Honeymoon Island State Park
Looking for a place to get away from it all? There is a gorgeous barrier island only a short drive from Clearwater or Tampa that is the perfect spot. The white sand beaches and diverse trails of Honeymoon Island State Park will have you saying ‘ahhhh’ in no time!
About the Park
The island itself was purchased by Clinton Washburn in the 1930s. He commented on how the area would be the perfect place to honeymoon, and thus Honeymoon Island became known. Throughout the 1940s, over fifty honeymoon cabins were built, and honeymooners from all over came to see the exquisite sights. Since then, it has been used in wartime and fell into despair until 1981 when the Honeymoon Island Recreational Area was finalized.
Photo credit floridastateparks.org
Now, visitors can take strolls around the shimmering beaches, throw a frisbee for their pets, and enjoy the picturesque landscape that the island has to offer. Here, all ages can experience the see some curious outdoor creatures in their natural habitats.
Activities
While camping near Honeymoon Island State Park, guests of all ages will find an abundance of activities to keep them on the move each day. Families can rent bicycles to zip around the scenic trails or paddle out in kayaks to enjoy the glistening Pelican Cove. If you’re looking for a more relaxing way to vacation, there are many fishing areas with great catches such as flounder, trout, cobia, and many more. Ready for a peaceful hike? Grab a picnic basket and take our 2.5-mile Osprey Trail through lush pines! If you are feeling more adventurous, take the ferry over to pristine Caladesi Island State Park and explore its unspoiled beaches!
Honeymoon Island State Park Map
Amenities
From beaches to picnic areas, concessions, and exhibits, everyone in your group will find a fun way to explore and indulge. The park has approximately four miles of shoreline where beach-goers can sunbathe, build sandcastles, and even let their furry friends run free at the pet beach! The concession offers a variety of food, snacks, and souvenirs, and guests can rent chairs and umbrellas here as well. Pets are welcome at the unique pet beach and in specific pet-friendly areas.
Unique Events
At the park, there is a multitude of experiences for everyone to enjoy from trails for hiking and walking, kayak tours, and swimming.
The Junior Ranger Program is perfect for young explorers to gain hands-on knowledge through multiple activities and earn their Junior Ranger badge. With challenges over stars, senses, plants, animal tracks, and more, your Junior Ranger will be delighted to see the stamps collected in the Ranger Passport.
Type of Camping
While this particular state park does not offer overnight accommodations, you can find many RV camping and campsites within a short driving distance.
You can find RV, tent and cabin sites at these locations within a 50-mile drive:
- Hillsborough River State Park
- Little Manatee River State Park
- Alafia River State Park
These Florida’s State Parks offer a variety of camping options. Whether you’re ready to pitch a tent, hook up a camper, or roll in with your RV, all of your overnight needs can be found in one of our sites. Most of our sites come complete with a grill and picnic table, as well as hookups for water and electricity. Each campground has central bathrooms and dump stations as well for RV camping.
Campers look for a more “homey” overnight stay can find comfort in one of the cozy cabins. Some are fully equipped, while others only provide the basic necessities, but you’ll find a lush landscape or glistening water views from any of them.
