Florida Suncoast Tour

Barrier Islands and Beaches

Florida’s Suncoast offers beach lovers
a glimpse of paradise. Some of the
most beautiful barrier islands and
beaches in the world are found on the
Suncoast. Here you will find a chain of
islands with 35 miles of soft, white
sandy beaches. Historically, Florida's
Suncoast has more sunny days per
year than any other Florida coast,
which explains its name.

The Suncoast Barrier Islands are located
on a slowly sloping continental shelf with
gentle waves breaking on low energy beaches.
These ribbons of sand are parallel to the
mainland and are separated from the mainland
by estuaries, bays and lagoons. These islands
provide protection to the mainland from the
brunt of waves and are constantly being
shaped and reshaped. The landward side of
these barrier islands adds more miles of water
frontage on the Intracoastal Waterway.

Of the top ten Beaches in the United States,
as named by Dr. Beach, three are found on
Florida's Suncoast! Caladesi Island was named
America Best Beach in 2008. Fort Desoto won
this same award in 2005. Clearwater Beach
has been named the #1 City Beach in the Gulf
Region. Florida's Suncoast is unmatched among
visitor destinations and has accumulated
numerous awards from sand quality to
environmental management. Many call these
sandy beaches their favorite vacation spot.
Others, the ones who have yielded totally to
their charm, call them home.

The Suncoast is also called the Pirate Coast. During the late 18th and early 19th century,
pirates terrorized the coastal waters of West Florida. None are more famous than
the legendary pirate Jose Gaspar, who was the last of the Buccaneers.
Gaspar, preferred to call himself "Gasparilla’ - meaning "Gaspar
"the Outlaw. Each year, on the last Saturday in January, the
City of Tampa holds its traditional pirate invasion and
parade. The Gasparilla Celebration encompasses
a week's worth of activities held
throughout the city.

Tour of Florida's Suncoast
Barrier Islands and Beaches
North to South

Anclote Key

Google Map

Description
About 2,000 years ago this barrier island was pushed up from the Gulf floor to rest on a
limestone platform. Its geologic growth hasn't stopped. Since 1957 this 4 mile stretch of
sand has increased in size by 30%.

Attractions
A great place to spend an adventurous day. The pristine sand offers unspoiled beaches
and abundant bird life. Anclote Key Preserve State Park features a picturesque 1887
Federal Lighthouse that stands sentinel on the southern end of the island. Primitive
camping is available on Anclote Key. There are grills, tables and toilets. Due to its
remoteness, plan ahead by bringing water and supplies.

Three Rooker Bar

Google Map

Description
One of the last natural islands on Florida's Suncoast . Three Rooker Bar is a small,
semicircular island that started as a sand shoal, building up over the last couple
decades. The island is quickly being vegetated and increasing its stability.

Attractions
Very popular with boaters and bird watchers. Three Rooker Bar is only accessible by
private boat. A significant portion is designated "No Entry - Bird Sanctuary". There are
no docks, shelters, or public facilities on the island. There is no fee for landing.

Honeymoon Island

Google Map

Description
Isolated, secluded and accessible are words that describe the unspoiled 2,810 acres
and 5 miles of beach in Honeymoon Island State Park. Hurricanes have reshaped the
island several times. The last major restructuring occurred in 1921, leaving behind
what is now called Hurricane Pass, a waterway between Honeymoon Island and
Caladesi Island that provides boating access between St. Joseph Sound and the
Gulf of Mexico.

Attractions
An incredible variety of seashells. Shore birds and sea turtles build their nests among
the dunes. Swimming, surfing and fishing are favorite past times. Rent a kayak at the
concession/gift shop and explore Pelican Cove. The Osprey Trail provides two miles
of hiking. The Nature Center features a number of hands on displays featuring the
islands natural habitat. Covered pavilions with BBQ grills. Umbrellas and beach chairs
are available to rent.

