Florida's Stunning Island State Park Boasts Panoramic Views Of Emerald Green Waters

If you're looking for unique experiences you can only have in Florida, there's one off-the-beaten-path state park that is worth a day trip. Frequent visitors to Florida's world-famous beaches have likely heard of Clearwater Beach — but just north of this popular spot lies a quieter gem: Honeymoon Island State Park.

Once known as Hog Island, the land was torn in two during a 1921 hurricane, creating what we now call Honeymoon Island and Caladesi Island. The former earned its romantic name in the 1930s, when it was offered as a honeymoon prize to newlyweds in a national contest. While overnight stays are not permitted (there are plenty of accommodations on the mainland), Honeymoon Island boasts miles of soft white sand, scenic hiking trails, and a range of outdoor activities — from kayaking to biking. Wildlife sightings are common, too — you might even spot dolphins or manatees in the surrounding waters.

The Dunedin Causeway links the island to the mainland, making it easily accessible by car or bike (it's about 11 miles from Clearwater Beach). Entry costs $2 for cyclists and pedestrians or $8 per vehicle ($4 for single-occupant vehicles), and the park is open seven days a week, from 8 a.m. until sundown.

Next to the main parking lot, the Rotary Centennial Nature Center acts as the park's welcome center, where visitors can get their bearings and learn more about the park. This inviting visitor hub features exhibits on the island's history, geology, and wildlife, along with hands-on children's activities and knowledgeable volunteers who can offer the latest updates on conditions. It's a smart place to start your visit — weather, tides, and storm damage can all affect what areas are accessible and which activities are safe.

Just a short walk from the center, Wheel Fun Rentals provides bikes of all kinds, from classic cruisers to whimsical four-wheel Surreys and double Surreys that fit the whole family. Nature lovers can cycle or walk along one of Florida's most scenic hiking routes, the Osprey Trail. Here, sightings of ospreys, armadillos, gopher tortoises, and even the occasional pod of dolphins are common. Fair warning: Mosquito levels can be intense — even by Florida standards — especially after rain or in shaded areas. Be sure to pack insect repellent and apply it generously before heading out.

Since the storms of 2024, on-island dining options have been limited and restaurant hours can be unpredictable. Cafe Honeymoon and South Beach Pavilion Cafe are temporarily closed at the time of this writing. Bringing a picnic lunch and plenty of snacks is highly recommended, especially if you're planning to explore for most of the day. Of course, there are plenty of restaurant options on the mainland.

For water lovers, head to the Dunedin Causeway, where Sail Honeymoon rents kayaks and stand-up paddleboards — perfect for exploring the calm inlets around the island. Surfboards aren't available, but if you bring your own board, the north end of Honeymoon Island is a popular spot for catching waves. Just check with a volunteer at the visitor center first, especially since storm damage has changed the landscape. In 2024, hurricanes and other storms eventually split the island in two, cutting off the northern tip at high tide. While you can still reach it on foot at low tide, rising water has stranded unprepared visitors — so plan accordingly and bring a tide chart if you go exploring.

You can swim in designated beach areas, marked by flags at the entrances: green for safe, calm waters and yellow for moderate surf conditions. On gentle days, the crystal-clear waters at Oasis Beach, North Beach, and South Beach (also called Main Beach) are ideal for a refreshing dip. Swim shoes are a smart addition to your beach bag — the sand is often littered with broken shells and rocks, and your feet will thank you later. While Honeymoon Island isn't the #1 U.S. destination for manatee sightings, they are sometimes spotted offshore. These large mammals are extremely docile, but there's nothing like the slow glide of a manatee brushing past you in the water — so if you decide to go for a dip, keep your wits about you and always leave the animals alone. Never try to pet or touch them!