Caladesi Island State Park in Clearwater

The seaweed brought by the foaming waves on the delicate sand may not be everybody's delight and this sight may lead to the conclusion that the beach is not clean enough. Looking at it from a different perspective, the seashore with seaweed contrasting the golden dust may also be a sign of underdevelopment and the proof of virgin nature. Considering the second perspective Caladesi Island State Park in Clearwater has been rated America's Best Beach in 2007 and 2008 and its raw appearance is appreciated by the specialist Stephen Leatherman and visiting nature lovers.

A Hurricane Survivor

Caladesi Island was once part of Honeymoon Island, which is located to its North. In 1921 a hurricane has split the initial landmass in two giving tourists two islands where they can sunbathe and enjoy water related activities. Caladesi Island lies near Dunedin, Florida and is home of the Caladesi Island State Park.

The 3 miles long beaches can be described as having shallow, clear, calm waters. Spending a day on this wonderful underdeveloped island you will be able to rent out a beach chair or an umbrella. Even though the natural is still preserved, Caladesi has restroom facilities and public showers. Remember that there are no pets allowed and lifeguards report for duty only from the end of May till the beginning of September. Picnicking outside is also a lovely option, pavilions in the shade can be rented out and traveling with children, the young ones will have a lot of fun in the playground areas.

''Yesteryear I Lived in Paradise''

In the 1880s Caladesi was inhabited by Henry Scharrer and his daughter Myrtle. Wanting to underline the untouched beauty, the peace and quiet which offered the perfect setting while growing up, Myrtle, now age 87 has published the book ''Yesteryear I Lived in Paradise''. With this publishing, the author described life on a barrier island individualizing Caladesi as one of the few natural islands along Florida's Gulf Coast.

Beach and Animal Friendly Activities

Caladesi Island can make the perfect vacation for the ones traveling with friends or the significant other. The uncrowded seashore is ideal for dolphin or tortoise watching and the calm waters are perfect for snorkeling or kayaking. The 60 foot steel Lookout Tower erected here in 1969 once offered panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and St. Joseph Sound. For the ones curious to study nature there are a few ranger programs to choose from. You can increase your knowledge with ''ethical angling'', ''breakfast with a ranger'' or ''Caladesi Island:under the microscope''.

Spot the beauty in the underdeveloped! Caladesi Island State Park is a hurricane survivor where nature has been kind and entertainment comes easy for the ones loving the outdoors.