A private 3‑hour boat trip delivers you to Egmont Key State Park for two hours of snorkeling, shelling, and exploring an 1858 lighthouse and Fort Dade ruins. This secluded Gulf island has no facilities—plan accordingly to make the most of your time ashore.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The boat eases away from Bradenton Beach and the Gulf opens like a pale, restless mirror; the motor’s hum fades as Egmont Key grows from a smudge of green and white into a place with its own weather and rules. Salt wind pushes at your face, the shoals whisper under the hull, and the island’s low profile promises beaches wide enough to walk for miles.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Light activity level—short walks on sand and shallow swimming; suitable for most ages with basic mobility
Wildlife
History
Egmont Key’s lighthouse (1858) guided ships entering Tampa Bay; Fort Dade’s batteries and barracks are relics of coastal defense from the Spanish–American War era.
Conservation
The island is managed as both a State Park and National Wildlife Refuge—visitors must follow leave‑no‑trace practices, avoid disturbing nesting shorebirds and sea turtle habitat, and use reef‑safe products.
Reserve your spot on the Private Egmont Key Excursion today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring all water and snacks
Egmont Key has no potable water or restrooms—pack at least one liter per person and a compact snack.
Use reef‑safe sunscreen
Protect coral and seagrass by choosing reef‑safe sunscreen and reapplying in the shade.
Wear sturdy water shoes
Concrete ruins and hot sand make closed‑toe water shoes useful for exploring Fort Dade and walking the shoreline.
Respect wildlife and nesting areas
Keep distance from gopher tortoises and shorebird nests; avoid walking dunes where signs indicate closures.
Reusable water bottle (1L+ per person)
Hydration is critical—there are no water sources on the island.
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and the marine environment during long sun exposure.
summer
Snorkel mask and fins
Brings the shallow seagrass beds and small reef life into focus—optional but rewarding.
summer
Closed‑toe water shoes
Protects feet from hot sand, barnacle‑covered shells, and the Fort Dade ruins.