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Honeymoon Island State Park: A Pristine Coastal Escape

Discover pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and a romantic history at Honeymoon Island State Park, a natural paradise on Florida's Gulf Coast offering a tranquil escape for all.

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Honeymoon Island State Park, a beloved natural escape just a short drive from Tampa, offers a stunning blend of pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and recreational activities. Accessible via the Dunedin Causeway, this barrier island boasts over four miles of unspoiled shoreline along the Gulf of Mexico, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and shelling. Explore a rare virgin slash pine forest via the Osprey Trail, or observe nesting ospreys, eagles, and other bird species. With amenities like picnic areas, a nature center, and a dog-friendly beach, Honeymoon Island provides a memorable experience for nature lovers and families seeking a tranquil coastal getaway. Keep in mind that bathhouses 1 and 2 are closed, but portable restrooms are available.

A brief summary to Honeymoon Island State Park

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as the park often reaches capacity and closes its gates.
  • Bring your own beach chairs and umbrellas, as rentals can be limited during peak season.
  • Explore the Osprey Trail to experience the unique slash pine forest and spot diverse birdlife.
  • Visit the Rotary Centennial Nature Center to learn about the island's history and ecology.
  • Check the park's website for updates on amenities and any temporary closures due to storm recovery.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Dunedin, follow Alternate US 19 (also known as Bayshore Boulevard) north. Turn left onto the Dunedin Causeway (also known as Causeway Boulevard or SR 586). Continue 2.8 miles west on the causeway to the entrance of Honeymoon Island State Park. Be prepared to pay the entrance fee upon arrival: $8 per vehicle (up to 8 people), $4 for a single-occupant vehicle, or $2 for pedestrians and bicyclists. Parking is included with the park entrance fee. Note that the Dunedin Causeway itself is a popular destination for fishing and watercraft activities, with free parking available along the causeway before the park entrance.

  • Biking/Walking

    From Dunedin, access the Dunedin Causeway (also known as Causeway Boulevard or SR 586) via Alternate US 19 (Bayshore Boulevard). The causeway has a dedicated trail for cyclists and pedestrians. Follow the causeway 2.8 miles west to the entrance of Honeymoon Island State Park. There is a $2 entrance fee for bicyclists and pedestrians. Free parking is available along the causeway leading up to the park entrance if you wish to walk part of the way.

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Discover more about Honeymoon Island State Park

Honeymoon Island State Park, a jewel of Florida's Gulf Coast, beckons visitors with its natural beauty and rich history. Located just a short drive from the bustling city of Tampa, this barrier island offers a serene escape into a world of pristine beaches, diverse ecosystems, and abundant wildlife. Originally known as Hog Island, its transformation began in the late 1930s when businessman Clinton Washburn envisioned it as a honeymoon destination. Partnering with Life Magazine, he launched a contest for newlyweds, offering them a two-week stay in thatched-roof cottages built on the island. The name "Honeymoon Island" was born, and the island quickly gained popularity as a romantic retreat. However, the onset of World War II brought an end to the honeymoon village, and the island was later used as a rest and recuperation site for factory workers. In the 1960s, plans for a large-scale residential development threatened the island's natural state. Fortunately, local environmentalists stepped in, and their efforts led to the State of Florida purchasing the island in the 1970s. On December 7, 1981, Honeymoon Island State Park was officially established, preserving its beauty for generations to come. Today, Honeymoon Island State Park is Florida's most-visited state park, attracting over a million visitors each year. Its four miles of white-sand beaches offer ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and shelling. The calm, clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico are perfect for families with children, while the northern end of the island is known for its excellent shelling opportunities. Beyond the beach, Honeymoon Island boasts a unique ecosystem. The 2.5-mile Osprey Trail winds through one of the last remaining virgin slash pine forests in South Florida, providing a glimpse into the island's natural heritage. Birdwatchers will delight in the diverse avian population, including ospreys, bald eagles, roseate spoonbills, and various terns and egrets. Loggerhead sea turtles also nest on the beach from May through October, and visitors may spot gopher tortoises and armadillos in the picnic area and along the nature trail. The Rotary Centennial Nature Center offers exhibits about the natural and cultural history of Honeymoon and nearby Caladesi Island. An elevated observation deck provides panoramic views of the island and its surroundings. The park also features picnic areas with covered pavilions, barbecue grills, and a playground, making it an ideal destination for family outings. Honeymoon Island State Park is committed to providing accessible amenities for all visitors. Disability parking spaces, ADA-compliant restrooms, and beach wheelchairs are available. Paved paths and elevated boardwalks provide easy access to the beach and other park facilities. For those seeking adventure, Honeymoon Island offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Rentals are available at the South Beach Pavilion, and experienced paddlers can even venture out to Caladesi Island, located just across Hurricane Pass. Fishing is also a popular activity, with saltwater game fish such as snook, redfish, and tarpon frequently caught offshore. While camping is not permitted on Honeymoon Island, visitors can take a ferry to nearby Caladesi Island State Park, which offers camping facilities. Caladesi Island, consistently ranked among America's best beaches, is a pristine paradise accessible only by boat or ferry. Honeymoon Island State Park is more than just a beach; it's a sanctuary where nature and history intertwine. Whether you're seeking relaxation, recreation, or a glimpse into Florida's natural wonders, Honeymoon Island offers an unforgettable experience. Important Note: As of May 2025, portions of the park are still recovering from storm damage. Bathhouses 1 and 2 remain closed, but portable restrooms are available. Food service and beach chair rentals are available in the parking lot east of Bathhouse 1. The ferry service to Caladesi Island State Park is currently unavailable.

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