Egmont Key State Park
A remote island refuge with a rich military history, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife, accessible only by boat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds.
Egmont Key State Park
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A remote island refuge with a rich military history, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife, accessible only by boat.
"Explore historic ruins, spot wildlife, and enjoy secluded beaches on this unique island paradise."
🚢 Book Ferry Tickets Early
Ferry spots fill up fast! Book in advance to secure your trip to this island paradise.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
No running water here! Stay hydrated, especially on hot Florida days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Fort Dade Ruins
Central Egmont Key
Explore the remnants of a Spanish-American War fort, including gun batteries and old buildings. A step back in time!
Egmont Key Lighthouse
Northern Egmont Key
A historic lighthouse dating back to 1858, offering a glimpse into maritime history and scenic views.
Wildlife Refuge & Beaches
Island-wide
Spot diverse wildlife, including nesting sea turtles, birds, and marine life. Enjoy secluded beaches for swimming and shelling.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Boat Access
Pack for Remote Island Life
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Book Ferry Tickets Early
Ferry spots fill up fast! Book in advance to secure your trip to this island paradise.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
No running water here! Stay hydrated, especially on hot Florida days.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for exploring the historic fort ruins and uneven terrain.
🦟 Pack Bug Spray
Mosquitoes and spiders can be prevalent. Protect yourself for a more enjoyable visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Book Ferry Tickets Early
Ferry spots fill up fast! Book in advance to secure your trip to this island paradise.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
No running water here! Stay hydrated, especially on hot Florida days.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for exploring the historic fort ruins and uneven terrain.
🦟 Pack Bug Spray
Mosquitoes and spiders can be prevalent. Protect yourself for a more enjoyable visit.
🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Explore the clear waters for marine life like manatees and fish.
☀️ Sunscreen is a Must
The Florida sun is strong! Protect your skin while enjoying the island.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Egmont Key State Park is lauded for its rich history, offering exploration of old fort ruins, a lighthouse, and a cemetery. Visitors enjoy the beautiful beaches, clear waters for snorkeling, and abundant wildlife sightings, including manatees and sea turtles. However, the island's remote nature means a lack of facilities, requiring visitors to be well-prepared with essentials like water, food, and bug spray.
"Very historical state park. Tons of things to do and explore on the island. The water visibility is great, and there are ruins all over the place. There is a lighthouse, a cemetery, several ruins of old military buildings, and the sand isnt bac either ⛱️"
Brett W
"The lighthouse and all the different trails and spots along the way were very cool saw a bunch of birds and gators. A raccoon, what looked like a fox and also some rabbits. It was quite the adventure"
Ginni Bartlett
"The park was hit hard by this years hurricanes and work is still being done around the island. The beach is beautiful and would be a nice visit all by itself. Wandering around the old fort ruins and batteries was very interesting."
John Bailey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Egmont Key State Park is accessible only by boat or ferry. You can take a ferry from Fort De Soto State Park in St. Petersburg, or arrange a private boat charter. Popular ferry services include Hubbard's Marina and The Pelican Boat.
Ferry services typically cost around $45 per adult. It's highly recommended to book your ferry tickets in advance, as they can sell out.
Yes, private boaters can access Egmont Key. There are mooring buoys available, but they can be limited.
The most common departure point for the ferry is Fort De Soto State Park in St. Petersburg, Florida.
No, Egmont Key is an island and can only be reached by watercraft.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While there isn't a separate park entry fee beyond the ferry cost, you will need to pay for your boat or ferry transportation to reach the island. +1
The park is generally open daily, but ferry schedules vary. It's best to check the specific ferry operator's schedule for departure and return times.
The primary cost is for transportation to the island. There is no additional entrance fee for the state park once you arrive.
It's strongly advised to book ferry tickets in advance online, as they often sell out. Purchasing on arrival may not be possible.
Discounts are typically not advertised for the ferry service. It's best to check directly with the ferry operators for any potential promotions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can explore the historic Fort Dade ruins, hike nature trails, visit the lighthouse, go shelling, swim, and look for wildlife like birds, gators, and marine life. +2
Yes, the water visibility is often great for snorkeling, allowing you to see fish, manatees, and other marine life. Bring your own gear!
