Visitor on Beach at Caladesi

Caladesi Island State Park

A truly untouched island offering natural delights

Hours

The park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year

Fees

$6 per boat 

See all Fees

Location

Offshore Island
Dunedin FL 34698

Get directions

Contact Info

727-469-5918

Welcome to Caladesi Island State Park

One of the few untouched islands along the Gulf Coast, Caladesi Island State Park is accessible only by boat, but is worth the extra effort.

Whether it is a stroll along the island’s pristine beaches or a kayak trip through the bayside mangrove forest, a trip to Caladesi Island is an unforgettable experience. Take a nature trail walk to the historic Scharrer Homestead through the island’s interior and listen to the ocean breeze whisper through old-growth slash pines and feel the embrace of expansive live oaks.

Discover why homesteader Myrtle Scharrer Betz called this place “Paradise” in her memoirs.

Plan Your Visit

Caladesi Island, Park Manager
Learn

Manager's Message

Looking for a place to get away from it all? Caladesi Island State Park is the place for you. Whether you are coming over for four hours on the ferry or spending the night in the marina on your own boat, Caladesi Island is something for everyone in the family.
Vendor Services
Service

Food Service & Ferry

Florida Beach Services offers offering casual beach fare has a small gift shop and is located steps away from the ferry dock. Caladesi Island Ferry provides ferry to the island.
3 kayaks sitting on the shore of the beach.
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Paddling at Caledesi Island

Paddle under the canopy shade as you traverse the winding water trails of Caladesi Island. Your adventure may have you encounter the various wildlife for a once in a lifetime experience.

Experiences

Boating
Boating
Camping Boat
Camping Boat
Fishing
Fishing
Hiking
Hiking
Paddling
Paddling
Picnicking
Picnicking
Swimming
Swimming
Weddings
Weddings

Amenities

Beach
Beach
Canoe Kayak Launch
Canoe Kayak Launch
Concession and Restaurant
Concession and Restaurant
Interpretive Exhibit
Interpretive Exhibit
Picnic Pavilion
Picnic Pavilion
Playground
Playground
Restroom Facilities
Restroom Facilities
Shower Station
Shower Station

Caladesi Island State Park Photo Gallery

Caladesi Island Beach View
Marina at Caladesi Island
Boardwalk to Beach
Hand making heart symbol with beach in the background
Seagulls in flight
Beautiful emerald colored water on beach
Island Overview
Fisherman in kayak
A view of the dense foliage at caladesi island.
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Habitats of caladesi island

Caladesi Island State Park is home to a variety of different habitats that are critical to the survival of various animal and plant species.
A view of the mangroves along the water's edge.
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Mangroves at Caladesi

On Caladesi Island State Park’s paddling trails, visitors can be immersed in a large forest of one of Florida’s most interesting plants: mangroves

People Make the Parks

Jason Dorrier, Smiling at the camera wearing his ranger uniform.

Staff Spotlight

A former boy scout, Jason Dorrier has continued to foster his love of the outdoors at Caladesi Island State Park.
Steven LIlly, smiling at the camera.

Volunteer Spotlight

Coming to Florida from New Hampshire, Steve Lilly is a dedicated volunteer at Caladesi Island State Park. His favorite part about being a volunteer is the opportunity to meet new people.
Friends of the Island Parks

Friends of the Island Parks

Friends Groups meet the critical needs of individual parks and the system of state parks. They share one thing in common – passion for parks.

This Park is Recognized by:

Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail
Clean Marina
Designated Greenway

Park Map

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Giel walking toward the beach on a boardwalk

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