladesi Island Ferry, using a private boat, or renting a kayak. Departures from Honeymoon Island State Park begin at 10 a.m. and take place every half hour. Closer to Caladesi Island, ospreys dive for fish and carry them in their talons to their nests. The sun is strong though so dont forget your shade, sunhat and sunscreen. There are picnic tables, two covered pavilions, restrooms and barbecue grills. Off The Beaten Path Florida: 20 Hidden Gems Revealed by a Local! If you do go over on the Caladesi ferry, there is a 4-hour time limit on the island. The journey time is 20 minutes. Without advertising income, we can't keep making this site awesome for you. Welcome to CS Ginger! 2 beach in the nation by Dr. Beach in 2022, Caladesi Island State Park is a rare combination - a Florida Gulf Coast barrier island that is both remote and natural, and yet well stocked with amenities. Things to Do at Caladesi Island. With 3 Miles of pristine beaches accessible only by boat, Caladesi Island is an unspoiled paradise,and a magical place for swimming, sun-bathing, picnics, snorkeling, or shelling! But keep in mind that it's a 4-mile one-way journey from North Clearwater Beach. One of the best places to go snorkeling is near Main Beach. You just have to register before dark. Caladesi island shelling is a lot of fun! Caladesi Island was "Voted Best Beach 2008 " so if you are looking to relax, Caf Caladesi offers beach chairs and umbrellas for rental. From the boat dock, take the boardwalk. If you bring reusable water bottles there is a water fountain to refill your water bottle. How much does it cost to go to Caladesi Island? Private Boat | If you have your own boat, you can access Caladesi Island independently. You cannot walk from Honeymoon Island to Caladesi Island. , Are there rattlesnakes on Honeymoon Island? The ferry is the most popular and easiest way to get to the island. Walk north and then you will see a sign for the nature trail and bridge. Visitors may spot dolphins leaping alongside the ferry, but they won't see any alligators. The Captain of the boat stopped in both directions so we could all enjoy the dolphins that were swimming around us. If you are spending the day or camping on Caladesi Island overnight at the dock slips, there are quite a few amenities on the island to make your stay more comfortable. This is a popular trail for fishing, running, and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. A nice boat ride to Caladesi Island (about 20 minutes). Egmont Key Ferry from Fort Desoto Park | Hubbard's Marina Caladesi Island is one of the Gulf Coast's last uninhabited islands in the Tampa Bay area. They charge a daily rate of $6.00 per boat for up to 8 people and $2.00 per extra . Admission to Caladesi Island is $6 per boat or $2 per kayak. 18 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN CLEARWATER FOR SUNNY FUN - 365 Atlanta Traveler This does not apply if you are coming over on the ferry. Things can go wrong, and you dont want to get stuck paying tons of money if you get sick or have an accident without travel insurance. Depending on how long you want to spend on the island, you can pick a two-hour or four-hour rental. It is a three-mile trail, but you can turn around if you dont want to paddle that far. This guide contains everything you need to know + answers to all of your questions about visiting Caladesi Island State Park. They rent single and double kayaks. Halfway between the beach and boat dock, there are showers, changing rooms, restrooms, and a drinking fountain. There is no tent camping allowed on Caladesi Island. Whilst Caladesi was indeed once an island, separated from Clearwater Beach by a body of water known as the Dunedin Pass, for the last couple of decades its been possible to walk between the two; sand accumulation causing the development of a sand bar and a Hurricane named Elena having sealied the pass completely. Caladesi Island is a pristine barrier island just north of the ever popular Clearwater beach. But those in the know and health, can also paddle over from the Dunedin Causeway or even walk up from Clearwater Beach. For the kiddos there is a small playground to enjoy if they need a break from the beach. It may look close and shallow to the naked eye but it is not. } How To Visit Caladesi Island State Park in Florida, according to a It is a nice and relaxing boat trip. All About the Caladesi Island Ferry | VISIT FLORIDA Join my email list to receive the latest articles directly in your inbox. There are four ways to get to the island - private boat, kayak, ferry, or walking from Clearwater Beach. PINELLAS TRAIL: With over 25 miles of the rails-to-trails asphalt bike trail covering the entire Pinellas Peninsula runs through Dunedin and closes the Causeway. 