Honeymoon Island State Park(North Beach, Oasis Beach)

Near Honeymoon Island State Park, there are several excellent dining options. Molly Goodhead's Raw Bar & Restaurant in Palm Harbor offers a quirky, seafood-heavy American menu with a lively atmosphere. Another great choice is Ozona Blue Grilling Co, known for its eclectic seafood dishes and waterfront seating. For a more casual experience, The Ozona Pig serves hickory-smoked BBQ in a cozy setting. In Dunedin, Bon Appétit Restaurant & Marina Bar provides an upscale dining experience with European cuisine and stunning marina views. Lastly, The Living Room on Main offers a warm, casual atmosphere with locally sourced dishes.

For accommodations near Honeymoon Island State Park, several hotels in Clearwater Beach offer convenient options. The Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa features a private beach and multiple pools, providing a refined stay. Another choice is the Gulfview Hotel - On the Beach, offering simple rooms with kitchenettes and a private beach. The Hampton Inn & Suites Clearwater Beach provides modern rooms and suites with a beachfront pool and free breakfast.

Honeymoon Island State Park offers a range of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The park includes restrooms, showers, picnic pavilions with grills, and a Limitless playground. Visitors can rent bicycles, kayaks, beach chairs, and umbrellas from the concession stand. Additionally, the Rotary Centennial Nature Center provides educational insights into the park's natural and human history. The park is wheelchair accessible, with free beach wheelchairs available upon request.

The park's facilities are designed to be family-friendly and accessible. The elevated boardwalks lead to the beach, and the picnic area is equipped with tables and grills. The nature center and café are also wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the park's offerings.

Honeymoon Island State Park offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing for species like Spanish mackerel and tarpon, and hiking along the Osprey Trail. The park also allows kayaking and canoeing, providing a serene way to explore the surrounding waters. For those interested in wildlife, the park is a great spot for birdwatching, with species like osprey and eagles frequently seen. Surfing is another popular activity, especially on the north end near bathhouse 3.

The park's natural setting and diverse wildlife make it an ideal location for nature lovers. The Osprey Trail offers a glimpse into the area's unique ecosystem, while the beach provides ample opportunities for relaxation and water sports.

Honeymoon Island State Park is committed to accessibility. The park offers free beach wheelchairs, which can be requested at the ranger station. The facilities, including restrooms, picnic areas, and the Rotary Centennial Nature Center, are wheelchair accessible. Additionally, paved pathways and elevated boardwalks provide easy access to the beach for visitors with mobility needs. Service animals are welcome in all areas of the park, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of Honeymoon Island.

Parking at Honeymoon Island State Park is convenient and accessible. The park offers parking areas near the beach, picnic area, and the Rotary Centennial Nature Center. The parking fee is $8 per vehicle for up to eight people, or $4 for single-occupant vehicles. The parking lots are well-maintained and provide easy access to the park's amenities. Additionally, the park offers disability parking spaces, ensuring that all visitors can access the facilities.

The parking areas are strategically located to minimize walking distances to the beach and other attractions within the park. This makes it easy for visitors to enjoy the park's activities without worrying about parking logistics.

Honeymoon Island State Park has a fascinating history. Originally part of a larger island known as Hog Island, it was split into two by a hurricane in 1921. In the late 1930s, the northern part was developed as a honeymoon destination, with 50 cottages built for newlyweds. After World War II, the cottages fell into disrepair, but local environmentalists prevented further development, leading to the park's current status as a protected area.

The park is also known for its diverse wildlife. Loggerhead sea turtles nest on the beach from May to October, and visitors can spot a variety of bird species, including bald eagles and roseate spoonbills. The park's natural beauty and wildlife make it a unique and educational destination.

Near Honeymoon Island State Park, there are several attractions worth exploring. The park itself serves as a ferry terminal for Caladesi Island State Park, offering access to another pristine beach area. In Dunedin, visitors can explore the charming downtown area with its shops and restaurants. The nearby Clearwater Beach also offers a variety of attractions, including the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, famous for Winter the Dolphin from the movie Dolphin Tale.

For nature enthusiasts, the park's proximity to Caladesi Island provides an opportunity to explore another unspoiled barrier island. The Osprey Trail within Honeymoon Island offers a glimpse into the local flora and fauna, making it a must-visit for those interested in natural history.