A HIDDEN GEM…HONEYMOON ISLAND STATE PARK, DUNEDIN, FLORIDA
SO…YOU’VE BEEN BUSY ENJOYING FLORIDA?
Have you found yourself immersed in all of the current attractions, restaurants, beaches and social gatherings? Now the time has come to enjoy an “Old Florida” type of day! Sun Kind Of Living wants to tell you about a hidden Florida gem that hasn’t changed much over the years. This peaceful getaway that Sun Kind of Living loves, is called Honeymoon Island State Park in Dunedin, Florida! The park is located about 14 miles from Clearwater Beach, but well worth the drive!
SAY HIP, HIP, HOORAY FOR REASONABLE ENTRY FEES!
Since opening in 1981, Honeymoon Island Park has been offering up loads of beach fun, 365 days a year from 8am to sunset. The cost to enter the park is $8 per car, with up to eight people, for the whole day! While driving in and out of the park, be on the lookout for tortoises and other wildlife that might be trying to cross the road. Sun Kind of Living wants to make sure you pack your camera, not only to capture a cute critter but also because beautiful sunsets can be seen right from the comfort of your very own beach chair. If you enter the park one hour before sunset the cost is only $4 per car. The sunsets are absolutely stunning and should not be missed!
EAGER TO EXPLORE THE ISLAND?
The Island is 385 acres and has 4 miles of beaches that are rarely crowded. Honeymoon Island is known for its shelling, fishing, biking, hiking, surfing and just plain relaxing! Plenty of parking spots is a nice surprise while offering three different beach areas. Want your dogs to enjoy the day? Dogs are allowed on leashes on the far Southern beach, which is also a hot fishing spot! How about some surfing? Sun Kind of Living wants you to hit North Beach and get your surfboard riding high on the waves!
ARE YOU A NATURE LOVER?
Honeymoon Island has 2.5 miles of hiking and biking trails with 2 nature centers and 2 bird observation areas. Keep a lookout for an abundance of birds including Osprey, Skinners, Bald Eagles and American Oystercatchers that have been known to frequent the island. There is also other wildlife that inhabit this beautiful island such as gophers, tortoises and armadillos.
ALL OF THESE ACTIVITIES HAVE YOUR TUMMY RUMBLIN’?
Pack a picnic! There is a picnic area in the park and even a playground. Sorry, no alcohol is allowed in this state park. There are 2 concession stands and bathrooms to change in and out of swimsuits if need be. By the concessions you can also rent bicycles, kayaks, umbrellas and chairs.
TIME FLIES WHEN HONEYMOON ISLAND PROVIDES THE FUN!
The day will scoot right on by whether you choose to bask in the sun on Honeymoon Island’s white, sand beaches while watching dolphins gracefully swim past or bike through the many nature trails that are offered in the park. No matter how you choose to spend your day on the island, make sure you take some time to relax and take in one of the beautiful sunsets the island offers.
SEARCHING FOR MORE ISLAND EXCITEMENT?
Right next to Honeymoon Island is Caladesi Island. If you desire more adventure, there is a ferry terminal on Honeymoon that whisks you over to Caladesi. Some fun facts: At one time, these two islands were connected and called Hog Island. Hog Island was inhabited by the Tocobaga Native Americans until the European settlers arrived. A hurricane struck the island in 1921, separating them into two pieces which are now known as Honeymoon Island and Caladesi Island.
EXPLORE IT ALL!
Sun Kind of Living wants you to experience Florida. Whether the destinations are old or new, action-packed or relaxing, making memories along the way in your Florida journey will last a lifetime! Go out and enjoy Florida!!! We do!