Dual Island Jewels

Just about 24 miles west across the Tampa Bay, Dunedin has two island state parks within its city limits-- one was named the country's best beach in 2008.

Most cities would be happy with one pristine subtropical island, but Dunedin has two: Caladesi Island and Honeymoon Island State Parks.

Caladesi can be reached by boat, including a ferry that departs from Honeymoon Island. A concession stand on the Caladesi offers food and drinks, as well as beach supplies, kayak and umbrella rentals, and souvenirs.

Honeymoon Island earned its name as a honeymoon destination and received national fame when its then-owner held contests in cities throughout the country to send newlyweds for free stays in the island’s thatched-roof cottages.

Honeymoon is accessible by a causeway from the mainland and offers 9 miles of shoreline, a dog-friendly beach, and trails through some of the last of Florida’s virgin slash pine forests.

For more information visit www.floridastateparks.org.