Driving Directions
Caladesi Island is accessible only by boat or Ferry.

By Boat
From channel marker #14 just West of the Dunedin Causeway Bridge, take a heading of 210 degrees on your compass for approximately one mile. Follow the channel markers into the Caladesi Island State Park marina.

Driving Directions
The driving directions for Caladesi Island SP are the same as those for Honeymoon Island SP. The ferry service to Caladesi leaves from HISP hourly beginning at 10 AM. Folks can call the ferry service directly 727-734-1501.

From I-75 (north of Tampa): I-75 south to I-275 south towards Tampa. Follow I-275 south to Hillsborough Ave west (SR-580). Take SR 580 west to SR-586 fork then left. Follow SR-586 into park.

From I-75 (south of Tampa): I-75 north to I-4. I-4 to I-275 north. I-275 to Hillsborough Ave west (SR-580). SR-580 west to SR-586 fork then left. Follow SR-586 west into park.

Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.

Along the edge of the Gulf of Mexico, sand dunes line the open beach. Only the hardiest plants can survive there -- sea oats, beach morning glory and sea purslane. Turtles and birds find it an ideal location for nesting areas. The coastal strand is host to several species of grasses and trees such as palmetto, hercules club and sea grape. Periodic storm tides cover the area, limiting the plant community's diversity. Flood and fire are constant threats; however, two species call the coastal strand home -- the burrowing gopher tortoise and its occasional roommate, the Eastern diamondback rattlesnake.

Farther in is the maritime hammock, which provides a more stable environment because of higher elevation and a relatively closed canopy. Live oak, red bay, sabal palm and Southern red cedar thrive here, protected from salt spray and increased water evaporation. The "high ground" of Caladesi is free from floods except under extreme storm conditions. Slash pines dominate the open canopy forest that contains an understory of wax myrtle and palmetto. Park staff keep growth under control with ecological burns during the lightning season, providing maintenance while minimizing danger.

Mangrove forests prevail on Caladesi's eastern coast. One of the few trees that thrives in salt water, there are four species that shelter the island and nurture many of its animal residents. Given time, the mangrove roots trap additional soil and actually add to the island's size.

Ferry service is available from the mainland, weather permitting. The ferry departs hourly. For additional ferry information call (727) 734-5263.

Park Activities

Boating, Concessions, Fishing, Nature Trails, Picnicking, Showers, Scuba Diving, Swimming, and Wildlife Viewing