Dunedin, Florida

Originally settled by Scotsmen in 1899, Dunedin was listed as one of Money Magazine´s 2008 "Six Best Places to Retire" based on its low cost of living, affordable Dunedin real estate and wide range of activities.

Located a few miles to the north of Clearwater, Dunedin is strikingly different: it boasts a quaint cobblestone Main Street filled with interesting shops and restaurants and also hosts frequent art and craft shows. The 39-mile Pinellas Trail, a former railroad now a popular recreational pedestrian and bicycle trail, runs through the heart of Dunedin´s Main Street. One of the few communities to have not built large buildings directly on the waterfront thereby obscuring the view, people can still enjoy sweeping waterfront views from Edgewater Park.

There is a pretty marina for the boat enthusiast and several beautiful beaches including Dr Beach´s 2008 pick for Best Beach in North America: Caladesi Island. Caladesi Island is abundant with natural beauty and tranquility and its sandy white shores are only accessible by ferry or private boat. The island boasts a mangrove kayak trail as well as a nature trail to discover osprey, gopher tortoises and more.

Accessible by car Dunedin´s other gem is Honeymoon Island. Honeymoon Island was named so in 1939 when a developer built tropical bungalows for honeymooners from the north seeking to enjoy the warm weather and natural beauty of this area. With mangrove swamps, and tidal flats to explore nature lovers will find plenty to keep them interested. Swimming, shelling, fishing and snorkeling are all popular activities and it is an area much frequented by dolphins.

Dunedin is an active town and hosts many annual festivals including the Dunedin Highland Games and Mardi Gras.