Egmont Key Exploration: Scenic Ferry Journey & Island Adventure

Set sail on a scenic ferry to Egmont Key, where you'll explore historic sites, relax on pristine beaches, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.

Last updated: Mar 2024

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$45/adult, $25/child (3-11), free for 2 and under
More than 500 Miles from you
National Star: Exceptional experiences within the country that are must-dos for adventurers
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Description

Combine a scenic ferry ride with the exploration of Egmont Key State Park's natural beauty, historic ruins, and serene beaches for a perfect day out. Set sail on a scenic ferry to Egmont Key, where you'll explore historic sites, relax on pristine beaches, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. Your adventure begins with a 30-minute ferry ride from Fort De Soto Park boat ramp, where you'll enjoy covered seating, onboard amenities, and possibly spot wildlife like dolphins and sea turtles. Upon arrival at Egmont Key, you have about three hours to discover the island's wonders, from the historic Fort Dade to the working lighthouse and the abundant wildlife, including osprey and gopher tortoises. Remember, there are no facilities on the island, so bring everything you need for a comfortable day.

Perfect for

For solo

For two

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For families with kids

For parents and grownups

Outdoorsy

Chill

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Itinerary

Depart from Fort De Soto Park boat ramp aboard the ferry
Enjoy the ferry ride, keeping an eye out for marine life
Explore Egmont Key's attractions: the guardhouse, beaches, and Fort Dade
Relax on the beach, swim, or snorkel over the grass flats and sunken ruins
Return on the ferry, reflecting on a day well spent

Location

St. Petersburg, FL 33711

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Packing List

Food and plenty of water
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for sun protection
Comfortable walking shoes for exploring
Snorkeling gear, if interested (rentals available on the ferry)

4.8 ● Google reviews

The lighthouse and all the different trails and spots along the way were very cool saw a bunch of birds and gators. A raccoon, what looked like a fox and also some rabbits. It was quite the adventure

The park was hit hard by this years hurricanes and work is still being done around the island. The beach is beautiful and would be a nice visit all by itself. Wandering around the old fort ruins and batteries was very interesting.

Our recent excursion with Captain Zip and Kim proved to be another highly enjoyable experience. This was our second trip this year aboard the Hubbard Ferry to Egmont Key. Today we observed numerous dolphins, manatee and an eagle ray during the trip. We particularly valued their emphasis on hydration and safety protocols. We are scheduled to return next month. The island offers ample opportunities for extended hiking and swimming, with a wealth of sights and activities. They offer snorkeling adventures as well.

Wonderfully wild destination accessible by boat or kayak. Saw lots of birds and several sharks on the crossing from Anna Maria Island.

My friends & I went on a snorkeling tour to the island & we all had so much fun here! We saw manatees, fish, a few tortoises & collected so many sea shells! We even saw nesting areas for sea turtles along the beach! Exploring the jungle and fort was exciting. My only thing is the state park is a little more rough. No bathrooms. No running water. Just a remote island with a fort, so you need to come prepared. You definitely need solid shoes & will experience spiders & mosquitoes. I got bitten ALIVE!! I was there for over an hour & by the time I left, I was covered with bites! If you’re more prone to getting bit, please bring bug spray!!! Also bring snorkel gear & plenty of sunscreen. The island is worth exploring!

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