Caladesi - Honeymoon Island
Caladesi and Honeymoon Island are located on the coast of West Central Florida. A different kind of destination, Caladesi and Honeymoon Island are part of the Florida State Parks system.
Caladesi - Honeymoon Island
Originally dubbed Hog Island, it was renamed Honeymoon Isle in 1939 when fifty bungalows for honeymooners were built. Honeymoon Island still caters to the wedding crowd as well as nature enthusiasts. Nature enthusiasts will be wowed by the bird and animal preserves on Honeymoon Island. Honeymoon Island has more than 200 species of plants and a large number of shore birds. Several of the species of shore birds are threatened and endangered. Of particular importance is the osprey habitat, which is sheltered in one of the few remaining virgin slash pine stands in Florida. Some areas are roped off to preserve the mating of certain species.
But Honeymoon Island is still best known for its beachfront weddings. Put on by Honeymoon Island Productions (727.736.2132) in conjunction with the State Park, couples can plan a beautiful ceremony to meet their needs. The Basic Sunset Package begins at $695. It includes a seashore ceremony, a non-denominational wedding officiant, traditional recorded music, a white archway decorated with local greenery, and assistance with planning. For additional costs, couples can add-on a professional wedding minister ($350+), white acrylic chairs ($4.00+ per chair), and a champagne toast ($24.95 per bottle).
Honeymoon Island Productions can also execute rehearsal dinners and receptions to the couple’s specification. Their standard buffet packages are the Island Special ($70 per person), which has a fresh Caribbean flavor; the Island Sunset, which is a more traditional wedding menu ($38.95 per person); and the Island BBQ, which is a more traditional barbeque ($28.95 per person). Champagne, wedding cake, alcohol, appetizers, and centerpieces are available for an additional charge. Couples are responsible for their own decorations. A $500 non-refundable deposit is due at the time of booking. In addition to the above costs, there is a surcharge due to the park for all special events. For 2 to 50 guests the fee is $100. For 51 to 100 guests, there is a $200 charge, and for 101+ guests there is a $300 fee.
Caladesi Island has been rated one of the best, unspoiled natural islands in the United States. Birding, fishing, shell collecting, kayaking or just observing nature are all activities available in this state park. It is only accessible via ferry or boat from Honeymoon Island.
Whether planning a wedding or a nature retreat, the Florida State Parks of Caladesi and Honey Islands are beautiful getaways from the modern world.
