Egmont Key

A half-hour ferry ride and a world away from the Florida mainland, Egmont Key, south of St. Pete Beach and north of Anna Maria Island, is a wild, unspoiled island where nature is the focus and history is told through ruins.

With no human residents or amenities — including restrooms or drinking water — visitors come prepared for several hours of enjoying the beach, swimming in the turquoise waters, spotting wildlife, and exploring the island, a large portion of which is a dedicated bird sanctuary.

Look for shells, spot tortoises on the island and a wide array of sea creatures in the water, and check out the ruins of Spanish-American War-era Fort Dade and the historic 1850s lighthouse, which are among Egmont Key’s few man-made structures.

Access the island through the Egmont Key Ferry from Bay Pier at Fort De Soto Park or the Pelican from the St. Pete Pier.

Plan your trip at Visit St. Pete Clearwater.

BEACHES

Look for shells and snorkel off the pristine beach of Egmont Key.

• Activities

FAMILY FUN

Spot dolphins on the ferry ride, see tortoises and seabirds on the island, and embark on an adventure to explore the ruins of Fort Dade.

• Beachcombing
• Wildlife viewing

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Egmont Key is perfect for snorkeling and wildlife viewing.

• Egmont Key State Park
• Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge
• Birding
• Fishing, hiking, shelling, snorkeling, and swimming
• Fishing charters
• Fort De Soto Park

DINING

Bring a takeout lunch to enjoy with a picnic on Egmont Key and sample the flavors of the St. Petersburg area when you return to the mainland.

• Fort De Soto snack bar
• Places to eat

PLACES TO STAY

Camp at Fort De Soto Park or stay near St. Pete Beach.

• Fort De Soto camping
• More places to stay