Trip ideas while visiting Clearwater Beach in Florida
In the early 1900s, this beautiful island gained fame as the chosen honeymoon spot for winners of Life magazine’s newlywed contest. Its charm and allure have made it a beloved vacation getaway ever since, especially due to its stunning white sandy beaches. Unsurprisingly, Honeymoon Island State Park, the protected area on the island, continues to attract a large number of visitors and remains one of Florida’s top state parks.
Just a short 11-mile drive north of downtown Clearwater Beach, you’ll find a beautiful natural barrier island known as the state park. It boasts over 4 miles of pristine beaches and a 3-mile-long nature trail that’s perfect for exploring. Not only can you enjoy the sun, sand, and sea here, but there’s also an informative nature center where you can learn more about the island’s ecosystem. If you’re feeling adventurous, the park offers bike and kayak rentals for you to explore the surrounding area. Keep your eyes peeled while you’re there, as the park is home to a variety of fascinating animal species. From October to May, you might even catch a glimpse of nesting bald eagles in the trees. During your trek along the Osprey Trail or the Pelican Trail, don’t be surprised if you encounter ospreys, great horned owls, herons, egrets, and an array of delightful songbirds.