Egmont Key

Overview

Egmont Key is a historic island located at the mouth of Tampa Bay, offering a blend of natural beauty and rich history. It is part of the Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge and offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and historic sites.

The island is significant for its role in the Civil War, as a quarantine station, and as a wildlife refuge. It is also home to the ruins of Fort Egmont and offers a glimpse into Florida's natural ecosystems.

Wildlife Refuge Historical Site

Location

Address

St. Petersburg, Florida

Neighborhood: Egmont Key

Coordinates

27.645900, -82.621900

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$5

Children

$3

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and better wildlife viewing

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild and pleasant

• wildflowers
• migratory birds

summer

hot and humid

• extended daylight

autumn

cooler and pleasant

• fall migration of birds

winter

cool and comfortable

• quiet and peaceful

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book ferry tickets in advance
Bring plenty of water
Check tide schedules

What to Bring

essential

water sunscreen hiking shoes

seasonal

jacket umbrella

not allowed

drones pets

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• heat exhaustion
• dehydration

Medical facilities: first aid available on island

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

ferry ticket $20

parking $10

food $15

souvenirs $10

Dress Code

casual and comfortable, hiking shoes and lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, inappropriate clothing for hiking

Booking Tips

• 2 weeks
• official website
• 48 hours
• available for ferry tickets

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Egmont Key Explorer

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Ferry Schedule, Wildlife Guide

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor Center

Charging Stations: Visitor Center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Tampa International Airport

Distance: 30 km

Travel Time: 45 minutes

taxi

$50 45 min

public_transport

$10 1 hour 15 min

From City Center

Distance: 15 km

car

$5 20 min

bus

$2 30 min

taxi

$25 20 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique blend of history and nature

Historical Significance: Site of Fort Egmont, used during the Civil War and as a quarantine station

Insider Tips

Best wildlife viewing at dawn and dusk
Ferry rides offer great views of Tampa Bay

Local Recommendations

• Try local seafood at nearby restaurants
• Visit the nearby Fort De Soto Park

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Fort Egmont Ruins

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide shots for context

Result: Iconic historical shots

#EgmontKey #FloridaHistory

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas and trails

prohibited areas inside historic structures

flash photography not allowed in sensitive areas

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited without special permit

tripod policy allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Fort De Soto Park

Distance: 5km

Walking: 1 hour

Type: Park

Pinellas County Park

Distance: 10km

Walking: 2 hours