Egmont Key: The Gulf’s Forgotten Island Lighthouse and Ruins
Island ruins, a working lighthouse and hands-on snorkeling at the mouth of Tampa Bay
The Pelican slips its lines and the noise of St. Petersburg’s piers recedes into the thrum of a propeller and the slap of wake. Out here, the horizon is a low, serrated line of mangrove and sandbars; ahead, a white cone and squat brick ruin punctuate the blue—Egmont Key, a compact, salt-scrubbed sentinel at Tampa Bay’s mouth. You step ashore through ankle-deep water, the boat’s bow nudging the shore, and the island’s deliberate quiet does what no brochure can: it slows you down.
Trail Wisdom
Plan for shallow landings
Most boats require stepping into chest- to ankle-deep water to get ashore—bring water shoes and wear a swimsuit for an easier exit and entrance.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Egmont Key’s marine habitats are fragile; use reef-safe sunscreen to protect seagrass beds and coral life while snorkeling.
Pack a day kit
There are no food services—carry water, snacks, salty-proof storage, and a small trash bag to pack out waste.
Time your visit for wildlife
Early morning and late afternoon are best for dolphin sightings and calmer snorkel conditions; midday brings heat and more crowds.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sand-dollar-rich shallow cove on the island’s northwest side (look at low tide)
- •Submerged brick walls near Fort Dade that create a compact, fish-filled snorkel zone
Wildlife
bottlenose dolphins, migratory shorebirds (e.g., sandpipers and terns)
Conservation Note
Egmont Key is managed as a state park—visitors are asked to pack out trash, avoid disturbing nesting birds, and use reef-safe products to protect seagrass and marine habitats.
Egmont Key’s lighthouse dates to the mid-19th century and the island later housed Fort Dade, built around the Spanish-American War era to guard Tampa Bay’s entrance.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: bird migration, comfortable snorkeling, mild weather for hiking ruins
Challenges: occasional spring storms, variable winds
Spring offers mild temps and active shorebirds—ideal for snorkeling the old fort walls and walking the island’s historic lanes.
summer
Best for: warm water snorkeling, dolphin encounters, extended daylight hours
Challenges: heat and humidity, afternoon thunderstorms, strong sun
Summer delivers warm water for snorkeling and lively dolphin sightings but bring shade and hydration to beat the heat.
fall
Best for: calm seas, lower humidity, excellent fishing windows
Challenges: hurricane season remnants early fall, variable surf
Fall balances calmer water and fewer crowds with excellent conditions for fishing and island exploration—watch weather forecasts closely.
winter
Best for: clear skies and crisp light, less crowded tours, shorebird watching
Challenges: cooler water temperatures for snorkelers, occasional brisk winds
Winter’s clear light makes the lighthouse pop in photos and birdwatching is prime—carry a wind layer for shore breezes.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Water shoesEssential
Protects feet during shallow beach landings and while snorkeling over shell and rubble.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Reduces harm to seagrass and marine life while keeping you protected from strong Gulf sun.
Snorkel set (mask, snorkel, fins)
Many charters include gear but bringing your own ensures proper fit and comfort for exploring submerged fort ruins.
Hydration pack or Nalgene bottleEssential
No potable water on the island—carry enough for the day and top off before you board.
Common Questions
How do I get to Egmont Key?
Egmont Key is accessible only by boat—book a ferry from St. Petersburg Pier or a private charter that includes a landing at the island.
Can I go ashore without a guide?
Yes—many visitors go ashore independently on permitted ferries or private charters, but bring essentials since facilities are limited.
Are there restrooms on the island?
Facilities are minimal; the Pelican ferry provides shade and bathrooms while it remains nearby. Plan for limited on-island amenities.
Is snorkeling worth it at Egmont Key?
Yes—snorkelers can explore submerged Fort Dade structures and nearby grass flats where fish congregate; conditions vary with tide and clarity.
Can I camp overnight on Egmont Key?
Overnight stays require a permit from the Florida Park Service—most visitors do day trips, so check park regulations in advance if you plan to camp.
What wildlife might I see?
Expect dolphins, shorebirds, pelicans, and occasional manatees in the shallows; nesting birds may be seasonal—observe from a distance.
What to Pack
Water shoes for shallow landings; reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine habitats; snorkel gear for exploring submerged ruins; water and snacks because there are no food services.
Did You Know
Egmont Key’s lighthouse was first lit in 1858 and Fort Dade was later constructed on the island during the Spanish–American War era—both remnants remain visible today.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Book early for sunset catamarans; 2) Expect to wade ashore—water shoes recommended; 3) Bring a waterproof bag for valuables; 4) Check tides and weather before boarding.
Local Flavor
St. Petersburg’s waterfront scene feeds island trips: grab a coffee at the Pier before boarding, and save a post-trip meal for fresh Gulf seafood or a casual beachside fish shack near Pass-a-Grille.
Logistics Snapshot
Access: ferry or private charter from St. Petersburg; Landing: shallow wade; Facilities: minimal—restrooms only on some ferries; Time on island: typically 2 hours on scheduled ferries; Permits: required for overnight camping.
Sustainability Note
Practice leave-no-trace, use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid trampling dunes or nesting bird areas, and support local operators that follow wildlife-first viewing guidelines.