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Anclote Key Preserve State Park

Anclote Key Preserve State Park

Hours

 8 a.m. to sunset

Fees

No fee required

Location

Offshore
Tarpon Springs FL 34689

Get directions

Contact Info

727-241-6106

Park Menu

  • Experiences & Amenities
  • History

Welcome to Anclote Key Preserve State Park

Located three miles off the coast of Tarpon Springs, the park is accessible only by private boat or ferry service.

Enjoy the blue-green Gulf of Mexico waters that lap gently along the sandy beaches of the four islands that make up Anclote Key Preserve State Park - Anclote Key, North Anclote Bar, South Anclote Bar and Three Rooker Island. The 11,773-acre park is home to at least 43 species of birds, including the American oystercatcher, bald eagle and piping plover.

A picturesque 1887 lighthouse stands as a sentinel on the southern end of the island. Visitors can swim and sunbathe at the beach, fire up a grill and enjoy a picnic, or pitch a tent and enjoy a night of primitive camping under the stars.

There are no provisions offered on the island, so be prepared to bring your own water and supplies.

Ferry service to the island is offered by these providers:

  • Island Paradise Charters – 877-774-0589.
  • Parrotdise Express – 727-388-7333.

These ferries leave from Tarpon Springs' historic Sponge Docks: 

  • Odyssey Cruises - 727-934-0547.
  • Spongeorama’s Cruise Lines - 727-943-2164.

Ferry services do not drop off visitors for overnight camping. You must have your own transportation to stay overnight. Dogs are allowed only on North Anclote Bar. 

Park GPS coordinates:

  • Location of Lighthouse: N 2810.020 W 08250.687

Plan Your Visit

Don Bergeron
Learn

Manager's Message

If you want to experience an unspoiled barrier island, Anclote Key is the place to be. Except for the area around the lighthouse, the remainder of the island remains undeveloped.
A view of two speedboats on the edge of the water along the beach.
Learn

Activities at Anclote Key

Located three miles off the coast of Tarpon Springs are four sandy beaches that make up Anclote Key Preserve State Park. Only accessible by ferry or private boat, Anclote Key is an island-lover’s paradise.
Jr. Ranger
Program

Junior Ranger Program

The Florida State Parks Junior Ranger Program provides opportunities for young people to learn, serve and share Florida's natural and cultural resources. Participating Florida State Parks are found throughout the state.

Experiences

Birding
Birding
Boating
Boating
Camping Primitive
Camping Primitive
Fishing
Fishing
Shelling
Shelling
Snorkeling
Snorkeling
Swimming
Swimming

Amenities

Beach
Beach
Historic Site
Historic Site
Restroom Facilities
Restroom Facilities

Anclote Key Preserve State Park Photo Gallery

Birder walking on the beach
Boats Anchored off shore
Kid Jumping on Beach
Snorkeler
Shells on beach
A hawk perched on a branch.
An egret taking flight on the beach shore.
A view of a tiki style pavilion out in the middle of the water.
A view of the beach at Anclote Key.
Learn

Beaches at Anclote Key

There is more that meets the eye when it comes to the beaches at Anclote Key. The park plays an important role in protecting and preserving the amazing flora and fauna of this area. The vibrant ecosystem supports some of Florida’s great wildlife, such as manatees, sea turtles and shorebirds.      
The Gregory House at Torreya State Park
Learn

History and Culture of Florida State Parks

Experience Florida as it was before interstates, high-rises and air conditioning. Florida State Parks preserve and share the story of the state and its people through many historical and cultural sites.

People Make the Parks

Tod Cornell smiling at the camera.

Staff Spotlight

Tod is the resident ranger at Anclote Key Preserve State Park. Although the park is small, Tod plays a big part in helping protect and preserve the island.
Volunteer

Volunteer with us!

Help fulfill the Florida State Parks' mission. Assist park employees to preserve, interpret and restore ...the Real Florida!
Friends of Anclote Key State Park and Lighthouse

Friends of Anclote Key State Park and Lighthouse

Friends groups meet the critical needs of individual parks and the system of state parks. They share one thing in common – passion for parks.

Park Map

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Florida State Parks

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(850) 245-2157

Or send an email to:

FSP.Feedback@FloridaDEP.gov

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