No, Egmont Key is a remote island with no public restrooms or running water. You must bring all your own supplies.
You might see various birds, gators, raccoons, foxes, rabbits, baby stingrays, manatees, and nesting sea turtles.
Yes, families can enjoy exploring the fort, beaches, and wildlife. Just be sure to pack essentials like water, snacks, and bug spray.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, Egmont Key is a remote island with no food vendors or restaurants. You must bring all your own food and drinks.
Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a packed lunch. Consider items that are easy to eat and don't require refrigeration.
Yes, picnicking is a great way to enjoy your brought-along food. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Alcohol policies can vary. It's best to check with the ferry operator or park guidelines, but generally, responsible consumption is expected.
After returning from Egmont Key, you can find numerous dining options in St. Petersburg or near Fort De Soto.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic Fort Dade ruins, the iconic lighthouse, scenic beaches, and abundant wildlife. The island offers unique photographic subjects.
Absolutely! With diverse birdlife, marine animals, and even occasional land mammals, it's a great spot for nature photographers.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for landscape and wildlife photography. Midday can be harsh.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks and wildlife refuges. Check with Florida State Parks for current regulations before flying.
A versatile lens for landscapes and wildlife, a wide-angle lens for the fort ruins, and a good zoom lens for distant wildlife are recommended. Don't forget waterproof protection for your gear.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and sun protection, as there are no facilities. Sturdy shoes are a must for navigating the fort, and bug spray is essential to ward off mosquitoes. The ferry ride itself can be an exciting part of the adventure for children. It's a fantastic way to combine history, nature, and fun for a memorable family day trip.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1Consider traveling during the weekdays to potentially avoid higher weekend crowds and prices. If you have access to a private boat, this can be an even more economical option, especially if you're splitting costs with a group. The historical exploration and natural beauty are free once you reach the island, making it a great value for an unforgettable experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2For wildlife photographers, the island is a treasure trove. Capture images of diverse bird species, marine life like manatees and stingrays in the clear waters, and potentially even nesting sea turtles. The secluded beaches and unique island landscape also offer stunning scenic photography opportunities. Remember to bring a versatile lens setup and be prepared for varying light conditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the History of Egmont Key
+3The island's history also includes its role as a quarantine station and a prison camp during the Spanish-American War. The remnants of these periods, along with a small cemetery, add layers to the island's narrative. Exploring these historical sites offers a unique educational experience, providing a tangible connection to Florida's past. It's a stark contrast to the natural beauty, offering a compelling duality for visitors.
+1Many visitors are fascinated by the 'ghost town' aspect of Egmont Key, with abandoned buildings and structures slowly being reclaimed by nature. This creates a unique atmosphere for exploration and photography. Remember to wear sturdy shoes and be mindful of your surroundings as you delve into the island's rich and sometimes somber history.
+1Wildlife Encounters on Egmont Key
The surrounding waters are teeming with marine life. Visitors often report sightings of manatees gracefully swimming near the shore, and baby stingrays can sometimes be seen in the shallows. Snorkeling here offers a chance to see a variety of fish and other fascinating underwater creatures. During nesting season, the beaches are vital for sea turtles, and visitors are urged to observe from a distance and avoid disturbing any nesting areas.
On land, you might encounter other fascinating creatures like raccoons, rabbits, and even the occasional fox. The island's natural environment, with its mix of coastal scrub and historic structures, supports a surprisingly rich ecosystem. Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and never feed the animals.
Planning Your Egmont Key Adventure
+2Once you've secured your transport, remember that Egmont Key is a remote island with no amenities. This means you must be self-sufficient. Pack ample water, snacks, and a packed lunch, as there are no food vendors or restaurants. Sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent are also essential due to the strong Florida sun and potential for mosquitoes. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring the historic fort ruins and uneven terrain.
Consider the time of day for your visit. Mornings offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making for a more pleasant exploration. Late afternoons can be beautiful for photography as the light softens. Always check the ferry's return schedule to ensure you don't miss your ride back. Leave no trace, and pack out everything you pack in to help preserve this unique natural and historical treasure.
Social
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