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Coastal geologist Dr. Stephen Leatherman, FL International University, names Caladesi Island as a top U.S. beach year after. And you will know why once you visit this "land in paradise."

Once on the island, accessible only by way of water (ferry rides available), you'll find a quiet marina and gift shop, picnic table with and without shelters, and meandering boardwalks through sable palms and cactus to the awesome power white beach. As well, you will enjoy seeing various wildlife such the gopher tortoises. On the island the tortoises average about 10-inches long and probably eight pounds. These federally protected land gophers live 40-60 years in the wild and longer in captivity.

After a swim in the cool water, a hike over the 3-mile nature trail through a hammock that covers the inter island is a must do. A bit of advice here: stay on the trail; rattlesnakes are common in the hammock. Don't mess with them. And take your bottled water. There is a freshwater pond at the center of the island but I don't think you'd want to drink from it.

Showers are available so before you leave the island you may want to wash off the salt water and get out of your wet swimsuits. Also, you may want to grab a bite to eat at the snack bar. Warning: watch the seagulls or they will steal food right out of your hand!

The round-trip ferry ride from Honeymoon Island costs $9 per adult and $5.50 per child. For more ferry information call (727) 734-5263. Before planning your trip to Caladesi Island, you may want to learn more about various happenings there. For instance, on Saturdays, 11 a.m., January through June, visitors are invited to meet a Park Ranger at the Caladesi Island marina for a program about the island's natural history, cultural history, beach walk, trail walk, or guided kayak tour (weather tides permitting.) Also, the Gulfwinds/Marinemax 3-day event in May includes a "Kids Pirate Hunt" and "Beach Olympics," along with other activities and family-type entertainment with plenty of food. For additional information call 727-536-2628 or the park office 727-469-5942.

Learn more about this author, Patricia Lieb.
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