Woodright Brewery in Dunedin, Florida - Things to see and do

Things to see and do in Dunedin, Florida

Visited October 2016

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Dunedin, Florida: The Laid-Back Gulf Coast Gem You’ve Probably Overlooked

Dunedin isn’t trying to be flashy—and that’s exactly its charm. Nestled on Florida’s Gulf Coast, just north of Clearwater and west of Tampa, this small city of around 37,000 people has quietly built a reputation as one of Florida’s coolest, most authentic spots. With its walkable downtown, rich Scottish roots, strong arts and craft beer scenes, and access to some of the best beaches in the state, Dunedin is the kind of place people visit once and then start checking real estate listings.

Let’s start with the vibe. Downtown Dunedin feels more like a funky coastal village than a Florida suburb. There are no towering condos or chain stores. Instead, you’ll find tree-lined streets, art galleries, indie shops, and an impressive lineup of locally owned restaurants and breweries. It’s all very casual, but never boring.

Dunedin is home to Honeymoon Island State Park, which deserves its own spotlight. Just a short drive from downtown, it offers pristine beaches, hiking trails, and plenty of space to breathe. Across the water is Caladesi Island, often ranked among the best beaches in the U.S. You can get there by ferry, kayak, or if you're up for a workout, walk there along the beach from Honeymoon Island when the tide’s right. Either way, expect soft white sand, clear water, and zero high-rise clutter.

For outdoor lovers, the Pinellas Trail runs straight through the heart of Dunedin. This 45-mile multi-use trail is perfect for biking, walking, or skating, and it connects Dunedin to other cool spots like Tarpon Springs and St. Petersburg. Along the way, you’ll pass murals, parks, and plenty of places to stop and refuel.

Food and drink are a big part of Dunedin’s personality. For such a small town, the craft beer scene punches well above its weight. Dunedin Brewery—Florida’s oldest microbrewery—is a local institution, known for both its beer and its live music. Right nearby, 7venth Sun Brewery offers bold, experimental brews that draw a loyal following. You could easily spend an afternoon hopping between patios without stepping foot in a car.

Culturally, Dunedin is proud of its Scottish heritage. The town hosts annual Highland Games and a Mardi Gras-style parade that’s more quirky than wild. Bagpipes are a regular sound around town, especially during festivals, and you’ll see kilts more often than you’d expect in a Florida beach town.

Dunedin is also dog-friendly, bike-friendly, and just…friendly. People smile. Shop owners chat with strangers. Locals gather for sunset at the marina. It’s got the ease of a beach town but the character of a much larger city.

In short, Dunedin isn’t trying to impress you—it just is impressive. If you want a Florida experience with real personality, where you can hit the beach in the morning, sip craft beer in the afternoon, and catch live music at night, Dunedin’s the place. Just don’t tell everyone—this hidden gem deserves to stay just a little under the radar.

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Thinking of visiting? Viator offers numerous tours near Clearwater. Click here for details.

For more information on wineries, distilleries, and craft breweries in the area visit https://flbwd.com