When visiting the Tampa/St. Petersburg area in Florida, I would suggest a kayaking trip from the Dunedin Causeway. The causeway leads to the Honeymoon Island State Park and access is available to Caladesi Island.
It is very easy to launch from the causeway. Your vehicle can be backed right up to the water and can be left while you explore the area waterways.
If you don t have a kayak, it s no problem, a rental concession stand is right on the Causeway.
My favorite route is from the causeway. You would paddle west and then cross under the west causeway bridge. This will take you to the east side of the island. The trip will take approximately one and a half hours to complete. During the summer be certain to wear a hat, take drinking water, and liberally apply sunscreen. Be sure to wear a life preserver at all times. Paddling in the winter holds some hazards, but that s the fun part. One in particular is the turning west around the north side of the island. The waves are heavy during the windy periods. If you are not an experienced kayaker, it may be better to stay on the leeward side of the island where it is sheltered. Another hazard is on the south side of the island where the intracoastal inlet is located. This is not a no wake zone and the boats can kick up some interesting waves.
If you elect to paddle south from the causeway, you can travel to Caladesi Island where there be a kayak trail. Use caution when crossing the intracoastal at that point for the same reason I note above. The trail is marked and leads you through the mangrove trees. You can pick up the trail near the marina on Caladesi Island.
Caladesi Island is not really an island, at least it s not now. In 1985 Hurricane Elena filled in the pass between Caladesi Island and Clearwater Beach. I found this out the hard way when I thought because it s named Caladesi Island I could paddle around it. Since then I purchased coastal maps and carry these with me when I go out.
Small islands dot the area and if you feel adventurous you can pack a tent, sleeping bag and supplies and camp on one of the islands. As far as I know you do not need permission. Be sure to check the weather reports and if possible bring a weather radio with you. A night under the stars is a great way to get away for the problems of the world.
For those who would a longer kayak trip heading north is Anclote Key. Anclote Key has a working lighthouse and several trails. On the way you will pass Three Rooker Bar, a popular party area for local boaters and a great place to take a break, get out of the kayak and stretch.
Also in the area is Howard Park with a beach and kayak trail. The sponging village of Tarpon Springs is a bit of paddle, doable.
Dunedin Causeway is a good location for launching and exploring the North Pinellas County waterways.
Have fun and be safe!
Author Resource:
Gregory Colvin is a fine art photographer and travel writer based in Tampa Florida. His art can be seen at http://www.gregorycolvinphotography.com/html/codes Gregory Colvin Fine Art Photography and his travel site is http://www.worldwideadventures.com/html/codes Travel Log
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