Anclote Key Preserve State Park

Tarpon Springs, FL 34689

● Open

4.8 1,838

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About the Business

Anclote Key Preserve State Park is a beautiful natural oasis located in Tarpon Springs, Florida. Accessible only by private boat or ferry service, this park is a popular tourist attraction for those looking to escape to the serene blue-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The park consists of four islands - Anclote Key, North Anclote Bar, South Anclote Bar, and Three Rooker Island - offering sandy beaches and a variety of wildlife habitats.

Visitors can explore the park's 11,773 acres and discover at least 43 species of birds, including the American oystercatcher, bald eagle, and piping plover. The iconic 1887 lighthouse on the southern end of the island provides a picturesque backdrop for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and camping under the stars. It is important to note that there are no provisions available on the island, so visitors are advised to bring their own water and supplies.

Ferry services to Anclote Key Preserve State Park depart from Tarpon Springs' historic Sponge Docks, but do not offer drop-offs for overnight camping. Visitors must have their own transportation if they plan to stay overnight. Dogs are allowed only on North Anclote Bar, making it a pet-friendly destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Overall, Anclote Key Preserve State Park offers a unique and unforgettable experience for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers seeking to explore the pristine beauty of Florida's coastline.

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Location & Phone number

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Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, United States

727-638-4447

floridastateparks.org

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Reviews

Byron Vanzandt:

"Great boat ride out. Very peaceful island. We saw so many dolphins the guide said “it’s raining dolphins !” We also found many beautiful shells along the beach."

1 year ago

Scott Compton:

"This is my favorite place to be. It's amazing that we have this paradise just a short boat ride away!"

1 year ago

Kelly Black:

"Beautiful beach! It was part of a tour out of Tarpon Springs. Spent 30 minutes on the beach and combed for shells. The water is beautiful and warm (72°F). Highly recommend the tour (Spongeorama) it is a boat ride from the spongedocks to the island. You see wildlife and the captain and crew guy are funny and very knowledgeable about the local history. I will def. Be returning to do this again!"

1 year ago

Sandra Jimenez:

"On a good day, this place is really nice!! We took the boat and parked on the back facing the gulf. We have also parked on the south, its nice there too."

1 year ago

Capt. John mulford:

"Anclote is a beautiful island to take your family for a picnic, or just a walk on the beach. There is easy access to pull a boat rite up to the beach. all along the Gulf side and on the north and south ends. There is also a ferry boat that brings people to the south end. I hear it is very affordable. It's definitely a must if you live around the area. There is also great fishing around the island."

1 year ago