Caladesi Island State Park
Manager's Message
Welcome to Caladesi Island, home of the #1 Beach in North America! Dr. Stephen Leatherman, aka Dr. Beach, announced Caladesi Island State Park as having the best beach in America on Thursday, May 22nd. The beautiful, sandy beach has been a consistent contender for the coveted #1 slot since the listings began in 1991. We have all known for quite some time that Caladesi is a timeless gem in the gulf and are proud to be recognized nationwide for the natural beauty of this tranquil island! We'd like to thank everyone in our community for their continuous support in keeping Caladesi Island beautiful, clean, and pristine!
With the worldwide recognition of having the Best Beach in America, we have seen an incredible increase in visitation and the Caladesi Island Connection has, at times, reached capacity in the middle of the day. You may want to call ahead to check seat availability. The Caladesi Island Connection can be reached at 727-734-1501.
At Caladesi Island, recreational opportunities are endless! A mangrove-covered kayak trail winds from the marina to the St. Joseph Sound and back. Kayaks are available for rental through the Cafe Caladesi. The nature trail is a great place to find Osprey in old pine snags or cross paths with a gopher tortoise. Remember to bring water and sunscreen!
Caladesi Island is accessible only by private boat or via the Caladesi Connection ferry service. Cost for the ferry is $10.00 for adults and $6.00 for children ages 4-12. Trips depart hourly beginning at 10 a.m. Ferry passengers are allotted a four-hour stay on the island. No pets are allowed on the ferry. Contact the ferry office at 727-734-1501 for more information. For further information about about Caladesi Island State Park, call the park office at 727-469-5918.
- Pete Krulder, Park Manager
Welcome to Caladesi Island State Park
One of the few completely natural islands along Florida's Gulf Coast, Caladesi's white sand shores have been rated as the nation's #1 best beach. Beach lovers can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Saltwater anglers can fish from their boats or throw a line out into the surf. Nature enthusiasts watch wildlife while hiking the three mile nature trail through the island's interior or paddling a three mile kayak trail through the mangroves and bay. Picnic tables and shelters are located near the beach; picnic pavilions can be reserved for a fee. The park has a marina with electric and water hookups for boaters. The park also has a snack bar and gift shop. For ferry information call (727) 734-5263. Located one mile west of Dunedin off the Gulf Coast.
Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Caladesi Island State Park, please call 727-469-5918.