2023 Greatfallswhitesox. You can make your reservation online or first-come, first-served in the marina. I veganize your favorite classic recipes and transform them into irresistible meals that are made entirely from plants! "Caladesi is reached by pedestrian ferry boat, private boats or a long walk north from Clearwater Beach-the inlet is closed so Caladesi is no longer a true island, but still a great getaway . In some ways, Caladesi Island truly appears to be the Florida Gulf Coast's best kept secret - that is open to the public. If you love nature and are looking for a pristine beach area with options for plenty of other activities to keep everyone happy, I really recommend visiting Caladesi Island State Park and enjoying this hidden paradise in Florida. If you choose to purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Boating in Tampa Bay: The Best Boating Destinations, Restaurants and Here the water is so shallow and clear that you get to see all kinds of wildlife, like stingrays, sharks, crabs and lots of fish. Tickets for adults cost $16 per person, kids age 6-12 cost $8 and kids 5 and under are free. Located in Clearwater Beach, Florida, this hotel is opposite the beach and features an outdoor pool. The entrance fee is $2 per person if you kayak over to the island. A Short Guide to Visiting Caladesi Island | One of Florida's Last Untouched Islands, The Best Travel Water Filter Bottles For Your Next Trip, A Short Guide To Cala Galdana | An Excellent Base in the South of Menorca, 10 Wonderful Things to do in St Pete, Florida, A Complete Guide to the Best Things to Do in Clearwater, Florida, 22 Wonderful Airbnbs in St Pete, Florida | For City and Beach Lovers, The St Pete Revival Story | A New Side to Florida, Our Favourite Hipster Foodie Hangouts in Downtown St Pete. To make sure everyone doesn't try to take the last boat back, your return ticket is for four hours after you arrive. The half-day charter can take you to many of the barrier islands including Caladesi Island and Three Rooker Island. You will have to pay a $6 entry fee at the marina, and additional charges if you decide to stay overnight. You can buy onlinethe single-use day pass admission ahead of your visit. Caladesi Island is a short boat ride away from Clearwater Beach. Marina at Caladesi Island State Park. How to Get Around: To reach Anclote Key, take a Sun Line Cruises ferry from Tarpon Springs or a Windsong Sailing Charters private sail (plus dinghy to reach the island) from New Port Richey.. While we were on the Island I made sure to find out everything that I could so I could share the most current and up-to-date information with you. I live where people vacation. For a relatively small island, theres actually quite a large number of activities to keep you occupied on Caladesi Island! You can also take a day tour from Orlando with a speed boat. People concerned about an alligator should call our toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286). The St. Pete Revival Story | A New Side to Florida, Our Favourite Hipster Foodie Hangouts in Downtown St. Pete, Tagged: florida, clearwater, St Pete and Clearwater. If you don't want to shlep your own gear, you can rent chairs and an umbrella for $30 for four hours on the island. frat boys, and something quite commercialised over all. Although the shelling capital of the US and maybe even the world is Sanibel Island down south near Fort Myers Caladesi Island is still a popular shelling destination. I would ask the park staff for help finding them. If youre wondering if you can swim on Caladesi Island the answer is YES! So feel free to bring them for a hike but only if you kayak over or bring them on your own private boat. Ferry fees are: $18 per adult. To get to Caladesi, most people ride the $14 ferry from Honeymoon Island. Large backyard features plenty of space to park your boat, trailer, RV, work truck, and jet skis as deed restrictions allow. And have fun with it, the walk is long but youre heading somewhere beautiful. I've lived in Florida for 30 years and I just recently got to visit Caladesi Island State Park for the first time. You can even find whole sand dollars among the beautiful collection of shells. It is full of opportunities for relaxing at the Caladesi beach, enjoying the nature trails, Caladesi Island shelling, and swimming. If you want to explore more of the mangroves, you can paddle through the