Egmont Key
Tampa Bay's secret treasure
Egmont Key, Florida, is a 360-acre wildlife refuge accessible only by boat. Several operators offer snorkeling excursions to this barrier island where visitors can enjoy its unique inhabitants - gopher tortoises, box turtles, shore and wading birds and nesting sea turtles. The island's proudest man-made possession is its lighthouse, built in 1858, which continues to operate as Florida's sixth brightest lighthouse and provides a romantic setting for weddings. Marooning yourself on Egmont Key offers some of Florida's best wildlife viewing and unlimited water recreation.
Outdoor Focus
This barrier island hosts a bird sanctuary, lighthouse and Spanish-American War-era fort. Highlights include:
- Snorkeling: While there's plenty to see, areas where the fort is submerged are especially intriguing.
- Kayaking: If you begin at Fort De Soto Park, you can paddle the mile of open water to Egmont Key. Keep your eyes open for dolphins, rays, gopher turtles and stone-clawed crabs on the way. The Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber of Commerce has maps for sea kayaking to Florida's lighthouses.
Area Attractions
- Hover-USA: This commercial hovercraft service shuttles visitors from St. Petersburg pier to Egmont Key.
- Florida Aquarium: Live shows and exhibits are only the start. Anyone can "Swim with the Fish" for half an hour, but the "Dive with Sharks" program lets certified divers (15 years and up) swim for 30 minutes in the 125,000 gallon shark tank.
Area Events
- Discover the Island Days (October): This two-day celebration provides guided tours and a chance to explore the natural wonders of Egmont Key.
- Gasparilla Pirate Fest (January): A pirate invasion of Tampa Bay starts the year off with a bang.
Nightlife
Just wander on down to Ybor City's 7th Avenue for a taste of fun after the sun goes down.
Accommodation
Many Tampa Bay area hotels and resorts offer packages which include hotel accommodation and admission to various theme parks such as Busch Gardens, Museum of Science and Industry and the Florida Aquarium.
Need to Know
- Location:
- A barrier island in south Tampa Bay.
- Weather:
- The average annual temperature is 73 F.
- Spring and fall seasons are pleasantly warm with cool evenings.
- Summer is balmy with sporadic afternoon showers.
- Facilities:
- Park is open from 8 am to sundown.
- Walking trails
- Restrooms
- Guided tours
Wildlife and water set Egmont Key apart. If you're ready to take the plunge, these Egmont Key escape ideas will get you going.
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