Caladesi Island State Park Travel Guide

Kayaks are available for rent through the park concession....weather permitting. You can paddle through the mangroves along the still waters of the channel.

There are three different hikes you can do on Caladesi. There are two loop trails....the Hammock Trail takes about an hour and a half to complete. You'll see maritime hammock, oak, red bay, sabal palm, and Southern red cedar, palmetto, and wax myrtle. Raccoons, gopher tortoises, and even the eastern diamondback rattlesnake call this home.

The prickly pear cactus is prevalent all over the island. It is a treat for the gopher tortoises that live here.

During the lightning season, park staff keep growth under control with ecological burns. This provides maintenance while minimizing danger. You'll notice the charred trees if you walk the nature trail!

This is not a high traffic beach and has become a favorite spot for sea turtles to lay their eggs. The park service keeps track of nests and blocks them off for safe hatching!

When arriving to the island by boat, you will see the whole eastern coast is mangrove forests. There are four different species here that shelter the island and nurture many of the animal residents.

Even on a bad day you shouldn't have to contend with a crowd on this beach. Stretching forever on the western side of the island, this beach offers soft, white sand and warm, blue water. You will have plenty of room to stretch out!