THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover a secluded island near Tampa Bay with Sarasota Coastal Boat Tours. Uncover historic sites, swim in turquoise waters, and walk along untouched sandy trails—an adventure perfect for nature and history lovers alike.
Discover a secluded island near Tampa Bay with Sarasota Coastal Boat Tours. Uncover historic sites, swim in turquoise waters, and walk along untouched sandy trails—an adventure perfect for nature and history lovers alike.
Book with Sarasota Coastal Boat Tours
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Sarasota Coastal Boat Tours · Sarasota, Florida
Sarasota Coastal Boat Tours offers a rare chance to step beyond the bustling shores of Sarasota and discover the secluded island of Egmont Key State Park, a true insider’s escape near Tampa Bay. Accessible only by boat, this trip combines the thrill of ocean cruising with the chance to walk among historic ruins and pristine natural landscapes. Your journey begins aboard a comfortable vessel, slicing through Florida’s shimmering turquoise waters as you head toward Egmont Key, a barrier island offering a blend of sandy beaches, salt marshes, and scattered relics of the past.
Once on Egmont Key, visitors can stroll along sandy trails lined with coastal flora—sea oats, mangroves, and sea grapes—each offering glimpses of local wildlife. The island’s historic lighthouse, built in the 1800s, still stands guard over this quiet refuge, alongside remnants of military fortifications. This site offers a fascinating slice of Florida’s history amid dramatic natural beauty. Adventurers can hop into the water for snorkeling near coral outcroppings, or take a refreshing swim in the clear, warm waters. The island’s secluded environment makes it ideal for birdwatching, with ospreys and pelicans often soaring overhead.
This tour by Sarasota Coastal Boat Tours isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s an immersion into a less crowded, more authentic side of Florida’s coastline. It’s perfect for those looking for a day of outdoor discovery that balances history, wildlife, and water-based adventure. With the Gulf’s expansive horizon and unspoiled shoreline, it’s a compelling escape for nature lovers and history buffs alike, making it a standout activity in the Sarasota area.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an active day on the water, this tour offers a vivid, engaging experience that highlights the unique charms of Egmont Key. It’s one of Southwest Florida’s lesser-visited treasures, waiting to be uncovered by curious explorers.
easy.
4–6 hours.
Accessible for most fitness levels; some walking involved
Snorkeling gear is available for rent, but bringing your own is recommended if you have specific equipment preferences.
Yes, there are restroom facilities available on Egmont Key for visitors.
The boat ride to and from Egmont Key typically lasts about 30-45 minutes each way.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but children should be comfortable on a boat and walking on trails.
Yes, you can bring snacks and non-alcoholic beverages for your day on the island.
Pets are generally not allowed on the island or boat for safety and health reasons.
Egmont Key served as a military base during the Civil War and later as a lighthouse station, shaping Florida’s coastal defense history.
The area prioritizes preserving its natural habitat, with efforts to maintain native species and protect fragile ecosystems.
Sarasota Coastal Boat Tours is a private charter operator based in Sarasota, Florida, offering guided and fully customizable boat experiences on Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. The company presents a variety of trip options including a Full Day customizable itinerary, an Egmont Key State Park Tour, a Tiki Crawl/Restaurant Crawl, Sunset Tours, and Beach & Sandbar Boat Tours. Local captains build each outing around guest interests — dolphin watching, swimming, snorkeling, island exploration, or waterfront dining — to create tailored days on the water. Boats are equipped for passenger comfort and safety; the Beach & Sandbar Boat Tour specifies shade and a freshwater shower for guest convenience. The Egmont Key State Park Tour focuses on a secluded island experience with historic sites, scenic trails, and opportunities to swim or snorkel in clear Gulf waters. The Tiki Crawl/Restaurant Crawl visits waterfront eateries and tiki bars around the Sarasota Bay area, while Sunset Tours emphasize Gulf of Mexico vistas and wildlife viewing at dusk. The operation emphasizes clear communication during booking and local knowledge of Sarasota waters to plan routes and timing around tides and weather. Captains prioritize safe navigation and respectful wildlife viewing near protected areas. Reservations are typically made in advance to plan routes, confirm captain availability, and coordinate timing for tides and sunset schedules. Private charters adapt to most group sizes.
Book with Sarasota Coastal Boat Tours