Now that I am officially a Bay Area resident. I want to rededicate myself to showing you the unbelievable waterways of greater Tampa Bay. Sorry it's been awhile, but I am finally settled into my new life here in Clearwater.
Last Friday I went up to Crystal Beach, which is just north of Palm Harbor. What an amazing area. It's Old Florida at it's finest and development hasn't ruined it quite yet. There are actual dirt streets just off the inter coastal with bayou's and lagoons intertwined. I guess there is actually an underwater cave that connects back to lake Tarpon. It never ceases to amaze me about how much water there really is to explore here.
My goal was to paddle all the way across to the point at Honeymoon Island with a pit stop at the spoil islands. I was guessing around 7 miles round trip.
Here is the launching point
Extremely Flat Conditions with shallow waters. Crystal Clear views to the sea grass and fish below. The Island in the distance is about 1.5 out and my 1st rest stop.
Closer View of the Island
Want to come back out here with friends, fishing pole, and a cooler. There is a fire pit and a grill left on the island. Plenty of shade and lots of fish. The fisherman where all around me.
Honeymoon Island on the east side about .25 miles from the point. It was 3.35 miles from my launch spot and a brutally hot day. I couldn't wait to get to the pristine beach at the point and soak in the shallow waters of a sand bar.
One of the best beaches in FL. It is about 2.5 miles from the nearest parking spot. So most people don't make it out there. Usually just a few runners or fisherman. I had the place pretty much to myself. Paradise!
The way back was brutal. As it got close to 11am It was becoming unbearable. I drank 120 ounces of water before I even made it back to the Island!
Overall it was an awesome paddle. Just under 7 miles and 3 hours including my exploration time. I look forward to offering this paddle as a 3 hour Eco tour. Just need to make it an earlier start time!
