The Best Gulf coast nature reserve in Dunedin, Florida

Caladesi Island State Park is a hidden gem located at 1 Causeway Boulevard in Dunedin, Florida. This park is one of the few untouched islands along the Gulf Coast and is only accessible by boat, making it a truly unique and secluded destination. Visitors to Caladesi Island State Park can enjoy pristine beaches, kayak trips through mangrove forests, and nature trail walks to the historic Scharrer Homestead. The island's interior is filled with old-growth slash pines and expansive live oaks, creating a peaceful and natural environment for exploration.

Welcome to the Henry Scharrer Homestead, a treasured piece of history nestled in the heart of Dunedin, Florida. Located at Caladesi Island, this historic site is a testament to the life and legacy of Henry Scharrer, a Swiss immigrant who made the island his home in 1888. As the father of Myrtle Scharrer Betz, author of "Yesteryear I Lived in Paradise," Henry's story continues to inspire and educate visitors about the rich heritage of Caladesi Island. For over three decades, the Henry Scharrer Memorial Fund (HSMF) played a pivotal role in preserving this legacy, offering college scholarships, supporting educational initiatives, and promoting historical preservation. Although the fund was discontinued in 2015, its mission lives on through the Friends of the Island Parks, Inc., the citizen support group for Gulf Island State Parks. This organization continues to channel proceeds from the sales of "Yesteryear I Lived in Paradise" and the "Caladesi Cookbook: Recipes From a Florida Lifetime" to support educational and preservation goals at Caladesi Island State Park.