A new wave of energy is brewing in Floridas hidden jewel.
One musician takes center stage, singing his part before giving the next person a go.
Every solo adds to the splendor without stealing the show.
Honeymoon Island State Park is known for its white-sand beaches, nature trails, and wildlife.Credit:Robbie Caponetto
The same is true for the rest of Dunedin (pronounced done-EE-din).
This slender Florida spot, located about 24 miles fromTampa, finds harmony in community.
Its state-protected shorelines and hand-painted storefronts make first-name greetings far more common here than big crowds.
Find your vacation state of mind with craft beer and live music at Woodwright Brewing Company.Credit:Robbie Caponetto
Neighbors collaborate on town ventures while everyonefrom artists to pitmasterssprinkles a sense of history into Dunedins next chapter.
The result is an unexpectedGulf Coast haventhat feels familiar yet wholly uncharted.
Meander downtown, and youll wonder how this laid-back locale has remained under the radar.
Eric Davis of Eli’s Bar B Que serves up hospitality and top-notch slabs.Credit:Robbie Caponetto
Scottish flags and annual celebrations commemorate the Celtic heritage here.
In the 1940s, boatbuilder Clark Mills designed them in this very place.
Now theyre some of the most widely produced boats in the world.
Head to Dunedin Marina to catch the sunset.Credit:Robbie Caponetto
Bringing new life into this old building is about preserving our history and keeping our charm, says Painter.
Across the street, Chantala and Eric Davis fill the neighborhood with the smoky-sweet smells of their traditions.
Lines atElis Bar B Queare commonplace, but so is an overwhelming sense of fellowship.
Find surprises around every corner on Main Street.Credit:Robbie Caponetto
His fathers story is also rooted in the restaurants soil; cotton plants stand tall out front.
Cotton is in our families, Eric says.
A quick drive over the Dunedin Causeway, Honeymoon Island feels worlds away.
Credit:Robbie Caponetto
The private-seeming public beaches intertwine with walking trails where you may leave the sole footprints.
At neighboringCaladesi Island State Park, which is accessible only by boat, the isolation is intoxicating.
Relax on the sand, kayak beside mangrove forests, or stroll the shell-speckled shore.
Credit:Robbie Caponetto
No matter how you unwind, you’re able to plan to be undisturbed.
The park is home to hundreds of migratory bird species, protected grass flats, and dolphins.
Pedal along thePinellas Trail, a 54-mile biking-and-walking path that stretches from Tarpon Springs toSt.
Petersburg, for easy access to stores, eats, and drinks near and far.
AtDunedin Brewery, Floridas oldest microbrewery, posters and Scottish paraphernalia pepper every inch of the interior.
Pull up a barstool for lunch atOlde Bay Cafe, a no-frills seafood dive overlooking the marina.
Save room for a scoop fromStrachans Ice Cream & Desserts.
Although sunny getaways dot St. Joseph Sound, dont overlook Dunedin.
As Eric Davis puts it, Why not Dunedin?
