PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Accessible only by private boat or ferry, Egmont Key is one of the most secluded state parks in Florida.
This pristine island has a unique natural and cultural history, including a lighthouse that has stood since 1858 and ruins of Fort Dade from the Spanish American War.
Egmont Key is home to a large population of native gopher tortoises. These slow-moving tortoises are an endangered species so you can’t touch them, but they make for great photos!
The state park is also a large nature preserve, where nearly half of the island is blocked to allow the native seabirds and sea turtles a section of undisturbed beach.
Although this park is primarily a wildlife refuge, it can be a personal refuge - a place to relax and collect shells along secluded, pristine beaches.
After touring the historic sites and trails, visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, wildlife viewing, and picnicking.
Located at the mouth of Tampa Bay, just south of Fort DeSoto, this state park provides stunning natural beauty.
The Egmont Key ferry picks up and drops off at the Fort De Soto Bay Pier daily in the spring and summer and nearly every day in the fall and winter.
The ride to Egmont Key is 25-30 minutes, costs $25, and offers great chances to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and sometimes even manatees!
This trip is one of a kind. If you want to travel to a historic island with white sand, warm water, ancient tortoises, and a 150-year-old lighthouse, this ferry to Egmont Key is a great choice for you and your family.
Due to the remote nature of the islands, there is no drinking water on the island and there are no stores. So please remember to bring water, food, and sunscreen when you visit.
If you're looking for an easier beach day, we suggest taking the ferry to Shell Key! Both trips are highly recommended.
Click here for more information.
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