island on the Mangrove Kayak Trail. By far the most popular way of reaching Caladesi Island is with the regular ferry that leaves from Honeymoon Island State Park ( maps) Starting at 10 am each day, there are departures every 30 minutes every day (except Christmas Day and Thanksgiving). Dunedin. Here are ADDITIONAL AWESOME THINGS TO DO AROUND Caladesi Island State Park: HONEYMOON ISLAND: It is a must-do if you are visiting Caladesi island, is to spend some time at the next-door Honeymoon Island State Park, just kayak there or take the ferry. Can you rent beach chairs at Caladesi Island or Honeymoon Island? DUNEDIN: It is my favorite town in Tampa Bay Area, and I am sure you will also love this very unique and quaint town featuring Floridas oldest microbrewery, such as the Dunedin Brewery, and lots of options for great restaurants such as The Living Room, bars, ice cream, and local shops. I also recommend a hat, an umbrella or tent of some kind and a t-shirt or lightweight clothes. This was our first time watching armadillos in the wild! Adults: $16 Children (6 12): $85 and Under: Free. This is just an island for you to visit, or spend a nice day with your family or enjoy nature. According to the ferry's website, there are two ways to. Both parks also have concession stand/restaurants and pay phones. There is not really any shade on the beach so sunscreen will be your best friend. 2538 Eagles Crest Ct, Holiday, FL 34691 | MLS #U8192292 | Zillow It's a mere ten-minute boat ride (depending on your speed) and approximately three miles away from its popular neighbor. Kayaking To Caladesi Island: A Beginners Guide KayakCritic. The four miles of flat beach with the nearby shallow waters make Caladesi State Park a great place to go snorkeling, especially for families. The ferries begin running at 10:00 a.m. every day, with numerous returns and departures, and you can stay on the island for 4 hours. Copyright All Rights Reserved. There are multiple spots to park your car in Clearwater, however wed recommend picking a carpark at the northern section of the beach to not needlessly add extra distance to your walk to Caladesi. Visiting the beach is one of the top things to do on Caladesi Island. 15.22 mi from city center. View from the ferry on the trip to Caladesi Island (photo by Marcea Cazel) A part of the Florida State Park System, Caladesi Island is only accessible by boat. Caladesi Island State Park - The Florida Guidebook If you decide to walk, you will need to pass some scratchy trees, and depending on the tides, you will probably need to get in the water. It is so cool to see all of the shells that can be found on the island, even if you dont find them yourself. They are however allowed on the rest of the island as long as they are on a leash. Details - Clearwater Beach .com If you rent a boat for a day in Tampa then Caladesi Island would be a great stop to make! How to Walk to Caladesi Island From Clearwater Beach! Wear your bathing suit to the park so you can jump in the water as soon as you get there. Take a day trip to the serene Caladesi Island State Park. Dont forget the sunscreen and other sun protection. Caladesi Island Kayak rentals are available for $25 per person on the island. Trips run every half hour February to September and hourly the rest of the year. Cost for the ferry is $16.00 for adults and $8.00 for children. There are two ways to get to Caladesi: Private boat or take the Caladesi Connection Ferry service that operates out of Honeymoon Island State Park. I have been to more than 40 countries while following my fitness journey. Caladesi Island Ferry The Caladesi Island Ferry leaves from Honeymoon Island just to the north. Prior to this, we had an assumption that most Florida beaches would be a little like the ones we'd seen on TV - bodybuilders, cocktail bars, spring break (whooo!) The round-trip is $16 per adult and $8 per kid from 6-12 years. Hours are 8 AM until sunset, 365 days a year. The journey time is 20 minutes. The ferry starts at 10AM and runs every 30 minutes . Great info. One of the few remaining uninhabited islands on Floridas Gulf Coast, Caladesi Island offers visitors that chance to explore a tropical nature path, a mangrove-shaded kayak trail, and a glorious four-mile, wild and white sandy beach filled unique shells, birds, photogenic deckchairs, and a very remote vibe. It remains one of the very few remaining underdeveloped barrier islands in Florida. If you are looking for an adventurous way to get to the island, rent a kayak! It's been voted one of the top beaches in the United States because