As a family, we love finding hidden gems and while Egmont Key may not be hidden per se, it is certainly a gem. For a boating day trip, this ticks all the boxes for a fun outing that is low cost and allows for us to enjoy an adventurous day. We like to set down anchor and swim in the warm water or take our dinghy in to the shore and explore.
Egmont Key is a small island located at the mouth of Tampa Bay in St. Petersburg, Florida, and the Gulf of Mexico. The island is known for its natural beauty and historical significance, and it offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy and is only accessible by boat.
The history of Egmont Key dates back to the 1800s when it was used as a military fortification during the Civil War. In 1898, the fort was used as a base during the Spanish-American War. After the war, the fort was decommissioned and used as a quarantine station for immigrants. Later on, during World War II, the island was used as a training facility for soldiers.
In the early 1800s, the island was primarily used by local fishermen, who named it after the Dutch nobleman Lamoral, Count of Egmont. In 1848, the United States government purchased the island for $5000, intending to use it as a lighthouse station to guide ships through the treacherous entrance to Tampa Bay.
The construction of the lighthouse began in 1857 and was completed in 1858. The lighthouse, which stands 87 feet tall, was an essential navigational aid for ships sailing along the Florida coast. During the Civil War, the Confederate army seized control of the island, and the lighthouse was used as a lookout post to monitor Union ships. After the war, the lighthouse was reactivated and continued to guide ships until 1921.
In addition to the lighthouse, Egmont Key was also home to a military fort. Fort Dade was constructed on the island in 1898 during the Spanish-American War to protect the entrance to Tampa Bay. The fort was equipped with guns and artillery and was garrisoned by soldiers until the end of World War II. Today, the ruins of Fort Dade can still be seen on the island, and visitors can take a guided tour of the historic site.
In addition to its military history, Egmont Key also played a role in the commercial history of the region. In the early 1900s, the island was used as a quarantine station for ships arriving from Cuba and other parts of the Caribbean. During the 1920s, the island was used as a base for smugglers during Prohibition. Rumrunners would anchor their boats off the island's coast and transport illegal alcohol to the mainland under darkness.
Today, Egmont Key is a popular tourist destination and a local favorite spot. Visitors can explore the historic fort, go on nature walks, and enjoy various water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. The island is home to some of the most pristine beaches in Florida. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, and fishing on the white sandy beaches.
The crystal-clear water of the Gulf of Mexico provides an excellent opportunity for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors can also fish from the shore or rent a boat to explore the surrounding waters. Egmont Key is home to diverse wildlife, including various bird species, turtles, dolphins, and manatees.
Visitors can explore the island's trails and watch the wildlife in their natural habitat. The island also has a bird sanctuary where visitors can see nesting birds.
If you don't have a boat or access to one, take a ferry from Fort De Soto Park to Egmont Key. The ferry ride takes about 25 minutes and offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can also bring their boats and anchor at the island's designated anchorage area. However, it's important to note that the island has no facilities, so visitors should bring food, water, and other necessities.
The history of Egmont Key is a fascinating blend of military, commercial, and natural history, and it remains an essential landmark in the Tampa Bay area. Go to Fort De Soto Park for more information on taking a ferry ride to Egmont for a fun day full of history and exploration.
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