Park & nature
Caladesi Island
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Caladesi Island is a pristine barrier island off the coast of Clearwater, accessible only by private boat or ferry. Its untouched beaches offer soft white sand and calm Gulf waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The island is a protected wildlife habitat, home to shorebirds and sea turtles, and its nature trails wind through mangroves and pine flatwoods. Shelling is a favorite activity, with abundant scallop and whelk shells along the shore. Visitors can kayak through the mangrove tunnels or hike the 3-mile trail to the Gulf beach, experiencing a true escape from urban life.
Don't miss
- Collect seashells along the secluded Gulf beach, known for scallop and whelk shells.
- Kayak through the calm mangrove tunnels on the island's paddling trail.
- Hike the 3-mile nature trail through pine flatwoods and coastal scrub.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Caladesi Island
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inSelf-Guided Island Tour: CLEAR/Standard Kayak, SUP-Bonita Springs4.9★ · 173 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$25 per personSee dates →
Most bookedLittle Toot Dolphin Adventure at Clearwater Beach4.9★ · 5,785 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$37 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleClearwater Beach Private Pontoon Boat Tours5★ · 193 travelers4–8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$379 per personSee dates →More attractions in Clearwater