Nature Beckons at Honeymoon Island State Park

Honeymoon Island State Park

Far away from the clutter of Clearwater Beach and yet close to some of the great picturesque views, Honeymoon State Island Park is truly loved and appreciated by its visitors. Embracing a great geography and far-reaching history in itself, this place offers to its visitors lot more than just beaches, breezes and Gulf waters.

The island had been sitting along the Gulf waters for a long time before it was discovered and inhabited by Tocobaga Indians, Spanish explorers, fishermen and even, pirates. The remains of Tocobaga Indians, who were wiped out because of the diseases brought in by the explorers, still reside in the low-lying mounds on the neighboring islands.

It wasn't until early 1940s that this island came to be known as Honeymoon Island. A New York developer who enticed several newly weds onto the island during the '40s took away the credit for transforming this land mass. By building several thatched bungalows, he promised honeymooners a great, intimate romantic experience.

While this state park has seen many inhabitants come and go, natural occurrences haven't left it undiscovered either. Two hurricanes, one in 1848 and the other in 1921, altered the island drastically. The latter actually split the isle, forming Hurricane Pass and the recently acclaimed Caladesi Island to the south.

Whatever this island might have gone through, its history and geography gives modern visitors the pleasure of nature exploration.

Mangrove swamps, sea-grass beds, tidal flats, salt marshes and virgin slash pine forests would be loved by the eco-travelers. Island has great nature trails for people who would love to hike and explore several species of birds and animals. It is not hard to spot osprey nests, great horned owl and several other birds. Also, watch out for rattlesnakes and raccoons. You will be glad to know that this park houses several endangered species, and you might be lucky to single out few of them on a guided tour.

It is very likely that when you visit this park, you will not find big crowds. The north end of the park is usually secluded. You can stir up your vivid imagination to make this island your own little paradise for a while. Enjoy picnicking with your loved ones and stick around for a great view as the sun sets down. Fishing, kayaking and surfing are some other things you can take up at this island. A concession area will take care of your needs when stomach starts growling.

Now, how does the idea of a dog beach sound? If you always left your pets out of the family fun, the state park beach will do justice to you and your pets. The south end of Honeymoon Island is reserved especially for dogs where you can watch your darlings run around in the sand and frolic in the water. There's also a doggy shower at this end of the beach. It seems the park authorities can almost sense the pulse of pet-owners.

Although the beach is mostly rocky and grassy, it allows the visitors some peaceful time by the lengthy shorelines that are still largely unspoiled. Some of the annual events at the Honeymoon Island include 'Halloween in the Park' that takes place towards the end of October and a 'Seafood Festival and Boat Show' in November. For the price of $5 for up to eight people per car and $3 for single person, a visit to Honeymoon Island would make a great assignment on your calendar

#1 Causeway Blvd.
Dunedin, Florida 34698
(727) 469-5942
http://www.FloridaStateParks.org