Welcome to the island paradise that is Caladesi Island State Park.
The Setting
The park has a 108-slip Marina that provides day and overnight docking for park visitors.
Café Caladesi (open from 10:30AM until 4:30PM weather permitting) is located within the marina grounds.
Relax in on a bench-swing under one of the many Sable Palms, which surround the marina, that gently rustle in afternoon sea breezes.
Views along the mangrove-lined canal leading to the marina are spectacular.
This island was home to a Swiss immigrant, Henry Scharrer and his family from the late 1800’s to about 1935.
A 1921 hurricane cut what was then called Hog Island in half and created North and South Hog Island (later named Caladesi) with Hurricane Pass cutting between.
In 2006 & 2007, Caladesi Island’s Beach was designated as being the second best in the nation by Dr. Beach.
The Facility
This floating Marina has slips that can accommodate boats with beams of 12 feet and under and three ADA compliant slips, which can accommodate beams of 14 and 12 feet.
At mean low tide, the marina has from 3 to 5-foot water depth depending on the location of the slip. The approach is 3 foot at mean low tide (best to plan for an approach at an incoming or high tide when possible)
Check the tide table for St. Joseph Sound, Dunedin, Florida
No tent camping or RV camping – this is overnight boat stays only.
Dogs are welcome to stay with you on your boat but, for the safety of all, must be on a 6-foot hand-held leash under control at all times.
A pet walk is near the marina and dogs are allowed in the picnic area, nature trail and marina common – but not on the beach or ferryboats at any time.
3 miles of unspoiled sugary, white-sand beach lined by dunes covered in sea oats on the east and warm Gulf of Mexico waters on the west.
3 miles of nature trails meandering through stands of Sable Palm, Slash Pine, majestic Oaks and mangrove.
3 miles of kayak/canoe trail through Seagrass beds, Mangrove canopies and tidal marsh.
Overnight boaters have access to a 30-amp electric hook up and a freshwater hook up.
Three pavilions are available (two of which can accommodate groups of 50 & can be reserved ahead of time) and include Barbeque grills.
Sprinkled throughout the park’s picnic area are more then 40 tables (each complete with a grill). Find one under the shade of a Sable Palm or in ample sunshine.
A children’s playground is located in the picnic area as is the park’s trailhead.
Café Caladesi is open daily (weather permitting) from 10:30 AM until 4:30 PM (catering is available)
The Caladesi Connection operates daily (weather permitting) from nearby Honeymoon.
Insider tip: if you are staying on your boat in the marina for a few days; for a change of scenery, and a small fee, you may take the ferryboat to nearby Honeymoon Island and spend some time exploring the nature center. (be sure to find out when the last boat goes back to Caladesi however)
Plenty of restroom / changing room facilities are throughout the visitor use area (marina, picnic area, café)
Cool outdoor showers for rinsing
Kayak rental
Beach chair and umbrella rental
Park Features
Excellent spot for bird watching
Many species of shorebirds will have nesting colonies during the spring and summer months – please be aware of chicks scurrying about.
Nesting site for Osprey, Great Horned Owl and numerous species of perching / song birds
Caladesi is an important stopping point during the spring / fall bird migrations
Sea turtle nesting season is May – September
The park does become quite hot in the summer so bring plenty of water during hikes, beach days, kayak trips or just lounging in the sunshine
Camping Tips
Maps outlining the nature and Kayak trails are located in the park’s Ranger Station (next to Café Caladesi)
Don’t forget to check the park’s official website for upcoming special events such as the Breakfast with a Ranger programs and Ranger-led tours.
Best to use the kayak trail during an incoming tide (less portages)
If you plan to fish the pristine waters for trout, redfish or snook, be sure to check the fishing regulations and obtain a license prior to your visit.
Be sure to take some shells home with you but be certain nothing is living in or on them – if so gently place them back in the water
Bring some firewood with you for an evening campfire in the pits provided next to the pavilions. (check the park’s website for any fire restrictions)
Remember the park closes as sunset.
Overnight guests are asked to check in by sundown or call ahead if you plan to arrive after dark
Explore the Exceptional!
Each of these parks were carefully selected and earned the title of Approved Camping Club Park. You are invited to
explore them now! GO!
