One of the few untouched islands along the Gulf Coast, Caladesi Island State Park is accessible only by boat, but is worth the extra effort.

Whether it is a stroll along the island’s pristine beaches or a kayak trip through the bayside mangrove forest, a trip to Caladesi Island is an unforgettable experience. Take a nature trail walk to the historic Scharrer Homestead through the island’s interior and listen to the ocean breeze whisper through old-growth slash pines and feel the embrace of expansive live oaks.

Discover why homesteader Myrtle Scharrer Betz called this place “Paradise” in her memoirs.

Experiences

Boating
Boaters can enjoy the 108 slip bayside marina, or in calm weather, anchor offshore. Overnight docking with electric and water hook-ups is permitted in the bayside marina, but boaters must register before sundown.

Camping Boat
Caladesi Island State Park has a marina with floating docks with 30 amp electric service and water hookups. A covered pavilion with a grill is available for picnicking. A snack bar and gift shop is located in the marina. Three sites are ADA accessible. This marina is a designated Clean Marina. Reservations can be made online at ReserveAmerica or first-come, first serve in the marina. Fees are $24 per night, plus tax through ReserveAmerica, plus a non-refundable $6.70 reservation fee or $1 per foot, plus tax, at the marina. T-Docks are non-reservable and rent for $2 per foot, including tax.

Paddling
Canoeing and kayaking are available for rent.

Fishing
Fishing is allowed in designated areas. All fishing within the park must conform to regulations concerning size, number, method of capture and season.

A fishing license may be required.  More information is available at the Florida Wildlife Commission’s Fishing in Florida.
Picnicking
Picnic tables are available. Consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited.

Swimming
Swimming is available in designated areas.

Amenities

Beaches
Visitors to coastal parks are reminded to pay close attention to the Warning Flag Signs posted at welcome stations and on the beaches. These flags indicate the swimming conditions at the beach. Double red flags mean absolutely no swimming because of high winds and undertow currents; yellow means swim with caution and stay close to shore; green means that the waters are safe; purple means that marine pests are present. Please use caution! Lifeguards are not provided.

Concession and Restaurant
Food and/or drinks can be purchased through our visitor's services.

Pets
Pets are not allowed on the beach at any time. They are permitted in the rest of the park as long as they are on a six-foot hand-held leash and must be under the owner's control at all times. Pets are not allowed on the ferry to Caladesi Island.

Playground
For added enjoyment, the park has a children's playground conveniently located in the picnic area. The playground has swings, three slides of different sizes, crawl through, climbing bars and fun stuff to do on the ground (in the sand). It has a small pavilion for parents to hang out in the shade while the children play. At the playground we have a "For Kids by Kids" informational kiosk that has information about the park from a kid's point of view.

Restroom Facilities
ADA accessible restroom facilities are available at the park.