Galeón San José | Cali

Honeymoon Island State Park is a protected natural area located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, west of Dunedin.

Visual Characteristics

The park comprises approximately 3,800 acres, primarily consisting of undeveloped barrier island. The coastline features white sand beaches with a width that varies based on tidal influence. Inland areas are characterized by mature slash pine forests and mangrove swamps. The Gulf waters are typically clear and shallow near the shore.

Location & Access Logistics

Honeymoon Island State Park is situated at 1 Causeway Boulevard, Dunedin, FL 34698. It is approximately 10 miles west of downtown Dunedin and 25 miles northwest of St. Petersburg. Access is via State Road 586 (Curlew Road) which connects to Causeway Boulevard. A toll is collected for entry into the park. Ample parking is available in designated lots throughout the park, including near the ferry landing and beach areas. Public transportation options to the park entrance are limited; the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) bus route 11 stops near the intersection of Curlew Road and Countryside Drive, requiring a walk or additional transport to the park entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Honeymoon Island was originally known as "Hog Island" and was renamed in 1939 by a travel magazine contest. The island's ecosystem is a combination of coastal dune habitats, pine flatwoods, and tidal marshes, supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park was established as a state park in 1970 to preserve its natural environment.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include swimming and sunbathing on the beaches. Kayaking and paddleboarding are permitted in designated areas. The park features a 3-mile nature trail through the pine forest and mangrove swamp, offering opportunities for birdwatching. Fishing is allowed from the causeway and designated shoreline areas. A dog beach is available on the southern end of the island. Ferry service to Caladesi Island State Park operates from the park's northern end.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the park entrance, picnic areas, and the dog beach. Picnic shelters with grills are located throughout the park. Shade is provided by natural tree cover in forested areas and by the picnic shelters. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the park. Food vendors are not present within the park; visitors are advised to bring their own food and beverages.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography is during the early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting conditions on the beaches. The most favorable weather for outdoor activities typically occurs from October through May, avoiding the peak heat and humidity of summer. High tide is generally preferred for swimming and water activities, though beach access is available at all tides.

Facts & Legends

Honeymoon Island is one of the few remaining undeveloped barrier islands on Florida's Gulf Coast. The island is a critical nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles during the spring and summer months. A unique feature is the presence of "coquina" rock formations visible at low tide along some sections of the shoreline.

Nearby Landmarks

• Caladesi Island State Park (Accessible via ferry, 0km East)
• Honeymoon Island Causeway (0.2km South)
• Dunedin Causeway (1km South)
• Honeymoon Island Ferry Terminal (0.3km North)
• Honeymoon Island Nature Center (0.4km North)