Plaza de Toros Cañaveralejo | Cali

The Dunedin Causeway is a man-made bridge and recreational area connecting the city of Dunedin, Florida, to Honeymoon Island State Park.

Visual Characteristics

The causeway itself is a paved road approximately 3 miles in length. It features concrete barriers and guardrails. On either side, the landscape transitions from mangrove shorelines to sandy beaches and shallow Gulf waters. The water color varies from clear turquoise in shallow areas to deeper blue further offshore. Vegetation consists primarily of salt-tolerant plants, including sea oats and various grasses along the sandy edges, and denser mangrove forests in protected inlets.

Location & Access Logistics

The Dunedin Causeway begins at the intersection of Alt US 19 and Curlew Road in Dunedin, Florida. It extends eastward for approximately 3 miles to the entrance of Honeymoon Island State Park. Parking is available at designated lots along the causeway, including a large lot at the base of the causeway and smaller pull-offs. There are no direct public bus routes to the causeway itself; visitors typically drive or use ride-sharing services. Access to Honeymoon Island State Park requires an entrance fee per vehicle.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Dunedin Causeway was constructed to provide vehicular access to Honeymoon Island. Construction was completed in the mid-20th century. The area is ecologically significant as a coastal barrier island system, supporting diverse marine and avian life. The shallow waters are part of the Gulf of Mexico's estuarine environment.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include fishing from the causeway's pedestrian walkways, birdwatching, kayaking and paddleboarding in the calm waters on the bay side, and accessing Honeymoon Island State Park for beach activities and nature trails. Swimming is permitted in designated areas on Honeymoon Island. Bicycle riding is also a common activity along the causeway.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at Honeymoon Island State Park. Shade is limited along the causeway itself, with more provided by trees within the state park. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available along the causeway. Food vendors are not present on the causeway; however, concessions are available within Honeymoon Island State Park.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is generally during the morning or late afternoon for softer lighting. The best months for weather are typically from March to May and September to November, avoiding the peak heat and humidity of summer and the potential for winter cold fronts. Tidal conditions can affect water depth for kayaking and paddleboarding, with higher tides generally offering more navigable water.

Facts & Legends

A unique aspect of the Dunedin Causeway is its role as a critical habitat for shorebirds, including the endangered Florida scrub-jay, which can sometimes be observed in the scrubbier areas of Honeymoon Island. The causeway's construction also altered natural water flow patterns, a common consequence of such coastal engineering projects.

Nearby Landmarks

• Honeymoon Island State Park (0km East)
• Caladesi Island State Park (Accessible via ferry from Honeymoon Island, approximately 1km West across water)
• Edgewater Park (1.5km Southwest)
• Downtown Dunedin (2km Southwest)
• Pinellas Trail (Access points within 1km)