Caladesi Island

Google Map

Description
Caladesi Island was created in 1921 after a storm shaped Hurricane Pass and
separated it from what was then Hog Island. Caladesi Island has 4 miles of pristine
Gulf beaches with shallow, clear, calm waters. Home to the Caladesi Island State Park
which is comprised of 650 upland acres and more than 1,100 acres of surrounding
mangroves and grass flats.

Attractions
Caladesi was named America’s Best Beach in 2008, by Dr. Beach. A truly spectacular
beach with 4 miles of beautiful white shoreline with high dunes that teem with golden
sea oats, making it home to hundreds of shore birds. Loggerhead and green sea
turtles use the beach for nesting. Wading birds such as great blue herons, snowy
egrets and roseate spoonbills feed around the shallow tidal flats. Ideal for
beachcombing, shelling and swimming. A three mile nature trail through the island’s
unspoiled habitat. Snack bar and gift shop. Rent a kayak, beach chairs and umbrellas.
Shower and restroom facilities. Picnic shelters with grills.

Clearwater Island

Google Map

Description
Clearwater Beach Island was named the #1 City Beach in the Gulf Region by
Dr. Beach! It stretches for 2.5 miles of extra-wide, soft, white sand beach. It has
also been designated a Blue Wave Beach and received the Clean Water - Clean
Sand Award. Clearwater pass divides Clearwater Beach Island from Sand Key
Island. Two long jetties prevent the pass from shoaling.

Attractions
Pier 60, the central hub of Clearwater Beach Island is a 1,050-foot fishing pier with
bait house and sightseeing area. Each evening, Pier 60 Park is home to Sunset at
Pier 60,a nightly street festival packed with fun and entertainment. Enjoy live
entertainment with street performers doing magic, juggling, musical and dance acts.
In addition, there is a nightly arts and crafts display where you can purchase home
made items created by local artisans. The gathering last two hours before and after
sunset and is a great night of family fun.

There’s plenty of activity on Clearwater Beach and Marina. Try parasailing, jet skiing,
diving, snorkeling, sightseeing cruises, pirate ship cruise, sailing adventures, charter,
fishing boats, dining, dancing and dolphin watching. Nice picnic shelters and shaded
playground equipment. Open-air restrooms, showers and concessions. Lifeguards
are on duty year-round.

Sand Key Island

Google Map

Description
Sand Key Island is the longest of the barrier islands on the Suncoast at 14-miles.
Sand Key has been the recipient of a recent beach nourishment project that added
tons of powder-white sand.

Attractions
Sand Key features eight gorgeous beaches – Sand Key Park, Belleair, Indian Rocks,
Indian Shores, Redington Shores, North Redington, Redington and Madeira.
At the southern tip of the island is John's Pass Village & Boardwalk, a quaint shopping
district.

Sand Key Park

Google Map

        On the northern tip of Sand Key Island is the 90 acre Sand Key Park. This
        park consistently rates in the top 20 beaches in the Unites States with a
        huge powder-white sandy beach and gorgeous blue water. In the park are
        picnic shelters with grills, playground, restroom and a dog park. The beach
        area has cabana rentals, shower towers, and two bath houses with changing
        stalls and restrooms. A lifeguard may not be duty. There are no boat, jet ski
        or canoe launch facilities.
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        Belleair Beach

Google Map

        Belleair Beach is an upscale residential communityof about 4,100 residents.
        Belleair Beach maintains a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere providing all the
        advantages of waterfront living and the charm of an old-fashioned
        neighborhood. Belleair’s 4,500 feet of white sandy beach may be accessed
        through the City's four beach accesses.
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        Indian Rocks Beach

Google Map

        Indian Rocks Beach is a quiet town of 4,200 full-time residents. Preferring to
        remain down-to-earth and with a whiff of what beach life used to be a long time
        ago, its 2.7 miles of beachfront is popular with all ages. You'll find a smile on
        every face, and a warm Florida welcome with everyone you meet. On the West
        side of Gulf Blvd are the sandy beaches and a mix of beach cottages, homes,
        high rise condominiums, and a few businesses. The Eastern side of Indian
        Rocks Beach features frontage on the Intracoastal Waterway. At some
        points along this narrow piece of land you can view both the Gulf and
        Intracoastal Waterway.
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          Indian Shores

