Caledesi Island Beach: Voted #1 Beach in 2008

Islands and state parks together result in protected beauty graces the gulf coast off of Clearwater Florida. Caledesi Island beach has been voted the number one beach in the U.S. in 2008. The only man-made additions have been the ranger station, concession, marina, playground, picnic areas, gift store and shower/bathroom facilities.

You can travel by ferry, private boat, or you can walk for about an hour from Clearwater to Caledesi Island, which is about an hour from Pier 60. Check out the rules for ferry passengers, as the four-hour stay on the island may have been extended. You can dock your own boat at marina #108 and register with the ranger. The ferry runs from 10 am to sundown.

There is electrical and water hookups for boats. Pets are not allowed on the ferry, have to be on a leash, and can only be in designated areas. Plan it as a day trip as youll be leaving at the end of the day due to no camping. Or you can sleep in your boat I suppose.

Adults and children alike will enjoy the three miles of beautiful clear and shallow waters. Plan for shelling, though not live shells as those are protected, playground for children, kayak rentals available, picnic areas, and just simple sunbathing. Check about fishing licenses as fishing can be from the beach or on the boat.

They say to bring a sweater and good shoes, but as I write this, it is a warm 78 degrees F at 11 am at the end of March, so think swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen also. Public showers and restrooms are available. A lifeguard is on duty from the end of May to beginning of September. Beach wheelchairs are available from the ranger. Beach chairs and umbrellas can be rented. Have fun and respect the beauty of this natural resource.