Before the advent of modern civilization, Honeymoon Island
was simply one of many unnamed barrier islands along Florida's west coast. At various
times inhabited by Tocobaga Indians, Spanish explorers, pirates, and fishermen,
the island was initially shown on maps as Sand Island. By 1880, the island became
known as Hog Island, which it remained until promoted as a resort for honeymooners
in the early 1940's.
Today visitors can enjoy the beautiful white sand beachstretching
the entire length of the island, including the only "pet beach" in the
state. Swimming, sunbathing, and shelling are popular activities, as well as fishing
for snapper, whiting, snook and redfish in the surf and adjacent bay. Picnic pavilions,
bathhouses, and a concession stand are located within the park, and hikers can enjoy
a trail leading through one of the few remaining virgin slash pine stands in South
Florida. In addition, the park boasts several trails leading to bird observation
areas.
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