Weedon Island Preserve in Florida

Trip Overview

I launched from the public access ramp on the Pinellas side. The ramp is on the South side of the causeway and I paddled SW to the power plant, then South to Weedon Island. From the ramp to Weedon is open water on Tampa Bay so you need to check the marine forecast before you go. The day I went winds were out of the SE at about 5 knots. The distance from the ramp to the island is about 2 miles. When you get to Weedon you'll enter a bayou and kayak trail marker 12, this is where users exit one of the several mangrove trails. You'll turn to your left to follow the trail. This trail (Southern trail) is approximately 4 miles. The tide was going out by the time I arrived so I went pretty quickly so I could do the trail and get back to marker 12 before the tide got too low. I would have liked to spend more time there. There is also a shorter Northern trail (about 1.5 miles) closer to the Gandy bridge.

I rated moderate to difficult due to the total distance (around 8 miles).

Accommodations:

The island has a Kayak/Canoe launch, water, hiking trails, parking and picnic areas.

Fees:

No fees or permits.

You can rent Kayaks at the park.

Directions:

From Pinellas county head to Gandy Blvd and head East until you reach the causeway. There are several beach launches on the South side and some on the North side (up by the bridge). From Tampa take Gandy Blvd West until you cross the bridge (Pinellas side).

Resources:

Google Maps for planning and orientation, compass if you go off the marked trail. Marine map for orientation.