Egmont Key day trip

A day trip in Egmont Key between wild animals, pristine beaches, and historical structures.

Egmont Key day trip

Egmont Key is a Florida State Park established in 1974. The small island, situated at the mouth of Tampa Bay, offers a day trip full of discoveries and relax. Egmont Key is home to the endangered Gopher tortoise and many species of birds.The landscape of the island is characterized by pristine beaches and crystal clear waters. The visit to Egmont Key starts from Fort Desoto beach ( St Petersburg ), every morning at 10 or 11 am and, will have the duration of four hours. The cost for the ferry ( round-trip ) is approximately 20 dollars per adult. TRIP INFO   

egmont key ferry 

egmont key light house

 Egmont Key is also a historical place for both Florida and North America. The light house ( still operating ) was built in 1858. The fortifications situated in the middle of the island, known as Fort Dade, were built during the Spanish-American war ( 1898 ) The island was also used as an internment site for Seminoles after the third Seminole war.

egmont key beach

military remains on egmont key

egmont key environment 

 The list of animals that can be easily spotted includes : Gopher Tortoise, Osprey, Ibis, Frigate, Cormorant, Pelican, Seagull. We had a nice day in Egmont Key in Late May 2013, even though the sea was too cold for swim. We used our time walking around the island and catch sight of animals or historical structures. We made great shots like the Osprey in  his nest. We were very lucky that day because even the short trip with the ferry was full of surprises. We spotted Dolphins; a group of ray fish jumping out of the water, and a big manatee lying in the shallows of Fort Desoto  beach.

white ibis fishing 

seagulls on egmont key

fort dade egmont key

fort dade egmont key

Gopher tortoise on egmont key

Osprey nasting in egmont key

osprey nest

White heron in fort desoto

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