Why You Should Visit: The Dunedin Causeway
Why You Should Visit: The Dunedin Causeway
Are you looking for the ultimate beach day? Fun in the sun? On beach parking? The Dunedin Causeway has all of this and more! You will love your time spent at this popular landmark.
Where is the Dunedin Causeway located?
Dunedin, Florida is a charming coastal town located along the central Gulf Coast of Florida. Specifically, a short drive from Clearwater, Tampa, and St. Petersburg.
The Dunedin Causeway is a narrow stretch of land that reaches into the Intercoastal Waterway and ultimately leads to Honeymoon Island State Park.
If you’re in Pinellas County, follow Curlew Road all the way West. Once you cross over Alternate 19, you will pass by Hurricane Eddie’s on the North side and the Marker 1 Marina on the South side.
Causeway Boulevard will merge into a 2 lane road and you have now entered the area for the Dunedin Causeway.
What Is The Dunedin Causeway?
The Causeway is a unique stretch of land with strips of beach parking along both sides of the road. A multi-use trail lines the entire path out to the Honeymoon Island State Park, and there is never a shortage of people walking their dogs, jogging, skating, and biking along this trail.
The Dunedin Causeway is a great place to launch your kayak and paddleboards or wade out for a swim. The Causeway also offers many sturdy palm trees to hang a hammock and take a little siesta.
This area is unique for the ability to park your car or truck on the sand, pop open your tailgate, and enjoy your beach party in your parking spot. There are not many places quite like it in the area.
Things To Do On The Dunedin Causeway
Where do I begin? Well, as a local, I love bringing my paddleboard down here for a super easy launch access. The pup and I have paddled over to the Honeymoon Island Dog Beach to play. It’s a nice, easy paddle and not too far from the Causeway.
Dogs are permitted on the paved trail, only, however, launching the paddleboard and kayak with the dog has never been a problem, as we launch and go!
If you’re visiting, rent a kayak from the vendor on the South side. You can’t miss it, there are tons of kayaks, paddle boards, and other toys to rent.
Take a nap in a hammock. We love our portable hammocks and have napped in them all over Florida. There are plenty of great trees for this activity, but it is popular, so plan to arrive on the early side.
Go Fishing! I always see folks fishing from the Causeway. I’m not sure of their success rate, but as they say, “A bad day fishing is better than a good day at work.”
Pack a picnic. Ok, if you’re an out-of-towner, you may not know about the delicious Pub Subs that you can get at Publix Supermarkets. You’re in luck! At the intersection of Alternate 19 and Curlew Road, you’ll find a beloved Publix. Trust me on this one. They are way better than any other sub shop around.
Pro Tip: Download the Publix app and order your subs for pick-up!
You can stock your cooler with all of the essentials that you will need for your beach picnic. This Publix also sells a variety of beach gear, like towels, sunscreen, and other things you didn’t know you needed!
Sunrise or Sunset?
Well, this is up to you. Personally, I have not caught a sunrise from the Dunedin Causeway, however, I have friends that have and they say it’s quite spectacular. If you’re an early bird, no doubt, it will be less busy with fewer people on the trail. After you have seen this amazing sunrise, be sure to go find one of the best breakfast places in Dunedin.
Now sunsets, on the other hand, are my jam! I have not been disappointed any time I have gone out to the Causeway for a sunset. It’s different every time I’m there.
First, as the Earth rotates, the sun sets at a different point on the horizon every day. Depending on the time of year, the sun may dip below the horizon behind Honeymoon Island State Park. Does this matter to me? No. It’s still gorgeous.
Secondly, the tide could be high or it could be low. This being said, it might be a good idea to download a tide app or check the tide chart. I have seen vehicles up to their “knees” during a high tide as their owners are nowhere to be found, out paddling around, and BOOM! High Tide. It could be an expensive day.
Low tides are great because it gives everyone more beach to enjoy. You can walk way out in the surf on a low tide. Once, I had to walk my paddleboard back to shore because the water was so shallow. I was pretty far offshore, too. It was interesting.
Use The Paved Recreation Trail
I’ll be honest with this one. The multi-use trail is great! The scenery is top-notch, but it is sooo popular and crowded, our dog walk was not so enjoyable. I love that there are so many folks out enjoying this free and healthy activity, but, keep this in mind.
The best way to enjoy the trail would be to get there as early in the day as possible. Not only is this likely to be a less crowded time, the sun will not be out in its full glory, yet, making the temperature bearable.
One of the things I didn’t care for while using the trail was the amount of bicyclists whizzing by. I get it, it’s a multi-use trail, however, it was a bit overstimulating for me.
Other Things To Do Near The Dunedin Causeway
Be sure to visit the adorable downtown of Dunedin. Here, you will find great shops, dining, craft breweries, and galleries. There is always something going on in Dunedin from live music, street festivals, art and craft fairs, and a fresh market on Friday and Saturdays, seasonally.
The Edgewater Park and Dunedin Marina offer a great place to park and walk around the waterfront, then stroll up through town. Dunedin is a very walkable town, you won’t be disappointed.
Where To Stay In Dunedin
If you’re looking to stay as close to the Dunedin Causeway as possible, I mean, I don’t blame you, The Hampton Inn Dunedin is the spot!
This 88-room property offers free parking, free breakfast and is, literally, at the foot of the Dunedin Causeway. Great location!
Use this interactive map to view other accommodations in the Dunedin Causeway area.
Breakin’ It Down: The Dunedin Causeway
This is a spectacular place to spend the day and catch the sunset. Plan ahead, review the tide chart, and pack your picnic. You will have plenty of sun and fun on the Dunedin Causeway.