Dunedin, FL

Dunedin is one of the oldest cities on the West Coast of Florida. The city has approximately 37,000 residents and has one of the best municipal marinas in the area. Dunedin is proud of its Scottish heritage, acquired in the mid 19th century from those who helped build it at the time into one of the largest seaports in Florida.

A good place to begin your Dunedin visit is the historic building that houses the Dunedin Chamber of Commerce, located at the west end of the downtown area. Travelers can learn about Dunedin’s 4 miles of beautiful waterfront and the Main Street reminiscent of Mayberry, the fictitious setting for a former hit TV show. At the end of Main Street is the Dunedin Marina. Dunedin is the perfect place to visit for travelers who want to keep a low profile or enjoy their Florida stay in one of the less crowded venues.

The Pinellas Trail runs through many parts of Pinellas County, including Dunedin. The Trail is a picturesque, 15-foot wide, 40-mile area designated for walking, biking, and skating. In fact, The Walking Magazine recently named Dunedin “The Best Walking Town In America” because of the Trail.

Next to The Pinellas Trail in the center of downtown Dunedin is the Dunedin Historical Society and Museum. Patrons of the museum are delighted to find over 2,000 historical artifacts, photographs, and a comprehensive library containing over 200 volumes of information about the history of Dunedin and Florida. During the summer, the museum offers summer camps for children ages 9-11.

Just off the coast of Dunedin is Honeymoon Island, accessible by car using the Dunedin Causeway. Honeymoon Island State Park offers visitors the opportunity to snorkel, swim, fish, observe wildlife in its natural habitat and explore one of the few remaining virgin slash pine forests in South Florida. Further north is Caladesi Island, accessible by public ferry or private boat. Caladesi Island State Park is regarded as the 4th best  natural beach in the United States and features kayaking, sunbathing, beachcombing, fishing, and swimming. Both semi-tropical islands are unique and sure to entertain every member of your family.

Adventurous types may enjoy an overnight stay on Anclote Key Preserve State Park. Visitors can camp, primitive style, among the more than 43 different types of birds while enjoying the 4-mile long beachfront and a 19th century lighthouse. Anclote Key is located 3 miles off the coast of nearby Tarpon Springs and is accessible only by private boat.

Dunedin is conveniently located less than 30 minutes from the Tampa International Airport and the St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport. Orlando is only a 2-hour drive away, making Dunedin an excellent choice for exploring the Central West Coast of Florida on your vacation.