Caladesi Island State Park

One of the few remaining undeveloped barrier islands in the state, most of coastal Florida used to resemble Caladesi Island. Pine and palm forests lead to rolling dunes covered with tenacious grasses, which in turn lead to a long strip of white sandy beach. A relative newcomer to the Florida west coast, the island was created when a savage hurricane in 1921 separated it from what was then Hog Island. To this day, the origin of the island's name is uncertain, though it has appeared on maps since the 1930's.

Accessible only by ferry from Clearwater and nearby Honeymoon Island State Park, a visit to Caladesi Island makes a great day trip. You can fish, picnic, go boating or shelling, sunbathe on the beach, and wander at will through the pine and oak forests. A wide variety of bird life call the park home, and you're likely to see an osprey soaring overhead. Picnic tables and concessions are located near the beach, and a 99-slip marina is available for those who bring their own boats. Overnight docking is permitted if you register with the park ranger.