This Florida Island State Park Is One Of The Gulf Coast's Most Underrated
By Matt A. Claiborne
VACATIONS
Tiny Caladesi Island on Florida's Gulf Coast is a U.S. state park with stunning beaches and a natural, undeveloped environment.
The island is completely uninhabited, and the views are unbeatable: clear, warm Gulf water, sea oat-dotted sand dunes, and hammocks of live oaks and cabbage palms.
In this undisturbed habitat, you'll get to meet dolphins, oystercatchers, ospreys, egrets, and more. The spectacular beach that's great for people who want to avoid crowds.
Island visitors enjoy swimming, hiking, fishing, walking, kayaking, and lounging. The park offers amenities like restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables, and pavilions.
To get to the island, you can take your own boat or take the Caladesi Island Ferry from nearby Honeymoon Island. Admission is $6 per boat for up to eight people.