it's one of the . Tampa Beaches: The Ultimate Guide to Beaches in and Around Tampa Bay, Cypress Point Beach Park: What You Need to Know, Beach Vacation Packing List for Peace of Mind. You can get to the island via the Caladesi Island Ferry, (727) 734-5263, which departs from Honeymoon Island and runs from 10:00 am to 5 pm, weather and attendance permitting. We explored the entire island, went shelling, swam, and snorkeled in the crystal clear water, and we even got the surprise of a lifetime when two beautiful dolphins swam right by us! Along with birdlife, you can see some sea life in the clear water like stingrays, lots of fish, and crabs. $8 per child. You can find the complete trail route here. btw, another more mild option is to paddle from Two Harbors to Avalon on rental kayaks. If youre up for a workout and an adventure you can rent a kayak from Sail Honeymoon on the Dunedin causeway and kayak across St Josephs Sound to Caladesi Island. The best place for kayaking on Caladesi Island Florida is on the east side of the island. You will also be required to pay the $2 entry fee upon arrival to the island. Many kayakers often spot different wildlife on their journey to the island. Honeymoon is pretty rocky. It may require you to walk through the water at times though. You may not be on the beach itself but the views are spectacular. Caladesi Island State Park is a separate state park from Honeymoon Island State Park, but it's only accessible by private boat or via ferry from Honeymoon Island. If you want to walk onto the island, you can walk from Clearwater Beach. Which one you choose will be determined by how long you have, your physical abilities and your budget. The most appropriately located is Avalon Public Parking (maps) although there are several other nearby. Which one you choose will be determined by how long you have, your physical abilities and your budget. You can expect to see lots of birds along the shore. Your email address will not be published. There are two ways to get to Caladesi: Private boat or take the Caladesi Connection Ferry service that operates out of Honeymoon Island State Park. However, boaters can dock overnight at the 108-slip marina as long as they register before sundown. If you are going to be in the area with your own boat or a rented boat, you can drive your own boat to Caladesi Island. There are no overnight Caladesi Island State Park camping facilities or lodging available on the island. Here are the top things you can do during your visit: If you are planning to visit Caladesi Island State Park and to stay overnight or during the weekend the closest area to stay is in Dunedin, followed by Clearwater I have listed the best accommodations options: COOLEST PLACE: Fenway Hotel, Autograph Collection. Check out our recommendations for camping chairs for kids here! Florida is a popular place to live and to visit, especially recently it has seen a large surge of people moving in. Where is Caladesi Island State Park, Florida? This trip departs from the Ft Desoto Boat Ramp (click here for directions) Ages 12+ $45 Ages 3-11 $25 Ages 2 & Under No Charge Parking $5 Quick Details: Duration: 5 hours total | 3 hours island time | 60 mins to and from dock Departure times: 11am Daily! You can take a 20-minute ferry ride from Honeymoon Island or you can walk to Caladesi Island from Clearwater Beach, Florida! When you first get off of the ferry, look for the Shells of Caladesi Island display. Hidden Gems in Florida, you Wont Believe it! You can catch the 20-minute ferry ride from Honeymoon Island State Park (starting at 10 AM) for $14 roundtrip per adult ($7 per child aged 6-12, kids 5 and under are free). Get ready for a relaxing day on the water with Captain Nick around Clearwater. callback: cb Though, during the summer months, things can get lively near the municipal marina, so you may choose to explore the resort or private marinas for a more peaceful night stay. The options are a ferry ride, kayaking, walking or boating. To make hunting for shells easier, consider beginning no sooner than an hour before low tide. More information can be found on the Caladesi Island Ferry website. Caladesis protected status means that there is plenty of potential wildlife spotting to be done along her shores (as well as inland). Large osprey nests located in the top of barren pine snags may be seen. Kids below five years old are free. Everything You Need to Know about Honeymoon Island & Caladesi Island ENTRY FEE: The boat fee is $6 per boat. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 2 h 25 min to complete.