Barrier Island South of Tampa Bay

Accessible only by boat, history comes to life on Egmont Key. A Natural Wildlife Refuge and Natural Register of Historic Places make this island the perfect place to relax and see untouched and natural beauty. Egmont Key played a role in not only both world wars, but also the Spanish-American and Civil Wars.

Egmont LighthouseAn 85-ft lighthouse still stands proud reminding visitors of its military significance. Whether you're choosing Egmont Key to see the variety of wildlife, unlimited water recreation or your wedding destination, a perfect vacation will always be your holiday description. 

Accommodations: Tampa Bay offers up some of the best vacation packages which include not only hotel accommodations, but also admission into theme parks such as Busch Gardens and the Florida Aquarium.

Egmont Key Local Activities: Enjoy swimming and tanning in privacy on your own secluded section of the beach. Try fishing, wildlife viewing, or touring historic monuments on the island. Snorkeling is offered and absolutely has to be experienced in the parts of the island where the fort is submerged. While kayaking along the beach, be on lookout for dolphins, rays, turtles and crabs.

Egmont Key Area Attractions: Visit the Florida Aquarium and spend a day swimming in the tanks with the fishes. For those with an even bigger appetite for danger, try swimming with the sharks! A 30-minute dive brings visitors face to face with these amazing animals. If you like to get your adrenaline pumping without the threat of becoming part of the food chain, spend your time on the rollercoasters of Busch Gardens.

Egmont Key Area Events:

• Discover the Island (November): Guided tours featuring the islands hidden treasures through a boat ride and presentations.
• Marine Quest (May): Discover the natural and aquatic life Egmont Key has to offer.

Egmont Key Nightlife: Tampa Bay is home to Ybor City's 7^th Street which is considered the number one hotspot and party central in Tampa.

Egmont Key Weather: The average annual temperature is 73F. Spring and Fall months are milder with cool evenings, while summer brings afternoon showers.

Egmont Key Facilities: Egmont Key is open to the public from 8am until dusk, and guided tours of the island including the lighthouse are available daily. Ferries times to and from the island vary.

Beach Fees: Admission to Egmont Key is free; however there is a fee to ride a ferry to and from the island. Fees vary depending on companies.  

For more information or help planning your next Florida getaway, visit Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce.

Love Florida beaches? See all Florida beaches in our guide:

• Fort Walton Beach  
• Gulf Islands National Seashore
• Navarre Beach
• Panama City Beach
• Pensacola Beach
• Perdido Key
• Seaside Beach
• St. Andrews State Recreational Area
• St George Island State Park
• Shell Island
• St. Vincent Wildlife Refuge
• St. Joseph Peninsula National Park
• Fernandina Beach
• Ponte Verda Beach
• Apollo Beach
• Calaesi Island State Park
• Clearwater Beach
• Fort DeSoto Park