Egmont Key: Florida’s Historic Island Paradise Just Offshore from St. Pete

Located at the mouth of Tampa Bay, Egmont Key is one of Florida’s most unique and fascinating barrier islands. Accessible only by boat, this protected state park blends rich history, crystal-clear water, excellent snorkeling, and abundant wildlife into a single unforgettable destination. For visitors exploring the St. Petersburg area, Egmont Key offers a rare chance to step back in time while enjoying some of the best natural beauty on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

What Makes Egmont Key So Special?

A view of Egmont Key from the north direction

Egmont Key is best known for its combination of historic ruins and natural marine habitat. Once home to Fort Dade, a military installation dating back to the late 1800s, the island still features remnants of bunkers, brick pathways, and gun batteries hidden among sea grapes and coastal vegetation.

Over time, parts of the fort collapsed into the surrounding waters, creating what is now known as the Egmont Key Sunken Ruins—one of the most popular snorkeling spots near St. Pete.

Snorkeling the Egmont Key Sunken Ruins

The Sunken Ruins at Egmont Key are a major draw for snorkelers and underwater explorers. These submerged stone structures sit in relatively shallow water—often around 8–10 feet deep—making them accessible to a wide range of swimmers.

Snorkelers frequently see:

• Schools of tropical fish

• Rays gliding along the sandy bottom

• Sea stars and sponges attached to the ruins

• Clear water with excellent visibility on calm days

Because the ruins function as an artificial reef, they attract marine life year-round, making Egmont Key snorkeling one of the most rewarding underwater experiences in the Tampa Bay region.

Wildlife Encounters at Egmont Key

There are many gopher tortoises on Egmont Key

Egmont Key is also a wildlife sanctuary, home to a diverse range of species both on land and in the surrounding waters. Dolphins are commonly seen near the island, often riding boat wakes or hunting fish offshore. During warmer months, manatees may also be spotted cruising slowly through the bay.

On land, the island supports:

• Gopher tortoises

• Ospreys and pelicans

• Shorebirds and nesting seabirds

This blend of marine and terrestrial wildlife makes Egmont Key a favorite destination for nature lovers and photographers.

A Protected State Park with Untouched Beaches

As part of Egmont Key State Park, the island remains undeveloped and carefully protected. Its beaches are quieter and more natural than many mainland options, offering excellent opportunities for shelling, beachcombing, and relaxing away from crowds.

Visitors often find:

• Sand dollars and shells along the shoreline

• Clear, shallow water near the beach

• Expansive views of the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay

Because access is limited to boaters, Egmont Key retains a peaceful, remote feel that’s increasingly rare along Florida’s coast.

How to Get to Egmont Key

Egmont Key is only accessible by water. While some experienced boaters visit on their own, many guests choose a guided boat tour or private charter to reach the island safely and comfortably.

A guided tour allows visitors to:

• Reach the best snorkeling areas

• Learn about the island’s history and ecology

• Visit multiple nearby islands in one trip

• Enjoy the experience without navigating or anchoring concerns

Private charters are especially popular for small groups who want more flexibility and time at the ruins and beaches.

Best Time to Visit Egmont Key

Egmont Key can be visited year-round, but conditions are typically best during:

• Spring and summer for warm water and snorkeling

• Early fall for fewer crowds and good visibility

Calm weather and clear water are ideal for snorkeling, while cooler months still offer great sightseeing and wildlife viewing.

Explore Egmont Key with Island Ferry of St Pete

Island Ferry of St Pete offers private snorkeling charters to Egmont Key, giving guests

The sunken ruins at Egmont Key

the chance to experience the Sunken Ruins, explore nearby islands, and enjoy a relaxed day on the water with a dedicated captain and crew. Departing from the Tierra Verde area near St. Pete Beach, these tours combine comfort, flexibility, and local knowledge for an unforgettable island adventure.

Why Egmont Key Belongs on Your St. Pete Itinerary

From historic ruins and crystal-clear snorkeling to wildlife encounters and quiet beaches, Egmont Key stands out as one of the most unique destinations on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Whether you’re snorkeling the Sunken Ruins, walking the old fort paths, or watching dolphins offshore, Egmont Key offers a rare mix of history and natural beauty that’s well worth the trip.

If you’re looking to experience Florida beyond the mainland, Egmont Key is a must-see island just offshore from St. Petersburg.