Google Map

        The Town of Indian Shores is approximately 2.6 miles of re-nourished
        sandy beaches and is home to about 1,500 residents. Indian Shores is a
        quieter, less crowded alternative to its larger neighbors such as Clearwater
        Beach and St. Pete Beach. It's a great place for vacationers seeking a
        quiet or family vacation. The town host a variety of shops, restaurants lining
        the white sandy beach. Activities such as adventure golf and boat rentals are
        nearby. Home to Holiday Villas II Beach Condo.

        The Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary is found in Indian Shores. The sanctuary
        houses and treats injured pelicans, herons, egrets, owls, hawks and other
        birds. It is open to the public every day and admission is free.
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         Redington Shores

Google Map

        The Town of Redington Shores has 1.2 miles of wide beaches, fishing, boating,
        pleasant parks, natural beauty, and quiet soothing relaxation. Some 2,500
        people call Redington Shores home. The Town features the Dubai Fishing Pier
        (Redington Long Pier), one of the best spots to fish directly on the Gulf of
        Mexico. You need a Florida fishing license to fish from the pier or shore.
        You are close to shopping, restaurants, water-sports, recreation, golfing,
        boating, eco-tourism, professional sports, arts, culture, attractions and
        theme parks.
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         North Redington Beach

Aerial view North Redington Beach Florida

Google Map

        Almost a mile of beautiful sandy beach slopes gently into the Gulf of Mexico.
        It is little wonder that 1,500 permanent residents delight in calling the
        Town of North Redington Beach home. It is a small town with a mixture
        of waterfront single family and multi-family residences fronting on both the
        Gulf of Mexico and the Intracosatal Waterway. Local shops, restaurants,
        and accommodations include all the services and amenities of a much larger
        city without the crowds.
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        Redington Beach

Google Map

        The Town Redington Beach is primarily residential with less than two square
        miles and approximately 1,700 residents. This quaint community consists of
        beach front condos and single family dwellings located on the beautiful Gulf
        of Mexico. You won't be bothered by large crowds or an active beach.
        Redington Beach is the place for rest and relaxation.
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        Madeira Beach

Google Map

        On the Gulf of Mexico waits an island two miles long and a SMILE wide.
        The City of Madeira Beach has a friendly, laid-back atmosphere and is ideal
        for a vacation spot with whole family. At the heart of Madeira Beach is
        John's Pass Fishing Village and Boardwalk. This is a popular destination
        that offers over 100 shops, dining, entertainment, a wide array of water
        activities, pirate cruise, dolphin cruise, charter fishing boats and even a
        ghost tour! In the fall, fresh seafood can be sampled at the John's Pass
        Seafood Festival.

Treasure Island

Google Map

Description
Treasure Island got its name after several property owners attempted to
boost sales of the properties being developed on the island by first burying
and then "discovering" a couple of wooden chests on the beach. The news
of the discovery spread quickly and people began to call the area Treasure
Island. The real treasure you will find on this island is the sand-sational
beaches. Treasure Island has 3 miles of the widest white sandy beach on the
Gulf coast. On the Intracoastal Waterway side of Treasure Island is Boca
Ciega Bay.

Attractions
Treasure Island is the widest beaches in the area and plays host to several
sporting activities including an annual kite-flying contest, and a sand sculpting
contest. Known as the "Sand Sculpture Capital of Florida,” Treasure
Island has held the Guinness World Record for largest sand castle. You
can walk along the sea shore or take a stroll on mile long Treasure Island
Beach Trail. Other annual events include the Halloween Spooktacular;
the Holiday Celebration and Boat Parade; Sun, Sand and Symphony Concerts;
and the Bud Light Florida Beach Volleyball Tournament.

Sunset Beach has the most amazing sunsets! A surfing hot-spot. When the
surf is big enough and the tide is right, there is a nice outside break in the pass.
You have to paddle to get to it. The surf tends to break close to shore and is
often very steep and fast breaking. Go to Sunset Beach to experience the eye
candy of the party scene, You can also enjoy the local specialties in casual
waterfront restaurants and Tiki bars.

Long Key

Google Map

Description
Long Key is a long 4.5 mile crescent shaped sandy beach. The City of St. Pete Beach
is found here, with Upham Beach on the north end and Pass-A-Grille Beach on the
south end.

Attractions
Upham Beach is one of the west coast’s best surfing spots. On a good day, Upham
can produce surf rides more than 100 yards long. Wooden dune walkovers lead
from the parking lot, across the dunes, to a very wide white sandy beach. A
shortwalk north takes you to Blind Pass, which has a rock jetty and is a great
place to watch a sunset. A beachside café offers breakfast and lunch.

Visit the Don CeSar Hotel, a National Historic Landmark, known for its rich history
and notable clientele. Tour the “Pink Palace” and its beautiful botanical gardens.
Take a stroll down historic Corey Avenue where you will find a number of charming
shops such as an old-fashioned 5 and dime store, Kris Kringle's Christmas Shoppe,
and the "Beach Theatre", which shows independent films and other movies.

Pass-A-Grille Beach is a National Historic District featuring a museum and 22 historic
structures. Pass-A-Grille Beach has no high-rise buildings, keeping it a unique slice
of old Florida. The sidewalk runs the entire length of Pass-a-Grille (22 blocks). Great
for walkers and runners. Available are restrooms, outdoor showers, food
concession, and beach supply stores. Choose from several cafes and restaurants
with the Hurricane Restaurant being one of the most popular. It's a huge 3 story
wooden building. It has a top deck where you can get a good view of the beach while
sipping on your favorite drink.

Shell Key

Google Map

Description
Shell Key is an uninhabited barrier island that is located between Fort Desoto Park
and Pass-A-Grille Beach. The island is about 2.5 miles long and has about 180 acres
of dry land. Named one of the most important birding sites in the state by Audubon
of Florida.

Attractions
This island features dynamic sand dunes and beaches. Shell Key remains one of
the last pristine barrier islands in Florida, providing ideal habitat for more than 100
species of nesting, migrating and wintering seabirds and shorebirds. Its beach
offers excellent shelling. Very popular with boaters, nature lovers, kayakers,
snorkelers, fishermen, campers, and astronomers, who take advantage of the
dark nights on the island without lights. There are no restrooms, food or water.
Whatever you need will have to be brought along.

Mullet Key

Google Map

Description
Fort Desoto Park consists of 1,136 acres made up of five interconnected islands.
The Fort was built on this site during the Spanish-American War as a coastal
defense area. Visit the historic museum. The Fort is listed in the National Register
of Historic Places

Attractions
Over 7 miles of coast, including three miles of the finest white sandy beach in the
United States. Dr. Beach named Fort Desoto as America’s Best Beach in 2005.
The beach is a spectacular combination of soft white sand, calm, clear water and
a laid-back atmosphere.

There are two fishing piers, boat launching facility, family camping and picnic
areas. Rental facilities for canoes, kayaks and bicycles. A concession stand,
bathrooms and covered picnic shelters are available. One of the best beaches
for dogs, Fort De Soto Park is a canine paradise.

Egmont Key

Google Map

Description
Egmont Key State Park is located at the mouth of Tampa Bay southwest of
Fort Desoto. Egmont Key is a 440-acre island distinguished by its 1858
lighthouse. Egmont Key was once the site of Fort Dade, an armament for
Tampa at the beginning of the Spanish-American War.

Attractions
A place to relax and collect sea shells along secluded, pristine beaches.
Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, fishing, hiking, and water sports, nature
photography and viewing a wide range of resident and migratory birdlife
Walk the through the historic ruins of Fort Dade. A gopher tortoise can
be seen at almost every turn as you walk the historic paths. Its beach is
used as a nesting area by loggerhead sea turtles.